Fred Gets Dressed

Peter Brown, a New York Times bestselling author and Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator, offers a picture book about a boy who spends his days happily unclothed, racing from room to room with no thought for what he's wearing. One day his wandering leads him into his parents' wardrobe, where he decides it's time to try something on. His father's garments do not fit him, but his mother's wardrobe is another story, and he feels striking in her outfits. He then explores her jewelry box and cosmetics as well. When his parents find him in the middle of his costume session, the whole household, dog included, joins in and dresses up together.

The book is illustrated throughout, with a playful tone that centers on pretend, self-discovery and the pleasure of feeling free. Brown drew on his own childhood for the story, and it speaks to nontraditional gender roles and the freedom to express yourself through clothing and style.