The Day Ray Got Away by Angela Johnson, illustrated by Luke LaMarca Grades PreK-2 40 pages Simon & Schuster September 2010 Hardcover     Have you ever wanted to let yourself go? That’s exactly what happens in this story about a parade balloon named Ray. Stored in a large warehouse with other balloons, Ray has always longed to float free. In this delightful picture book, the large, yellow balloon that always sports a huge smile finally has something to really grin about. During a balloon parade, the lines tethering Ray begin to break - “Snap! Snap! Snap!” Suddenly able to break free from his handlers, Ray realizes that the sky is the limit. As he floats heavenward, young readers will giggle - perhaps even cheer - as Ray’s dream finally comes true. Luke LaMarca's crisp artwork and Angela Johnson's simple narrative make this more than only an excellent read-aloud book. It also works well with youngsters who are just beginning to develop more advanced reading skills.     web reviews   Bob Walch/2010 for curled up with a good kid's book   For grown-up fiction, nonfiction and speculative fiction book reviews, visit our sister site Curled Up With a Good Book (www.curledup.com)