Eddie's Toolbox and How to Make and Mend Things

K-Gr 2—Eddie is hoping a boy his age will move in next door, but when he sees the new family unpack, he notices that the only child is a girl his younger sister's age. When the two families meet over homemade cupcakes in the backyard, the two girls form an instant bond and go off to look for snails. Eddie is left alone with his mom, but not for long. Tilly's dad asks him if he'd like to help him with chores that need to be done. Eddie acts aloof at first, but as Tom teaches him how to use a saw, a hammer, and a screwdriver, the boy spends more time with his new neighbor. Soon, the two families are completing projects together, including a bird table so they can watch the birds and a door to their shared fence so they have access to the gardens. The book ends with an explanation of how children can use tools safely and attract birds to their own feeders. This is a lovely story about friendship between neighbors. Garland's watercolor illustrations show scenes in which everyone is helping one another. These two families make lending a hand look fun and rewarding. This title is a perfect choice for children learning about neighborhoods, role models, or families. Youngsters who have outgrown Bob the Builder may enjoy finding out more about tools from Tom and Eddie.—Tanya Boudreau, Cold Lake Public Library, AB, Canada