Lulu's little brother Billy is about to have a birthday. She wants to know when her birthday is; Mum tells her it's soon, just not as soon as Billy's. Lulu isn't listening; she's already making birthday lists. When Billy's cards start arriving, Lulu wonders where hers are. That weekend, she hears Mum planning a party. Lulu's party? No, it's Billy's, so Lulu won't help with the decorating. Billy's friends arrive bearing gifts, and Lulu's predictably jealous. She hides Billy's best present, a big purple ball. Billy wants to take it to the park later and is sad he can't find it. Moments later, Lulu can't find her favorite yo-yo, and suddenly she realizes how Billy must feel. She and Dad take the ball to the park for a happy end. Britain-based duo Hollyer and Damon have created a decent bit of bibliotherapy, though careful observers will see some sequencing inconsistencies--or at least mysteries--in the watercolor illustrations. Nevertheless, the realistic and sympathetic treatment of Lulu's emotions will strike a chord with preschoolers. (Picture book. 3-6)
