Playful and sweet, the simple poem rocks gently along inviting the engagement of young readers through the question and answer format. Using images from the fanciful language, the illustrations then add layers of subplots for pre-readers to follow as well. For example, when asked where he has been, Old Squirrel answers that he has been on a whirl. The illustration shows a squirrel with goggles up in the air on a helicopter-like flying contraption with a fairy holding on for dear life and the moon rolling its eyes in the background. There is a charming visual subtext involving fairies that carries throughout.

Both the poem and the series of cheerful illustrations are fully realized and could stand alone, but the combination is most delightful. Twice winners of the Caldecott Medal and the Coretta Scott King Award (among many, many others), the Dillons create artwork that is beautifully rendered while maintaining a spirit of whimsy. Margaret Wise Brown shows here, yet again, that although her writing career was relatively short, her authentic voice, well-crafted language, and light-hearted intelligence are enduring.

From the book:
Little Old Fish
Little Old Fish
Where do you swim?
Wherever I wish
Said the Little Old Fish
That's where I swim....

Little Old Bee
Little Old Bee
Where have you been?
In a pink apple tree
Said the Little Old Bee
That's where I've been.