Victor, The Vegetarian: Saving the Little Lambs

At last, a storybook hero for vegetarian children!

Here comes Victor, a young farm lad whose love for his lambs leads them to safety and him to a vegetarian lifestyle.

That's the tale of "Victor, The Vegetarian," and while there are no surprises or twists in this easy-reader aimed for children ages 3 to 7, it does help youngsters grasp and identify with a basic rationale for choosing a meatless diet. After all, meat comes from animals- and animals are our friends.

Author Radha Vignola plans additional tales about Victor, and I hope she will develop the story lines as she develops his character. This first book makes a good entry-level story that will appeal to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian children,but there are so many angles that can be developed to really build a reader's "relationship" with Victor and a deeper understanding of what it means to be a young vegetarian today

"Victor" offers a character with whom the already-vegetarian child can identify. It's also a good bet for parents seeking to develop their children's sense of compassion and respect for animals - and can serve as a good point of discussion in the family that is just beginning to embrace a vegetarian diet.

And, it wouldn't hurt for teachers, day-care providers and baby-sitters to share this tale with the youngsters in their care...seeds of gentleness and caring can be sown in an entertaining and non-preaching fashion.

The cute illustrations by Julia Bauer add to the charm of this book.

Why not invite Victor over soon for a visit with your children? He might just be the friend they've been looking for.

- Reviewed by Jennie 0. Collura