NEVIN KNOWS

A toddler heads to the park with his grandfather.

Before Nevin and Grandpa Frank even leave the house, Nevin has some big decisions to make. He must select the right footwear and the perfect accessory. Next, the two have to figure out how to get to their destination. At the park, Nevin chooses where to play. Before the pair return home, Nevin picks out the perfect bouquet of flowers for Nana. Throughout, an unseen narrator poses a series of questions for Nevin to answer. “Winter boots? NO! Sandals? NO! Slippers? NO! Sneakers? YES! YES! YES!” “Nevin knows which flowers Nana likes the best. These? NO. These? NO. These? NO. THESE!” This repetitive pattern puts Nevin, and readers, in charge of the day’s activities—an empowering choice sure to please the toddler set. Messier also exposes youngsters to positional words such as under and behind and introduces the concept that appropriate clothing varies, depending on the season and weather. Featuring basic shapes and bold colors, Comte’s geometric artwork pairs well with the simple text. Nevin and Grandpa Frank’s bond is clearly a strong one; Grandpa Frank gives Nevin the space to explore while remaining a steady, calming presence. Nevin has short brown hair and beige skin and wears yellow overalls; Grandpa Frank and Nana are brown-skinned and white-haired.

A delightful day in the life of a curious tot.