William Barringer Biography (1940-1996) - Sidelights

William Barringer worked as a journalist and editor in Canada and the United States. His only picture book, Gregory and Alexander, was published seven years after his death. Gregory and Alexander is the story of a mouse, Gregory, and his caterpillar friend, Alexander. When Gregory saves Alexander from an insect collector, the two become fast friends. One day, as they watch a kite in the park where they live, Gregory wishes he could fly one himself. Alexander cautions patience, spins a cocoon, and eventually emerges as a butterfly. A helpful spider provides the string, and Gregory finally has his kite. Susan Mille in Resource Links liked the way the story offers readers "an opportunity to talk about the 'cycle of life' and friendship."