Be Quiet Marina! Book

A noisy little girl with cerebral palsy and a quiet little girl with Down Syndrome learn to play together and eventually become best friends.

Children's Literature

Moira and Marina are special children. They're students at the Bank Street Family Center preschool. Using black and white photos, the story follows Moria and Marina at preschool and the ups and downs of their relationship as friends. Marina is a very outgoing child who enjoys lots of activity and noise. Moira is a quiet child who enjoys playing alone. Even though they are friends, their different personalities and needs cause conflict at preschool. The photos and text relate how Moira and Marina solve their differences by communicating with one another, a task for all preschoolers. Through the use of language, each is able to confront her problems and solve them. This story is a gentle reminder that everyone has special needs, but we must all communicate effectively to understand and relate to one another. The fact that the girls seem to solve their own problem will inspire other youngsters to do the same. Viewing special needs children as just children in everyday situations, in their own words, should inspire understanding. 2001, Star Bright Books, $16.95. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger