Lamb & Butterfly

When a Lamb and a Butterfly meet in the meadow, the Lamb asks the Butterfly where his mother is. The Butterfly replies, ``My mother flies one way while I fly the other.'' The Lamb, who is used to the warmth and security of her mother, is astounded by this answer and follows the Butterfly all around the field. Each time she asks the butterfly a question, she discovers that the small, flitting creature is free to do as he pleases. But when the Butterfly is swept away by a black cloud, the Lamb worries about himuntil she discovers him on her back. As the Lamb grows more certain that the Butterfly will stay in the meadow, the Butterfly allows the sun to dry his wings and soon resumes his journey. Sungaard's poetic text sings along at a brisk pace, as these two unlikely friends enjoy an afternoon's interlude. Carle, with the same use of strong color that won him recognition in The Very Hungry Caterpillar and subsequent works, has created bright acrylic and paper collage illustrations that intensify the movement of the story. Ages 3-7. (September)