See what Kirkus has to say in the starred review of my most recent book out just this Spring!
Review Date: FEBRUARY 15, 2010
Publisher:Boyds Mills
Pages: 32
Price (hardback): $$17.95
Publication Date: 2/20/2010 0:00:00
ISBN: 978-1-59078-712-0
ISBN (hardback): 978-1-59078-712-0
Category: CHILDREN’S
A star is assigned to books of
unusual merit, determined by the editors of Kirkus Reviews.
While Greg and his dad enjoy a beach day, Dad sets two rules: “Don’t go in
the water / and don’t leave Sandy,” a lion Greg has drawn in the sand. As
the little boy continues drawing the lion’s tail, he discovers myriad items
along the shore. Williams’s rhythmic, onomatopoeic Swish-swoosh of the
waves and the clear, descriptive text transport readers into Greg’s
experiences, which range from spotting a “gooey purple jellyfish” to
watching a “tiny ghost crab / scurry sideways into his dark, round hole.”
Cooper’s mastery with pastels results in a grainy, sun-washed effect that
conjures a hot seaside day. Most stunning are the endearing, intimate
close-ups of Greg immersed in artistic play. Children will relate to his
adventure, which pivots on the moment he realizes he has lost sight of his
dad. But a winning combination of good memory and self-reliance lead to a
most satisfactory ending. Scoop up this tale for its strength as a unique
beach story and for its warm portrayal of an African-American son and
father enjoying the outdoors. (Picture book. 3-6)