Big brave bold Sergio

Sergio is a snapping turtle who spends time with other ¿Snappers¿ as they do things like pluck ducks¿ tail feathers and play soccer using snails as the balls. Though he feels ¿big,¿ ¿brave,¿ and ¿bold¿ when he takes part, he also knows that the Snappers aren¿t being nice. Though another Snapper, Big Clay, tells him to ignore his ¿squishy feelings,¿ Sergio refuses to pick on a tiny fish¿and the Snappers turn on him. Readers may recognize the dynamics of bullying cliques in the Snappers, while grasping the significance of Sergio¿s decision to stand up against their cruelty. A tidy, happy ending may not reflect the outcomes readers see in their own lives, but paired with Tablason¿s bold, splashy cartoons, the message about kindness and listening to gut feelings will make an impression. Back matter advises parents how to help nurture empathy in children. Ages 4¿8. (Mar.)