HIDE-AND-SEEK

Seek and you will find—or will you?

Marshland animals decide to play hide-and-seek and designate Turtle as “it.” They hide while Turtle counts to 10 slowly (and incorrectly). Heron doesn’t know where to hide and tries a few places, only to discover that someone’s already ensconced there. Each time, Heron asks, “Is this a good spot?” only to be told, “No, this is my spot!” The animals also explain why their spot is ideal: “I blend right in,” or “I like to play in the mud.” Observant readers will notice that each lurking animal resembles its hiding place. Eventually, Heron finds a place that seems perfect—just as Turtle finishes counting and begins seeking her friends. Initially, they can’t be found, but then Turtle locates them, except Heron. Finally, Heron emerges from the marsh grasses to greet the others. Originally published in Belgium, this brief, thin story should appeal to fans of the popular game; it also offers a simple lesson in camouflage and may spark conversations about the topic. A few quibbles: Most of the animals aren’t named until later in the story, so readers can’t identify them from the outset. Realistic-looking animal portrayals would have served the story much better, especially in the manatee’s case; its very inexact, odd-looking depiction isn’t consistent. Some explanatory backmatter on the featured animals and information about their “hiding places” also would have been helpful.

Provides some fun and some learning, but a bland effort overall.