NOTHING’S WRONG!

Will a pie ruin Anders’ friendship with Jeff?

Anders, a hare, plans to surprise his friend Jeff, a bear, with a homemade pie for their picnic. He sets it on the windowsill and goes for a walk, but when it rains unexpectedly, he’s upset to find the pie soaked—and even more out of sorts when he slips and ends up covered in pie. An oblivious Jeff shows up but doesn’t notice anything amiss. When the two head off for their picnic lunch, Anders is still quietly grumpy about the pie but repeatedly states that nothing is wrong. In a slightly didactic move—though one that will offer guidance to little ones dealing with their own friendship ups and downs—Jeff turns to readers and opens up about his worries about his pal. Jeff tries to make Anders feel better; finally, Anders shares his pie story. After thanking Anders for baking the pie, Jeff suggests that they make another one together. After all, what’s most important is that friends spend time together. Their pie smells delicious enough to attract a forest full of creatures eager to share the pie…and more friendship. Woodcut and linocut artwork stands out for its dynamic textures, crisp edges, and blocks of color that evoke spring. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Imparts a gentle, satisfying message about the importance of a good friend.