Thunder-Boomer! (by Shutta Crum)

This picture book is exciting without being too exciting, even for kids who are still scared of thunderstorms. The family works well together, and there are a few funny events to keep the burgeoning storm from getting too frightening. Lots of sound effects make this a fun book to read out loud, too.

The illustrations do a good job of capturing the darkening sky and swirling winds, as well as the rain and hail. The line drawings help kids sense the movement of the running kids and flying underwear. The soft watercolors make for impressively murky clouds and a soothing post-storm sunset.

Line drawings washed with watercolors accurately portray the chaotic events before and during the storm as well as the rosy peace afterward.