Could this picture book win the Caldecott?

There are a lot of books being bandied around for Caldecott or "best of" lists. I have read most of them and I have to say that only a few worked for me. I am one of those people who is never really a fan of the Caldecott winner, because while a book may be distinguished, it doesn't always mean that my kids will want to read it over and over. And at the end of the day, all I really want is a book that will bring out delight and joy in my kids.

Title:        Oh, No! 

Authors:   Candace Fleming & Eric Rohmann 

Target:      Preschool - Grade 1 

What this book is about:

Tiger has his eye on several forest animals, for a tasty snack. As these creatures get trapped in a hole in the forest, they feel that perhaps their fate is doomed, but then elephant comes along. He is able to rescue the trapped group from the tiger licking his chops, and the elephant’s rumbling walk sends tiger sailing helplessly into the now empty hole. 

Why I love this book:

The illustrations are beautiful and funny, without being over the top. They also have little touches that make the story feel continuous and not like each page is its own panel. I love it when the illustrator carries the story over to the inside cover and in this case the front and back inside covers are just as much fun, and apart of the story, as the pages in the book.   

I appreciated the repetitive nature of the book and it will encourage kids to become part of telling the story as they predict the next line. Kids will be happy to repeat the books title—Oh, NO!—throughout the story. 

Who this book is for:

This book will appeal to a younger audience so I think preschool and kindergarten are the ideal ages for this book. 

Final thoughts:

A lovely story with rich illustrations.

To see my full selection of picture books of note, visit my website at www.onegreatbook.com