THE WHITE MARBLE

In poetic language, the well known author describes a companionable meeting of two children on a hot heavy summer evening in the park. The response of John Henry and Pamela to the freedom and cool of the green is contrasted to that of their parents; the children know what the night is like, but the peacefully seated grown ups do not seem to. John Henry and Pamela run together, eat ice pops, and drink from a fountain in total communication with each other and their surroundings. The mood of the night culminates in John Henry's impulsive parting gift to Pamela— his new treasure—a white marble. This is also the climax of the sensitive story that will not fail to appeal to adults, although the magic of the evening and the gift may be lost on active listeners waiting for something bigger to happen. The illustrations of the two children are superbly well drawn. The play of lights at dusk, perfectly reflects the atmosphere described. The activities of the children are reflected adding spark to the quiet episode.