This Is a Window

PreS-Gr 2–This simple, engaging story of siblings and neighbors creating imaginary worlds is a beautiful illustration of the notion that “play is the work of children.” Mixed media collage depicts children with a variety of skin tones and hairstyles working together to transform ordinary household objects and furniture into extraordinary spaces. The rhyme scheme and question format will draw readers in, and the bright palette and enticing details will inspire second and third looks. Completely child-centered, this cheerful title calls to mind classics such as Beatrice Schenk de Regniers’s What Can You Do with a Shoe? and Ruth Krauss’s A Hole Is to Dig. The story and images could inspire readers to take a new look at their own living and playing spaces. A strong choice for preschool story times and for educators looking for themes of cooperation, curiosity, and creativity.