Neat Nick's Big Mess

April 15, 2024
A dog challenges a young boy's need for tidiness. Nick is super, super neat, and has been all his life. If something is messy, he just has to fix it. Of course, there are some things Nick can't change, such as other people's untidy clothes, odd smells, or loud noises. Often, Nick prefers to be on his own, where he can keep things just so, until he starts to feel lonely. One day, Nick's parents bring home a surprise--a huge, floppy-eared, bushy-tailed, covered-in-leaves-and-slobber, reddish-brown dog! After the initial shock, Nick sets out to "fix it" by giving the loving dog a vigorous bath and hair trim. The two of them go to sleep all neat and tidy, but the next morning, the pooch is somehow a mess again. Soon, the chaos gets to be too much for Nick, but he discovers that "there's nothing neater than love." Nick appears to have an anxiety disorder, though that's never explicitly mentioned. His story could have come across as saccharine, but his happy ending feels genuinely earned. The dog is obviously enamored with Nick from the start, and Nick eventually reciprocates. Otis imparts a gentle lesson that letting go of some control can be good. Some of the mixed-media illustrations depict neat, carefully composed scenes, while others explode with raggedy swirls; whether readers prefer order or mayhem, they'll enjoy this tale. Nick and his parents are tan-skinned, while background human characters are racially diverse. Thoughtful and empathetic. (Picture book. 4-8)

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August 23, 2024

PreS-K-A heartfelt tale that may guide those who grapple with a balance between order and the disorderly joys of companionship. Nick, a tidy child who has always preferred everything in its place, often feels lonely and misunderstood. The arrival of a big, messy dog into Nick's life serves as a turning point; chaos ensues, leading Nick to feel overwhelmed and ultimately consider giving up this furry friend. This struggle reflects a common theme in childhood-learning to embrace imperfection. The illustrations are reminiscent of Eric Carle's vibrant mosaic style. The bright colors and playful designs capture the essence of Nick's journey, enhancing the emotional depth of the story. The combination of simple sentences and speech bubbles throughout the pages makes the text accessible and engaging for children, allowing them to connect with the story. VERDICT A gentle reminder that sometimes the messiest moments bring the greatest happiness. With its relatable themes, vibrant illustrations, and engaging narrative, this book is a perfect addition to any child's bookshelf.-Haley Amendt

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