Warm and Fuzzy

This picture book’s title phrase, which usually describes feelings of comfort and familiarity, here supplies the names of two characters—a pair whose respective demeanors represent calm and anxiety. Warm is a yeti-like creature confident in the duo’s ability to embrace unfamiliar experiences—as Rothman (Parfait, Not Parfait!) writes, “We are smart./ We are strong./ We are imaginative./ And we are ready for anything.” For Fuzzy, a diminutive, cub-like critter, being prepared means worrying about every detail that could go wrong—especially a potential dearth of toilet paper. But with Warm’s unflagging reassurance (and willingness to pack a spare roll), a reluctant Fuzzy accompanies the gentle behemoth through a door, joining an array of animal guests at a fabulous party that includes prizes, presents, and an extensive tea party spread. Warm’s refusal to clarify the duo’s destination for Fuzzy may strike some as dismissive or high-handed, regardless of the adventure’s payoff. But warmly lit digital artwork by Won (the Adurable series), with characters rendered in soft textures of colored pencil hatching, also visualizes how getting out of one’s comfort zone can be liberating and fun. Ages 3–7. (Apr.)