Say Hello, Tilly

School Library Journal

PreS-Gr 2-- Tilly doesn't like parties. She is shy and doesn't know what to say. ``Just say hello and smile,'' advises her mother. At Benny's birthday party, Tilly is a wallflower who refuses to join in until a newcomer, Pablo (just arrived from Spain), sits down beside her. They both smile and say hello; thus, a beautiful friendship begins. The text is facile and never conveys the real distress shy children feel in social situations. Bland watercolors give the bear characters little expression or individuality; it is often difficult to tell them apart. The idea is worthy--reach out and you can make friends--but ultimately the presentation renders it unconvincing. --Karen James, Louisville Free Public Library, KY