Mud Flat Spring

Spring has arrived at Mud Flat, and everyone is rejoicing. Everyone, that is, except Morgan the bear, who gets a little grumpy when he emerges from hibernation. And Gracie and Rich the fish, who are a bit mystified by Barclay the turtle's enthusiastic announcement.

"What is 'spring,' anyway" said Rich.
"I have no idea," said Gracie. "I guess it's a turtle thing."

Everyone else, though, even crotchety Mr. Crocker, is elated at winter's demise. But is it really the end of winter?

Prolific and popular James Stevenson has produced the fifth in his Mud Flat series, which includes The Mud Flat Mystery, The Mud Flat Olympics, Heat Wave at Mud Flat, and Mud Flat April Fool. Friends new and old will be happy to get to know the many quirky animal personalities in the neighborhood, and to celebrate the joys of the season with them. From Fergus the snail to Cheryl the earthworm, Lois the duck, Carol the skunk, and Serena the butterfly, Mud Flat's residents will make any reader feel right at home. Stevenson's friendly illustrations in this nine-part book are warm and light, and full of all the giddy details of spring. (Ages 4 to 8) --Emilie Coulter