cover image Llama Llama and the Bully Goat

Llama Llama and the Bully Goat

Anna Dewdney. Viking, $17.99 (40p) ISBN 978-0-670-01395-1

Llama Llama is growing up—instead of being the source of “llama drama,” he’s more of a peacemaker in this empathic addition to Dewdney’s popular series. Rather, it’s classmate Gilroy Goat causing problems: he pokes fun at Llama and other students during circle time and throws a tantrum at recess. “Gilroy bleats and kicks the dirt./ He gets sand on Llama’s shirt.” Dewdney’s canvas-textured paintings continue to express the deep emotions of her characters, and the story espouses the value of getting adults involved when bully goats act out—and of giving them second chances. Ages 3–5. Agent: Deborah Warren, East West Literary Agency. (Aug.)