Shh We Have a Plan [Hardcover]

From the creator ofLittle Owl LostandOh No, George!comes a funny, strikingly illustrated story of best-laid plans — and the secret to attracting the birdie.

Four friends creep through the woods, and what do they spot? An exquisite bird high in a tree! “Hello birdie,” waves one. “Shh! We have a plan,” hush the others. They stealthily make their advance, nets in the air. Ready one, ready two, ready three, andgo! But as one comically foiled plan follows another, it soon becomes clear that their quiet, observant companion, hand outstretched, has a far better idea. Award-winning author-illustrator Chris Haughton is back with another simple, satisfying story whose visual humor plays out in boldly graphic, vibrantly colorful illustrations.In a gorgeous nocturnal landscape of deep purples and blues, four figures go marching along. ... They tiptoe towards the bird with hilariously expressive body language... In a breathtakingly rich spread, a flock of colorful, jewel-toned birds appear and drive the schemers into retreat. ... A masterful delight, this crafty caper has huge kid appeal and a title/refrain that will easily sneak into the family lexicon: shh! We have a plan. This perfect blend of circular narrative, deceptively spare art, and humor becomes a story that kids will want to read at storytime, at home, and to themselves if no adult is handy.
—School Library Journal (starred review)

There’s a bouncy staccato music in the carefully structured text, and listeners will quickly anticipate the patterns and helpfully join in on the repetitions as they root for the little guy who knows better than the big fools. Haugen’s art is original yet easily legible... The temptation to act this out will be almost irresistible, so channel the impulse into an organized (or even semi-organized) performance.
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)

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