A Home

One dismal March day, Molly takes a last look around at familiar surroundings; her family is preparing to move. Later, sitting in her new room full of the debris of moving and furniture that doesn't seem to fit, Molly is melancholy. In walks her new neighbor, Miranda Marie, and the rest of the day is spent in childish fun. Then the new friends have their first fight. When Molly discovers that not only does Miranda Marie live right next door, but that her bedroom window faces Molly's, the girls make up over the window sills. Later, Molly curls up under her familiar silky blanket peaceful in the knowledge that she really is home. Malone's tender tale will strike a chord with any child who has faced unfamiliar surroundings. The soothing text is augmented by pen-and-ink drawings and watercolor washes that convey the sorrowful mood of the early pages, as well as the sense of discovery and contentment later on. Ages 4-7. (April)