Armadillo Antics

Starting with lines reminiscent of the hymn “Now the Day Is Over,” this hitherto unpublished work by prior collaborators, the late Martin and Sampson (Chicka Chicka 1, 2, 3), salutes the titular bony-plated, roly-poly armadillo’s nocturnal escapades. Beauvois (Who Is Henry?), whose elaborately textured, highly dimensional surfaces recognize the paper collage legacy of Eric Carle and Lois Ehlert, creates a series of striking contrasts to the repeating text’s simple rhymes. As the mammals appear, ready to “romp and play till the night is done,” they’re shown in deep jewel tones with patterning reminiscent of a Missoni sweater. Eye-catching images introduce the animals in various states: when text observes that one is “dressed in armor like a knight,” an armadillo in steely shades of purple shoots a beady-eyed glare that seems to say, “Back off!” Some images are set against white backgrounds, which readers may find confusing given the book’s nighttime setting; that quibble aside, tagging along with this self-possessed, graphically stylish critter and chanting its name (each stanza begins “Armadillo, Armadillo, Armadillo”) as it leaps, digs, and dines makes for a memorable outing. Armadillo facts end the volume. Ages 4–8. Authors’ agent: Ron Zollshan, Kirchoff Wohlberg. Illustrator’s agent: Lisa Pomerantz, IllustrationOnline.com. (Apr.)