Itty Bitty Betty Blob

“Not your typical monster,” pink Itty-Bitty Betty Blob tries hard to be bad, but her interest in rainbows over rainstorms, and dancing instead of trampling, sets her apart from her peers at Ghoulington Academy. In art class, “her still life wouldn’t stay still,” and during music, her “GRRs” turn tuneful, earning her stern looks from more typically presenting monster classmates, stroked in bold blacks and grays by Player. On picture day, Betty’s mother encourages her efforts to look monstrous. But on the way to school that morning, she’s waylaid by dozens of round pink puffs, who help Betty “to be more... Betty!” as she navigates the path to picture day, and takes down expectations in the bargain, in this sweet-tempered be-yourself tale. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 4–8. (June)