After tending the animals on Paradise Farm, a little bear heads out for a day on the river, leaving Little Pig Pink in charge. Along the way, Willow comes across his friend Finley and invites him along. The two bears make a day of it, creating a dam and floating a fleet of leaves, leaping across rocks and swinging above the water. After picnicking, they lie in the grass gazing at clouds and blowing dandelion wishes.
Once home, Willow says goodnight to all of the animals. What with the name of the central character, the use of the river as a centralized feature, the spontaneous singing, and, of course, the obligatory picnic, this book develops connections to the nostalgic glory of Wind in the Willows. The watercolor-and-pencil illustrations are light and airy.
A Favorite Book
England