This picture book debut from sister author-illustrator duo, Alexa Tuttle and Carlie Tuttle, introduces readers to Rosie, a pink-haired witch curled up on Halloween night wishing she had a friend to share “this feeling of home.” Startled by a spider watching her with “big, bright, wide eyes,” Rosie’s actions and emotions grow increasingly chaotic as her fear intensifies and blinds her to the spider’s friendly intentions. Readers will be amused by Rosie’s hyperbolic reactions to the plump, purple spider who clearly wishes her no harm, providing an excellent opportunity to explore young readers own fears and worries and to explore perspective and intent.
The author immediately establishes a distinct rhyme scheme, creating a jaunty tempo that lends itself well to being read aloud.
“She loves the fall weather, the smell of the air, / and the breeze through the window that rustles her hair.”
At times, however, the author reaches for a rhyme that feels forced and the closing line falls disappointingly flat.
“The spider advances. He’s getting real close! / Rosie’s afraid it will land on her nose.”
The cartoonish illustrations are colorful and expressive, but sometimes inconsistent: Rosie’s candy corn patterned pajamas are a charming addition to her moment of understanding with Mr. Spooks, the spider, but the stack of movies central to the spread are labeled only as “movie” and “Rosie’s Favorite Movie,” resulting in an unfinished effect. Still, the detail and clear sense of emotion successfully convey Rosie’s anxiety and fear and her relief and delight upon discovering a new and unexpected friend. A great addition to your Halloween collection, this one has a message that’s worth celebrating year-round.
Publisher: WonderCorp, LLC
ISBN: 978-0998023014