Stillwater and Koo Save the World

PreS-Gr 2–Panda Stillwater and his nephew Koo appear in the first of a four-book series. Koo awakens one bright morning and decides he would like to spend the day doing something important: “Fix all the things that are wrong. Let us save the world!” His uncle is agreeable but understands that, in order to engage in a very large undertaking, it is best to take it in little pieces. Therefore, saving the world can be accomplished bit by bit, by performing such tasks as picking up one’s bedroom, brushing the cat, feeding the fish in the pond, and raking leaves. Welcoming a human family to the neighborhood by baking them a cake is a kind way to bring people together and help create a more perfect world. Muth’s soothing illustrations in pencil and soft-hued watercolors feature plenty of white space and present a peaceful mood. Contemplation and reflection, words which define Zen, are demonstrated as the two discuss what fish understand and the desire to end hunger.