What Inspires

An ordinary park outing transforms into an afternoon of creativity for the children who star in this joyous tribute to imagination-fueled play. Though it seems at first that “nothing” is going on, three friends soon take note of the way “the wind was rustling the leaves of the trees,/ sending seeds spiraling into the air.” The effect proves enlivening, and their enthusiasm soon spreads to other park-goers. Rhythmic lines trace a snowballing series of creative events until “a thrilling adventure unfolded over land and sea,/ with magical creatures,// a daring battle,/ a dramatic chase.” Even after the group heads home, their inspiration results in new possibilities via bedtime dreams. Hughes’s spare lyricism proves a ready partner for Rooney’s mixed-media artwork. Figures rendered in pencil, cut paper, and digital techniques have a free-spirited energy that stands out against pale chromatic landscapes. The result is a friendly communal examination of making’s magic. Ages 6–8. (Sept.)