Mama wishes for a milking cow, so Papa finds his pocket knife and heads toward town with his son Samuel. When the pocket knife becomes two lanterns, then a gilded book of stories, a sheep, and more, Samuel begins to understand his father's resourcefulness and respect for the needs and cares of others. A charming story where a young boy grows in wisdom, patience, and maturity and is joyfully reward ...

The gentle, poetic way in which Rylant describes the exciting birth of seven summer puppies, a fall fishing excursion between a father and son, and an unexpected winter blizzard provides a breath of fresh air for readers of any age. The pure, strong familial tie speaks more in actions than words, perhaps restoring hope to a disillusioned reader.

Willie B. is Jamie's best friend, but his latest great idea has landed them in big trouble. Even though they think up a plan to set things right, Jamie still worries. Sure enough, after his dog has her puppies, everything goes wrong.