For Russell, his new house's huge backyard maple tree looks just right for a tree fort, and he sketches plans for it, including a balcony, slide, and skylight. Though his father admits he knows little about building tree forts ter abundant lumber-store trips and some earnest effort, Russell's fort is finished. While not quite as envisioned, to Russell, "it's perfect," and that evening, they enjoy dinner and sleeping there. But the next morning, from his fort, Russell spies a bigger, more elaborate tree fort being built nearby by an entire crew, complete with a slide, turrets, and even electricity. Though Russell is initially in awe, an offhand question helps him realize that, though "there will always be a better tree fort somewhere," his is still something special, because of who he built it with. Leng's playful artwork, in loose ink lines casually filled with naturalistic color washes, is a warm complement to this sweet, supportive father-and-son story. Its message of what matters most cluding love and spending time together one many readers will welcome.

Do-it-yourself dads rock, especially in the backyard.When Russell sees the enormous maple tree in his new backyard, he immediately thinks tree fort and draws up the plans for the structure and all its important attachments. His dad is a very willing accomplice to the project, although he's not at all sure of what to do and how to do it. After a good deal of work, the tree fort is completed. It is not anywhere near what Russell had planned, but in his eyes "It's perfect" (even without the escape slide). Father and son (both white) spend a wonderful night together in it. The next morning brings consternation to Russell when he sees a tree fort being erected in a neighbor's backyard—a very big and very fancy endeavor. It has turrets. And electricity. And an escape slide. Russell joins the boy of color to whom it belongs for a snack and learns that his father hired a construction crew. But does it have everything a better tree fort should have? Russell goes home to be with his father, who may not be the best builder but is clearly the "better dad." Kerrin's story of father-son love is endearing and warm-spirited. Leng's ink, watercolor, and pencil-crayon illustrations are softly hued, fluid, and filled with enough details to engage readers. Time together is truly wonderful for one father and son. (Picture book. 3-6)