A lucky swipe earns a fearsome reputation for a tailor in search of fame and fortune in this tale from the Brothers Grimm. Wearing a sash that boldly claims he killed seven in “one blow,” the plucky adventurer uses his cunning and ingenuity to win the hand of a princess by overcoming a series of challenges set by the king. Kimmel’s version highlights the cockiness of the confident young tailor and the single-mindedness of his quest. Lloyd’s illustrations, especially her giants, ogres, and wild beasts, are satisfyingly ferocious and emphasize the difference in size between the tailor and his foes. Children will enjoy the surface story; older readers will either wonder whether a man who believes his own lies will make a good ruler, or take heart from the tailor’s swaggering path to success. (Picture book. 4-8)
Pub Date: Nov. 15, 1998
ISBN: 0-8234-1383-7
Page Count: 32
Publisher: Holiday House
Review Posted Online: May 20, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 1, 1998
Categories: CHILDREN'S GENERAL CHILDREN'S
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A book that will make young dog-owners smile in recognition and confirm dogless readers' worst suspicions about the mayhem caused by pets, even winsome ones. Sam, who bears passing resemblance to an affable golden retriever, is praised for fetching the family newspaper, and goes on to fetch every other newspaper on the block. In the next story, only the children love Sam's swimming; he is yelled at by lifeguards and fishermen alike when he splashes through every watering hole he can find. Finally, there is woe to the entire family when Sam is bored and lonely for one long night. Boland has an essential message, captured in both both story and illustrations of this Easy-to-Read: Kids and dogs belong together, especially when it's a fun-loving canine like Sam. An appealing tale. (Picture book. 4-8)
Pub Date: April 1, 1996
ISBN: 0-8037-1530-7
Page Count: 40
Publisher: Dial Books
Review Posted Online: May 20, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 1996
Categories: CHILDREN'S GENERAL CHILDREN'S
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The interconnectedness of humanity shines throughout this affirming picture book from singer/songwriter Di Franco.
An unnamed young character sits patiently while their mother plaits their long hair; the child describes in rhyming couplets their visible traits, such as their hair, skin, and eyes, all warm shades of tan and brown like those of their family. But the narrator is more than how they look—beneath the surface is something they call “The Knowing.” The child goes on to share more about their life, from charming details like their slightly torn favorite blanket to the games they play with friends. All the while the narrator tries their best to explain that The Knowing is a common element that draws us all together. Though the concept of The Knowing may be a bit subtle and cerebral for the intended audience, the poetic beauty of Di Franco’s writing more than makes up for that potential criticism. The message is lovely and delivered gently, and the author makes a familiar theme—the focus on inner life—feel fresh and new. The protagonist and their family present as South Asian in Mathew’s soft, tender watercolor, colored pencil, and charcoal illustrations. Glowing with the gentle love of the main character’s friends, family, community, and self, the artwork beams with assuredness—the embodiment of Di Franco’s words. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
A sweet, lyrical book perfect for bedtime sharing. (Picture book. 4-8)Pub Date: March 7, 2023
ISBN: 978-0-593-38375-9
Page Count: 32
Publisher: Rise x Penguin Workshop
Review Posted Online: Jan. 12, 2023
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 2023
Categories: CHILDREN'S GENERAL CHILDREN'S
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