Big Jeremy

Big Jeremy is large in stature and big of heart; he is a true gentle giant. For years he lives peacefully at the edge of the Terisons' apple orchard, basking in their friendship and helping with the family chores in his own monumental fashion--picking a season's worth of apples in an afternoon, for example. His size more often hinders than helps and frequently Jeremy gets in his own clumsy way. After one unfortunate incident Jeremy sadly leaves: ``He built a raft and floated away down the river.'' The Terisons and Jeremy all suffer from his absence, and he finally returns, happy to feel needed. Though somewhat simplistic, Kroll presents his affecting tale of friendship from an unusual--gigantic--perspective. Carrick's outrageously funny illustrations are warm with folksy appeal. Ages 5-8. (Oct.)