This is a playful yet poignant ode to a youngster’s growing independence and a mother’s love. Big Humpty and Little Humpty, drawn in soft, willowy lines, are long-lashed, mutually adoring camels that live in the hot desert. Little Humpty frolics all day with Big Humpty, who says, “You know little Humpty, I love you best in all the world!” Then she goes on to describe the crocodiles, eagles, rhinos, and other creatures of the world. When Big Humpty takes a rest one day, Little Humpty plays on his own. He whooshes down a dune, chases his tail, and then looks for someone with whom to play. Sadly, a rock, a bush, and a pebble prove to be dull playmates. Big Humpty observes his efforts and the next morning announces that they are going to the Great Waterhole. Along the way, Little Humpty guesses at who will be at the Waterhole. What he actually finds at the end of their journey is even better than he imagined. The burnt orange, sepia, and satiny pinks warm the pages of this cheerfully illustrated, tender and timeless tale. (Picture book. 2-5)
