Following The Naming of Tishkin Silk (2009), this second title featuring the endearing, sometimes quirky Silk family focuses on third-grader Layla Elliott, Griffin Silk's best friend, who, without grandparents of her own, needs someone to bring to the school's Senior Citizens' Day. Then she meets charming Miss Amelie, who is frequently forgetful and confused. Despite these challenges, their developing friendship brings Layla rewarding insights into kindness and understanding. Difficult issues, including a loved one's death, are handled with sensitivity and reassurance, while droll, sweet spot art and well-drawn characters add to the book's appeal.

Layla Elliott and Griffin Silk are best friends, and she's become a virtual Silk family member. So rather than ask her busy, distracted mom, who never quite hears her, Layla turns to the Silks for help finding an elderly person she can bring to school for Senior Citizens Day. Griffin offers to share his grandma, Nell, since Layla's own beloved nana died recently. But Nell sees that Layla longs for someone of her own. When their list of Likely Candidates doesn't pan out, Nell introduces Layla to Miss Amelie. This charming elderly lady remembers some things vividly—such as the mysterious John William she waits for—but forgets who Layla is between visits. Can— should —Layla bring her to school? The theme running through Millard's Silk family chronicles is the transformative power of empathy. Emotional balm, the source of inspiration and ideas that nourish and enrich the soul, empathy works its magic on everyone, from Miss Amelie to Layla's impatient mom. Barton's illustrations gently convey the bonds of affection among the author's eccentric, engaging characters. (Fiction. 8-11)

Gr 3-5 Senior Citizen's Day is right around the corner for the third graders at Saint Benedict's, and Layla Elliott has a problem. Her nana died last year, and she has no one special to take to the festivities. No one, that is, until she meets Miss Amelie, who is coping with memory loss. The elderly woman's condition doesn't stop Layla from pursuing a friendship with her, though. She knows that they are meant to be friends because they share the nickname "Queen of Hearts," given to each of them by a loved one who has passed. Indeed, their bond strengthens, and Miss Amelie attends Senior Citizen's Day with Layla. They have a wonderful time together, but then the child must learn how to cope as she watches her friend's memory worsen. The sequel to The Naming of Tishkin Silk (Farrar, 2009), this is a beautifully written tale about how it feels to lose someone you care about, whether the loss is due to death or dementia. Though the subject matter is heavy, Millard maintains an upbeat mood throughout and her poetic descriptions of Layla's environment show readers that there is beauty and joy to be found in everyday life. Soft pencil drawings scattered throughout also add a sense of comfort. This is a gentle introduction to a difficult subject, and reassuring bibliotherapy for children who have already lost a grandparent. Amy Holland, Hamlin Public Library, Rochester, NY