This is what picture books should be: smart, funny, beautifully illustrated, and genuinely original. Klassen doesn't talk down to kids or beat them over the head with a lesson. Instead, he trusts them to sit with absurdity, anticipation, and the randomness of fate.

The deadpan humor is chef's kiss—two creatures stand around discussing the perfect spot while a rock hurtles toward them. It's Waiting for Godot for the preschool set, except actually entertaining. The minimalist illustrations do heavy lifting, and kids will pore over each page looking for clues.

This isn't brain rot. It's not formulaic. It's weird and wonderful and will hold up to dozens of rereads. Plus, you won't want to fake a stomachache to avoid reading it for the 47th time.