From Publishers Weekly
Poor Drool (formally known as Drew) has been orphaned—which is her dramatic way of saying that she's having her first sleepover at Grandma's. Of course, her situation is hardly Dickensian: Grandma, who has a wedding-cake beehive that would give Marge Simpson a run for her hairdressing money, is an ace chef and knitter, and she doesn't mind a bit when Drool throws marzipan cake at the ceiling or decorates the breakfast table with double-caramel-sauce polka dots (just like my dress). Drool also has the constant, adoring companionship of Kip, the vividly imagined, overalls-wearing house chicken. Her separation anxiety never entirely dissipates, but by the time Drool's parents arrive for pick-up, she's already planning the next visit. In her authorial debut, Leijten's storytelling could use some pruning—the book feels about four pages too long—but the watercolor and pencil pictures evince a firm hand on the glee throttle (despite the sappy title), and readers should find themselves caught up in the characters' loopy worldview and comic earnestness. Ages 3–5.
(Jan.) Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Little Drew, who would rather be called “Drool,” misses her parents. Sleeping away from Mom and Dad for the first time at Grandma’s house, she worries aloud to Grandma’s pet chicken, Kip: “Maybe they don’t want me anymore . . . I’m an orphan!” Still, for Drool, there is comfort and fun with Grandma, starting with Grandma’s special “Hugging Hour,” then dinner of waffles and marzipan cake, and a bedtime story. The next day brings games of dress-up and hide-and-seek with Kip, baking cupcakes with Grandma, and a happy surprise at the door: her parents. On the way home, Drool asks to visit Grandma’s again. Spirited Drool’s commentary and feelings ring true, and bespectacled Grandma is portrayed as appealingly playful, indulgent, creative, and loving. The cheerful, patterend artwork blends whimsical, comical details—an impossibly tall pancake stack; Grandma’s swirled, multi-tiered bun—with familiar activities and household settings. Kids will enjoy Grandma and Drool’s shared fun and affection, while appreciating Drool’s worries. An entertaining and reassuring read. Preschool-Grade 2. --Shelle Rosenfeld
