Henry and Leo (review #2) written by Pamela Zagarenski, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Student Reviewer: Jerry X.
Summary: Henry goes everywhere with his favorite stuffed animal and best friend, Leo. Ever since he was two Leo had been with Henry, so much so that to Henry, Leo is his real best friend. However, when Leo is lost during a walk through the woods, Henry is terribly worried that Leo will have to spend the night outside. Henry’s family assures him Leo will be fine since he is just a toy, but Henry knows he is more than that. To Henry he is as real as the sun or the moon, but will he be real enough to bring Leo back home?

Straight Talk for Librarians: Like a modern fairy tale, the book illustrates the inseparable bond between a boy and his best friend stuffed animal. Motivated by his love for his stuffed lion Leo, Henry is able to go past the limits of reality to bring him back home. By using his wonder and imagination is Henry able to help guide Leo on an adventure through the woods before bringing him home. Used in libraries or classrooms, this book can be used to teach students the meaning of friendship and imagination. For younger elementary students, this book works great as a read-aloud book as well as a read alone. Able to be read aloud in under ten minutes it provides a quick read that won’t lose student’s attention. Read alone will provide a challenging task for younger children and an interesting read for older children. Illustrated using watercolors and stamps this unique art style will impress children and adults alike. Especially how the art style blends dreams and reality truly representing what Henry’s imagination can do much like the mind of the children reading.