Clanton, Ben. Paint with Ploof. Illustrated by Andy Chou Musser. Tundra, 2024. 978-1-774-88194-1. $18.99. 28 p. Grades Preschool-1.

Simple text and colorful illustrations follow Ploof through his journey of making a rainbow for the first time. This interactive picture book has readers helping along as Ploof finds the perfect shape for his rainbow, selects the appropriate colors, and supports Ploof when things don’t go exactly as planned. Ploof learns that sometimes trying new things can be hard and it’s okay to feel sad, but with a couple deep breaths you might see things in a different light. 

THOUGHTS: This simple, fun story will have younger readers waving along with Ploof, answering questions and finding shapes throughout the text. There is even a nod to Clanton’s other well loved character Narwhal. This is a sweet picture book about trying new things and feeling your feelings when things aren’t perfect the first time. The story also provides messaging that what you create is uniquely you. Paint with Ploof is suitable for ages 2-5. 

Picture Book