Fix-It

In David McPhail's "Fix-It," young Emma, an anthropomorphic bear, wakes up eager to watch television, only to find it broken. Her disappointment is palpable as her parents and even a repairman fail to fix it, and other distractions like balloons or games don't quite fill the void. It's not until her mother starts reading a book that Emma's mood shifts dramatically. She becomes completely engrossed, asking for the story to be read "again, and again." This charming story beautifully illustrates the captivating power of books, offering a gentle narrative about finding joy and entertainment beyond screens. It's perfect for preschoolers and early elementary children, especially those who are very accustomed to television.

One morning Emma gets up early to watch television. But the TV won't work. No one can fix it-not Mom, not Dad, not even the repairman. Neither can a balloon or a song or playing horsey fix Emma's disappointment. But then Emma's mother reads her a book. "Read it again," says Emma. "And again." And when Emma's father finally realizes what's wrong with the TV-it was just unplugged!-Emma is too busy reading to care. The power of books to enthrall has rarely been presented in such a clever, simple way for the TV-savvy preschool set.