Growl

Corace enthralls with this linguistically spare title about a late-night snack for two that ends up feeding a dozen. Clad in a long nightgown, a tawny-haired, peach-skinned child heads to the kitchen (“What to eat?/ What to eat?/ What... to... eat...?”) and begins making toast. After offering the first slice to their dog companion, however, the would-be chef discovers that a cat has arrived, also in need of sustenance. Next come a mouse, two bunnies that resemble the child’s slippers, and others that bear similarities to various domestic objects. As the arrivals continue, the crew messily load their slices with toppings and spreads—all captured with goofy glee in skillful mixed-media artwork, which offers flattened views of the ingredients and various sous-chefs in kitchen scenes that stand out against charcoal gray backdrops. Eventually, the host’s hunger reappears alongside the discovery of an empty bread bag. Luckily, the motley party finds a perfect solution that leaves them—and the reader—feeling satisfied and sleepy in this midnight snack of a book. Ages 4–8. (June)