Spork

Gr 1—4—Spork is the offspring of a spoon mum and a fork dad, and he feels like a misfit. He watches despondently from the drawer while the other silverware is put on the table. One day, a "messy thing" with no table manners arrives, causing panic among the utensils. Spork's self-esteem is assuaged at last when he turns out to be just what the baby needs to feed itself. While the positive portrayal of a "mixed-race" character is heartwarming, the story's climax actually weakens the metaphor. Spork accepts himself only after receiving the external validation of being used by the infant. Despite the love of parents who think he's perfect, he never really learns to love himself. That said, the lighthearted storytelling and whimsical mixed-media illustrations will draw readers in, and adults will find the book to be a useful conversation starter for the topics of race, difference, and acceptance.—Heidi Estrin, Feldman Children's Library at Congregation B'nai Israel, Boca Raton, FL