I  don’t pretend to understand this little book but it is sweet, whimsical and philosophical. It’s tone reminds me of Winnie the Pooh; although modern, it is no less charming. I can recommend it as a read aloud for young children or preschoolers or an advanced first chapter book. Various toys make up a diverse community where each one plays a role according to individual abilities. Teddy is the other abled thinker of the group, having lost his legs long ago. His ideas drive most of the story. Outstanding incidents are when the elephant teaches the two pigs to swim creating sheer joy for all, when Teddy discovers that they live on an island, and when Teddy realizes that to make a rule for all, over half must agree. 


August 23, 2017