In this colorful picture book, Carlson speaks to children directly, urging them to take care of their bodies by getting some exercise. She enumerates the parts of the body helped by exercise and names several other benefits, such as enjoying athletic achievements, learning sportsmanship, and making new friends. The helpful statement Exercise burns up the junky food you sometimes eat is undermined somewhat by the large illustration and comparatively lengthy description of a particular example: a triple chocolate, caramel, marshmallow cream sundae with extra whipped cream, and a cherry on top; but this passage is sure to bring a response when the book is read aloud in the classroom. Bright and sassy, the clearly delineated drawings with vivid washes provide a light, sometimes-comical tone that makes the lessons easier to take. With a short, simple text and a cheerful look, this will suit preschool and kindergarten teachers looking for an accessible book on exercise.

Nancy Carlson's signature rabbit and pig fight the obesity epidemic by exhorting their readership to exercise. Rather than a story, this is a list of reasons to play--e.g., exercise "burns up the junky food you sometimes eat" and helps one make new friends. The bright illustrations make exercise seem enjoyable, but the text is too purposeful and the book design is confusing.

A joyously unrestrained, candy-colored salute to exercise, wherein Carlson's company of cockeyed animals encourage young readers to forsake whatever screen has them in its thrall, to go outside and shake that thing. It doesn't matter if you are short, tall, skinny or round—or, for that matter, happen to be a frog, or pig, or rabbit or dog—writes Carlson in this gentle challenge to get off your duff. As the animals gyrate about the page, they sing the praises of staying fit, keeping trim despite those rare encounters with junk food, learning about sportsmanship, making new pals at the playground and even learning to relax as you enjoy a brisk walk. Carlson has posed herself a mighty challenge, but her effort has enough vim to get the job done, and is pegged at those young enough to be saved. (Picture book. 3-6)

PreS-Gr 1-Carlson's lively characters are back with a message about exercise and what fun it can be. "Exercise can be relaxing" or "Exercise can help you make friends," and "Exercise burns up the junky food you sometimes eat." As in the author/artist's earlier upbeat books, a positive message comes through without being preachy. Done in colored pencils and technical pens, the artwork features humanlike animals boldly exhibiting the joys and woes of exercise, and adds humor through visual cues full of cheerful and realistic expression. A heart-healthy fact runs across the top of most pages, with corresponding text below. With childhood obesity a hot topic for today's kids, this book offers a playful yet helpful encouragement to those who may need extra incentive to get up and go.-JoAnn Jonas, Chula Vista Public Library, San Diego, CA Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.