All Kinds of Friends, Even Green!
Kindergarten-Grade 4-When his teacher gives an assignment to write about a friend, seven-year-old Moses considers classmates, neighbors, parents, and teachers before finally deciding on Zaki, his teenage neighbor's iguana, because she is different yet determined, like him. Using a wheelchair due to disabilities including spina bifida, Moses nevertheless participates in all of the classroom activities. Zaki has missing toes, yet has learned to compensate by using her strong front legs to keep up with Hashi, her companion iguana. Bright, bold photographs depict surroundings and experiences from Moses's and Zaki's points of view, with the text appearing on what looks like lined notebook paper at the bottom. Some words appear larger, in unusual places, or in contrasting colors to provide emphasis and interest. The multicultural class, including another child in a wheelchair, is credible and familiar, with scenes occurring on the playground, in the library, and in the classroom. Information following the story provides background about disabilities and iguanas. The clear and varied photographs carry the sometimes weak and slightly confusing text, which includes such phrases as "gotta see my friends!" and words appearing against busy backgrounds. The message of acceptance, coupled with a matter-of-fact portrayal of a disabled youngster, makes this a good choice for most collections.Susan McCaffrey, Haslett High School, MICopyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.