This is a delightfully clever and well-executed approach that reveals parallels between a chorus of nighttime critters and the instruments in an orcheThis is a delightfully clever and well-executed approach that reveals parallels between a chorus of nighttime critters and the instruments in an orchestra. Stunning and appealing photography is used to allow even the youngest audiences to recognize animals (both familiar and surprising!) and mimic the onomatopoetic sounds integrated into the fluid and masterful rhymed text. Nature sounds and the creatures who produce them are figuratively compared to instrumentalists and their music tools. Back matter provides brief and appealing descriptions and details about the featured animals, then another double spread about the instruments named, including suggestions for readers to try to make similar instruments. Science elements reference ways vibrations are creating sound, making this a superb STEAM choice. The illustrations are darkly lush, making the contrasting text easy to read and part of a fluid page design that adds to the musicality of the full effect. The nightfall is introduced with a metaphorical curtain rising and night thrush, with the symphony's close at dawn as the curtain drops on a robin's morning rise-and-shine song. Highly recommended. ...more
This story of outreach and mutual support/concern weaves together four distinct cultures across two centuries. Some of the material was familiar to meThis story of outreach and mutual support/concern weaves together four distinct cultures across two centuries. Some of the material was familiar to me, but this complete telling is rich with detail and meaningful connective tissue while remaining simply lyrical and nearly magical. The text uses occasional side panels to clarify the history/science behind the actualmevents described in the main text, but the flow is not in any way disrupted. Beginning with the potato famine in 19th century Ireland (caused by a sudden fungal plague to the crop), the story reveals that Choctaw Native people, reached out frommtheir limited resources to offer assistance. The plight of starving people resonated with those who had been forcibly removed from their own land and suffered starvation and loss as a result. That act of kindness, of recognizing common humanity, remained in the hearts of the Irish people who marked a remembrance of their gift with a memorial statue in Ireland in recent years. Then COVID caused extreme isolation and suffering for the Hopi Navajo people, whose suffering reached the Irish people. They, in turn, contributed to the Native fund to help provide the water and medicines needed to make it through. In fact, this intersection of four distinct and distant cultures is a heartwarming reminder of our common humanity. The illustrations include informative scenes and contain luminous and vibrant traditional colors, evoking connection and conveying empathy.
This biography is moving and powerful as a portrayal of a committed and talented photographer whose work "told more than words" and changed people's mThis biography is moving and powerful as a portrayal of a committed and talented photographer whose work "told more than words" and changed people's minds and hearts. The emotional journeys throughout are intense, from a joyous boyhood in an idyllic wild world to homesickness at boarding school, through young adulthood, marriage, political upheaval, and various further successes and heartbreaks. Throughout it all, the heart and commitment of Salgado and his wife are compelling and inspiring for readers of any age. The illustrations are effective at revealing expansive and vibrant (or stark) natural scenes, but also manage to capture the nearly-magical qualities of light that characterized Salgado's photographs. This is one of those picture books that will appeal at many age levels, will also provide mentor text for writing a complex biography that engages many interests and concerns of readers. ...more
I first learned about Robert Smalls through an earlier award-winning picture book, so I expected to enjoy reading this version. It took a distinctly dI first learned about Robert Smalls through an earlier award-winning picture book, so I expected to enjoy reading this version. It took a distinctly different approach, focusing a bit on Smalls coming to the area and having useful boating skills. IT was not made clear until several pages in that he was NOT a Free Negro but an enslaved man whose skills allowed for more advanced work and possible compensation than for others in slavery. It became clear, though, that even those few benefits of living with his family and earning some small income left him vulnerable to losing his wife or children in a sale to other owners. The adventure of their escape is suspensefully conveyed, including his final realization of danger after they imagined they were safe. I was most pleased to read in the author note that this is told through a direct descendent of Smalls and is dedicated to the author's granddaughter, another direct descendent. Illustrations are effective in supporting the informational and emotional content of this important slice of history. ...more
This is a charming new picture book that appeals on many levels: minimal,mrhymed text that is arranged organically on then page rather than in stanzasThis is a charming new picture book that appeals on many levels: minimal,mrhymed text that is arranged organically on then page rather than in stanzas, an array of living things that blend the familiar with surprising critters, and assemblage/collage art that portrays very natural scenes and accurate animal qualities using cut pieces with artifacts and materials. The many appeals are undeniable, and the layers of useful content will make this an asset in families, classrooms, and libraries. ...more
This is an important book, based on actual incidents in which an accepting community rises to hateful challenges in or to advocate- proactively standiThis is an important book, based on actual incidents in which an accepting community rises to hateful challenges in or to advocate- proactively standing inn solidarity rather than simply sympathizing or consoling those who were attacked for their identities. I appreciate that back matter references the 1993 incident in Billings, Montana in which a small community acted similarly in defense of a neighbor whose Jewish identity was attacked. Regardless of the target of the hate, it is never those attacked who are at fault. In this case, as in the earlier one,mit was young peop[le who actively sought answers and positivity in their solutions and solidarity....more
As you likely know, prairie dogs live in extensive communities, often called prairie dog towns. Whether the extended group is small (as this one is) oAs you likely know, prairie dogs live in extensive communities, often called prairie dog towns. Whether the extended group is small (as this one is) or massive, their interactions can make a lively and appealing model for many human relationships. In this case, the story unfolds with speech bubble narratives, delightful perspectives, and one prairie dog, Earl, who is afraid of going outside. He prefers dig-dig-digging underground where he feels safe. His above-ground buddies are on the look out for predators, but Earl fears rain. Earl's fears (of several kinds) play a role in his rescue of the group. Even so, despite their safe survival, Earl relies on his peer support to find security within himself and among his community. OUTSIDE!
This is an excellent offering for young readers to encourage social/emotional learning and discussion, to empathize with characters, to identify/predict storyline, and to flat-out enjoy a funny story.
The double spread back matter includes labeled illustrations of the ways prairie dogs dig complex intentional underground spaces to survive and thrive. I found Earl & Company to be unforgettable, and I hope you will, too....more
Main narrative and densely powerful illustrations convey a "night in the life" of an imagined individual RURU, a New Zealand variety of owl. SecondaryMain narrative and densely powerful illustrations convey a "night in the life" of an imagined individual RURU, a New Zealand variety of owl. Secondary/parallel text on most pages provide facts about this species as relate to the lyrical (and busy) male owl as it spend a moonlit night trying to feed its mate and owlets. Both text and image are dramatic and exciting, while providing engaging information about food chains and other STEM material that allows compare/contrast opportunities for varieties of animals in local and distant settings. The parallel text makes this appealing and useful across many ages, with back matter that can be used for further investigations....more
This is a lovely account of the ways in which Barbara Cooney lived, grew, and became a renowned illustrator of children's books, eventually charting hThis is a lovely account of the ways in which Barbara Cooney lived, grew, and became a renowned illustrator of children's books, eventually charting her own course and writing text, as well. The illustrations and text both call to mind the color choices and nature focus of Cooney's later works. A must read for anyone who knows and loves her classic, award-winning books....more
What an ideal and delightful book for anyone who watches and wonders about the world around us - the very small world around us. By framing the readerWhat an ideal and delightful book for anyone who watches and wonders about the world around us - the very small world around us. By framing the reader as a "giant" in such a perspective, readers realize quickly that this book invites/challenges readers to take the time to observe AND to learn about the living things that so often go unnoticed. ...more
This is a gloriously illustrated presentation of changes in our natural world during a span of time in this and the prior century. The brutal transforThis is a gloriously illustrated presentation of changes in our natural world during a span of time in this and the prior century. The brutal transformation caused by human imprint and imposition on nature and its animal/plant inhabitants is both delicately and devastatingly portrayed. David Attenborough is not the only "kid" who grew up fascinated by the fossils and pants and creatures in nature, but he held fast to that interest to grow a career and reputation that touched millions of lives. His intrigue and concern for the complexity and survival of natural life around the globe are inspiring and empowering. Back matter includes authors' note, bibliography, descriptions of rewilding as a potential intervention, and descriptions of various problems discussed in the main text....more
I sure hope that the name WILMA RUDOLPOH has familiar to everyone by now. I have several favorite titles about herm spanning decades. This, though, isI sure hope that the name WILMA RUDOLPOH has familiar to everyone by now. I have several favorite titles about herm spanning decades. This, though, is a new favorite and takes amore purposeful and direct approach to the groundbreaking changes she led in daily life, not just in sports. Her accomplishments brought positive attention to her small home town and the people there rightly wanted to celebrate her accomplishments. Her time in Europe following the Olympics revealed to Wilma the remarkable openness and equality in societies in which skin color did not separate and denigrate one group over another. She set a firm boundary on what she would agree to do and how she would engage in celebrations. This included her refusal to take part unless ALL people, of any skin color or background, would be included as equals in the festivities, the parties, the meals, and more. After that time of celebration ended, though, her town, Clarksville, TN, continue to segregate the public pool, transportation, and more. But Wilma never stopped fighting for justice and using her success on the track to make gains for all people on the hardest of all fields- her racist community. The illustrations are vibrant and crisp, a collage approach that lifts elements from the page and makes each comparative spread (European social life vs her home life in the south) all the more dramatic because they are simply doing daily activities with entirely different, arbitrary rules. Recommended....more
Toni Stone was not familiar to me before reading this remarkable picture book biography of a determined, boundary-breaking big-league baseball playingToni Stone was not familiar to me before reading this remarkable picture book biography of a determined, boundary-breaking big-league baseball playing woman. This portrayal of her life offers plenty of documentation and examples of Toni's phenomenal sports talent, but also of her determination and persistence in proving she deserved her place on the field. The fact is that her debut on a major league team took so long and demanded much more undeniable evidence of her earned position solely because she was a woman in a man's world. Some supported and befriended her, but few managed to risk supporting her path forward, and many actively blocked her way. The conclusion is very satisfying (no spoiler here) and back matter includes a timeline and extensive resources to provide further information. Illustrations are effectively colorful, action-packed, and expressive, using multiple angles and perspectives to increase the thrills from Toni's life and from the sport itself.
I fully support the subtitle of this remarkable biography: CLAP YOUR HANDS FOR VIOLA SMITH! I'm a fan of big band music,mjazz, and especially percussiI fully support the subtitle of this remarkable biography: CLAP YOUR HANDS FOR VIOLA SMITH! I'm a fan of big band music,mjazz, and especially percussionists, but I do not recall ever hearing about VIOLA SMITH and her remarkable accomplishments. I wish I could ahve seen her play in person, but this account really opens a window to the remarkable life she lived. Born into a family of older sisters who each played (masterfully) different instruments, Viola longed to join in. Drums had not yet been claimed, and she worked her way through the multiple elements of a full drum kit, discovering for herself what distinct and impressive sounds each could produce. When Papa taught her proper drumstick technique and included her in the band, she launched a lifetime of learning and liberation. She overcame roadblocks and resistance, sought out coaches and mentors, and became, literally, a one-woman show at times. I really am overwhelmed by the many ways in which she pursued her dreams and heart, and that she lived (and played) to the age of 107, changing minds, winning fans, and demonstrating her phenomenal talent to the end. Back matter is equally helpful in finding out even more about her life and career....more
This is a book that hits my heart across many waves of "favorites". THE TREE OF LIFE: How a Holocaust Sapling Inspired the World is written by Elisa BThis is a book that hits my heart across many waves of "favorites". THE TREE OF LIFE: How a Holocaust Sapling Inspired the World is written by Elisa Boxer and illustrated by Arianna Rozentsveig. It is a storytelling masterpiece, but it's a story from actual events. About an actual tree, and its offspring. About the power of community to serve as family when family is being destroyed. About the continuity of life... and of HOPE. The center of this account is a tree, a maple sapling. With subdued and subtle illustrations and text that tells enough, but not too much, encounter life within the walls of a concentration camp during the Holocaust, one of the few camps that allowed a small group of children to continue living, if you could call it that. It portrays the history with a balance between visible struggle and hardship with aspects that are softened, somehow familiar, with smiles of excitement and hope. When it comes to the prisoners in these camps, modern readers sometimes question: why didn't they rebel or resist? First, those efforts did occur, but nearly all accounts of such were suppressed and denied. In fact, though, this is a story of resistance, offering details that involve helping a sapling grow while helping young children learn about their heritage's celebrate their holidays, and hold tight to their identities.
And, hold tight to hope.
Few survived that horror, but those few who did kept that tree, and their hope, alive. When relief eventually reached the few who remained, a five foot tall tree was waiting with them. It became a symbol of LIFE, of HOPE, of WITNESS to the truth of history. That surviving tree became an honored landmark, but it also provided seeds and cuttings to grow into more trees of hope. One of those offspring trees concludes this account in an unlikely place, but one that also witnessed death and celebrates hope.
A book with this much power and depth could seem an unlikely choice for a picture book, but that assumption would be wrong. The target age here is wide, and welcoming. Readers (or listeners) of many ages will bring to it their own experiences, their own thoughts and feelings about trees, and communities, and hope. And they will take from it what each needs, regardless of age or background. And all will savor the rich illustrations and powerful but accessible text.
In the ongoing public discussions about education, about "what kids need", about grit or resilience or test scores, the truth is that young people need many things, and most of all they need good books and good stories. In this case, this nonfiction treatment of a powerful symbol of LIFE and HOPE is a work of art, and of heart. ...more
Jumping to the author and illustrator notes on back pages, I learned that Robbins was intrigued by the history of maps.Travares admits he had given veJumping to the author and illustrator notes on back pages, I learned that Robbins was intrigued by the history of maps.Travares admits he had given very little thought to maps until getting this assignment. In the righteous tradition of picture book production, both have done loads of research and become fans of the subject matter as it worked its way toward becoming a bound object. I commend them both for their results, collaboratively launching countless young map-lovers into the world.The scope of this fact-packed but minimal text opens with endpapers revealing (we later learn) one of the most ancient relics of an Egyptian map on papyrus. The closing end pages show a map on a digital screen display on the dashboard of an automobile.
Between those covers are luminous images and lyrical accounts of the history, processes, tools, impacts, and remaining evidence of maps from the earliest examples carved into massive rocks or ivory artifacts, through stick-charts depicting ocean currents, right through to satellite images of our actual planet earth. One of my earliest learning memories from that GEOGRAPHY book and map transcription is the fact that boundaries are arbitrary and the glorious country and river colors were simply visual aids, not indicators of any other sigificance, not reflecting the physical world they portray in any way other than SHAPE..
This "Big Blue Marble" on which we reside and survive only vaguely resembles those earlier attempts, but time, technology, tools, and tenacity produced efforts explained in main text and noted on that timeline on closing pages. It's impressive evidence that I'm not the only one who is curious about, intrigued by, the shape of things on this planet we occupy. I hope you'll feel the same....more
What an astonishing true account this is! Inspired by the actual experience of a forest-fire-fighting helicopter pilot in 2020, it feels both eerily What an astonishing true account this is! Inspired by the actual experience of a forest-fire-fighting helicopter pilot in 2020, it feels both eerily authentic and remarkably mystical. FIRE FLIGHT: A WILDLIFE ESCAPE is written by Cedar Pruitt and illustrated by Chiara Fedde. About a month into the raging California Creek Fire, one small, desperate owl flew into the open door of a water-dropping helicopter, seeking escape from the inferno below. The illustrations and minimalist, lyrical text brush the edges of emotions of the startled pilot and of the owl. No dramatic assignments of panic or relief are assigned. Rather the simple tale and realistic illustrations convey the intensely dramatic scenes and relationship as they flew together for the duration of several water scoops and drops. Eventually, with no more fanfare than that of its arrival, the owl exited the chopper to make its way through what remained of its habitat.
An author note at the back anchors this breathtaking story in the dates and events of the fires, the owl-arrival-and departure, and the eventual taming of a historic and destructive forest fire. Without belaboring the point, both some brief early text and a short back-matter list reference the related concern of climate change and drought to such sustained and damaging fires. The ideas provided are very age appropriate and encourage readers to see their everyday choices as affecting a larger environment. ...more
From the endpapers to the cover art throughout each interior spread, crows reach readers as both familiar and extraordinary. In addition to the silhouFrom the endpapers to the cover art throughout each interior spread, crows reach readers as both familiar and extraordinary. In addition to the silhouettes of crows posing mid-act in one of their countless antics, this bright-eyed young crow explores anything and everything it encounters. The humor is portrayed through delightful images and lively, patterned, rhyming leadlines for each episode and incident.
Crows can be annoying to many folks, including other birds and even squirrels and pets (and you'll see why), but this fella is undoubtedly as appealing as he is entertaining. Amid the multiple scenes in which crow's clever pursuits reveal the talents and intentions of birds that have been scientifically proven to be among the most intelligent of creatures other than humans and other primates. Even that exclusion might be challenged in certain circumstances. That challenge can be addressed in any of the back-matter references provided, all of which are kid-friendly and authenticated for accuracy. ...more
It's written in a quick-paced, clear-eyed way, framing the basic forces of physics (as above, and more) with examples and descriptions while offering It's written in a quick-paced, clear-eyed way, framing the basic forces of physics (as above, and more) with examples and descriptions while offering parallel ways in which girls demonstrate and apply such force in their roles in the world. The overall premise suggests a lively science/STEM classroom of club space led by an engaging and inviting female teacher/leader and attended by a diverse, attentive, and clever batch of girls/young women. The application shifts take them from that dedicated space into the community and real ways that they have force and power without being forceful or threatening. That's unless you are threatened by empowered young women.
Some of the other forces explored include magnetism, nuclear power, tension, and friction. You can imagine the countless ways in which those forces, in terms of physics, can also reference women of any age in a world that sometimes tries to force them into or out of roles. The overall text is lightly applied with elaboration in the illustrations, including simplified indicators of physics forces, including vectors, spirals, and more. Diversity displayed is extensive, suggesting identities, interests, adaptations, and potentials. The author note also indicates the importance of encouragement, with the author pointing out that her own engineer-father always provided opportunities for her to explore and engage with science and math throughout her life.
STEM has taken center stage in many aspects of publishing and educational approaches, but this is a grand example that directing aspects of science principles and challenges at girls and young women is a natural and valuable approach with lighthearted sincerity and appeal.
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