Sure as Strawberries

Jean Free, a library consultant, is a retired public-school teacher and
librarian in Whitby, Ontario.

Mattie loves Ungle George’s 28 goats and she admires his ability as a
water diviner. During a summer drought when her uncle’s arm is in a
cast, Mattie tries to find water to keep the goats alive. After many
frustrating attempts, she becomes a real dowser: she locates water and
saves the animals.

This charming bedtime story concerns a loving relationship between a
young girl, her uncle, and the animals in their care. Reczuch’s
stunning full-page paintings interpret the emotions of the two
characters. Both the young child and the adult reader will enjoy the
beauty of the rolling farm land near the mountain meadows where the wild
strawberries grow and where “friendship is precious as water.”
Primary-grade children will understand Mattie’s desire to help her
beloved uncle and his goats, as well as learn a new skill and share
responsibility in caring for animals.

A classic story of friendship and caring that is likely to become a
favorite with parents and children alike.