Dojo Daycare

PreS-Gr 1—When busy ninja moms and dads drop off their little ninjas at the Dojo Daycare, it isn't long before—"KABOOM! KAPOW!"—a full-blown ninja riot breaks out over toys and again at lunch. Each time, the Master calls out, "Quiet! It's time for you to all reflect/On honor, kindness, and respect." Unfortunately, the admonition doesn't stick until a storytime debacle leaves the Master practically in tears. Then, despite his previous riotous behavior, one little ninja takes control of the situation using the Master's own words to inspire his companions. "Every ninja understands,/And fists turn into helping hands/As little ninjas work as one,/Undoing all that they have done." Then the remorseful little ninjas go home and head to bed and dream of ninja moves they'll make tomorrow. Tougas's energetic rhyming text is matched by his action-packed illustrations. There is much to see in each spread, but ample white space assures that viewers won't be overwhelmed. His ninjas are dressed all in black with only their hands, feet, and eyes showing, yet they still manage to be expressive. Nice touches of humor include a well-used teddy bear and a family's pets dressed in ninja attire. A fun addition.—Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Library, Troy, NH