Leon and Bob

A model of economy in its prose as well as its illustrations, this modest story radiates understated wit. Center stage is Leon, who has moved into town with his mother while his father is away in the army. Fortunately, Leon has Bob to see him through the transition. Bob joins him for breakfast, walks him to school and, when Leon receives letters from his father, Bob likes to hear Leon read them ""over and over again."" Nobody else can see Bob, not even the reader, who watches the events play out against a backdrop of piquant watercolor-and-ink sketches. When a new boy moves in next door, however, and Leon decides to go introduce himself, Bob disappears from Leon, too. All is well in the end, of course, for the new boy's name is--what else?--Bob. It's a fitting ending to a familiar story, polished here to a bright shine. Ages 4-8. (Mar.)