“Another gift is Pansy’s love. Bathed in that love, Lyle in turn is gentle with other kids, especially with kids uneasy under their bragging, kids really as frightened as rabbits when a hawk darkens their world. Lyle’s underweight presence steadies them, and he is sought after – but not exactly as a friend. He is more like Anansi the helpful spider of his favorite tales – a quiet ally who prefers his own company but skitters over to join you when you need him.”
