THE VERY BEST OF FRIENDS

by Margaret Wild ‧ RELEASE DATE: March 1, 1990

The elderly James and Jessie live on a farm with a number of animals--including one cat, William, who is James' special friend, reluctantly tolerated by Jessie for James' sake. William leads a life at once privileged--he has his own door--and useful--until James suddenly dies, and Jessie, grieving and depressed, decides not to bother with William anymore and locks him out. William gradually grows meaner and leaner until he even scratches Jessie one morning when she feeds him outside. Ironically, this is Jessie's turning point: she lets William back in, treats him kindly, and at last they become true friends. This heartwarming Australian story, simply but gracefully told, is perfectly complemented by Vivas' glorious illustrations, reminiscent in their style and inspired, humorous portrayal of affection of her The Nativity (ALA Notable, 1988). Her beautifully composed watercolor figures are suspended against generous white space or deftly suggested backgrounds; every pose of the old couple and their cat reveals character or emotion. The jacket illustration (and its inside variation--how lovely not to settle for a duplicate) of Jessie supporting James while each stands on one leg to pull on a boot is a masterpiece. Bravo!

Pub Date: March 1, 1990

ISBN: N/A

Page Count: 32

Publisher: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich

Review Posted Online: N/A

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 15, 1990

Categories: CHILDREN'S