GREENLIGHT

Carzoo, staunch defender of the lowly fireplug Lou (2022), champions another essential infrastructural stalwart. “I used to think I was super bright, and sparkly, and spectacular…but every time I share my light with the world,” grumbles the traffic signal, “it’s like they can’t get away from me fast enough.” Well, “ I’m done shining! ” Rendered with utmost simplicity in the flat paper collage pictures, the dissed disk closes its googly eyes—and discovers that being alone in the dark offers peace, quiet…and a chance to take stock (in words addressed as much to similarly discouraged readers): “There’s nothing wrong with you. You’re a good light.” And when the realization that being liked by others is less important than liking oneself turns out to be literally eye-opening, the discovery of a massive pileup of waiting traffic on the road below keys both a refreshed sense of agency and an exhilarating climactic “ GO!!! ” that irresistibly invites young audiences to holler along…and to let their own lights shine. (This book was reviewed digitally.)