Starred Reviews

“Mama, with blue and brown hair, tan skin, and eyeglasses, warns her two small busy charges that it’s time to clean up. Ivy and Roscoe, both with tan skin and different shades of brown hair, are overwhelmed by the task. Roscoe puts away dough in a way that Ivy doesn’t like; Roscoe seems a little put out that Ivy insists on putting the correct lids on the correct containers. Signs on storage tell both children where the blocks and the stuffed animals go. Mama shows up with the “clean-up monster” aka the vacuum cleaner. Copy on the back explains that these organizational techniques were devised when the neurodivergent author learned that “caregiving strategies did not work for her neurodivergent family” and developed her own. The illustrations include clues as to what the strategies are for clean-up time. The subject matter is so familiar, but this take on it is refreshing and candid. It’s not “just” for neurodivergent families, but for anyone looking to pick up some tips.

VERDICT Board books don’t always come with an “essential” stamp, but this one is.”

“Siblings Ivy and Roscoe are busy playing until Mama—with vibrant blue hair and tattooed arms—enters the room and announces that it’s time to clean up. Initially, the kids don’t know where to start, but they soon find their rhythm, placing toys into labeled bins. Ivy, who likes for everything to be in its proper place, finds a creative solution when their blended modeling dough no longer matches the colors on the storage jars. Next, Mom returns with the clean-up monster—the vacuum! Created by a neurodivergent author and illustrator, this upbeat and inclusive board book incorporates subtle nods to neurodivergence in its clean-up strategies and artwork.”