Arnie, My Doughnut, My Hero

Have you met Arnie? A little on the short side, cheerful smile peeking out from under frosting and sprinkles? Yup, that'd be him--Arnie, star of Arnie, the Doughnut by Laurie Keller.

The story begins with our quick-witted, talking doughnut-hero being born--er, baked. Arnie is thrilled with his life and excited to make friends with the man who picks him. That is, until Mr. Bing tries eat him. Far too spunky to accept a doughnut's fate, Arnie takes matters into his own frosted little hands. The following romp is perfect for anytime--a refreshing nighttime story, ideal to read with your breakfast of . . . broccoli.

Laurie Keller is one of the most creative, hilarious and wacky children's authors/illustrators out there. Her illustrations are a delightful smash of cartoon-and-collage (she uses strips of maps to create roads). Pay close attention so you don't miss all the "extra" stuff (read every page--even the dedications!). Children (and adults) will find something new to laugh at each time: "Doughnut make my brown eyes bluuuue . . . ."

And did I mention the fantastic moral? There's a place in this world for every one of us. All it takes is a little bit of creativity, optimism, and a hefty bunch of brightly-colored sprinkles. Just take it from Arnie.