ZIP, ZIP...HOMEWORK

Violet has chosen a bright pink backpack on wheels with so many openings with zippers and snaps that she doesn’t really know what to do with them all, and—uh-oh. Where is the homework assignment that she thought she had zipped into the backpack? The descriptions of Violet’s sudden drop from excitement to panic to dread approaches the universal in their evocation of the inner confusion and misery that a small mistake can bring to a young child. Gently and realistically, the bright, eye-popping illustrations suggest that everyday ordinary life goes on despite Violet’s drooping body language and worried expressions. Poydar expertly shows her understanding of children, the creative orderly school environment and a teacher (aptly named Ms. Patience) ready to help teach the importance of truth. “I kept the truth zipped up,” says Violet. “But did you lose the truth?” asks Ms. Patience. “No,” Violet replies. Great visual details—check out Ms. Patience’s ankle tattoo and the subtle face incorporated into the backpack’s many pockets—and pointed text make for a worthwhile read. (Picture book. 5-7)