Welcome to My House: A Collection of First Words

A cat named Olga leads readers through the rooms of an apartment on a manicured, European-style city block. Common household objects are grouped into broad categories. A spread labeled “Everything for resting,” shows off nearly a dozen places to recline, such as a chaise lounge, bathtub, and hammock. “Everything for working” includes a computer, notebook, and briefcase. Italian illustrator Stella works in a spare, grainy style with the look of screenprinting, and although there are hints of modern technology in the home, there’s a decidedly retro tinge to the art and choice of items, which include a record player, foosball table, and pink sewing machine. Olga’s opening plea (“Can you find me?”) adds an enjoyable seek-and-find element to this visually sophisticated book of common (and not-so-common) words. Ages 5–8. (June)