A APPLE PIE

Far from being just another abecedarium, Spirin’s signature finely lined, captivating watercolors stretch the parameters with his engaging interpretation of the English nursery rhyme. As exuberant children follow the merry fortunes of this gargantuan apple pie, the artwork is filled with delicious Victorian detail, creating a story in which the letters play characters. Each letter is scripted at the top in four or five type styles as: “B bit it; C cut it; D dealt it; E eats it.” An apple in the corner of each scene adds a sub-motif of intertwined animals and birds: grasshopper sitting on top for “G”; nightingale atop for “N.” Filled with diminutive detailing of fabric patterns, clothing folds, wisps of hair, rose vines, even clover in the grass, readers will pore over the pages brimming with germane activities. With Anno-like precision, Sis-like intricacy and the charm of Greenaway apparel, Spirin has fashioned an amazing work of art with outstanding creativity. From A to Z, absolutely delectable. (Picture book. All ages)