JUST IN CASE

Charlie likes to be ready for any eventuality. In case a lion gets loose from the zoo, he’s dug a leaf-covered pit in his back yard. In case a bird flying south is actually after him, he’s wearing a helmet, carrying a sleeping bag and packing a parachute. In case a mermaid grabs his toe at the beach and tries to drag him out to sea to play, Charlie has a net, a snorkel and some oars. But there’s one thing Charlie couldn’t prepare for: his surprise birthday party. Surely, he decides, that is a case when not being ready is okay. Bluthenthal’s mixed-media collage illustrations of a tow-headed Charlie by turns mischievous, frightened and tickled add personality to Viorst’s Boy Scout–in-the-making. Scared readers will find solace as they laugh at Charlie’s over-active imagination and perfect preparedness. A worthy addition to Viorst’s Alexander stories. (Picture book. 3-7)