RED, WHITE, AND BLUE GOOD-BYE

Parents looking for ways to reassure children about extended separations will appreciate a serviceable portrayal of a difficult situation. The unnamed narrator explains that her daddy, who serves in the navy, will soon be leaving for “six months, half a year, way too many days.” She expresses her unhappiness by running away (but not too far), attempting to hide herself in her father’s duffle bag and by hiding her father’s boots. In response, her father points out ways that they can feel close to each other—by sending letters (symbolized by the red flag on the mailbox) and by remembering that the white clouds above and blue sea below are shared by both despite the distance. This red, white and blue connection is clearly contrived but surprisingly successful. Barrow’s watercolor-and-color pencil illustrations, while occasionally awkward in the depiction of people, help to bring the purposeful plot to life, picturing a loving, close-knit family, an attractive seaside setting and including appealing details such as a beloved stuffed animal. (Picture book. 4-8)