Poole introduces Anne Frank, one of the most recognizable figures of Holocaust history, to younger audiences in this picture-book biography written in succinct and candid language. The retelling of her brief, yet important life begins with birth, quickly moves to the increasing anti-Semitic political environment in her native Germany, her family relocation to Amsterdam, their hiding and Anne’s writing. Barrett’s detailed expressive paintings blend beautifully with the simplified text to suggest the nature of Anne’s life, dreams, frustration and optimism. The use of dark grays and browns accentuates the morose atmosphere of the annex’s stifled environment and mood of this child made extraordinary by the circumstances of her life. In addition, Barrett has captured a likeness to at least Anne and her father, leaving the reader with a last haunting look on Anne’s face as she is taken away by the SS. Poole’s explicit, poignant last line alludes to the importance of the diary and Anne’s legacy: “Anne Frank was no more than a girl and her short life had come to an end. But her story was just beginning.” (chronology, author’s note, Web site) (Picture book/biography. 7-10)
Pub Date: Aug. 23, 2005
ISBN: 0-375-83242-4
Page Count: 40
Publisher: Knopf
Review Posted Online: June 24, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 15, 2005
BOOK REVIEW
Trickling, bubbling, swirling, rushing, a river flows down from its mountain beginnings, past peaceful country and bustling city on its way to the sea. Hooper (The Drop in My Drink, 1998, etc.) artfully evokes the water’s changing character as it transforms from “milky-cold / rattling-bold” to a wide, slow “sliding past mudflats / looping through marshes” to the end of its journey. Willey, best known for illustrating Geraldine McCaughrean’s spectacular folk-tale collections, contributes finely detailed scenes crafted in shimmering, intricate blues and greens, capturing mountain’s chill, the bucolic serenity of passing pastures, and a sense of mystery in the water’s shadowy depths. Though Hooper refers to “the cans and cartons / and bits of old wood” being swept along, there’s no direct conservation agenda here (for that, see Debby Atwell’s River, 1999), just appreciation for the river’s beauty and being. (Picture book/nonfiction. 7-9)
Pub Date: June 1, 2000
ISBN: 0-7636-0792-4
Page Count: 32
Publisher: Candlewick
Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 1, 2000
Trisha is ready to start at a new school, where no one will know she has dyslexia. At first, she is heartbroken to be in Miss Peterson’s special-ed class, aka, “the junkyard.” But Miss Peterson treats the children as anything but junk, showing them that everyone has a unique talent. Polacco’s trademark style is fully present here; her sensitively drawn alter ego shines with depth of feeling. When bullying occurs, Miss Peterson proves her students are worthwhile by planning a junkyard field trip, where they find valuable objects to be used in exciting ways. Trisha’s group repairs a plane, and the class buys an engine for it. Then a beloved class member dies, and the children must find a way to honor him. While the plot meanders somewhat, the characters are appealing, believable and provide a fine portrayal of a truly special class. Children will be drawn in by the story’s warmth and gentle humor and will leave with a spark of inspiration, an appreciation of individual differences and a firm anti-bullying message, all underscored by the author’s note that concludes the book. (Picture book. 7-10)
Pub Date: July 1, 2010
ISBN: 978-0-399-25078-1
Page Count: 48
Publisher: Philomel
Review Posted Online: May 31, 2010
Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 2010
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