Pig & Goose and the First Day of Spring

Limited vocabulary doesn’t mean early readers can’t be lyrical. Bond (Out of the Woods) demonstrates as much in a passage about spring: “They watched the wind play in the new leaves. Everything whispered and waved and danced.” Three linked stories accompanied by fanciful pen-and-wash drawings explore the theme of identifying gifts. In the first, Pig tries to learn how to fly like her new friend Goose, but fails (“I have never seen a pig fly,” Pig admits). Next, she admires Goose’s ability to swim (“Swimming is so elegant. So graceful. So quiet. I am none of those things”). When Pig throws a marvelous party, though, it’s Goose who’s impressed: “ ‘Pig,’ whispered Goose, ‘you are wonderful.’ ” Innocent exclamations abound (“Goody gumdrops!”), and so do sincere and generous sentiments. Pig is rosy cheeked and ample waisted, and wears rather dumpy clothing, while Goose is sleek and handsome. Yet it’s Pig who keeps her guests enthralled and who pays attention to beauty. It’s a quiet but effective reminder that an individual’s appearance and skills are not the source of his or her worth. Ages 5–8. Agency: Studio Goodwin Sturges. (Mar.)