Margo Thinks Twice

Margo easily feels nervous and uncomfortable, especially inside the wild world her imagination sometimes creates. Whenever her mom gives instructions, Margo’s mind turns the everyday advice into worries and worst-case scenarios. Mom tells Margo to be careful with the craft glue, and Margo imagines becoming stuck to all the furniture and decorations in her room. Mom advises Margo not to swing too high, and Margo envisions ending up on the roof.

Monica Arnaldo’s warm and inviting mixed-media artwork brings these flights of fancy to life, playing out Margo’s fears and highlighting her expressive face. Luckily, Margo’s mom comes up with an idea to ease her daughter’s anxieties and encourage her inventive spirit in a positive way. Careful readers will pick up on subtle hints throughout the book before the secret is revealed: Margo’s family adopts a pet dog! He’s energetic, friendly, clumsy, and messyjust the outlet she needs for imagination and play.

MONICA ARNALDO is the author/illustrator of USBBY Outstanding International Books selection Arto's Big Move (2014) and The Little Book of Big Fears (2015). She also illustrated A Dog Day for Susan (2016). Monica grew up in Ottawa, Ontario, where she spent her childhood imagining herself into all sorts of trouble. Drawn to illustration by her passion for children’s books, she combines a variety of media to create images full of character. She and her husband live in Montreal with their dog, Abe.