THE DOT

The feeling of inadequacy one feels when asked to perform a seemingly impossible task resonates with all of us. For young Vashti, it happens when the art teacher asks her to complete a difficult assignment. Happily, her teacher provides just the right support to bolster new confidence. As one painting leads to another, the creative spirit triumphs. Reynolds’s spare illustrations and hand-lettered text underscore Vashti’s efforts and artistic creations. In similar fashion, Thora Birch portrays a tentative Vashti as she opens her paint box, a confident student as she is inspired, and a compassionate mentor as she encourages an admirer. The musical score sets an upbeat tone for this fine production. A.R. © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 04]