Cordell, Matthew. Evergreen. Matthew Cordell, Illus. Feiwel & Friends, 02/2023. 48pp. Picture Book. Trade $18.99. 978-1-2503-1717-9. GRADES Preschool – 2. OUTSTANDING.
When Mama tells Evergreen to bring an acorn filled with healing soup to sick Granny Oak, the fearful young squirrel is quite reluctant. With a nod to Little Red Riding Hood, the gentle story follows Evergreen as she dons her red shawl and travels warily through Buckthorn Forest, meeting a variety of animals and having adventures along the way. Expressive sketches with soft earth tones provide the perfect complement to language that rolls right off the tongue: “Evergreen’s teeth rattled! Her fur blew back. She nearly toppled over.” Divided into six sections, the humorous tale is longer than a typical picture book, but non-stop action and delightful plot twists will keep children entranced. Recommended for small groups and one-on-one storytimes, and especially for children who are anxious or fearful. Like Evergreen, they may discover they are far braver than they suppose.
Jenny Andrus, Independent