Achieving the skill of riding a two-wheeled bike is the first step on the path to independence. Dad spends time with Megan in the park, supporting her with encouraging words and with his steady hands when she finally takes off on her own. Parallel emotions and concerns of father and daughter are expressed in the rhyming text as the theme of letting go is brought out in Megan’s anxiety versus Dad’s apprehensive uncertainty of the latitude that bike-riding will provide. Willis deftly brings it all together as she completes the circle of emotions by having Megan repeat the reassuring words that Dad says at the start of the bike lesson: “Daddy, I’m here. I won’t let go, / Not until you say / Hold on tight. I love you, so / We’ll do this together, okay?” Watercolors outlined in black ink reflect the active scenes, and close-ups of the characters figuratively evoke the sentiments involved. Wholesome fare for both parent and child. (Picture book. 5-7)
