Winter Is for Snow

A boy works hard to persuade his younger sister that winter truly is the most wonderful time of the year in a story that suggests that Neubecker is also the type to enjoy bundling up and heading outdoors when the temperature drops. The siblings alternately narrate in color-coded verse, amplifying the story’s performative potential: “Winter is for excellent!/ Come out and play with me!” shouts the boy. “Winter is to stay inside./ Please just let me be!” is his sister’s response. Neubecker’s snow- laden illustrations are crammed with activity while also revealing a certain emotional thawing that culminates in the girl catching not a snowflake, but a tiny heart on her tongue. Ages 3–5. Agent: Linda Pratt, Wernick & Pratt. (Oct.)