As two storylines merge into one, a family’s frenzied end-of-day activities unfold. At home, a father prepares dinner, feeds the baby, and scolds the pets while the older children—two boys—set the table and pick up toys. All eagerly await Mama’s return from work. Meanwhile, Mama is closing up shop and making her way home, walking to the subway, riding the train, getting caught in a rainstorm as she leaves the station. Each satisfying two-page spread follows events at home and Mama’s trek through the city. Finally, “Kisses flying. No more crying. Mama’s at the door.” Kate Banks’s brief, lively prose features occasional rhymes and one repeated phrase that serves as an emotional touchstone for the story: “Mama’s coming home.” Tomek Bogacki’s distinctive illustrations have a pleasing, childlike quality, yet each composition is intriguingly complex. Highly Commended, 2004 Charlotte Zolotow Award (Ages 3–6)