Part storybook, part pep talk to anyone with a dream in reach.
Introductory text shares history and context for the fourth publication of this circus story, with a theme of staying true and pursuing what feels right.
The title reveals itself promptly as Petronius the clown defiantly declares “No!” when asked to perform by the ringmaster. Five circus animals follow suit, and the group bluntly quits. After discussing their grievances around a campfire, they realize it isn’t so much the circus they dislike as their lack of autonomy. Even though this existential realization might stir up deeper questions in adults, it’s presented as a straightforward plot point and could help children express their own interests or desires for change in daily life. Each scene methodically moves the six “circus rebels” toward their goal of opening their own circus “for children and poets.” Classically inspired illustrations from Kuhlmann depict a rich red drape behind the circus stage. Petronius is a quintessential clown, with a collar, red nose, powder-white face, and pointed hat. Even though this is a fresh set of illustrations for the 1961 story, the cars and fashion stem from the time of initial publication. There is no noticeable skin tone or body type diversity when people are present. Anyone fearful of clowns or critical of the circus at large will pass on this book. Those who turn the pages will find a sweet mix of action and reflection as they cheer on the earnest gaggle of performers. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
Part storybook, part pep talk to anyone with a dream in reach. (Picture book. 5-8)Pub Date: Oct. 4, 2022
ISBN: 978-0-7358-4476-6
Page Count: 32
Publisher: NorthSouth
Review Posted Online: June 7, 2022
Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 1, 2022
BOOK REVIEW
A charming year in the life of a most idyllic farm; horse lovers will be entranced.
Let’s go for a pony ride!
Lily, a young Black child who lives on a farm, takes readers on a tour. Meadows’ verse leads us step by step through the seasons—ponies grazing in a pasture on a warm day, Lily taking part in a pony show in autumn, and ponies hunkering down in the barn, taking refuge from the “frost and snow” of winter. The easy rhythm of the text pairs well with Cloud’s soft, pastoral vistas. While the story is delivered with a light touch, it still shows the hard work of caring for a large animal. “Soapy water in a pail. / Gentle strokes from head to tail.” “Pick the hooves / for stone and dirt / I notice when / my pony’s hurt.” Exuding familial warmth, the bright artwork lets readers follow Lily from pastures to picnics—and even, best of all, to the arrival of a newcomer: “A foal is born / New life is here.” This easy reader will speak to any child who has wished for a pony of their own and refreshingly centers a family of color—something not often seen in similar titles.
A charming year in the life of a most idyllic farm; horse lovers will be entranced. (Early reader. 5-8)Pub Date: May 2, 2023
ISBN: 9780593483169
Page Count: 48
Publisher: Random House
Review Posted Online: March 13, 2023
Kirkus Reviews Issue: April 1, 2023
Amusing but a little off tempo.
It’s important to hit all the right notes.
A tan-skinned musical composer with puffy black hair is busy at work on his next musical masterpiece when Half Note, a music symbol denoting two beats, feels unappreciated. Half Note is jealous of the more commonly used Quarter Note (one beat) and Eighth Note. Although the other musical symbols attempt to calm and comfort Half Note, she decides to run away. The next day, Composer needs Half Note and panics when he realizes that she’s gone. The other notes and musical symbols try to find her, but it’s only when they try to play her favorite song, “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” without her—with terrible results—that she comes running back. The story’s humor—which is largely based on “dad joke” puns—is completely dependent on readers’ musical knowledge. The artwork, a mix of acrylic and colored pencil, attempts to add some allegrezza to the piece, and while it’s not unsuccessful, it’s facing an uphill battle. Music teachers and musically minded caregivers may find some value in this story, but it will likely be too specialized for general readers. (This book was reviewed digitally.)
Amusing but a little off tempo. (glossary) (Picture book. 6-8)Pub Date: March 14, 2023
ISBN: 978-1-64567-631-7
Page Count: 32
Publisher: Page Street
Review Posted Online: Dec. 23, 2022
Kirkus Reviews Issue: Jan. 15, 2023
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