IRA Says Goodbye

The immensely likable Ira ( Ira Sleeps Over ) returns, in a story that explores a common childhood dilemmathe parting of best friends when one moves away. Ira's distress upon learning that Reggie is moving to Greendale is compounded by his friend's apparent delight. All Reggie can talk about is how terrific his new home will be; doesn't he care about leaving Ira behind? Ira discovers that Reggie, in his own way, is just as distraught as he is, and the book closes with plans for a weekend reun ion. Waber's appealing, freestyle, slightly cartoony illustrations, coupled with his matter-of-fact text, provide an often funny, always revealing look at children's feelings when they have to say goodbye to someone dear to them. The author's portrayals of the confusing array of emotions are wryly accurate, from Ira's reminiscences of shared moments and his bewilderment at Reggie's outlook to his own feigned indifference (``I will jump for joy the day Reggie moves away,'' he unconvincingly asserts). A warm, wise and ultimately reassuring book. Ages 4-8. (September)