In a disjointed story, Reuben learns that his rabbit has had babies, helps fight a neighbor's fire by moving some puppies to safety, attends the barnraising that follows, and is finally allowed to drive the family buggy. Although the text offers very little information about Amish life, fans of the acclaimed artist will appreciate Moss's first picture-book illustrations, which appropriately depict the characters in her trademark stylized manner.

PreS-Gr 3-The distinctive folk paintings of P. Buckley Moss make their picture-book debut in a story about a young Amish boy. Reuben frets under the watchful eye of five bossy sisters, particularly Annie, who refuses to let him hold the reins of the pony cart. A visit with his friends is cut short by the appearance of a cloud of smoke from a nearby barn. The boys join neighbors and firefighters at the scene and lend a hand by rescuing five puppies. The fire is, of course, followed by a traditional Amish barn raising at which Reuben is given one of the puppies. On the way home, his father hands him the reins of the buggy. Warm pinks, blues, and greens contrast with somber blacks as the artist's skilled brushstrokes reveal the color and character of Amish life. The beautiful rural setting fairly bursts from the pages. Unfortunately, the text lacks the skill and appeal of the illustrations. A multitude of subplots-grandfather's lameness, visiting sick neighbors, the birth of eight rabbits, the naming of pets, the firefighter's tattoos-are interwoven with small details about Amish life and, as a result, the climatic act by which Reuben proves himself loses most of its impact. In fact, the main plot receives only slightly more development. The transition from idea to idea is sometimes awkward and confusing, often making readers think that they have somehow skipped a page. For fine artwork and a strong story, pick up Patricia Polacco's Just Plain Fancy (Bantam, 1990).-Jeanne Marie Clancy, Upper Merion Township Library, King of Prussia, PA