Albie The Lifeguard - Softcover

Kindergarten-Grade 2-- When all of his friends sign up for the Dolphin swim team, Albie puts on his sister's sunglasses, mounts a tall stool near his own backyard wading pool, and goes on lifeguard duty there. Later that summer, the town pool's lap lanes look less imposing to him, so he joins his buddies on the team. Borden pays tribute to the natural ability of a child to recognize and respect his own timetable and abilities. Young readers will feel understood and validated by this aspect of the book. Sayles's pastels suggest the power and unity of the fantasy that prepares Albie to meet his challenge when he is ready. Unfortunately, Borden delivers her story at an uneven pace, at times focused and beautiful, at times choppy and ineffective. After Albie's acceptance as a swim team member, she tacks on a quick gratuitous portrait of his daily arrival for practice. It dangles, disturbing the otherwise satisfying resolution. --Liza Bliss, Worcester Public Library, Salem Square, MA
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Lacking the confidence to join the swim team, Albie plays lifeguard in his backyard poolAand one day feels ready to sign up for the team; PW called this "a winning tale." Ages 4-8. (May)
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.