What's Wrong, Little Pookie?

POOKIE'S UPSET AND POOKIE'S MOM cannot figure out why. And Pookie isn't helping, either. This familiar scenario is told with Sandra Boynton's signature humor, in both story and art. Caregivers and young children will laugh their way out of their sorrow as Mom and Pookie work things out. Never fear, a happy ending is on the way! Perfect for toddlers having a meltdown, or anyone in a plain old bad mood, this book will come to the rescue for kids and adults for years to come.

Children's Literature

Mother sees that her little Pookie has tears in his eyes and naturally she wants to find out what is wrong. He does not seem to be able to tell her, so she begins with a series of questions which he can answer with yes or no—Are you cold? Are you hungry? To all, Pookie answers no. Then mother tries a new approach. She asks Pookie some ridiculous questions—Did a very large hippo try to borrow your shoes? He responds to this and other outlandish questions with a comment, "That's silly." The ending is pure Boynton, and the expressions on Pookie's and his mother's faces tell it all. Amusing and probably a book that will make any parent's eyes roll. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot

Cartoonist/author Sandra Boynton infuses her books with a sense of joy, silliness, and -- well, lots of farm animals. With her fun board books, the woman famous for the adults' mantra "Don't Let the Turkeys Get You Down" has become a natural favorite for toddlers.