THE WELL-WISHERS
illustrated by N.M. Bodecker & by Edward Eager
Once again the powers of the well which figured so prominently in Magic Or Not assert themselves for the six Connecticut children in their altruistic enterprises. As a result of their wishes, a lonely rich boy receives recognition, an emotionally disturbed orphan finds a home, a prima-donna and a disgruntled farmer join forces, two enemies become fast friends, a Negro family is gently absorbed into the reluctant community, and a young man is introduced to romance. Well written, this is a kindly blend of magic and possibility with each character emerging as a full and interesting individual. Close to the genre of Peter Pan and other English children's books, this should find enthusiastic readers for many more than one season.