It's a cute story of a little (preschool) girl who uses her imagination during bedtime. Because Mitsy doesn't like bedtime, she tells her daddy that she is running away and, with daddy's help, she imagines herself packing all the things she will need during her time away from home - until she falls asleep. Some parts of the story remind a little of the "Where the Wild Things Are". The problem that I have with this story is that I just can't imagine a little preschooler saying "I am running away". OK, yes, the illustrations are really assured, and I love the color, and even the curlicues all around Mitsy's speech bubbles. And yes, the single dad is great. Four things: the House-that-Jack-Built parts don't really rhyme or scan, though it's clear they're supposed to be set aside from the rest of the text; I am suspicious of books for children that make jokes at the child character's expense (ie, we know the dad isn't REALLY helping); parents who taunt their children--no matter how unflappable--with scary things (the DARK! the MONSTERS!) give me the willies; and last but not least, Mitsy is ready to provide herself with meals, protection, a roof over her head without missing a beat, but she snaps at mowing the lawn? I know it's supposed to be absurd, but we've already DONE absurd when she picks up the house. (Yes, yes, I'm overthinking this, but the emotional arc of the story doesn't carry me and I'm trying to figure out why.) I need to go find my copy of A Baby Sister for Frances.
What do You think about Itsy Mitsy Runs Away (2011)?
LOL! I really enjoyed this surprising, funny little story and the cute, vibrant illustrations.
—gellybel
The format is similar the "The House That Jack Built". What an understanding, wise father!
—sylviaa5
Love the way this was written! Made it fun to read with my sons :)
—Jerrod
