Just the Way You Are — Marcus Pfister

The animals are having a party and they all dream about looking different for the big event. Clever die-cuts offer tantalizing glimpses of each animal's imaginary transformation, then open to wonderfully whimsical double-page spreads -- an elephant with a kangaroo's pouch, a lion with a toucan's wings and bright beak. Funny sights indeed, but in the end all the animal friends agree that they like each other just the way they are.

Children will be reassured by this entertaining animal mix-and-match fantasy, which offers a warm and gentle affirmation of true friendship.