Willems, Mo. Are You Big? Mo Willems, Illus. Union Square Kids, 02/2024. [28]pp. Picture Book. Trade $17.99. 978-1-4549-4818-6. GRADES Kindergarten–2. HIGH ADDITIONAL.
In this unusual concept book, size comparisons are demonstrated, beginning with a child’s size compared to a hot air balloon, then the balloon to a cloud, then the cloud to a storm, and so on until the comparisons reach out to the galaxies. The boldly colored paper collage artwork conveys the concept clearly for young children, using examples they will recognize, such as the moon being smaller than planet Earth. The simple one-sentence-per-spread text is offered in large, bold typeface, and contains repetition, making this accessible for emergent readers. Libraries should be aware that the story begins and ends on the inside covers, so processing staff should be mindful not to cover up the text, since the back inside cover lists the size comparisons.
Penny Peck—San José State University iSchool