HISSSS! is another entry in Mick Inkpen's Little Kippers, which features engaging everyday topics for toddlers and preschool-age children. In HISSSS! Kipper models exemplary problem-solving skills, ingeniously rectifying the situation on his own -- a vital developmental milestone for young children. His zany but effective solution generated plenty of grins from one preschooler. The slightly longer but simple format makes this a great intermediate book for children who find board books a breeze but are not quite ready for full-length picture books.

Charismatic, full-color illustrations celebrate the lazy days of summer, capturing a kid's-eye-view of a perfect day: reclining on a sun-warmed blanket, slurping a melting ice cream cone, and reclining in a wading pool. The drawings of the cuddly Kipper are irresistibly cute. Several readings of this tale will have little ones longing for the mercury to rise.