Author-illustrator Courtney Pippin-Mathur dazzles with her first picture book, “Maya Was Grumpy.” Pippin-Mathur’s vibrant watercolor illustrations depict a decidedly stormy Maya who stomps around the house, while her patient Grammy attempts to coax her out of her funk.”
The illustrator dramatizes the scope of this sour mood by depicting our harumphing protagonist with a wilder and wilder mane of curly, golden hair. Grammy’s persistent good humor and comic suggestions wiggle at the edges of Maya’s frown until she’s ready to turn it upside down. The book will certainly delight readers ages 4-8, but it also reminds caregivers to maintain their sense of humor when confronted by a storm front. Because when cooler heads prevail, the whole family can get back to the important business of having fun.
“Maya Was Grumpy” by Courtney Pippin-Mathur (Flash Light Press, $16.95), www.booksofwonder.com.
