SARA RACCOON AND THE SECRET PLACE
by Margaret Burdick & illustrated by Margaret Burdick
In a companion to Bobby Otter and the Blue Boat (1987), Sara Raccoon—emulating her mother, who sends her children outside when the rain finally stops because ``I'd like to be alone for a little while''—fixes up a hollow tree as her own special nook. When friend Bobby discovers it, she shoos him away, but soon has second thoughts. Fortunately, Bobby is a real friend: When Sara's place is flooded, he not only comforts her but also shows her his own special spot (``A secret is more fun when you share it''). The message is conveyed gently, through the genuinely childlike behavior of the appealing animals; in the bright, cheery illustrations, the little creatures—carefully observed as animals—are also charmingly expressive of human feelings. Attractive to read aloud or alone. (Picture book. 3-8)