Billy Tartle in Say Cheese! by Michael Townsend.

Very modern, graphically interesting and lots of fun, this picture book offers a lot of humor in a slim volume.  Billy is going to have his picture taken at school, but worries that all of his pictures have been boring.  So he designs a hairstyle for himself based on Supermonkey.  He has lots of ideas about how this new hairstyle will make him impressive and give him powers.  But he turns out looking exactly the same as before.  When he is given a lollipop after his haircut, he gets an idea that is certain to make sure that this class picture is far, far from dull.

The text is lovely to read aloud to a small group of kids, but this is really a book for elementary kids to read on their own or for a very small group of children to enjoy together.  The illustrations are such a large part of the story, and they have to be seen closely to be enjoyed to the fullest. 

Highly recommended for all boys.  Boys who don’t enjoy traditional books will like the comic book feel of this one.  Boys who read often and will will love the humor of the story.  A wonderful look at how comics can be mashed up with picture books and be super!