STORY OF A DOLPHIN

Based on actual events, an appealing story about a dolphin and the owner of a ``dive boat.'' Laura tells how her father earns a friendly dolphin's trust by waiting for him to make first contact. After months, the dolphin is playing tag, taking the man's arm gently in his mouth, and giving Laura rides. But as the dolphin gains confidence and people flock to swim with him, his playful ways cause trouble—he is sometimes too rough, and after he once prevents a child from coming in to shore, some deem him dangerous. Tragedy is averted when an ``expert'' helps the community understand the dolphin's needs (he doesn't like intrusive behavior) and teach him a few signals (especially, one meaning ``No, don't do that''). But some questions, of course, will never be answered: Why does this dolphin live apart from his kind? Why is he so friendly to people? A charming account, illustrated with stylized, decorative paintings that beautifully evoke the luminous colors of the Caribbean and the joy of this unusual friendship. (Picture book/Young reader. 5-9)