The morning of the visit it began to rain. Ned sat in his dad's new apartment, watching the first drops on the window.

"Looks like the fair will have to wait til next week," said Dad.

"But you promised," said Ned

Ned's day out looks set to be a disaster once the rain starts, but Dad has plenty of ideas to keep them both entertained and the day turns into something very special. And after all, days like this don't go on forever, as Ned soon discovers.

Emma Naughton's first picture book tells the sensitively written and beautifully illustrated story of Ned and his Dad on one rainy day. Early in the book, there are hints that Ned's parents are separated, so the time the two spend together is supposed to be extra special, but when the rain stops them from visiting the fair that Ned has so been looking forward to it looks as if they could end up having a very dreary day. However, Dad has all sorts of ideas for things to do, and as the rain pours down, echoing Ned's initial mood of bitter disappointment, they get to know each other all over again.

Angelo Rinaldi's exquisite, sweeping, life-like illustrations complement the sensitive text, reflecting the developing bond between Ned and his dad as they make their way through the rain, gradually strengthening their relationship until the clouds part and it becomes clear that the increasingly solid bond of their relationship can survive any rainy day.

Rainy Day is the perfect book for a child whose parents live apart, as it deals with a very difficult issue in a subtle and intuitive manner that never once preaches or judges. But it is also a lovely picture book that any parent and child can enjoy together. (Ages 4-7)--Susan Harrison