An opossum, a rabbit, a squirrel, and a mouse stand at the edge of a river. In front of them is a convenient log they could use to cross the water, but the tip of a large, pointed tail sticks up out of the water next to the log. “That looks like a sneaky tail,” says rabbit. Opossum, certain of how to handle things, tiptoes across the log. “Smack Splash” … Now a rabbit, a squirrel, and a mouse stand at the edge of the river. “That’s a scary tail!” affirms Rabbit. Squirrel raises his paws and bares his teeth and steps out onto the log. “Smack Splash” … A rabbit and a mouse stand at the edge of a river … This sparely told story is a perfect picture book package. Distinctive, uncluttered panel art in muted tones with stylized figures (with incredibly expressive eyes) works in harmony with the patterned text told through speech-bubble dialogue to tell a funny tale with a punchline ending, perfect for reading out loud.     (Ages 3-7)

Simple, subtle, and drolly funny, the Pumphrey brothers’ newest picture book is a layered exploration of the foolishness of making assumptions and the virtue of curiosity.

When four swamp creatures looking to cross a river come upon a log that would allow for precisely that, they can’t believe their luck. But a questionable tail adjacent to that log gives them second thoughts. Opossum believes it’s a sneaky tail and that they must pass it quietly. Squirrel thinks it’s a scary tail that can be cowed by intimidation. Rabbit decides it’s a mean tail that deserves a taste of its own medicine. As the critters exhaust approaches one by one, Mouse, the smallest of the lot, observes their folly and adjusts accordingly. But is it the mouse or the tail that will defy expectations?

Pairing their iconic illustration style with a wry irreverence, the Pumphrey brothers have crafted a delightful tale that reminds us to think before we act.