cover image Jethro and Joel Were a Troll

Jethro and Joel Were a Troll

Bill Peet. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (HMH), $14.95 (32pp) ISBN 978-0-395-43081-1

Almost 40 inventions of inspired nonsense have made Peet a favorite among both kids and parents. Everyone will appreciate the droll pictures in the author's new lark, starring a giant with two heads. The peaceful head, Jethro, argues in vain against the other, Joel, who wants to activate the ""troll'' aspect of their personalities. Galloping away from their forest home, the monster grabs an entire army of knights that mean Joel is about to drown in a castle moat, when Jethro declares enough is enough: ``You've had your day!'' The unpredictable outcome rounds out the fun and embodies a kernel of good sense, showing the advantages when wiser heads prevail. Ages 4-8. (March)