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Wednesday, August 26, 2020

The One Day House, written by Julila Durango and illustrated by Bianca Diaz. Charlesbridge, Penguin Random House. 2020. $9.99 ages 5 and up

"One day," said Wilson, " I will
fix the chimney so you can make
a fire to keep you cozy."
"I will like that," said Gigi. "But
today, you are all the warmth I
need."

"One day," said Wilson, "I will
fix the roof on Gigi's house to
keep out the wind and snow."
"That's a smart idea," said the
librarian."

Wilson is a caring child in his community. He loves his friend, Gigi. He wants to do whatever he can to make his elderly friend's life better for her. In front matter, we learn from a poster he sees that there is a neighborhood program called Build Up Neighbors. It encourages neighbors to work together to help one another. Wilson is quick to take a slip with a phone number as he heads toward his daily visit with Gigi. He tells her that one day he will paint her house 'orange and yellow like the sun.'  Gigi smiles and offers a compliment.

As Wilson travels throughout his community, he mentions to others the things that he will do to make Gigi's house more comfortable. Every person he meets encourages his dream of a better life for his friend. Gigi loves his ideas, and always lets him know she is happy with his being with her. He is more important to her than home repairs.

And then, one day ...

What a surprise when the community steps up to ensure that all the things Wilson has noticed will happen!

The colorful mixed media artwork shows a multicultural community where neighbors greet neighbors warmly and with interest. Readers will appreciate Wilson's child-like drawings of what he will do to change things for his beloved friend. This is a warm and engaging look at the way communities work together for the greater good. It is a perfect read for those wanting to encourage children to be kind, and to make the world a better place through generous and volunteerism.

An author's note talks about a local project in her own community, and encourages readers to see if they can a way to help others.

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