The Sandman
PreSchool-Grade 2—This fabulous story explains the origins of the Sandman. Tor is a tiny fellow who finds a dragon's scale. Taking it home to his workshop, he studies it and then starts to sharpen it. The dust that gathers makes him fall asleep. Once awake, it's a small leap for him to imagine how helpful this dust will be to all who suffer from sleeplessness, especially children. Fletcher's smoothly written story flows in a thoroughly plausible way and is beautifully served by Cowdrey's vibrant acrylic paintings. Especially intriguing are the wonderful little details, like Tor's mouse-drawn carriage made out of buttons. The old-fashioned look is refreshingly straightforward, free of irony and adult-oriented nostalgia. All in all, this is a compelling story with pictures that add drama, charm, and atmosphere.—Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, ILCopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.