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DANCING WITH DADDY

Name: DANCING WITH DADDY
Author: Willy Welch
ISBN: 1-58089-020-2

by Willy Welch ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 1, 1999

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The first spread of this rhyming tale shows a charming domestic tableau full of affectionate detail: a teapot on the table where a brown-haired daughter plays cards with her parents, Mama’s bare feet with red toenails, and a windchime tinkling in the open window. A song on the radio brings the cry, “Dance with me, Daddy!” As he swoops her up and they sing along, waving past Mama, they dance outside, where all the cows are inspired to dance. The great willow trees, the fish, and a loon seem to join in, and soon everything from deer to hedgehogs, foxes to fieldmice, and birds to butterflies are part of the dance. “The whole world is dancing!” cries the girl, tucked into bed by her parents in the last frame. Logic is a feeble reed in this instance: the animals sport anthropomorphic expressions and are all actively participating even though it’s night, but the elusive childhood magic of dancing with one’s father is captured with all its silliness and magnificence intact. (Picture book. 4-8)

Pub Date: Sept. 1, 1999

ISBN: 1-58089-020-2

Page Count: 32

Publisher: N/A

Review Posted Online: June 24, 2010

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 1999

Categories:

CHILDREN'S FAMILY

- BOOK REVIEW
PLAYING RIGHT FIELD
by Willy Welch & illustrated by Marc Simont

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BABY TALK

by Fred Hiatt ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 1, 1999

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Importuned by the incomprehensible cries of his baby brother, Joey turns to his other family members to decipher their meaning, preferring the role of an observer in the daily care of his sibling. However, a keen remark from Grandmother enlightens Joey and forges a special bond between the two youngest members of the household: “You spoke baby talk not so long ago.” After a few tentative phrases in baby gibberish, the siblings are happily communicating in their own language to their mutual delight. Soon Joey becomes the translator for the family, explaining the baby’s requests to the others. The transformation of Joey from reluctant toddler to loving brother is realistically, achingly rendered, saved from sentimentalism by the conversations and genuine affection that blossom between brothers. Graham’s incandescent illustrations complement and expand the text, making the flow of emotion between the siblings a nearly tangible element in their scenes. A blend of delicate hues and deep jewel tones suffused by a gentle light lends an ethereal quality to the images. (Picture book. 3-7)

Pub Date: May 1, 1999

ISBN: 0-689-82146-8

Page Count: 32

Publisher: McElderry

Review Posted Online: June 24, 2010

Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 1, 1999

Categories:

CHILDREN'S FAMILY

AUNT CEECEE, AUNT BELLE, AND MAMA'S SURPRISE

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AUNT CEECEE, AUNT BELLE, AND MAMA'S SURPRISE

by Mary Quattlebaum & illustrated by Michael Chesworth ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 11, 1999

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The commotion over preparations for Mama’s surprise birthday party form the basis for Quattlebaum’s latest, told from the point of view one of the daughters in the household. “To buy” and “to do” lists are quickly compiled with the help of two well-meaning aunts, slapdash Aunt CeeCee and nitpicking Aunt Belle, with nary a thought given to what could go wrong. In no time, little sister Flo is boo-hooing and younger brother Squeal nearly gives away the surprise. The father forgets the password, the cats tear into the presents, and the cake is still “bald as a stone” as the clock tick-ticks toward party time. Only a “take-charge kind of girl” can save the day, and the young narrator does precisely that. Mama’s surprise is no surprise to readers, but despite the anticipated event, it’s the prelude that counts. Snazzy Jazz-Age-inspired drawings are as full of fuss and frenzy as the party preliminaries themselves. Chesworth uses comic-book style panels to divulge action and dialogue balloons to deliver sharp humor. A whispered conversation not meant to be heard by Mama is cleverly rendered in silhouette. This is ideal for those who prefer the fixings over the fanfare of the festivities themselves. (Picture book. 5-8)