Willow's Smile

January 15, 2016
With Picture Day looming, a girl worries because she can't smile at will. Willow's nervous that Picture Day is tomorrow. Her classmates excitedly plan outfits; Willow goes home and studies herself in the mirror. Can certain clothing make her smile "picture perfect"? Willow smiles plenty; she just can't do it on purpose. Well-meaning adults, trying to reassure her, only spotlight Willow's exact point of worry: "Just bring your smile," instructs her teacher, while her father soothes, "I'm sure your picture will be perfect." Perfection's quite a standard. Stressed, Willow pulls and tugs her cheeks with her fingers, trying to force a smile. On Picture Day, the moment of Willow's snapshot will confuse readers: she decides that "her way of looking picture perfect didn't have to include a smile," and the text implies she follows through with that, but the illustration shows a smile--tiny yet unmistakable. Either way, it's inadequate: the victorious climax shows Willow's friends inspiring her smile from behind the camera. Howells uses bright, flat colors on white backgrounds; her characters are Photoshop figures, racially diverse (though Willow's white), drawn in simple black lines and dots. Unlike Willow's Whispers (2010), where it was easy to root for Willow to speak loudly enough to be heard, this is about performing emotional expression. This isn't smile-when-you're-ready; it's smile-on-schedule, and the resolution undercuts its previous, apparent support for Willow's reticence. Not much to smile about. (Picture book. 3-5)

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February 1, 2016

PreS-Gr 2-Shy Willow worries she won't be able to smile for the camera on Picture Day at school. Despite practicing her grin at home and wearing ribbons in her hair, she nervously hides behind her hands when she enters the big gym photo shoot. Perceptive and empathetic, Willow notices some of her classmates are also feeling apprehensive, and she offers support in her quiet way. Howells's delicate pen and ink illustrations paint a portrait of a diverse classroom. The students' emotions and individualities shine through, from Kristabelle's confident posture to Julian's awkward discomfort in his new shirt and tie. Willow decides that "her way of looking picture perfect [doesn't] have to include a smile." When it is Willow's turn in front of the camera, her friends wave and cheer and she "[can't] help it. She smile[s]!" VERDICT Like Willow's Whispers (2010) and Willow Finds a Way (2013, both Kids Can), this slice-of-life picture book is an affirming celebration of being true to your authentic self.-Linda Ludke, London Public Library, Ontario, Canada

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