VERNON IS ON HIS WAY: Small Stories by Philip C. Stead.  New York: Roaring Book Press, 2018. 64p.  ISBN 978-1626726550 hc. $19.99    Gr. K-3    E PIC

Stead offers three related stories about Vernon, who is an introspective character, and his very kind friends, Skunk and Porcupine.  "Waiting" is almost wordless, but Stead's simple, translucent illustrations get the point of the story across to readers. Readers won't be able to hold back a smile at the end of each small story. "Fishing" takes a look at the adventure of fishing in a whole new way, again retaining the subtle humor of the story.  "Gardening" is all about friendship and the activities friends will go through to make someone happy.  Vernon's very slow, thoughtful way of interacting with the world will have a calming effect on his audience.
Lynette Suckow, Superiorland Preview Center, Marquette, MI