Retiring after 42 years as a mail carrier, Curtis's last day making his rounds is filled with memories, good wishes and small gifts from an appreciative community. "We'll miss you, Curtis," they all tell him and it is obvious that Curtis will miss his customers, too. Kevin Henkes's simple, patterned text will hook young listeners who are already tuned in to the comforting predictability of neighborhood routines. Marisabina Russo's brightly colored gouache paintings bring the neighborhood filled with shops and houses, children and grownups, and cats and dogs to life. (Ages 3-6)

Curtis has been delivering mail for forty-two years. Today is his last day. And all the mailboxes along his route are filled with surprises.

There is a drawing from Debbie, Dennis, and Donny. There is a bottle of aftershave from the Johnsons. There is a small, fat book from Mr. Porter.

But the real surprise is at the very last house on the very last street. There is no doubt that everyone loves Curtis!