Roger Is Going Fishing

As this follow-up to Roger Reads a Book begins, the dapper gentleman and his young neighbor Emily are zipping through town on a shared bicycle, en route to a fishing trip. “Roger! Roger! I’ve got a bite,” shouts Emily again and again, as she snags a postal worker’s parcel, a woman’s umbrella, a boy’s skateboard, and other not-fish. The growing chain of men, women, children, and animals the duo leaves in their wake results in a messy tumble into the water when they reach their destination—and an impromptu party. There’s a constant sense of movement in Van Biesen’s elegant mixed-media illustrations, which balance a chic urban environment with loads of physical comedy. The repetition and sound effects built into the storytelling add to the fun (“Stop! Stop! Stop! Stop! Bumble-de-bump! Bumble-de-bump!”) as Van Biesen shows how serendipity and misadventure can result in an unforgettable day. Ages 4–8. (Sept.)