An intrepid tot with a yen for independence sets out to establish an abode of her own. With toys and other essentials in tow, young Rosy ventures into the wide world of her backyard in search of a new house. The hollowed-out base of a massive tree serves her purpose perfectly and she is soon bustling about in domestic bliss. Hindley (Does a Cow Say Boo?, above, etc.) deftly expresses a child’s delight in secret places, cozy nooks, and role-play. “ ‘This is my house; it’s mine, all mine!’ [Rosy] . . . sang.” With her home set to rights, she eagerly awaits the pleasure of all happy hostesses: guests. Searching beyond the denizens of her backyard and far off into her imagination, Rosy soon spies a jovial crush of visitors en route. Craig’s (Soggy Saturday, 2001, etc.) watercolor-and-pencil illustrations imbue the tale with a hearty dose of whimsy. As Rosy progresses further into her imaginary world, Craig’s pastel-hued pictures become increasingly detailed, culminating in the party scene where fanciful figures of every type mingle together in the merry-making. Rosy’s fey creatures include winged fairies bearing flower garlands, lumbering, book-loving bears, and more. When the revelers depart, a fatigued but contented Rosy packs up her things and returns to warmth and security of her parent’s home. Young readers will be captivated by this visually intriguing and marvelously imaginative tale. (Picture book. 3-7)
