Fiona's Little Accident

PreS-Gr 1—A child's excitement comes alive in the latest installment in Wells's series. Fiona and best friend, Felix, built a volcano to share during show-and-tell at school. While eating breakfast, all Fiona could talk about was their volcano. Before departing for school, her mother asks her one question, "Did you use the bathroom, dear?" Fiona answers, "Yes, yes, Mama!" Readers soon learn that Fiona did not tell the truth. She did not use the bathroom. Instead, she planned on using the bathroom when she arrived at school. However, circumstances beyond her control make it impossible to do so before their teacher, Miss B calls on them to make their presentation. As their volcano erupts, Fiona has an accident in front of the class. Embarrassed, she runs off to hide in the Harmony Corner, where Felix finds her. He and Miss B reassure her that accidents happen and no one will remember. This title offers an important and easily accessible message. However, the watercolor illustrations and use of mostly primary and secondary colors appear dated and unremarkable.