I CAN HELP IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD written and illustrated by David Hyde Costello

David Hyde Costello’s I CAN HELP IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD appears to be a simple book in word and illustrations, but powerful themes underlie this. There is a repeating pattern—an animal winds up in trouble and another helps stating “I can help,” and being thanked before there is a new need. A small lost duck is aided by a rabbit who declares “I can help,” leading the duck to his family. Soon the rabbit becomes tangled in kite string until a pigeon says, I can help.” The lovely connected string of events speak of gratitude, community, and friendship. There are easily repeatable refrains—an animal asks for help and always offers thanks at the end. There are animals that are identifiable and nameable—a duck, a pigeon, a rabbit. But there are overall messages that extend this book’s meaning and the ages to whom you might read it. There is a strong sense of how community comes to the rescue of its members, of the gratitude contained in those actions and how one might be a rescuer at one moment and need help in another. Find out more about this book in the purchase link below.