Hank's Work

The stormy emotions of the child who engineers this fantasy speak to any youngster who has been treated unfairly. Hank, an enthusiastic artist, makes a mess of his architect-father's studio by strewing colored pencils, scissors and tape around the room in a drawing frenzy. When the boy's father shows up with his own work to do, he yells at his son and sends him away. His feelings hurt, Hank stomps off to his room and draws a spiny, acid-green dinosaur; within moments, the giant monster--Hank's frustration--comes to life and, with a friendly but forceful smile, persuades Hank's father that it's not nice to shout. Schreier's ( Luigi's All-Night Parking Lot ) angular, unusual illustrations resemble hinged paper cut-outs, and his palette includes bulky, opaque fields of brown, blue, orange and, of course, dinosaur green. His satisfying narrative reminds parents and children alike that kids' art is work, not frivolous play, and that conflicts can have creative, peaceful solutions. Hank, an intense, unsmiling child, conveys some hostility here, yet those receiving an anti-discipline message should note the lizard's gentleness and diplomacy. Amusingly instructive without being preachy. Ages 4-7. (Feb.)