SLJ calls HELLO, SUN! by Lala Watkins “a joyful exploration of play…a must purchase for all libraries”
This debut title in a new line of early readers called “Seuss Studios” is a joyful exploration of play that will delight fans of Mo Willems. Beginning readers join Norbit the Worm and his friends as they play with the sun: jumping, blowing bubbles, and finding shapes in the clouds. This title is perfect for solo beginning readers and group read-alouds, with plenty of opportunity for interaction with action words and things to spot in the images. The text is simple and repeats high frequency words in a way that is playful and fun. Art is muted jewel tones in pastel-like medium in spreads and single page vignettes. Back matter explains how Watkins selected art as inspiration from the Dr. Seuss Collection archives to create Norbit the Worm. This is a great opportunity for teachers to engage with cross-curricular art instruction and for librarians to offer creative art experiences as inspired by the book. VERDICT A must purchase for all libraries, with an engaging plot and art for those just starting to learn to read. – Taylor Skorski
