With Dad, It’s Like That

In a story first published in France, Clare’s father has his own way of doing things—one that involves “Bubbles and bathwater everywhere!” at bathtime and “Dessert instead of dinner” when the mashed potatoes come out lumpy. Brun-Cosme (the Big Wolf and Little Wolf books) and Le Huche (City Kitty Cat) embrace the familiar theme of the lovably hapless dad (“Dad,” Clare says often, “that’s not how Mom does it”), but with bedtime kisses and stories galore, it’s clear that this father’s methods have their own charms. Tender cartooning and lightly mischievous humor make this a pleasing tribute to fathers who are still kids at heart. Ages 4–8. (May)