This first book in newcomer Bradshaw's Walnut Animal Society series, about a group of friends dedicated to curiosity and creation, sputters a bit as a fox named Henry, the group's inventor, forgets an idea and spends all day looking for it. Henry is seen searching for his lost idea under his worktable when fellow club member Eleanor the Bear appears with tea: "I am sure that when you find it, it will be wonderful!" she exclaims. After a day of exploring, the idea reappears at nightfall when the fireflies come out, but readers never find out what it is. Eleanor functions only as Henry's sidekick, offering encouragement and providing food. Kirwan's (Baby Loves to Party!) club, with its easy chairs and chandelier, is as tastefully fitted out as a British gentleman's lounge, and the rest of the scenery is equally charming. The animal characters, though superficially different, all have the same tiny eyes and white muzzles, giving them a sort of family resemblance. Fans of cheerful animal fantasy will gravitate toward this. Ages 2-6. (Aug.)

PreS-Gr 2-- A group of elegant, nattily dressed animals reside in a tall tree house and call themselves the Walnut Animal Society. Their mission "is to create and always remain curious." The friends include Magnolia the Bunny, who makes maps of all the different places she's discovered. Chester the Raccoon adventurously collects ropes and fishing poles, and Eleanor the Bear likes to collect flowers and brew tea for her friends. The main character, Henry the Fox, is well-known for his distinctive ingenuity. One day, he proclaims that he has lost an idea and has no clue where to find it. With the help of Eleanor the Bear, the two venture out for a walk in the walnut grove. Readers can grasp the importance of clearing one's mind with relaxation activities, such as taking a walk and talking with a friend. Exploring an array of nature's objects, Henry concludes that he still hasn't found what he was looking for. As the sun begins to set, tiny adorable lightning bugs encircle Henryhelping him discover his "bright" idea. Although the story ends rather abruptly (the final page shows Henry back in his room, where "he [gets] right to work") without a look into Henry's idea. Children in a classroom or storytime can take turns coming up with their own theories about Henry's idea. Kids who like to play with Calico Critters might enjoy the warm, furry animals that Kirwan has drawn. VERDICT A great precursor story to read to children before engaging in a project or for elementary school library literature collections on maker spaces.- Krista Welz, North Bergen High School, NJ