TIME TO GO HOME

A class of cheery animals leave school with their caregivers, minus Little Snail, who carries a secret on their back.

School’s out, and this class is ready to go! This agreeable Chinese import follows a satisfyingly predictable pattern: First there is a double-page spread of a different animal saying farewell to Little Snail, followed by a spread describing the way the critter gets home. Within its succinct pattern there’s a large variety of transportation options, from biking to public transit to car, meaning that most toddlers will relate to at least one of the methods. Additionally, not all the adults picking up youngsters are identified by relationship, allowing space for various child care arrangements. Once all the other animals have gone, there’s a mysterious, dark-green spread with only a giant “Whoosh!” on it—and the turn of the page reveals Little Snail inside their shell. Surprise! “Little Snail is always the first to get home!” Bold, matte prints infuse the cartoon-style animals with personality, from a speckled bear running for the bus and a frolicking pig with movement lines and braids askew to the low, solid-looking snail. A limited palette of rust, forest green, and mustard yellow creates just enough contrast within the distinctive animal prints. Occasionally, the eyes are oddly placed, veering toward cubism, but most retain a childlike charm.

From the predictable text to the just-right surprise ending, there’s plenty here to entice toddler readers.