FICTION

We’ll Make Things Better Together

by Ben Gundersheimer (text) & illus. by Dow ­Phumiruk
Penguin/Nancy Paulsen. May 2023. 32p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780593110195.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 2–Readers watch as multiple families go through their day, helping siblings, neighbors, and their community through work and play. The story and lesson are easy to understand and catchy, with a rhyme scheme and chorus: “We make things better, better when we work together.” The text, written by children's music artist Mister G, is clear and tells the many different, simple ways children can help in their community, using vocabulary that they can understand. Phumiruk’s illustrations show these actions, in scenes that translate credibly to readers’ own neighborhoods and surroundings. The art brings specific details to the words, illuminating them and lifting the text right off the page.
VERDICT A book about everyday teamwork and love that is sure to inspire readers to work together in their own communities.
Reviewed by Margaret Kennelly , Jun 01, 2023

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