The Box

July 1, 2022
When will it open? In this Italian import, a group of animals wake up one morning to discover a box with two holes on the forest floor. The mystery is perplexing, but when the box begins to move, the animals' priority becomes welcoming the newcomer. They shout greetings and entreaties, but all they hear in reply is a long "NOOOOOO!" The animals give the box some space as they wonder why the newcomer won't emerge. One animal theorizes that they're having a rough day, another that maybe they feel like they don't belong. The animals then decide to try encouraging the newcomer with gestures like a party and different small acts of kindness. When a thunderstorm descends on the forest, all the animals rush the box to Bear's den, where it is safe and dry. Finally, the newcomer emerges, thanking the others for waiting until they were ready. In an obvious but effective metaphor about opening up, this book demonstrates how to allow others ample space and processing time. Young readers see that someone can be included even if they're not yet ready to participate fully. Proietti's illustrations are soft, in mostly muted earth tones, a visual manifestation of a cozy, friendly embrace. (This book was reviewed digitally.) An earnest, heartwarming gesture. (Picture book. 3-7)

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August 1, 2022
Grades K-2 After a carton suddenly materializes in their woods, Owl, Squirrel, Bear, Hare, and Fox wonder what it could possibly contain. Clearly someone is in there, but when they try to open it, the mysterious inhabitant shrieks, "NO!"" The curious crowd steps back, appreciating that the box dweller might be scared. Can they coax the newcomer out with a show? Maybe a pile of snacks? Alas, the box stays firmly closed, but the group continues to care for it, pushing in treats and huddling around to keep the inhabitant warm. When a storm threatens to soak the carton, the group spirits it away into Bear's cozy den, and this enormous kindness finally coaxes the hidden creature out and into the other critters' embrace. This delightful Italian import proffers a pleasant mystery but happily doesn't rush to solve it, taking time for whimsical diversions along the way. The splendid pastel, chalk, and watercolor illustrations are softly textured and full of fanciful details worth a second glance. A remarkably empathetic and enchanting mystery in the woods.

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October 28, 2022

PreS-Gr 1-Bear, Fox, Hare, Squirrel, and Owl are friends who live together in the deep woods. One day a mysterious white box with two small holes appears. When it moves they understand that someone is inside and urge it to come out and join them. But a sad "Noooo" is their response. Thinking that the creature inside must have had a bad day, is afraid, or shy, the animals show small kindnesses and much patience. They make a party, tell jokes, and offer small gifts; when a storm arrives they move the box into Bear's warm dry den. Eventually their gentleness pays off and out of the box pops a new friend, a parrot, to be welcomed to their woodland family. Muted pastel illustrations enhance this work and show the affection the animals feel for each other and natural good will they have for the stranger in the box. Gentle illustrations and sweet spirit infuse this work. VERDICT This is a tender and useful book to share with young children to convey the message that kindness, patience, and understanding are the keys to friendship.-Eva Elisabeth VonAncken

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