Henry and the Yeti

Henry has round, red spectacles and a turtleneck, and his hair stands straight up. He also adores yetis (“Yes, yetis”) and is certain that they exist, despite his schoolmates’ scornful laughter. So he packs carefully and sets off on an expedition to find one (“Remember, no staying up late,” his father tells him, otherwise unconcerned by his son heading out alone). There’s no yeti to be found in the mountains, and Henry considers going back. Then Henry happens upon two white legs as thick as tree trunks. Ayto (The Somethingosaur) narrates with characteristic British understatement—“Oh!” is all Henry says about his success. Back at home, the camera Henry carefully packed to gather evidence is lost and the principal scoffs, but Henry is vindicated in a most satisfying way. Ayto delivers pure whimsy, and his engaging narrative voice will divert young listeners. Cartoon line drawings add sly charm to this tale of a boy who makes a very large new friend and wins the respect of his doubters. Ages 3–6. [em](Aug.) [/em]