The Dollhouse Fairy

A girl's rich imagination helps her cope with unexpected family stress in this uplifting picture book. Rosy treasures Saturday mornings spent with her father (" ‘Just me and my Rosy Posy,' Dad sang") as they decorate and play with the dollhouse he has built for her. But when Rosy awakens one Saturday to find that her father has been taken to the hospital, she tries to cheer herself by playing with the dollhouse solo. That's when she discovers that a rambunctious, messy, and wounded fairy named Thistle has taken up residence. As Rosy focuses on healing Thistle's hurt wing, her worries about her father begin to ease. Before long, Dad is back home, eager to meet Rosy's new friend (who has disappeared). Ray's (The Apple-Pip Princess) text floats on a fanciful idea and a predominantly lighthearted tone. She effectively conveys Rosy's concern without making the situation sound too frightening. The book's large trim size and Ray's vivid mixed-media artwork are a good match, introducing a close-knit family and highlighting an intricate dollhouse—and a spunky fairy—that any girl would love. Ages 3–7. (May)