Young readers conquering anxieties of their own will want to linger over this comforting drama. Haying time brings the midway to the timeless, rural American community in which the main character's family lives. In spite of this excitement, Etta is terrified to ride the Ferris wheel. To prepare herself, she climbs onto the chicken-coop roof, where she becomes stranded. Big tears I cry.
Big baby tears.
Finally, looking out her window one night, the child has a revelation about the stars and is able to use it to help her overcome her fear of heights. The clear, simple prose is as suited to independent reading as it is to reading aloud. Luminous composition and effective delineation of character are the trademarks of Shed's realistic, full-color gouache paintings. Etta's determination is effectively captured by her posture as well as her words. The text and illustrations work in concert to deliver the essence of youthful discovery.