Jazlyn J Learns Her Address. Renná Bruce. Illustrated by Robin Oakes. Guelph, ON: Jazlyn J and Company Inc.(www.jazlynj.com), 2002. 28 pp., pbk., $6.95. ISBN 978-1-894933-77-3. Subject Headings: Home-Juvenile literature. Street addresses-Juvenile literature. Kindergarten-grade 3 / Ages 5-8. Review by Claire Perrin. *** /4

Author Renna Bruce and illustrator Robin Oakes have collaborated on a series of self-published books about a young female character named Jazlyn J. There are currently 16 books about Jazlyn J. in which the title and topic of the book come from consecutive letters of the alphabet. In each book, the young Jazlyn J. learns a valuable lesson about the topic from her parents.

     In this book, Jazlyn J. wants to invite a friend over to play, but she realizes that she doesn't know how to explain where she lives. Her parents teach her about the concept of having an address, then sit with her while she practises saying and writing her address. Eventually Jazlyn J. is able to call her friend and tell her exactly where she lives by giving her address. Jazlyn also learns the importance of not letting strangers know her address.

Finally, Jazlyn felt confident enough to call and invite Julie over. She carefully dialed the number that she had memorized. After the second ring, Julie picked up the phone. "Hello?" be better soon.

"Hi there Julie! Would you like to come over to my house and play?" Jazlyn waited while Julie asked her Mom. In a few minutes, Julie's Mom came to the phone and asked for the address. Jazlyn beamed with pride as she gave the location of her house.

     As a teaching tool, this book may be of interest to preschool and kindergarten teachers. However, the text and illustrations lack the kind of playfulness and richness that children have come to expect. My reservations about the book also come from the stereotypical family situations and clichés used in the book.

Recommended with reservations.

Claire Perrin is a full time teacher-librarian with the Toronto District School Board.

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