The Happily Ever Afternoon

Britta Santowski is a freelance writer in Victoria.

A young boy wakes in the morning and upon leaving his room is greeted by
visions of cakes and cookies (the makings of a birthday party) in the
faraway land of the kitchen. When he tries to sneak in, the cat and dog
(also known as ferocious dragons) give him away, and his father moves
him to the backyard out of harm’s way. There he tricks the pets to
distraction, dons his superhero cape, mounts his superhero vehicle (a
tricycle), and madly pedals to the room of great treasures to gorge
himself. But father catches him in the act, and carries him off to his
room where he is to stay until he’s invited back down for his birthday
party. Only then can he legitimately and joyfully consume.

This delightfully illustrated storybook tells a very simple tale in a
few short words (seven sentences in all). The illustrations augment the
narrative nicely, and where the narrative dips into the surreal world of
kingdoms and dragons, they depict a little boy in a T-shirt and overalls
very much grounded in the present. The images are bright with simple
lines and provide much room for discussion between parent/teacher and
reader.

One note of interest: the illustrations show the young boy driving his
tricycle (on the cover and in the book) without a helmet, and the
publishers include a thoughtful note encouraging parents to ensure kids
do wear helmets while out riding. Recommended.