MEET REBA

In Wheeler’s picture book, a fiercely independent rhino learns that true friends are there to help.

Reba the rhinoceros is “clever, curious,” and “likes trying things she can do all by herself.” Some of these activities include swinging, tying her shoes, and reading. When Reba sees a giraffe ride by on a bicycle, she decides that she can do it, too. But no matter how hard Reba tries, she falls off the bike—not once, not twice, but three times. A friend of hers, Olive the bird, offers to help, but Reba refuses, and the discouraged rhino begins to think that she’ll never be able to learn to ride. Olive continues to encourage her, however, and eventually helps Reba build enough momentum to stay upright and pedal. Reba finally discovers the joy of trying new things, “even when she can’t do [them] all by herself.” Chambers’ illustrations are composed of thick outlines and bright colors, with the adorable and cartoonish characters proving surprisingly expressive. Wheeler’s text is sparse, with only a couple of sentences (at most) per page, but it’s infused with warmth and a steady sense of encouragement as readers follow Reba’s dawning understanding that friends are there to help each other. The whimsical illustrations and charming, feel-good story combine to deliver inspiring lessons about independence, friendship, and the power of believing in yourself—and in each other.

An appealing story that gently encourages kids to try new things.