McLaren (Zat Cat!
) and debut author Jaber cover the fashion waterfront, enlightening readers on both history (the 1910s hobbled skirt is said to be inspired by Katharine Wright, who roped up her voluminous skirt for a ride in the plane built by brothers Wilbur and Orville) and the less tangible aspects of glamour (A is for “attitude”—“all through history, stylish ladies and fashionable men never left home without it”). The commentary is smart and accessible: aspiring Simon Doonans and Nina Garcias will see that bubbly prose need not sound bubbleheaded. Witty as the writing may be, the illustrations are irresistible. Like the best fashion, the lines and colors feel effortlessly right. Genuine intelligence is at work here, too: McLaren understands that the desire to look fabulous can push human beings to extremes—and she loves us all the more for it. Ages 5–9. (Jan.)
