Lili is so shy that her voice, when she actually says anything, is usually too soft to be heard. At recess, Lili remains in the classroom with only Lois the guinea pig for company. She is too timid to volunteer to care for Lois, so she loses the job to Rita B. Cassidy chooses Lili as a partner but turns out to be a bully. When Cassidy endangers Lois, Lili is able to yell, “Stop it!” in a voice that could be heard by “the birds in the sky and the fishes in the sea.” She saves Lois, and Rita B. becomes her new partner and friend. Choldenko tells a familiar school story with humor and simplicity, using language that flows naturally and features many snappy turns of phrase. Schindler’s bright, cartoon-style illustrations are just right, capturing both the actions and Lili’s reactions to them, as well as incorporating many eye-catching details. A good read-aloud or read-alone that is sure to delight. (Picture book. 4-7)
