Sometimes Cake by Edwina Wyatt, Tamsin Ainslie
Published by Candlewick Press on January 4, 2022
ISBN: 1536217816
Pages: 32
Genres: Animals, Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads

This sweet picture book not only applies to birthday celebrations but it relates to the need for some daily celebrations in current life.  Audrey joins her friend Lion who celebrates a birthday, a color, or a day of the week.  The storyline continues with daily interactions were Lion is doing his best to celebrate and Audrey is his perfect companion.  Their friendship is based on understanding and affection so naturally the sweet girl child wants to cheer lion up when he has nothing to celebrate.

This storyline exposes just how lethargic we have all become during the pandemic and our need for friends and celebrations.   The illustrations done on slightly yellow background are uplifting and cheerful.  Ainslie’s use of color and texture add to the appeal of this storybook.  Sometimes Cake is a perfect selection for youngsters and their adult readers who are suffering from pandemic blues.  Add to primary school media centers and to public libraries.  Gift to preschool children who enjoy stories and creating their own art.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME

Suggested for Cream of the Crop