Description: This is the sequel to "In the Forest," which showcased a child's rich imagination, by Marie Hall Ets. Wearing a white paper hat and carrying a horn, the child sets off once again into the forest. Deep among the densely growing trees, drawn by a lively, noisy commotion, the child ventures further and further in. There, many animals — an elephant, a lion, a hippo, a monkey, and more — have gathered to show off their special talents. Naturally, the child becomes the announcer, calling out each animal's name. The giraffe comes forward and shows off its trick of stretching its long neck. The lion roars so loudly it seems as though pebbles might fly out of its mouth. The hippo opens its enormous mouth wide and swallows a whole watermelon and a loaf of bread in one gulp. As the animals continue showing off their talents one after another, the child joins in the fun, trying out a handstand. Then, suddenly, the child bursts out laughing. So who wins the talent show in the end? Here, author Marie Hall Ets shows her wit and cleverness — the animals are all amazed by the child's laughter, because none of them can laugh the way a person can. Having watched such delightful performances and received such praise, the child feels wonderfully happy. When Dad calls, the child runs over excitedly to share the exciting news — that the animals were so envious because they couldn't laugh the way the child could. And Dad's response is warm and gentle: "Even if I can't do anything else, I'd love to be able to laugh just like you!" Recommended by: Osamu Takeuchi, author of "Picture Books Are Fun" (published by Munhakdongne Children's Books) Author: Marie Hall Ets Awards: Caldecott Medal (1966, 1956, 1945) Recent Works: "Send the Little Seal Back to the Sea," "Just Like Me," "Hello, Baby!" and 32 other titles About the Author: Marie Hall Ets was born in 1895 in a small town in Wisconsin, USA. Her childhood experiences bonding with animals had a lasting influence on her later work. As she grew older, she began drawing, and her talent was so remarkable that by first grade she was already studying in an art class with older students. She later developed a strong interest in sociology and social work, dedicating herself mainly to children's welfare from around the time of World War I. However, after her health declined, she returned to creating picture books. She published many beloved picture books, including "Mister Penny," "Oley, the Sea Monster," and "In the Forest." Her 1959 book "Nine Days to Christmas" won the Caldecott Medal, the highest honor awarded to picture books in the United States.