Jam Day

As Ben and Mama travel to his grandparents' house, he is acutely aware that they are ""just two''an island of quiet surrounded by the bustling, happy noise of other families. All that changes as soon as he steps off the train and gets a reassuring hug from Grandmam. At his grandparents' house there's a welcome banner and balloons, and best of allhis cousins! The next day is Jam Day, when the whole family traditionally gathers to pick strawberries and put up jam. Grandpap teaches Ben his world-famous biscuit recipe, and they all share the goodies. ``Now Ben knows he and Mama are not just two.'' McCully's understated, colorful pictures are a perfect foil for Joosse's realistic and warm tale of family life. Reverberating with love, this story will touch the hearts of many. Ages 3-8. (June)