Rescue from the heat
The cool air that rushed through the library doors was a godsend as the Florida heat—as usual—showed no mercy. As I made my way past the service desk, I greeted various staff who were becoming familiar with my presence. The library was pretty quiet, which you’d think was a given, but at this particular branch, its popular teen/kid/toddler programs often made the place alive with young voices. A treat in and of itself.
On the hunt for new material to feed my growing fascination with picture books, I perused the aisles, picking up a book here and there with covers that drew me in. I admit it. I’m shallow when it comes to book cover but I make no apologies. Like food, if a cover doesn’t look good, I’m not so inclined to consume what’s inside. You can blame my graphic design side.
A good find
When I reached the “S” section, I came across a book one of the staff had singled out by placing it on top of the bookshelf. Millie Waits for the Mail by Alexander Steffensmeier (who also illustrated the book) had a bold color scheme and playful subject matter that made me smile. A curious black and white spotted cow peeked from behind a tree, waiting for someone. Millie Waits for the Mail had me at ‘Hello’.
Millie Waits for the Mail is a hilarious read. I laughed from beginning to end because Millie isn’t like other cows. She has a hobby that sets the mailman on edge and her owner on a mission—all to the reader’s delight. Who knew that delivering the mail could be so difficult?
A breath of fresh air
Steffensmeier’s artwork is beautiful and perfectly fits the surprising and well written story line. Children will love Millie’s wild escapades and parents will love the overall message of being cautious of how you treat others as you just may need them some day.
I highly recommend this book. Though I borrowed this from my local library, I will be purchasing a copy to add to my personal collection. Yeah… it’s just that good 
Cheers,
April
P.S. Have you read Millie Waits for the Mail or any of Steffensmeier’s books?
Or do you have a recommendation for a good children’s book that left you rolling with laughter? Leave a comment or send a message. I’d love to know about it
