I was quite taken by Jane Smiley's novel Perestroika in Paris (#979). I suppose some would characterize this story of a racehorse who wonders off into central Paris as a fantasy since the animals talk, but I think of it more in line with one of the greatest children's classics, Charlotte's Web. The predicaments and feelings of both the animals and the humans in this story are as real and heartfelt.
The cast of characters here include Perestroika herself, a dog living on her wits, an aging raven, a pair of ducks and even some rats! Even though these animals are on their own, they must intersect with humans, for good or ill. Chief among them is the small boy Etienne who discovers this band. We learn that he has problems of his own, living in an old mansion with only his ancient great-grandmother. Add to them the local gendarme, the groundskeeper of the Champs du Mars who spots evidence left by Perestroika, and several observant shopkeepers and you have quite the ensemble.
I think the lesson in this engaging story is that when you take care of each other, you take care of yourselves. Charmingly told, and not to be missed.
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