Pockets for Two: A Collection of Girlhood

Ward (Jessie: Queen of the Road) writes rhythmic lines in praise of pockets, with images by Magro (Gift & Box) displaying a growing friendship between two children in which the pockets play important roles. One, a pale-skinned child who wears a white patterned tunic, is seen looking shyly into a classroom in a moment when “things are strange and new.” A toy rabbit peeks out of a pocket: “Pockets are for hiding.... Small and warm, to tuck inside, until you’re not afraid.” Soon, a wave from a brown-skinned child with round glasses and a red jumper promises companionship: “Pockets are for folded notes... for snacks, shared between two friends.” The children’s bond grows as the pouches are used for “small surprises,” carrying insects and worms, and storing notes “handmade with purple glitter.” Digitally finished multimedia spreads offer appealing characters and handsome patterns of warm color to detail the many uses of pockets—including “discovering together. Each and every day.” An author’s note concludes. Ages 4–8. Author’s agent: Lara Perkins, Andrea Brown Literary Agency. Illustrator’s agent: Anne Moore Armstrong, Bright Agency. (Jan.)