Mina’s White Canvas

Like a modern-day version of Crocket Johnson’s Harold, newcomer Lee’s heroine, Mina, wields a crayon to turn a “gray and gloomy” winter day into something special. Entering an imagined forest via snowflakes she traces on the window, Mina uses her crayon to help various animals: she draws a ladder for tired Grandfather Woodpecker; a door for Mr. Bear, who is stuck in his cave opening; and fuzzy socks and gloves for Miss Frog. With its matter-of-fact narrative (“Soon they came upon Baby Bunny, who was crying”) and sweeping, imaginative art (which earned Lee a 2012 BolognaRagazzi Opera Prima honor), it’s an accessible story about transforming a dull day into an extraordinary one. Ages 4–8. (Sept.)