This is a sheer delight for images, humor, subtle expressions, and some of the best use of visual irony I've ever seen. Nearly wordless, this could prThis is a sheer delight for images, humor, subtle expressions, and some of the best use of visual irony I've ever seen. Nearly wordless, this could promote some incredible writing projects for a variety of ages. ...more
A delightful story based on a traditional tale, a sort of reverse-stone-soup. Celebration of community, generosity, multi-generations, and multi-cultuA delightful story based on a traditional tale, a sort of reverse-stone-soup. Celebration of community, generosity, multi-generations, and multi-cultural cooperation. ...more
A winning story, illustrated by the always expressive Parice Barton. This will be a kid favorite and opens discussions of service dogs and other care-A winning story, illustrated by the always expressive Parice Barton. This will be a kid favorite and opens discussions of service dogs and other care-animals....more
A clever approach to one of the most challenging science concepts around. This has value for young learners, but could also be used as the introductioA clever approach to one of the most challenging science concepts around. This has value for young learners, but could also be used as the introduction in more advanced science and math classes. The core concepts feel so simple as to be self-evident, until it DOES NOT, and boggles the mind and challenges our daily experiences....more
I'm a fan of picture books with "parallel text", perhaps an actual description or just my own label creation. In this case, the poems are charmingly cI'm a fan of picture books with "parallel text", perhaps an actual description or just my own label creation. In this case, the poems are charmingly crafted to suit the particular bird and its designation (smallest, fastest, Weirdest prey collection!). The art is both scientifically informed and humorously tweaked, with an effective "teacher bird" adding accessible information in speech bubbles, with small text science notes added for the really curious reader. Add to that an awesome glossary, poetry notes describing various forms, ornithology resources, and acknowledgements. For a slim and colorful text, this is jam-packed with appeal and authentic content, and tons of curiosity-sparking details and tangents....more
The monochromatic art in this graphic novel serves as a an effective e contrast to the dynamic and nuanced layers of characters, story, subplots, andThe monochromatic art in this graphic novel serves as a an effective e contrast to the dynamic and nuanced layers of characters, story, subplots, and coming of age in this well-written and well-developed story of self-discovery and young love. I particularly appreciated the gradually developed ability of characters to set boundaries for themselves and their friendships, to establish personal goals as they moved away from peer-driven choices, and to become "comfortable in their skins". ...more
I'm not surprised that I love this book, because I've loved every one of Kelly DiPucchio's picture books. In this case the premise lands on the firstI'm not surprised that I love this book, because I've loved every one of Kelly DiPucchio's picture books. In this case the premise lands on the first page with a trouble-making dragon, the humor romps along in word, pattern, and images, and the cycle of unsatisfactory solutions develops quickly and cleverly, with fun twists that kids will love. As it should be, a young lad saves the day, in the cleverest way of all, one that offers models for teachers, parents, and babysitters anywhere. The power of reading aloud is irresistible, and is never depleted. Kudos for the premise and the writing, with a round of applause to the illustrator, especially for the facial expressions and postures that reveal so much! ...more
A charming compilation/spin-off of a viral video blog, the underlying (VERY BLATANT) message of both the book and the podcasts is this: We learn moreA charming compilation/spin-off of a viral video blog, the underlying (VERY BLATANT) message of both the book and the podcasts is this: We learn more from failing than from succeeding, and we diminish our ability to grow in skill and confidence when we play it safe, limiting ourselves to our comfort zone. The humor is very millennial, but readable by anyone with cautions about language. It helps that the four hosts are appealingly direct and the photos are smile-inducing. The message matters and the book is entertaining to the right audience....more
I'm very late to the party in reading and commenting on this remarkably entertaining and intriguing novel. Early on my sense of knowing these people,I'm very late to the party in reading and commenting on this remarkably entertaining and intriguing novel. Early on my sense of knowing these people, of WANTING to know them set its hook and developed even more as I continued reading. The striating, the management of spanning decades of time and change, and the evolving roles and relationships left me feeling as if I had lived along side these folks and cared deeply about the individuals. Now, seeing that it will become a televisions series feels absolutely right. I hope they cast it so it does just to the original writing, and I hope it becomes available on networks I can access. In the meantime, if you haven't read it, I urge you to do so. No better time to start than today....more
Sarah Goode's story was well known in parts of Chicago where she lived after the Civil War, but it was news to me and has likely been lost to many oveSarah Goode's story was well known in parts of Chicago where she lived after the Civil War, but it was news to me and has likely been lost to many over the years. She and her family were enslaved in the south before the war, owned as property like "a cow, or plow, or the cotton that grew in the master's field." Even though enslaved, her father was a skilled furniture maker and Sarah clung to a dream of doing that work when she grew up. Emancipation let her follow her dreams north to Chicago, where she married a kind and skilled man, had a child. There she worked, saved, and achieved her lifelong dream- her own furniture store. This alone is inspiring, and the narrative and art are equally inspiring. But it is only the beginning of Sarah's contributions and successes. She invented a new kind of furniture that met a serious need in her community. Her trial-and-error persistence, pursuit of a patent, and documentation to support her claim along the way allowed her to win ultimate victory, despite frustrating setbacks. The lyrical text and luminous scenes are irresistible, bringing to life a vibrant and impressive woman, her community, and her times. The back matter is equally compelling, including an informative author's note, information about patents, a timeline of Sarah's life, and a timeline of Black Women Patent Holders. Selected sources for research are included on the final end paper. SWEET DREAMS, SARAH is a prime example of my irritation about some school practices. In some cases, books that "fit into" theme months, like BLACK HISTORY MONTH, are hauled out on February First and packed away on the 28th. A good book is a good book, and a book about Sarah E. Goode must be available and celebrated all year long. It "fits" in biography studies, in STEM & MAKER themes, in social studies, math, and science, and across many ages and grades. *** One last note in my litany of irritations about educational practices: Please, teachers, honor the true purpose of this and any quality picture book. First and foremost, share them for what is their truest purpose-- as quality literature. Read them aloud and honor them as such, in their entirety. AFTER that has happened, Display them, circulate them, return to them often and for multiple purposes, as above and more. Never forget the immeasurable work behind the creation of the text and the art, the editing and book design, the story and research that underlie it all. Here is another example of literature to love, and with which to learn.
Lowell is an experienced biographer and Andreasen is the master of multiple art styles. Together they provide the perfect blend of story and image toLowell is an experienced biographer and Andreasen is the master of multiple art styles. Together they provide the perfect blend of story and image to capture the era. In those days Schulz was actually young SPARKY, lover of comics and best friend of Spike, a dog who rang the doorbell to come inside, who served himself drinks from the faucet, and understood more than fifty words. He could also tell time and ate nearly anything without getting sick. Sparky set out to be a cartoonist at an early age, and his drawings were sought out by peers, but he wasn't popular with peers. The true story of how he overcame frustration, developed his talent, and found encouragement from a surprising (famous) source will reassure and inspire young readers who may feel thwarted in their goals and unliked by peers. This book has outstanding back matter, including another inspiring artifact, archival photos of Sparky and Spike, and many added details that make the book even stronger as an authoritative biography. You'll never look at misfit Charlie Brown or Snoopy in a Peanuts strip again without thinking of Sparky and Spike after reading this book....more
If the name of author Margaret Wise Brown isn't familiar, click her name for a wonderful profile from NPR. Her books are among the best known across mIf the name of author Margaret Wise Brown isn't familiar, click her name for a wonderful profile from NPR. Her books are among the best known across many generations. This title plays on a well known classic, THE IMPORTANT BOOK. Throughout this engaging and informative biography, other titles appear in word play and images: GOODNIGHT MOON and RUNAWAY BUNNY, to name just two. Brown was known to shock people with her quirky ways throughout her life, and readers of any age will find surprises in this book. Author Barnett addresses his words to those readers to reveal quirky aspects of this book: there are 42 pages, several specifically matching events in Brown's life at that age, including dying at age 42. Bottom line: Brown believed children deserved to read important books, and I believe that, too. This is one of those important books. The resources and references are listed on the copyright page, but I would have loved to see a kid-friendly listing of titles by Margaret Wise Brown as back matter additions, including cover images of each. I love it when readers see a beloved book and say, "I didn't know she wrote THAT!"...more
Just look at that title! It speaks for itself about the delightful vocabulary, wordplay, humor, and figurative language that lifts this nonfiction picJust look at that title! It speaks for itself about the delightful vocabulary, wordplay, humor, and figurative language that lifts this nonfiction picture book to that special category of books that entertain as thoroughly as they instruct. Author Melissa Stewart has refined her talent in this arena and it is on full display with this presentation. She presents ways that animals use oddities of size, coloration, body parts, aroma, behaviors, and other traits that fall far outside those considered "cute". The illustrations by Stephanie Laberis manage to capture Stewart's lighthearted but accurate adaptations that have allowed these unusual critters to survive beyond the familiar "camouflage". Example: instead of "small" or "tiny", there's a frog who could "perch on your pinkie", "puny peewees" pursued by predators with huge teeth and razor-sharp claws. These alliterative phrasings and word choices delight on the first read and invite MANY repeated readings, including as mentor text for young writers. Don't miss this stellar nonfiction picture book for any age....more
Saying good bye is rarely easy, and it can feel painful and miserable when it involves a friend moving away for keeps. This story takes an unusual appSaying good bye is rarely easy, and it can feel painful and miserable when it involves a friend moving away for keeps. This story takes an unusual approach to the problem. The imbalance between the confident, leaving friend and the timid one left behind is a bit of a switch from the usual approach (Equal anxiety levels, or the moving-character being fearful/sad). In this case the text and illustrations merit rereading and provide increasing comfort with each repetition. ...more
Squirrel is the running-champ of the forest. He'd be the first to tell you that, or invite you into his home to view the countless awards and trophiesSquirrel is the running-champ of the forest. He'd be the first to tell you that, or invite you into his home to view the countless awards and trophies won over his short life. The clever twist that REQUIRES him to compete with a team sets up the satisfying ( but slightly abrupt) conclusion. Squirrel makes a tough decision but does not second guess what matters most. ...more
Spanning a busy day of dad-son activities, this blend of simple text and lively images provides young audiences with a fun/funny story. Gee makes effeSpanning a busy day of dad-son activities, this blend of simple text and lively images provides young audiences with a fun/funny story. Gee makes effective use of familiar words and interactions to demonstrate opposites. The characters (African American) will be universally familiar and invite connection and empathy. The role of Dad as caregiver is portrayed naturally and with a delightful twist at the end. ...more
Before reading this I was unaware of the specific historic character portrayed. That's no surprise, given the historic period, the attitudes toward woBefore reading this I was unaware of the specific historic character portrayed. That's no surprise, given the historic period, the attitudes toward women, and Maria Feliciana Arballo's ethnicity. As the child of a parent of mixed heritage, the ranking of personal worth based on purity of bloodlines was as prominent in the Southwest territories controlled by Spain during the late 1700s as they were in the American colonies. As a twenty year old widow and mother of two young children, Maria's decisions, preparations, resilience, and determination to survive are inspiring. The back matter reveals more historic content about the migration/exodus of the caravan that included Maria and her family. The story reveals the core of the history, but the additional content provides even more factual threads that could be sparks for additional research and reading. The parallels between present day refugee groups seeking a safe life with more possibilities of success and Maria's story should spark many conversations. This dyslexic font version is quite readable for anyone. The font size and line spacing were surprisingly tight, since the book is only 16 pages. I would have preferred the standard 32 pages, or at least 24, which would allow for increased physical spacing and also pacing the story to allow for absorbing and integrating so much information. The colorful illustrations support meaning, and indicate the close relationships among characters, which are recognizable for readers in any era....more
Pete Seeger was an icon of that era, and whether or not you are familiar with him, I urge you to click and explore the remarkable impact he had on musPete Seeger was an icon of that era, and whether or not you are familiar with him, I urge you to click and explore the remarkable impact he had on music and on social change. I'm overdue to share thoughts about an award-winning biographic picture book about him, STAND UP AND SING! Pete Seeger, Folk Music and the Path to Justice. Written by Susanna Reich and illustrated by Adam Gustavson, with a touchingly personal forward by Peter Yarrow (of Peter, Paul, and Mary). The text deserves attention and praise for its lyrical prose, for the storytelling quality of nonfiction narration, and for the rhythm that propels it forward. All are traits that made Pete's singing such a success. The illustrations also mirror the remarkable quality of Pete's music, pairing artistic brilliance with homey simplicity. Each double spread presents a painterly scene with revealing details and natural frame, while the facing page uses seemingly rough pencil sketches to contrast settings and add informative detail to the text, especially for younger readers. As with any important nonfiction picture book, back matter includes helpful author notes, Pete Seeger quotes and citations, and a list of some of his recordings. The quotations noted appear throughout the text, lifting an already wonderful read aloud into the music of his soul:
"When one person taps out a beat...[or]three people discover a harmony...or a crowd joins in on a chorus as though to raise the ceiling a few feet higher, then they also know there is hope for the world." This biography shares the beneficial opportunities for academic connections with the three biographies I featured in the last post, HERE, in high level reading applications and also in content area studies. Instead I will honor my thoughts and heart to reflect another use for this wonderful book. My original intent was to elaborate on educational examples in this review. Recent mass shootings couple with the sad fact that as many or more were shot, injured, and killed in separate events in the same weekend in Chicago. It is inexcusable that little or nothing appears about that in the news. And perhaps the saddest statement about our current societal dysfunction is that I don't need to specify which weekend because these reports could be nearly ANY weekend in 2019. That state of affairs pushes me to make other observations, about the education of our souls. Twentieth century American history can be explored through folk music, singers, song lyrics, protest movements (from labor to equal rights to economic rights and many more issues), and shifts in political power. Let music lead the way to wider and deeper understanding of the history that led us to today. And about that Peter Yarrow forward. Of the many moving lines he wrote, the one I return to now, as the news assaults me and burrows into my soul, erodes my spirit, and suggests the futility of protest or action, one line stands out: "In these times there is so much that divides us, so much greed, narcissism, and other terrible threats to the dream of creating a caring, just, and peaceful society-- and to the survival of our planet. What Pete taught us is how to keep on keepin' on, how to keep on singing, how to not become cynical, and how to turn challenge and adversity into greater determination and love for one another. That was Pete." And that, I choose to believe, can and should be us. Once again, this is a picture book that has a place and a ROLE in all lives, of any age. May we all stand up and sing, stand together, and change the world. From Pete and Peter, let us take to heart their words of inspiration, comfort, and follow their charge to action. ...more
Racism, white-power, and militarism are at the core of the story, but this story manages to refocus on the characters and develop nuanced reflectionsRacism, white-power, and militarism are at the core of the story, but this story manages to refocus on the characters and develop nuanced reflections on the complexity of individuals, relationships, and obligations. ...more
Appealing art and text will make this introduction to various animal homes a favorite. It is not intended to consider predator/prey or food chain cyclAppealing art and text will make this introduction to various animal homes a favorite. It is not intended to consider predator/prey or food chain cycles, but the complexity of the situations would lend itself to those discussions with slightly older readers. With the setting of a temperate forest to anchor the examples featured, this will work well with Messner's OVER AND UNDER series, Aston's A NEST IS NOISY, and Fleming's THIS IS THE NEST THAT ROBIN BUILT. ...more
This is a surprising, effective, and kid-friendly approach to ways in which someone is affected by worries/loss/grief, even depression, and the ways iThis is a surprising, effective, and kid-friendly approach to ways in which someone is affected by worries/loss/grief, even depression, and the ways in which their friends may be able to help. An essential difference between this and many other outstanding picture books dealing with these topics is captured in the title: patience is a gift. Elba has dragged around her "block" for so long that her burden feels not just familiar but safe. Norris cares. His personality is upbeat, energized, and encouraging, but he doesn't insist or pressure Elba to change. He persists, patiently, day after day. MAYBE TOMORROW his friend will consider joining in. And when she even considers it, Norris will be there, offering to help in various ways, patiently. The long term effect of such nonjudgmental, patient friendship is satisfying on many levels, to the youngest audiences and to the adult readers....more
This is rich with potential for activities related to time sequence, cause/effect, opposites, relationships, and adjusting to changes. It does this loThis is rich with potential for activities related to time sequence, cause/effect, opposites, relationships, and adjusting to changes. It does this lovely and sensitive book a disservice, though, to use it for those purposes before sharing it as the literary gem that it is. Doerrfeld has once again displayed the gentle perspective of a young child dealing with life changes, from the mundane to the moving. Her art and text capture the immediacy of struggles and worries in reassuring but realistic ways, allowing young readers to develop confidence to face their own lives successfully....more
This is an exciting fantasy wtih solidly developed world-building of the HAVEN, the North American enclave of fairies. The main character, Ophelia DelThis is an exciting fantasy wtih solidly developed world-building of the HAVEN, the North American enclave of fairies. The main character, Ophelia Delphinia Fidget, is a young fairy who has trained in her chosen field and is finally assigned to her first mission in "the World". She has spent every ounce of energy, every tick of her life, and all the seasons of her life preparing to excel at this, as she has done at every aspect of her life to date. Nearly the first half of the book is used to develop the clever and complex rules, habits, and concerns of life in a fairy world with dwindling magical resources. Once her mission begins the tension ramps up and nearly every bad thing that COULD happen DOES happen, and more. The climax and resolution unfold in satisfying ways and there's every possibility this could become a series. I was particularly enjoying the ways in which Fidget grew and changed, and the creative use of language to reveal her emotions. This has HUUGE potential as a read aloud for younger audiences, exploring various "rules" for making wishes and having them come true. ...more
I'll add some brief notes for the moment and return to this book for an extensive review later in the week. It is worth the additional reflection andI'll add some brief notes for the moment and return to this book for an extensive review later in the week. It is worth the additional reflection and notes about content and audience. For now, though, I highly recommend it for the writing quality as well as the revelation of little-known aspects of WWII Arianism, many that followed victims into the years after the war....more
In this layered story the young boy Noah is a devoted naturalist who appreciates the various wildlife in his urban backyard. Banks writes a direct bu In this layered story the young boy Noah is a devoted naturalist who appreciates the various wildlife in his urban backyard. Banks writes a direct but appealing narrative, interspersed with lyrical word choice, strong verbs, and delightful figurative language:
"It started with a cloud peeping over the hill like a curious ghost." "The sun snapped off its light. A curtain of darkness drew across the sky." "The rain splashed down like silver swords thrown from heaven."
The text provides parallels between Noah and his parents: using tools, stocking up food, preparing for the worst. Once the storm sets in, Noah's indoor story reveals both the worry and the comfort of a family surviving a multi-day storm, depicted in charming spot illustrations. That clears the stage for expansive illustrations to reveal the parallels of outdoor survivors to indoor residents. The story is realistic and practical in many regards, although some kids will raise questions about the likelihood of these particular animals sharing close quarters for several days: Won't the toads each the insects? These observations and questions open doors to discussions of intentionally stretching realism, extending and comparing readings and research in other genre, and determining themes for picture books. Rocco's illustrations are luminous and nuanced, precise enough to verge on photographic, at times. The yard-dwelling creatures are not anthropomorphized, although alert and attentive. Young Noah and his family convey expressive features to suit the changing conditions throughout the story. Explorations of empathy and trust will spontaneously arise from these rich images and the engaging story. ...more
The number of things to enjoy about this book nears "infinity"! The main character who loves math is a mixed-background female. She notices differencesThe number of things to enjoy about this book nears "infinity"! The main character who loves math is a mixed-background female. She notices differences in everyone around her, not in their skin tone or hair, but in passions! She recognizes and explores opportunities to discover other passions, despite her own inborn passion for math. "Math" is not equated with numerals, counting, or calculations, although that aspect of math does make an apperance, eventually. The oversize, textured,matte pages provide the perfect medium for limited palette but boundless detail, allowing for attentive inspection with a calming tone and background. The other children and family members are charmingly diverse, allowing every reader to find themselves in the pages of this book. The main character's perception of math in everyday experiences is a delight, avoiding repetition of familiar observations but applying advanced math concepts to everything from the branching leaves of a tree (fractals) to trajectories (of a paper airplane) and beyond. Back matter offers appealing line drawings clarifying the ways in which the young girl notices and applies even advanced math concepts to everyday life. Those ending illustrations are clear but childlike enough to make Math user-friendly, including a few stay squiggles/cross-outs. The closing images are kid-friendly enough to invite readers to look up, look outside themselves and their screens, and make math discoveries of their own. Don't mss this one. ...more
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