Letting Go

The Loopy Coop Hens continue to explore their world (carefully) in their third picture book, in which apples falling from a tree can only mean one thing: “A FOX! He is in the tree! He is throwing apples!” The three hens try to enlist the help of dreamy Rooster Sam, to no avail, so it’s up to brave Dot to conquer her fears of ladders, foxes, and falling apples. Stoeke remains a master of understatement, delivering the book’s moments of slapstick humor (including several apple assaults from above) and quiet contemplation with equal aplomb. Ages 3–5. (Feb.)