ABC Oakland

by Michael Wertz

A is for Aviary, a home for the birds; B is for Broadway, from College to Third. C is for Cranes standing tall in the sky; D is for Dogs, wagging tails, saying “hi!” This enchanting picture book highlights landmarks and themes that exemplify Oakland’s unique culture, from the myriad food trucks on International Boulevard to the giant redwoods that stretch up to the sky. Michael Wertz’s bold, whimsical prints and jaunty text reflect the city’s energetic and wonderfully diverse atmosphere. Bursting with civic pride, ABC Oakland encourages children and adults alike to explore the possibilities that “the Town” has to offer.

32 pages, Hardcover

Published April 1, 2017

Reviews

[Douglas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having visited Oakland in the early 1970's I was excited to have won a copy of the big picture book "ABC Oakland" by Michael Wertz. I found it's premise offering me a great introduction for my grandson to this wonderful California city. It's colorful and alphabetically organized tour of the city just the right format for my 9 year old and his friends. It certainly peaked their interest in going to Oakland and mine too as the city has really changed for the better over the years.

As for the children and parents who live in Oakland, this neat, brightly colored and easy to read book will certainly kindle a fire of civic pride for the many who see the sights everyday and have grown blind to the wonderland that exists in their own backyard.

I hope Michael will soon take pen and paper in hand again to write other interesting and colorful books about more of California's great cities.

I am appreciative of Goodreads selecting me as a winner of this big book and the opportunity it has given me to share thoughts about all the many different and beautiful things our multi-cultural communities have to offer.

Thank you and regards,
Doug Whitlow
Goodreads book winner

[Hans · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a true celebration of Oaklandish life, courtesy of Wertz' translation of the real world into eye-popping color-form tableaus. Consider this another strong addition to the long tradition of the genre most commonly known as Roman-letter-sequencing-kids-lit. If you have a kid, like Oakland, or even just like the alphabet, you should get this book.

FYI - In full disclosure, I know Michael Wertz, through friends of friends and through his art for Camper Van Beethoven. A rotating Michael Wertz Cracker/Camper poster has graced the space above my bed for 10+(?) years.

[Angelica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saw this book at a local bookstore and couldn’t resist getting this fun tribute to The Town, our home!

At 11 months, Au is great at turning soft pages carefully and she loves to look at the bright / colorful / loud illustrations. Before, she had trouble sitting through the entire book. Some of the word choices feel like a stretch, but the author must’ve had their reasons for going with the words they did.

[Aurelia S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saw this book at a local bookstore and couldn’t resist getting this fun tribute to The Town, our home!

At 11 months, Au is great at turning soft pages carefully and she loves to look at the bright / colorful / loud illustrations. Before, she had trouble sitting through the entire book. Some of the word choices feel like a stretch, but the author must’ve had their reasons for going with the words they did.

[Holly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute, very colorful, a bit busy when it comes to illustrations but they're very well done and energetic. A bit beyond a normal primer, good for kids who are ready for more than apple, bear, cookie, especially if they live or know anyone who lives around Oakland. It would also be a great way to introduce the area to kids who are moving there.

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so glad 'A' stands for more than 'apple!'
Wonderful alphabet book for preschoolers and children getting ready to read.
The illustrations are bright and eye catching.
My granddaughter (age 5) also gives this book 5 stars.

I received this book from a Goodreads giveaway.

[Kai Walser · Rating 5 out of 5]

My nieces absolutely loved this book. The artwork is so vibrant and engaging. I also love the culture and little history this taught us about Oakland. Very cool!

[Marissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful, rhyming ode to Oakland. Each illustration prompts inspection & discussion and is sure to become a read-aloud favorite -- so many neat details to notice upon each reread.