This delightful collection of twelve short stories revolves around the experiences and problems of a bright and charming child of four going on five, who plays the title role in this work of children's fiction. Sally Lewis Eaton has created a true-to-life hero that every child is sure to appreciate and to identify with. Timothy Joe has all the problems typical of a child of his age group: coping with a new neighborhood after the family has moved, and making new friends; learning to care for a first pet (perhaps not so typically, a skunk named Gumdrop); a trip to the dentist, and to the doctor for a DPT shot and, perhaps most important of all, the first day of kindergarten, and getting used to school. The author handles these experiences in a readable, entertaining style geared to the young reader. Each story revolves around a single theme. In "Timothy Joe's Moving Day" we enter the child's mind as he faces the fear and uncertainty of a new place and new people, only to discover that new friends are easily won if you are a cheerful and likeable little boy, and new places can mean an exciting adventure. In "Timothy Joe and Gumdrop" we are introduced to the boy's pet skunk; the story is a valuable lesson in how to care for animals. In "Timothy Joe and the Backside of Things," a trip to the doctor becomes a frightening prospect, but turns out to be much less painful than anticipated. In "Timothy Joe and His New Addition " deals with the uncertainty all children face when they learn they will have to share their parents' love with a new brother or sister. Although these stories are valuable for their instructive qualities, the author's tone never approaches the didactic; her prose is clear and direct, and always entertaining. Children will eagerly learn what the author has to teach. This book is highly recommended for its deft blend of instruction and entertainment, and its polished style.