One of our favorite English children's book creators—and small wonder, since he's a former Children's Laureate who's won the Hans Christian Andersen Award and multiple Kate Greenaway medals—Anthony Browne again crystallizes the fears of young children and gently assuages them in this book about an imaginative boy. Joe is on his way to his first birthday party, and has no idea what to expect. As he and Mum walk down the block in search of the right house, Joe vividly imagines how un-fun a party might be, whether confronted with large animals, bullies, or rude, rough games, while Mum reassures him that parties are fun. Of course, Browne's exquisite paintings will leave a lasting impression in readers 4 to 8.

"Anthony Browne is the master of reassuring picturebooks about anxiety."—Sunday Times (London)

"Browne consistently produces visually stunning and emotionally subtle books, and this is no exception.... Tender, funny, reassuring and highly original, this is a book to share and cherish. Browne is, quite simply, a genius."—Daily Mail (London)