MRS. ARMITAGE AND THE BIG WAVE

Surf’s up and Mrs. Armitage is ready to do the California slither, Bali swerve, and Waikiki flip. All she seems to need is the perfect wave, as well as some snacks, a windsock, a float, and a megaphone, among other things. She gets a real work-out as she swims to shore each time to gather the items she and her loyal dog will need for the Big Wave. Readers gladly go along for the trip: The resourceful heroine brings spunky, funky fun to a simple day at the beach. Blake, in a gleeful mode, flaunts his signature wackiness in an avid display of Mrs. Armitage’s kitschy taste and ingenuity—the megaphone is for flirting, of course. The anticipation has a payoff, too, as Mrs. Armitage puts her clutter to work to aid a helpless swimmer. The heroine’s no-sweat attitude, along with Blake’s humorous details, are the perfect combination for beach blanket fun. (Picture book. 4-8)