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BILLY THE GREAT by Rosa Guy

BILLY THE GREAT

by Rosa Guy & illustrated by Caroline Binch

Pub Date: Sept. 1st, 1992
ISBN: 0-385-30666-0
Publisher: Doubleday

Despite his mother's disapproval, six-year-old Billy wants to play with friendly new white neighbor Rod, ten; later, when their fathers bristle at each other over a broken window, Rod and Billy defuse the tension with a series of gleeful cartwheels. Guy pokes gentle fun at Billy's parents, already discussing whether he should be a great soccer player or go to college, while delivering a serious message about conflict and peacemaking. Binch's bright, realistic watercolors glow with saturated colors and Billy's dimpled, infectious grin. Sunny pictures; simple, lively text; thoughtful point, well made. (Picture book. 6+)