Kindergarten-Grade 2 A young boy deliberates the fairness of being an only child. He first speculates on the possible advantages of having siblings and laments the chores and responsibilities that are his alone. Then he considers the advantages of being an only child, emphasizing such things as not having to share goodies or his parents' attention. In this self-centered vein he celebrates that "It's always my turn because I'm an only child," but readers are left with the feeling that only children are selfish and spoiled. The format and subject would appear to make this a good read-aloud for young children, but lengthy sentences, sometimes extending over several pages and including many unrelated topics, may confuse both readers and listeners. Carrick's full-color realistic illustrations provide their own dimensions of humor and compassion. It is unfortunate that the text does not do them justice. Phyllis K. Kennemer, Green Mountain Elementary School Library, Lakewood, Colo.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.
