SCORE!

This collection of 50 motivational poems about ambition, persistence, attitude, self-respect and integrity will find plenty of fans among parents, teachers, leaders and coaches who are working on character development, goal-setting and cooperative classrooms. It will probably find as many among the jaded lit-elite to dismiss it as platitudinous and banal: Perhaps it’s not for them. It’s for those who are energized by the very sight of the words “truth,” “kindness” and “responsibility” among the inspirational words that emblazon the endpapers; for those who are looking for the sorts of mission statements that may forge disparate students into a cohesive cohort of kids; for those who need a school/class, team or family motto. Is it pure poetry? No. Is there an occasional awkward turn of phrase? Yes. There’s even (gasp!) a split infinitive. But these maxims, accompanied by Gorton’s lively, crisp, colorful digital cartoon illustrations and dynamic typeface selections have undeniable appeal—and they are homey, honest and blessedly brief. (Picture book/poetry. 7-11)