WHEN VERA WAS SICK

What universal memories are conjured up as Vera Rosenberry eloquently describes young Vera's days covered with spots and more spots? Remember the darkened room, the disorienting calm and separateness, the only-for-sick-days stuffed animals and toys? When Vera wobbles down to the kitchen to see what her sister and mother are doing, she relishes being scooped up and returned to her bed. But then that special morning comes when Vera has her spunk back. As an unobtrusive narrator, Laura Hamilton lets each vignette speak for itself. Her distinct, quiet voice and meticulous pacing leave the listener time to reflect and to empathize with the sick Vera, and to enjoy Rosenberry's detailed illustrations. A.R. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 06]