This Is a Moose

K-Gr 2—Moose is the subject of a film, but the director is not happy with his performance. Moose's ideas of "moosehood" do not match the traditional expectations of the script, frustrating Billy Waddler to no end. Moose wants to be an astronaut and is well on his way to achieving his goal. With the support of his lacrosse goalie grandmother and his giraffe friend, an aspiring doctor, Moose just may do it and stretch the perspective of one enlightened movie director. With text in bold type and hand-lettered speech bubbles, this title will find itself in the hands of beginning readers as well as those who are a little more advanced. Created in ink, colored pencil, and gouache, the full-color, often full-page illustrations are hilarious, and Lictenheld's attention to detail will have kids scouring every page. The message to break down stereotypes and push past social constraints is clear but isn't delivered in a sappy, predictable manner. A perfect vehicle to introduce such topics in a safe and engaging way, this fun picture book be appreciated by students, teachers, librarians, and parents alike.—Amy Shepherd, St. Anne's Episcopal School, Middleton, DE