Francine feels out of sorts from the moment she wakes up and doesn’t want to get out of bed. “But the teapot whistled, and the dishes were clinking in the kitchen.” Francine doesn’t want to get dressed, either. Or go to school, find her desk, or sing the “Good Morning” song. And so it goes. What child hasn’t had a day like Francine’s, when every step is a struggle, and he or she is propelled by demands beyond their control? Luckily, Francine’s mother, and her teacher, Mr. Wendell, gently guide her through the difficult day. And sometimes there’s nothing as important as time—and a well-timed hug—to make things better. Author/artist Anna Alter used pen and ink to illustrate this tender story in which all of the characters are foxes. (Ages 3–6)