I’m Not Little!

Australian illustrator Thomas creates a family of monsters with thick, candy-colored fur and big, gleaming eyes (well, one eye apiece, in the case of Shaggy and his mother). Their handsome suburban home is typical, although their fireplace has a set of fangs. But Shaggy has a little problem, namely that his family calls him “little” all the time. Readers will sympathize with Shaggy as countless “little” remarks from his parents and grandparents pile up (“Would you like a little snack?”), sometimes with a subtle, monster-themed twist: “Where’s your little chew toy?” And they’ll understand when Shaggy finally loses it: “I’m not little!” he roars, standing on the kitchen counter to make himself larger. Fortunately, Shaggy’s announcement is met with patience, affection, and the revelation that he’s no longer the littlest member of the family. Inches (I Can Save the Ocean!) strikes a fine balance between goopy sentiment and snarky humor as Shaggy’s parents discover that words spoken with affection don’t always carry the message they intend. Ages 4–8. Author’s agent: Kendra Marcus, Bookstop Literary. Illustrator’s agency: Bright Agency. (Mar.)