YELLOW UMBRELLA

In a wordless outing, a yellow umbrella in the rain is joined by a blue umbrella, then a red one. As they move through city streets, additional umbrellas in varied colors join them one by one. In ever-growing, ever-changing configurations they cross a bridge, pass through a playground, go around a fountain, descend steps, pause at a railway barricade, traverse a crosswalk flanked by waiting cars, and at last arrive at school. The luscious colors of the umbrellas stand out against grayed and misty backgrounds. The legs and feet of the children carrying them are shown only at the beginning and at the end. Accompanying music—a theme and variations—is provided on a compact disk neatly stored in an attached pocket. The single song, sung in Korean, is printed in English at the end along with the music. “Everyone hold up your umbrella / standing underneath the sky. / Everyone—with your umbrella. / Listen to the rain.” The disk opens with the sound of falling rain before the delicate piano music begins. A note explains that brief periods of silence let the reader know when to turn the page. The umbrellas seem to move to the music as the reader turns the pages at the appropriate intervals. This lovely and unusual treat will lend itself to multiple readings and interpretations, and inspire classroom activities ranging from art and creative writing to quiet contemplation. (Picture book. 2-6)