The presentation in regards to the attractive smaller square size, the black, white, & red vibrant graphic color palette , and the impressive peritextual features (end pages, title page) all support the cohesive nature of this narrative. The text is sandwiched between both decorative and meaning generating red endpapers, and pages decorated with an explosion of small items to be found in the story (always a welcomed interaction for readers of all ages). Any kid experiencing a younger kid get away with something they are socially obligated to have outgrown doing already (crying for random reasons, demanding attention just because), can relate to this thread of dilemma. Philip (accused of being childish) and his emotional baby sister Phoebe (who can do no wrong) become woven in the fantasy of wishing for the greener grass. With the help of a red cape, his imagination, and several thinking bubbles, Philip gets to work turning his sister into more promising entertainment. Does Philip find success or hope for his sister just as she is? I am not a huge fan of the typeface (font), but it does work with the book. I read this to a classroom of kindergarten age students and they enjoyed the book very much, especially when Philip turns his sister into a giant ice cream cone!
