Tiptoe Joe

PreS-Gr 1--Tiptoe Joe is a gentle giant of a bear who wears red sneakers so he can minimize the noise he makes. He has a big secret that he wants to share. As he tiptoes through the wilderness, he invites the different animals he encounters to come along. The curious creatures include a donkey, rabbit, turkey, moose, owl, and beaver. Each one takes care to be as quiet as possible, despite having hooves, claws, and a cumbersome body. Their expressions reveal their cheerful expectations. In a long procession, they softly creep along to find the surprise. Because each animal makes a characteristic sound, Tiptoe Joe has to remind them to be quiet. The anticipation grows as the animals travel through the woods, over a stream, and up a hill as they beg to know Joe's secret. Just as the sun begins to set, they arrive at a cave where Tiptoe Joe proudly reveals a mother bear and two cubs. He beams with pride as he shares the exciting news of his newborns. Rankin's bold and bright watercolor illustrations portray charming animal friends. Written in rhyme with catchy repetition, this quiet journey will delight young listeners.--Diane Antezzo, Ridgefield Library, CT