The Most Wonderful Gift in the World

Mommy’s “special day” is approaching, and this affectionate picture book’s attentive mouse narrator is excited to offer a “WONDERFUL” present. But each careful attempt to find the perfect gift goes awry. A pinecone filled with delicious pine nuts disintegrates as the mouse rolls it home, the petals blow off a big red poppy, and though the rodent notices the moon’s reflection on a piece of water-soaked moss—“The most WONDERFUL gift in the world!” Obradors writes—readers will anticipate the protagonist’s tearful dismay after the offering dissipates. No matter, Mommy says with an enveloping hug, and she offers up a secret about the wonderful gift she already has—little mouse. Watercolor and ink drawings by Wessex underscore this nurturing message, portraying a welcoming outdoors and a cozy, honey-colored nest furnished with foraged nature finds. Highlighting enduring love against the ephemeral, this gentle tale depicts gift-giving as an act that feeds a growing sense of how to attune and connect. Ages 3–6. (Jan.)