The Littlest Drop

Drawing on a parable often told by activist Wangari Maathai, a note acknowledges, this simply articulated tale from debut author Alper delivers an unmistakably crucial message. In a “vast, beautiful” land with “room for everyone”—birds, monkeys, snakes, and giant cats—a tiny hummingbird makes a nest. Then a spark lands on a leaf, setting a quickly moving fire. The animals retreat to the river’s safety, but the hummingbird, thinking of “her home in the tall tree... and of her eggs that would soon be coming,” fills her beak with all it can hold, “just the littlest drop of water,” and lets it fall upon the blaze. The other creatures shake their heads: “You cannot put out that terrible fire. You are just a small bird.” The hummingbird’s resolute reply, “I am doing what I can,” inspires the animals to rouse themselves and offer what they, too, can. Working with sketches by late Caldecott Medalist Jerry Pinkney, his son, Caldecott Honoree Brian Pinkney, adds bright, bold strokes to create rippling water, rushing animals, and swirling smoke in this clear allegory about the value of every effort. Creators’ notes conclude. Ages 3–7. Author’s agent: Elizabeth Rudnick, Mackenzie Wolf. Illustrator’s agent: Sheldon Fogelman, Sheldon Fogelman Agency. (Apr.)