Published by Neal Porter Books

Summary:  A girl enjoys solitary pleasures, like reading a book, riding a bike, and eating a cookie.  The text on each page ends with “But what if a friend stops by?”  Sharp-eyed observers will notice a small stuffed animal in each illustration.  Turn the page and the girl is joined by a real-life version of that animal, enjoying the activity together.  The last page shows the girl cozily in bed, with a stuffed penguin under her bed as she drifts off to sleep.  40 pages; ages 3-7.

Pros:  This charming book shows the pleasures of spending time alone and using your imagination.  It would be a fun one to share, as kids will get a kick out of finding the animal in each illustration to predict what they’ll see when you turn the page.

Cons:  Doesn’t the penguin want to be cozy under the covers, too?