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Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Bink & Gollie, written by Kate DiCamillo and Alison McGhee, illustrated by Tony Fucile. Candlewick Press, Random House. 2010. $19.00 ages 5 and up

""Bink," said Gollie, "The brightness
of those socks pains me. I beg you
not to purchase them."

"I can't wait to put them on," said Bink.

"I love socks," said Bink.

"Some socks are more lovable than
others," said Gollie."

I seem to have waited forever to see this enchanting, and captivating book! If it in not in your personal library, you need to put it there. It should be on library shelves EVERYWHERE! It is definitely a "10", a 'keeper', a forever book!

Just look at the cover and know you are about to meet two of the most appealing and fascinating characters in childrens' literature! They are that special...and oh, so memorable. I have my toes, fingers and eyes crossed that it won't be long until we meet again. You don't really need me telling you about this book. There are so many reviews online; but, it is a book that I will not stop talking about for months and I am so happy that I can share it with you here.

No two people could be more opposite. Bink is an obsessive, punk-haired blonde bubble of energy and enthusiasm. Gollie is a calm, smooth-haired brunette and a tower of tranquility. Bink is squat, Gollie is lanky. Bink loves peanut butter. Gollie loves pancakes. They have differing opinions about almost everything:

"'The problem with Gollie," said Bink, "is that it's either Gollie's way or the highway."
"My socks and I have chosen the highway."
"The problem with Bink," said Gollie, "is her unwillingness to compromise.""

Because of their love for each other, they are able to make their friendship work and flourish.  

In three short chapters, we see how that happens. In the first, while out roller-skating, Bink is attracted to a sign at Eccles' Empire of Enchantment offering 'outrageoulsy bright socks!' She is mesmerized by their brightness. Gollie is appalled by it.

In the second, Gollie decides she needs a new adventure, and journeys forth. She leaves a note for Bink explaining her inability to answer the door while partaking of the trek. Think Sheldon...Gollie, Gollie, Gollie! Bink knocks incessantly, trying to get Gollie's attention. Gollie is busy and bothered by the constant intrusion. Bink is desolate without company. In the third, Bink wants a pet and a goldfish must suffice...a 'marvelous companion'. Gollie is unconvinced and sees it as 'unremarkable'. When the worst happens, Gollie is there to support her friend in needy times.

Marvelous companions indeed! None could be better!

And don't even get me started on the brilliance of Tony Fucile's illustrations! His artistic magic touches and enlivens each page, giving us characters who charm at every turn, a setting that sparkles and consistently changing perspectives that offer timely expressions, subtle humor and an unforgettable tale of tolerance, love and everlasting friendship. BRAVO!

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