Caterina and the Best Beach Day

March 15, 2015
In this variation on a well-trodden theme, mother barn owl Caterina takes her son Leo to the beach. They would both love to see a whale. But no one can plan to see a whale. Not even Caterina, in spite of, or perhaps because of, all her research. She brings a large cart stuffed with brochures, lists, articles, and information about whales, not forgetting the sunscreen, an elaborate lunch, craft supplies, and all the essentials for a day at the beach. She even researches castles in preparation for building a castle based on a Japanese temple. Leo, however, refuses to be distracted by the research and keeps his eye on the prize, leading his mother into the ocean, where their search is finally rewarded with a huge beautiful whale, close-up and personal. The message of the story will resonate with today's busy and stressed parents: don't let your obsessions get in the way of true experience, and allow yourself to be guided by the young. What distinguishes this book from similar-themed offerings is the engaging eclectic collage that nimbly mirrors Caterina's parenting style. Fussy little lists, photos cut from magazines, drawings, textures, and other ephemera are strewn across the pages, giving young readers plenty of eye candy and adults some serious ideas to think about. Children will especially appreciate seeing their wisdom validated in this sweet mother-son outing. (Picture book. 2-4)

April 1, 2015

PreS-Gr 2-Caterina and Leo set out for the beach on a bright and sunny day. Both of the rosy-cheeked brown birds hope to see a "wondrous" whale during their outing. Leo is certain that they will spot one, but super organized Caterina knows that "no one can plan to see a whale." Nevertheless, she will help her little brother look if she can find a moment among the myriad activities she has planned for her perfect beach day. She sets up camp, applies sunscreen, collects shells, and makes some crafts. Next, she organizes lunch, flies kites, builds a sand castle, and takes a swim. Finally, after she loses track of Leo and then finds him again, they search for a whale together. As in previous titles in the series, Caterina's day does not proceed exactly as she has envisioned. When the busy, bespectacled bird pauses to take a breath, she realizes that sometimes it is best to put aside her lists and schedules and enjoy the simple pleasures of a day in the sun. Kono's mixed-media collages pop with striking colors, images, patterns, and textures. Caterina floats in an aquamarine sea of watery bubbles and flies a kite fashioned out of a scrap of cheerful fabric. The imaginative illustrations mirror Caterina's own creative energy and optimism. VERDICT Read this whimsical summertime adventure in preparation for a day at the beach.-Linda L. Walkins, Saint Joseph Preparatory High School, Boston, MA

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