A Smooth Move

Gus records in his journal the many adventures and misadventures of his family's move from Portland, Oregon, to Washington, D.C., including packing, broken-down moving vans, and the first day at a new school

Grade 2-4 Rabe's picture book is written as a journal that Gus keeps when Dad's new job requires the family to move from Oregon to Washington, D.C. Gus worries about going to a new school and missing old friends. But he also looks forward to his new tall house and being with his dad again. The moving van is delayed, making the family stay in a hotel longer than expected, but the new house and school are welcoming, and Gus makes new friends (although he does miss the old ones). Written to address the fears a typical third- or fourth-grade child would face in moving, this will be a useful title. The style is appropriately easy and direct. Shute's plentiful black-and-white illustrations have a breezy charm and liveliness which add to the appeal of the simple story, told with humor and understanding. Anne Connor, Los Angeles Public Library
Copyright 1988 Reed Business Information, Inc.