Hurry Up, Alfie!, written by Anna Walker, reviewed by Todd Erickson

Summary: Hurry Up, Alfie is an age old tale of procrastination. Alfie has a difficult time focusing on the task at hand - getting ready to go to the park. But there are too many other more important activities on his agenda, such as handstands, swinging and locating a missing toy. A debate whether or not he needs an umbrella is moot, as he ends up in his underwear and playing in the water.

Straight Talk for Librarians: Moms and dads will sympathize with Alfie's parent's plight, children will recognize and get a kick out of Alfie's delay tactics. This one is probably best as a one-on-one a lap story, or a read aloud for very small children and parents. It's a logical springboard for a conversation about procrastination. It's never quite clear what Alfie's motivation is, whether is ADHD or anxiety, or good old procrastination, but this light story is carefree and light. The pictures are fun and colorful and propel the action and help carry out the theme.