A Pretty Fortune?

Publishers Make Over Their Lists With Timely “Cosme-Readers”

By Alicia Potter

The surging popularity of cosmetic enhancements has produced millions of straighter noses, fuller lips, higher breasts, and smoother complexions. Yet it’s also sparked as many questions from kids who may be confused and even scared by Mama’s new look, not to mention the black eyes and bandages.

Fortunately, the children’s book industry has rallied with answers. Following the lead of Bal Harbour, Florida-based plastic surgeon Michael Salzhauer, M.D., and his highly publicized self-published picture book My Beautiful Mommy, publishers have unveiled an exciting slate of summer titles that explain the aftereffects of cosmetic procedures. We round up the most anticipated:

Where the Stretch Marks Are: This lift-the-flap charmer combines the cathartic appeal of Sendak’s classic with an irresistible interactive format. Lifelike textures enhance the hands-on fun.

Doctor De Soto Gets It White: Bleach or veneers? That is the question when an unsmiling fox slinks into the busy satellite office of the diminutive D.M.D.

I Love You the Purplest (But Don’t Touch Mommy’s Eye): A frank but sensitive look at the dramatic results of fat removal from the orbital bone. The simple text meets its match with stunning gouache illustrations in bruised tones.

The Re-Invention of Hugo Cabret: In this taut sequel to the Caldecott winner, the plucky waif trades the un-microdermabrasioned world of the train station for the posh shops and spas of the Rue de Rivoli. Yet words don’t tell the whole story: interspersed throughout this gripping tale of transformation are sumptuously rendered “Before” and “After” portraits.

Don’t Let the Pigeon Inject the Botox: The bird is back and he’s got a syringe!

Doctor Dolittle, Board Certified: Here the good doc not only talks to the animals, he makes them look better too. Among the highlights: he lipos an elephant, staples a cow’s stomachs, aces a rhino-plasty, and does a consult with the exotic Mani-Pedi.

Pinocchio’s Wish: The little guy attempts to get rid of his stubborn marionette lines.

Curious George Books a Follow-Up Appointment: Sure, they removed that puzzle piece from his tummy but what about the unsightly scar? The mischievous monkey explores his options, while his best buddy asks if hair-replacement therapy is right for him (goodbye, yellow hat!).

A Wrinkle in Time II: Totally smooth now.

On the Day You Were Born: The Real Story: A vibrantly illustrated, sweetly wrought keepsake about why Mommy has to endure all this expensive crap.

Next month: Our starred review of Shiloh the Kegel Beagle

 

For more YA and Children’s Writing, click here.