If Daddy Only Knew Me

Kindergarten-Grade 3?Five-year-old Kate begins to wonder about her father and is surprised to learn from her older sister, Glory, that he lives across town. She and Glory make a secret visit to his house and are drawn to his new baby, who is resting in a carriage while he mows the lawn. When Glory asks him if this is the only kid he has, he answers "Just the one," which sends the girls away struggling to hold back tears while their identitites slowly dawn on him. At home, Glory suggests that maybe he "...thinks his heart won't stretch far enough to let everyone in." Kate decides that maybe she'll stretch her heart...in case he changes his mind. The strong, loving mother and her explanation of their father's abandonment will reassure some children; others may be disturbed by the capriciousness of this man's "love" and the obvious hurt it is causing. Pastel watercolors soften the story by gently depicting the setting and the winsome, tousle-headed Glory and her serious-eyed little sister, but it will be a challenge to find an audience for this hopeful exploration of an unresolved family situation.?Susan Hepler, Alexandria City Public Schools, VA
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