Flop to the Top!

June 15, 2015
Davis (Stinky) and husband Weing have likely set a record for the number of selfies taken in a children’s book with the introduction of Wanda, a self-described superstar who essentially sees herself as the next Beyoncé. With sienna skin and a hairdo like an exclamation point, Wanda considers her younger siblings and her pet dog, Wilbur, to be “fans,” and she never misses an episode of The Star Show, which celebrates the hottest personalities of the moment (a spot currently held by “Sassy Cat”). After Wanda uploads a selfie featuring herself and Wilbur, it’s her pet who goes viral, as news trucks and phone-wielding fans descend on the house to see “Floppy Dog.” Hell hath no fury like a wannabe celebrity scorned, but as Floppy Dog is whisked off to dance clubs, expensive restaurants, and a yacht (with Sassy Cat, no less!), Wanda’s anger morphs to concern and repentance. Chunky digital illustrations playfully spoof the lifestyles of the rich and famous (Floppy Dog is quickly adorned with sunglasses and jeweled chains), but Davis and Weing never lose sight of the story’s emotional underpinnings. Ages 5–up.