The Lost Track of Time

Penelope escapes from her organized mother’s stringent schedule through a portal that sends her tumbling into the Realm of Possibility, where idle time has been forbidden. To get home, Penelope must track down the fairy godmother–like Great Moodler, rescue her new friend Dill from life as a repetitive Clockworker, and free the realm from the hypnotic rule of the overlord Chronos. In the tradition of L. Frank Baum, Britt crafts a whimsical world, complemented by White’s (I Lived on Butterfly Hill) playful violet watercolors and a vibrant cast. Her spirited use of puns, homonyms, and clever time-related wordplay make the story a standout: worry warts are a real and harrowing affliction, the “Shadow of Doubt” literally looms large, and the trees in the “Naughty Woulds” whisper what ifs to prey on travelers’ self-doubts. Debut author Britt’s tale is an exuberant homage to the power of imagination and creative problem-solving, as well as the importance of making time for oneself, one’s dreams, and one’s friends. Ages 8–12. Author’s agent: Marietta Zacker, Nancy Gallt Literary Agency. Illustrator’s agent: Paul Rodeen, Rodeen Literary Management. (Mar.)