Birthday Blizzard

From School Library Journal Kindergarten-Grade 2-The worst snowstorm in 20 years spoils Jamie's plans for her seventh birthday party and occasions a rather ordinary picture book. Blizzard conditions mean no electricity, no heat, and-Jamie thinks-no fun. But then the adventure begins. First the young girl's elderly neighbors, then snowbound travelers, a snowplow driver, and even an abandoned puppy troop to the shelter of Jamie's house. The idea of a winter picnic and an impromptu party with strangers never really takes off. Although there are snatches of poetic language, they are not enough to save the uninspired story. Delaney's full-color illustrations are homey and affectionate, but the slight plot plods on until its wordiness becomes tiresome.