Hard Hat Hank and the Sky-High Solution

This buoyant rhyming picture book introduces readers to construction foreman Hank, a black-and white-spotted dog who’s precise, focused, and knows exactly how to handle a range of circumstances. When a crane breaks down, writes Gunnufson (Dream Submarine), “He studies his tools,/ then selects the right one,/ replaces a gasket,/ and gets the job done!” Sharp-eyed readers will notice two turquoise-and-black birds hovering around the site, and the crew soon discovers an egg-filled nest atop a roof set to crown the building. Hank cogitates on how to adjust the plan, and then announces, “C’mon, crew!” leading the creation of an eco-friendly green roof filled with flowers and trees that accommodates both the project and the nest. Signature-style digital vignettes by Biggs (Pigs Dig a Road) make it clear that Hank’s canine crew deeply admires their boss. And the book’s outcome serves as a cheerful reminder that even meticulous planners can benefit from flexibility and creativity—particularly when the result serves the needs of all parties involved. An afterword includes project instructions. Ages 3–5. Author’s agent: Sam Farkas, Jill Grinberg Literary. Illustrator’s agent: Steven Malk, Writers House. (Feb.)