My Outrageous Friend Charlie

Jessie Mae admires her outrageous friend Charlie because he can do anything; but, when he gives her a Super Delux Triple Magic kit for her birthday, she finds that she can be outrageous too.

PreSchool-Grade 1-- Carefully chosen words relate a simple story with wit and imagination from the point of view of a little girl who lacks self-confidence. Charlie tries to convince his friend, Jessie Mae, that she can do anything, but she does not believe him or in herself. When she receives a Super Delux Triple Magic Kit from Charlie for her birthday, Jessie Mae believes in its magic and in her ability to do outrageous things like Charlie. Alexander takes the leap that children take with their imaginations as Jessie Mae wows Charlie with her magic. Starting off simply, she walks on her hands, then pulls a rabbit out her sleeve, and climaxes with a balloon trip. In the end, she realizes her own potential to make things happen or not to happen. Charming watercolors with colored pencil capture the whimsy and imaginative spirit of the story. A simple, deep lavender border acts to contain the adventure and focus the eye on the children as distinct characters. With inimitable style, Alexander transforms a shy, doubtful girl into a spirited one, secure in her self-esteem. Outrageously well done! --Susan Nemeth McCarthy, Arlington County Public Library, VA
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Readers will recognize this Charlie, because everyone knows someone just like him--the golden boy who's good at simply everything and a nice guy to boot. His friend Jessie Mae thinks he is "outrageous," which is the highest compliment she can pay anyone. She's also a little bit envious of his all-around competence. Envy turns to amazement when Charlie gives Jessie Mae a magic set that gives her power beyond her wildest dreams. Her juggling, flying and rabbit tricks make his no-hands bike riding look like small potatoes. It's Jessie Mae's turn to be magnanimous, and she comes through beautifully. Youngsters will love the way realism turns smoothly into fantasy, ending in a hot-air balloon ride piloted by Jessie Mae. Ages 3-7.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.