Seven Ways Through the Woods

Reese, making their picture book debut, uses urging second-person narration to map possible routes through a forest that, in Kurtz’s artwork, seems to glow with benevolent magic. After gently dismissing the well-worn trail, fanciful alternatives emerge. Lush vignettes feature arrayed child travelers, portrayed with various abilities and skin tones: one rides a griffin, and another weaves a rainbow-like raft of serpents. Just when readers might prepare to settle on their favorite strategy, the seventh option suggests a winning alternative: “Do not go through the woods at all. Stray off the path.” This approach, embodied by a child who looks confidently, almost conspiratorially, out from the page, rejects the idea of making one’s way as a utilitarian and solo solution—instead, the seventh child joins the other woods wanderers and enchanted inhabitants, suggesting “The woods were the wonder all along.” Ages 4–8. (Sept.)