Paula Scher

It's musical apartments in this entertaining picture-book romp, set in a New York brownstone, and peopled by various animal characters. Opening as Mr. Bear makes his way home one chilly evening, determined to begin his annual hibernation with his family, The Brownstone follows the various apartment-switches engineered by Mr. Owl the landlord, who must contend with the Bears' desire for quiet, Miss Cat's distaste at the odor of the Pigs' cooking, the Kangaroo's tendency to hop, the Mice's fear of being eaten by Miss Cat, and his own longing for a nap. After multiple swaps, finally everyone is in the right domicile, and can enjoy either a peaceful sleep, or an evening yowl, as the case may be...

Originally published in 1973, and then reprinted in this 2015 edition, The Brownstone is an animal-tale that captures some of the realities of human life in the city. Conflicts between neighbors in such a crowded environment are inevitable, but Paula Scher's tale gently points young readers to the idea that with patience and negotiation, such disagreements can often be peacefully resolved. The artwork by Stan Mack has a vintage appeal, depicting the eponymous brownstone in cross-section, so each apartment is visible. Young children will appreciate the humor involved in the many swaps, and the eventual happy ending for all.… (mais)