Andrew's Own Place

Young Andrew gains confidence when he leaves the comfort of his daily routine for an adventurous hiking trip with his family

Since Andrew likes things predictable--his own place at the table, the same kind of oatmeal each day, a special toothbrush slot--he's apprehensive when his family goes for an early morning picnic. The woods are big and dark; a sandwich, even with oatmeal bread, is not his idea of breakfast; and he's especially anxious when Dad and his sisters go into a cave. Still, the experience is broadening: the sandwich isn't bad, and he does finally peer into the cave. As Daddy carries the tired boy back to the car, he confides, ``I like the woods. But now I want to go home.'' In her first children's book, Riecken captures Andrew's feelings with real sympathy; her rather long text is nicely reflected in Aubry's perceptive realistic watercolors. A quiet story that may well help build understanding of timid little homebodies like Andrew. (Picture book/Young reader. 3-8) -- Copyright ©1993, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

Ages 2-4. From a small child's point of view, disruption of routine can be terrifying, even when it's an early morning walk in the woods with your loving family. Andrew likes to eat his oatmeal in his special red chair right where the table leg sticks out. That is his place. Afterwards, he likes to brush his teeth, and his toothbrush is always in the third slot on the right on the toothbrush rack. He's upset one morning when instead of being served oatmeal, he is taken with his family to picnic in the country. He doesn't like the sandwich ("Where's my oatmeal?"). The trees are scary, and he worries about his father and his sisters, who are exploring a dark cave. Then, with the reassurance of his parents, he begins to enjoy the adventure, even though he misses his oatmeal and his toothbrush. Without a trace of condescension, the direct text and clear, sunlit watercolor paintings show Andrew's anxiety and his growing confidence as he takes his first small step away from home. Small children and their families will recognize the comfort of ritual and the strength it gives you to walk outside. Hazel Rochman