Rainbows in the Dark.

Linda Ludke is a children’s librarian at the London Public Library.

Abby waits impatiently for her mother to finish shopping at Second Time
Around, a second-hand clothing store. Her boredom is eased when a new
customer and a big, chocolate-brown dog come through the doors. Abby
informs the young woman that she is breaking the no dogs allowed rule,
and Joanna explains that “Charlie’s different—he’s a guide dog.
He helps me get around, because I can’t see.” With honesty and good
humour, she answers Abby’s stream of questions.

Joanna enlists the young girl’s help in choosing a new outfit.
Colours are imaginatively described. Abby advises against a blouse that
looks “like dirty snow—the kind Mom says not to eat,” and helps
select a silky fabric that feels like “a cool ocean breeze.” Joanna
offers her two concert hall tickets in appreciation. The next evening,
Abby and her mother are delighted to discover their new friend is the
star cellist.

Alice Priestley’s pencil-crayon illustrations capture Joanna’s
vibrant personality. Rainbows swirl in the background as she plays
music. A kaleidoscope of colours and patterns also overflow from the
second-hand clothing bins. This positive, realistic scenario will spark
discussions. Highly recommended.