THE FRIEND

This book appreciates the caretakers in the world--those like Bea, friend and companion who watches over little Belle. In fact, Stewart dedicates this book to "all the people across the world who have saved the lives of children by paying attention when others did not." Here Stewart's meaning is quite literal--little Belle runs out to the ocean alone and has a scary encounter. Stewart's voice hints of the South as she reads her lightly rhyming prose. Musical expressions illustrate the contentment of a lazy day by the ocean and the terror of being grabbed by a large wave. Children will enjoy David Small's award-winning illustrations as they follow along with Stewart's calm, well-paced reading. J.C.G. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 07]