Dream Big

PreS-Gr 1—A combination of nature stories and the exhortation to wish for and dream one's own destiny. In long-ago East Africa, a baboon meets a caterpillar who yearns to fly, a tadpole who longs to hop, and a flamingo chick who wishes she were beautiful. Though it seems impossible, they wish upon stars and believe in themselves and presto! The caterpillar crawls out of its cocoon with wings, the tadpole becomes a frog, and the flamingo grows elegant pink feathers. The misanthropic baboon and his termite friend ultimately find their destiny by learning to appreciate others. Kronenberg has a laudable mission in wanting people to discover their bliss. This work is part of her program for achieving it. The author's website and the book's back matter include ideas, activities, and songs to further her vision, which states that all people are made of stardust and if one wishes upon a magic star called "Catch-M," dreams will come true. While smiling, being part of a community, and thinking positively are proven links to happiness, Kronenberg's scripted program feels like a curriculum, and the story is not original or well told enough to overcome that limitation. Dehennin's serviceable digital paintings reflect the action; the colors are especially vibrant.