Starred review from January 15, 2021
Seemingly impossible tasks can be completed--with a bit of motivation. The titular Impossible Thing--a dizzying labyrinth of thorns, boulders, rapids, and heights--stands near the edge of the forest and is so named by the woodland creatures because everyone assumes that traversing it is out of the question. This can't-do attitude prevails until Hugo, a French bulldog, appears and asks the question: "How do we know the Impossible Thing is impossible if no one's ever tried to get through it?" In his quest for answers, Hugo seeks out the experts: Mr. Bear is strong, Little Fox is clever, Miss Otter is an excellent swimmer, and Old Mr. Goat is a mountain climber. Although their answers express pessimism, Hugo's determination inspires them to try, and together the animals work to beat the Impossible. The story's flow is smooth and begs to be read aloud; children and caregivers will enjoy Hugo's can-do attitude and his unjudgmental reception of the initial skepticism shown by the forest crowd. The lush, soft-edged illustrations will display equally well in a lap or at the front of a room. Hanson dials the cuteness level down a bit from her illustrations in Close Your Eyes (2021) and other collaborations with Lori Haskins Houran, but the animals' expressive features, especially cheerful Hugo's, are winning. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10-by-20-inch double-page spreads viewed at actual size.) The perfect story for goal-oriented readers (as well as those who need the occasional nudge). (Picture book. 6-10)
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