The pure delight of sport—of pushing the body’s capabilities, of moving with grace and style—takes a back seat to winning in this curious mixture of minor-league motives and big hearts from Atkins. It is Jessenia’s first year on the swim team and her first meet on the opponent’s turf. Her mother, an old soul from Puerto Rico who extols the simple pleasures of her childhood, and Jessenia’s pranksterish brother (here for light relief) accompany her on the bus. But Jessenia’s mind is on thrashing rival Weston School, an upscale community far from her urban home. Jessenia loses her first contest, then comes back to win the last race, although her school is trounced. Regardless, Jessenia is radiant and points a finger at the opposition: “We’ll be back!” Atkins makes her points gently, but the story never gives testimony to Jessenia’s joy in swimming, to her being part of the team—elements that readers are expecting from the opening pages. The atmospheric hints and half-stated ideas may not be enough to compel children through the pages. (Picture book. 5-9)
Pub Date: April 1, 1998
ISBN: 1-880000-66-0
Page Count: 32
Publisher: Lee & Low Books
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 1998
Having put together a band with renowned cousin Duck Ellington and singer “Bee” Holiday, Rooster’s chances sure look...
Winning actually isn’t everything, as jazz-happy Rooster learns when he goes up against the legendary likes of Mules Davis and Ella Finchgerald at the barnyard talent show.
Having put together a band with renowned cousin Duck Ellington and singer “Bee” Holiday, Rooster’s chances sure look good—particularly after his “ ‘Hen from Ipanema’ [makes] / the barnyard chickies swoon.”—but in the end the competition is just too stiff. No matter: A compliment from cool Mules and the conviction that he still has the world’s best band soon puts the strut back in his stride. Alexander’s versifying isn’t always in tune (“So, he went to see his cousin, / a pianist of great fame…”), and despite his moniker Rooster plays an electric bass in Bower’s canted country scenes. Children are unlikely to get most of the jokes liberally sprinkled through the text, of course, so the adults sharing it with them should be ready to consult the backmatter, which consists of closing notes on jazz’s instruments, history and best-known musicians.Pub Date: Sept. 1, 2011
ISBN: 978-1-58536-688-0
Page Count: 32
Publisher: Sleeping Bear Press
Review Posted Online: July 19, 2011
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 1, 2011
Boelts’ quiet tale celebrates the perseverance of a young girl as she attempts to achieve her goals
Soccer is a bittersweet mix of sorrow and joy for Sierra.
Sierra struggles with conflicting emotions about her new soccer team. Traveling out of the city, Sierra now plays on soccer fields unlike the one near the apartment where she lives with her aunt, which is exciting. However, being on this new team has some drawbacks. With most games on Saturdays—which is her aunt’s busiest day at the restaurant—Sierra is sad to be the only player without family members to cheer for her during games. Yet, with a little ingenuity, Sierra discovers a solution to her dilemma. Boelts focuses on the relationship between Sierra and her aunt, deftly portraying Sierra’s maturity and fortitude as she attempts to resolve the situation. Sierra, while dedicated to her sport, recognizes the importance and inspiring effect of her aunt’s support and encouragement. Castillo’s watercolor-and-ink illustrations of the city’s landscapes feature towering buildings in an austere setting. In contrast, drawings of Sierra’s home and her aunt’s workplace depict warm, cozy scenes. Scenes with the dark-skinned, crinkly-haired auntie and niece emphasize the close, nurturing relationship. Action-filled paintings of the soccer games capture the fast-paced excitement of the game.
Boelts’ quiet tale celebrates the perseverance of a young girl as she attempts to achieve her goals . (Picture book. 5-9)Pub Date: May 1, 2012
ISBN: 978-0-7636-4616-5
Page Count: 32
Publisher: Candlewick
Review Posted Online: March 6, 2012
Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 2012
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