Maggie and the Summer Vacation Show-and-Tell by Randi Lynn Mrvos

It’s the first day of school. The teacher's request for show-and-tell sends the children into a tizzy of excitement. They talk of the things they will bring to share. All but Maggie, who feels she has has not a single thing to share. Instead she imagines amazing vacations she could talk about. And in this simple fashion the author introduces us to the fact that there is a problem. What will Maggie share?

Her brother comes up with an idea. Mom reminds her of Trooper, the injured dog they had brought home. The wonderful illustrations show us the deep bond between Maggie and Trooper--out on a walk, snuggled together at night, a slurpy hug any time of the day! The suspense builds up. What will Maggie take to the show-and-tell?

Very successfully the author weaves a story of love and caring, of giving up and receiving. Maggie’s family chooses to forgo the vacation to rescue a dog lying by the roadside. Every choice has a consequence. So much to learn from such a simple story. Young 4-8 years old will enjoy the tale, their parents will talk of problem-solving, compassion, care for animals.

We see that Maggie is a resourceful young girl who finds a wonderful solution to her problem. What is the solution? Read the book to find out.