Book of the Week: Mother Bruce

The main criterion I use when assessing a book is how my children react to it.  Are they engaged? Do they ask for it over and over?  Are they laughing?  How are they responding to the characters? This week's Book of the Week was chosen because my children had such a positive reaction to it.  And, as a mother, that is just the best.

Mother Bruce, written and illustrated by Ryan T. Higgins is a light, fun read.  I've always been a fan of somewhat fractured fairy tales and this is a clever play on Mother Goose.  A grumpy, gourmet bear's dinner takes an unexpected turn and he ends up as the caregiver of four, devoted goslings.

The book is a little Mo Willems-esque in that there are jokes for all the readers; parents and children alike (e.g., Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed). The illustrations and text are full of references to supporting local businesses, mistaken identity, and parenting woes.

A little something for everyone, and certainly worth a trip to your local library to check it out. If you enjoy this title, here are a few other to consider.

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