TWO great books by the SAME author. It is a joy to discover a new favorite author and Candace Fleming is mine. New to me--I know she is a seasoned professional.

First came Muncha! Muncha! Muncha! illustrated by G Brian Karas (another favorite whose alter ego IS Mr. Greeley.) The text is as crisp and lush as a homegrown radish. The illustrations are fantastic--full of sweet funny bunnies with adorable shirts and fluffy bottoms. The setting is spot on with a great narrow yard and what I imagine an English or American victory garden looked like...with victory for the rabbits.

There's a sequel, too, I think, but am having trouble finding it: Tippy-tippy-tippy, HIDE.

Also there's a new man in my life thanks to Candace as recommended reading by Kirby: Lowji.

Lowji Discovers America is the first in what I hope will be a series. Lowji moves from the cosmopolitan fragrant world of India to small town America leaving behind friends, family and all that is familiar. The one hope he clings to is the chance that in America he will be able to own a pet dog or cat. A pet he will shower with affection and snuggle every night (how can you not love Lowji for that alone?)

Life doesn't go according to Lowji's plan but Lowji finds the silver lining on most every cloud. We share with him the loneliness and (often) humiliation of being the new kid on the block. Lowji is no push over, however, and he does things I'd never dream of doing. Most concerning burps and pigs...

Candace provides a bounty of humorous characters and situations as well as a peek into what life might be like in modern Bombay (great food references thanks to Lowji's father, the chef.)

You can't help but root for Lowji and I'm hoping to hear more from him soon.

Jaime