Ruby's Sword

PreS-Gr 1—Little snub-nosed Ruby wants to play with her brothers, but they ignore her as the two go off on their own. While meandering through the meadow, Ruby comes across three long sticks that would make perfect swords, so she shares them with her siblings, who, once again, exclude her as they have a make-believe fencing match. Since she has no one with whom to play, she makes her own entertainment, using her stick to draw, to assist a colony of ants, and to knock apples off a tree. When Ruby uses her stick and her imagination once more, her brothers decide they want to play her game and make amends. The three children have an idyllic place to frolic, which includes friendly insects, curious critters, sunshine, and blooming flowers that make the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of fun. Digitally finished illustrations in pencil and watercolor are bright, and cheerful and young readers will be charmed by the rabbits and squirrel that mimic some of the children's antics. Using ordinary objects and one's imagination can turn a disappointing day into an adventure.