cover image The Sick-In-Bed Birthday

The Sick-In-Bed Birthday

Susan Davis, Linda Wagner Tyler. Viking Children's Books, $12.95 (32pp) ISBN 978-0-670-81823-5

What a disappointment! On Tucky's birthday, he comes down with the chicken pox. He can't have his school party or his sleepover or his birthday cake at homeall he can do is stay in bed. There are some consolations: his best friends call and send him gifts, and the entire class sends get well cards. And, when he is better, he has his party after all. Tyler and Davis, treating this dilemma with care and respect, seem to understand how difficult it is for children to handle such disappointments. With few words and simple watercolors, this team conveys the closeness of Tucky's family and the important role his friends play in his life. As were their previous collaborations (Waiting for Mom and When Daddy Comes Home), this is a soothing, compassionate work. Ages 2-6. (June)