South    by Patrick McDonnell Order:  USA  Can Little, Brown & Co., 2008 (2008) Hardcover      Reviewed by Hilary Williamson Patrick McDonnell writes and draws wonderfully emotive yet minimalist picture books like The Gift of Nothing, Art, Hug Time, and Just Like Heaven. Now he brings us South, a Fall tale of a chance meeting, compassion and companionship - the back cover blurb sagely sums it up as: 'Sometimes it takes a friend to help you find your way.' Draw your eyes up to the sky at this time of year to see birds wheeling south. That's how South begins too. It then segues into a picture of a small, forlorn figure - one that birdnapped through his flock's departure. What can he do? He sobs his story out to Earl the dog, who takes him by the hand and leads him away. Where do they head? South of course, that small bird and his stalwart companion. They leave the countryside to brave busy city streets and the autumn woods beyond that soon are covered in white. When they finally hear a welcome sound, it's time to part, one friend to continue south and the other to snuggle by the warm fire as winter storms rage outside. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Kids books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews