Stepping out is better than hiding out.Ana Moose prefers being alone. She doesn't have to worry about finding the right thing to say or being picked last for teams. Blending into her surroundings, she dubs herself Anonymoose. Then she sees her classmate Peter, a porcupine, building a fort and wishes she could share her own architectural ideas without revealing herself. So, day after day, Ana leaves sketches from "Anonymoose" around; Peter incorporates her plans into his creation. Ana enjoys watching the fort improving daily. Then her best idea strikes: a tall tower. Is she brave enough to tell Peter personally? Nah. Ana shares her brainstorm the usual way; Peter adds it. Alas, he tumbles and gets hurt, and the fort crashes to the ground. Ana's dilemma: Reveal herself and help or remain concealed? While she's thinking, Peter limps off. Next day, Ana hides again, waiting for Peter to return; he doesn't. Remorseful, Ana slowly emerges from seclusion and attempts to rebuild the fort, unaware that Peter's actually nearby, observing. Together, they re-create-no, improve on-the original, and they bond. Ana's no longer Anonymoose. This sweet story reassures readers that shyness is OK and can be overcome. Peter's fort serves as a metaphor for the walls we sometimes build to shield ourselves from relationships. The colorful, charming illustrations exude lively fun. Ana and Peter are very endearing, relatable protagonists.The fine message here: Don't shy away from the chance to be and have a good friend. (Picture book. 4-7)

PreS-Gr 2— Ana Moose always looks for a way to blend into the background. When her classmates take center stage, she is happy to be a part of the scenery. When it is time for recess, Ana looks for new places to hide. And when Peter, a similarly shy porcupine, starts building a fort, Ana thinks she has found the perfect hideaway. Too timid to voice her suggestions directly, she opts for anonymity, sending Peter discreet notes with ideas for fort improvements. Yet, when her well-intended advice leads to disastrous results, Ana realizes she can't remain hidden any longer. Penned with a cheerful, comic style and a soft pastel palette, the illustrations balance moments of sadness with gentle humor. The dynamic layout keeps readers engaged and moves them through the text at a brisk pace. Observant readers will notice Peter's subtle presence in the background of many panels, reminding them that seeking anonymity isn't exclusive to Ana. Though the font size might challenge emerging readers at times, its length is ideal for read-aloud sessions. Themes of bravery, connection, and personality differences make it a perfect fit for social skills-themed story times, encouraging discussions about stepping out of one's comfort zone. VERDICT Purchase for collections that emphasize social-emotional learning through picture books.— Louie Lauer