The New Friend (Toot & Puddle)
PreSchool-Grade 2–Hobbie's endearing pigs return in another tale about friendship. Opal returns to Woodcock Pocket to visit Toot and Puddle and brings along a much-admired companion. The self-deprecating Opal claims that Daphne is good at everything–much better than she could ever be. Wise Puddle assures her that "everyone is different and everyone is good at different things." Daphne is quite pleasant while proving that she can hold her breath longer, turn a cartwheel more flawlessly, and play the violin better than the others. She enjoys competition as long as she comes out on top, but when she doesn't, her little snout gets out of joint. She's petulant when Opal wins at cards, refuses to try new foods, and won't help out with the raking. However, when Daphne can't deal with a spider in the bathroom, it's little Opal who comes to the rescue. Daphne finally swallows her pride and openly admires Opal's bravery. Hobbie's signature watercolors are delightfully warm and appealing; October leaves on a sunny day almost warrant sunglasses, the glows from fireplace and lamps exude coziness, and the foursome's breath-holding contest is priceless. A gentle, entertaining lesson showing that everyone is special.–Maryann H. Owen, Racine Public Library, WICopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.