Harvey Hare Postman Extraord

As cozy as a cup of tea on a rainy day, this gentle tale of virtue rewarded is brightened by a whimsical woodland setting and colors that change with the seasons, from spring's light pastels to autumn's rich golds and russets. As an artist, Watts has a delicate touch. Her fineness of line and attention to detail, from the smallest insect to a blossom, lend a sweetness to the scenes, while soft shading adds a nubbly texture. The story-of a loyal post-rabbit who never lets the weather keep him from his appointed rounds-is equally winning. Whether bringing twigs to nest-building sparrows, spectacles to a near-sighted mole or nuts for a squirrel's winter larder, Harvey stays the course, and his faithfulness is repaid when his friends band together to make him the perfect gift-an umbrella to shelter him from the elements. This mail tale delivers. Ages 5-8. (Mar.)