Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge

The story of a small boy with a big name--Wilfrid Gordon McDonald Partridge, to be exact--this iconographic adaptation of Mem Fox's 1984 picture book, narrated by the author, emphasizes caring and sharing. Young Wilfrid (Gordon McDonald Partridge) likes to visit the friendly, colorful characters in the old folks' home next door, especially Miss Nancy, who, like Wilfrid, has four names. When he learns that Miss Nancy has lost her memory, the boy first asks each of the retirement home regulars "What is a memory?" and then sets about creating a care basket, based on the answers he receives (something that makes you laugh, cry, feel sad, etc.). A touching story, enlivened by Fox's authoritative narration (she is, after all, the author), the warm, endearing illustrations by Julie Vivas, and another solid musical score by Ernest V. Troost. Recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (R. Pitman)