Betty and the Mysterious Visitor

Debut author Twist sneaks rhyme into prose lines (the badger “snuffled and sniffled and scurried along, searching for treats that were tasty and strong”) and keeps the energy high in a storybook vignette that demonstrates a child coming up with a solution. The tale’s focus on independent problem-solving is rooted in a sense of domestic security and abundance that’s supported by visual layers of pattern and color.
—Publishers Weekly

Sutton’s bright watercolors elevate the story, with cheerful scenes of the garden, village, and market. . . . A satisfying tale of a child’s resourcefulness.
—Kirkus Reviews

The sweet little mystery is both snug and suspenseful, and the charming text is filled with delightful phrasing. . . . The glorious watercolor illustrations nearly steal the show; they’re a riot of color, overflowing with detail, and young readers can spend ages taking in the minutiae on each pretty spread. The wonderful Wobbly Bottom is well worth the visit.
—Booklist

This picture book debut is an exciting and engaging storytime read that feels like an instant classic. Emily Sutton’s art paired with Anne Twist’s celebration of nature tells of a little girl determined to stop a creature from destroying her grandma’s garden.
—The Barnes & Noble Reads Blog