Amy Loves the Sun

Hoban's cheery illustrations, bathed in the iridescent yellows of summer sunshine, accompany a spare, direct text that tells of a child picking flowers for her mother. Along the way, Amy enjoys the sights, sounds and tactile pleasures of a summer day: a fuzzy caterpillar, fresh-smelling flowers, soft grass on bare toes. Although based on a simple event, this picture book contains a wealth of sensory detail. It radiates warm feelings as well, conveying both the pleasures to be found in nature and the happiness of sharing one's discoveries with another. This first of several stories about Amy is a gentle, joyful book, perfectly keyed to a toddler's experience and perspective. Ages 1-3. (July)