The scrap doll - Hardcover

PreSchool-Grade 2-- Lydia longs for a doll that's ``store-bought'' although `` . . . there wasn't the money for any such thing.'' When her mother brings her own scrap doll down from the attic, the child accepts it begrudgingly and banishes it to a shoe box. But in the days that follow, she restores the doll with paint, yarn, and bits of material. By story's end, both are transformed. Author and illustrator make effective use of understatement; a sure, spare text never intrudes on the quiet drama. The colors are as gentle as the message itself, while objects and characters are executed in clean, simple lines that are sure to appeal to youngsters. Meanwhile, the more informed eye may notice the artist's treatment of shapes--as well as her Madonna-and-child-style spreads--and realize that some very able talents have combined to create a remarkable book. --Eve Larkin, Chicago Pub . Lib .
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

There's no money for a store-bought doll, so Lydia's mother gives her a doll that her dad made long ago. Sarah is in such sorry shape that Lydia calls her ``Ugly Old Thing''; still, step by step, she fixes her up, eventually responding to her own improvements by loving the doll and restoring the name her mother first gave her. Ballard's spare, fine-line illustrations with minimal detail are just right for this gentle, understated story concerning the sources of affection. (Picture book. 4-8) -- Copyright ©1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.