By way of seven thick cardboard pages, twenty-one words and compelling illustrations, this book delivers pure glee. My glee is afterglow from that of our nine-month old; this was his first favorite book and remains at the top of the list today. In my opinion the highlight comes just before the halfway point. Davey is drawn sitting bolt upright, legs parallel and feet perpendicular to a blanket adorned with a skunk. His diaper bulges beneath a close-lipped smile. The only text: "P.U.!"

"There are three types of parents -- first, those who are always fussing after their children, controlling and correcting them and trying to make them walk in the same paths as themselves; then an infinitely preferable variety, who neglect their children altogether; and lastly, the ideal kind, who their children from a distance and are ready with encouragement and friendship when that is needed." (quoting Franz Cizek)

I purchased this title after a tweet from a friend recommended it. Being a first year teacher, I thought perhaps it would be just the sort of contemporary thinking to inspire my practice.

I began reading this title as part of a course I took last year piled high with readings. Seemingly obtuse and structurally complicated, I'm intrigued enough to pick it up again. It keeps cycling back onto my radar.