From the Publisher
"Rhyming text and charmingly clutter-filled scenes capture both the ingredients and the fun that can come from making a mess. . . . A childhood scamper through simple pleasures of sibling fun." —School Library Journal
"The sisters’ love shines through as they work out new solutions in this house that looks like a place where creativity is valued. The illustrations include many details to expand on the spare, rhythmic text. . . . As these lively girls invite the reader to take part in their marvelous mess, who knows what they might make next?" —Booklist
School Library Journal
07/01/2024
K-Gr 2—Two sisters spend a day delighting in the creative process as they make a mess in the kitchen, throughout the house, and finally in their bedroom, where they collapse into a messy heap of a good night's sleep. Rhyming text and charmingly clutter-filled scenes capture both the ingredients and the fun that can come from making a mess out of the simple materials at hand and enjoying (most of the time) the results of said mess. Be it from "kitchen clatter/ syrup splatter" transforming into a tasty breakfast or blankets and pillows in the living room transforming into "a mess can make a place to rest," the energetic pair collaborate to enjoy a day full of creativity and camaraderie without a single piece of technology to be seen. VERDICT A childhood scamper through simple pleasures of sibling fun made with the materials found around them, this is a delightful book to share, especially on those "there's nothing to do" days of summer.—John Scott
Kirkus Reviews
2024-05-17
Two siblings make messes throughout the day, with sweet and fun results.
Berries and chocolate mousse are a delicious treat for the children, even as they leave syrup spills in their wake, while crumbs from an outdoor tea party become a feast for ants and squirrels. Repurposed boxes, tins, and a hose are transformed into musical instruments, and cushions and blankets turn into a classic pillow fort. Sometimes messes result in treasured items accidentally getting broken and the two siblings squabbling, but things—and bonds—can soon be mended or made into something new. Johnson’s rhyming text pairs with homey artwork depicting a rustic setting. As each scenario unfolds, the author/illustrator lists various objects—“magic markers. / Missing caps. / Glue and pom-poms”—before revealing the project the protagonists have been working on. The repetitive ebbing and flowing pattern of the words and the narrative establishes a calming tone that sets up the characters and readers alike for a well-earned bedtime, though the mess doesn’t end here: Time for a pillow fight! The eye-catching details in the artwork and the question of what each mess will evolve into keep the book as engaging as it is cozy. Characters present white.
An imaginative snapshot of daily life that elevates domestic messes into a soothing lullaby. (Picture book. 3-6)
