Pip and Posy: The Big Balloon

PreS-Gr 1—Pip and Posy are back, and Pip has a jaunty red balloon for them to share, at least for a little while. The sight of it makes everyone smile, but then, in front of the toy store, tragedy strikes. Pip accidentally lets go. The frantic chase that ensues is not enough to save the balloon from its fate at the end of a sharp branch on a tree in the park. Pip is heartbroken and does not stop crying until Posy pulls two bottles of bubbles from her backpack. Together they blow bubbles that float away and pop-just like they are supposed to. Scheffler's illustrations mirror his previous books about these endearing characters with bold colors, fun details, and evocative expressions. The text and format are suited to group sharing as well as to early readers. Children will certainly connect with Pip's feelings of loss for a favorite thing and hopefully the ability to move beyond it.—Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Library, Troy, NH