April 1, 2010
Gr 2-4-These attractive volumes will be a boon to librarians seeking fresh material to use when introducing library basics. Each book couches the relevant information within the framework of a story, adding significant interest to what is otherwise potentially dry material. In "Bob", Alison Wonderland introduces an interplanetary visitor to standard library organization. The text is clear and logical and punctuated by Bob's amusing observations. "Bored Bella" compares and contrasts fiction and nonfiction as the librarian (Ms. Paige Turner) slowly but surely captures the child's attention. "Pingpong Perry" follows the path of a book from the initial inspiration to the publicity that follows publication. "Karl and Carolina" examines the various components of a book on dinosaurs. The brightly colored, digitally rendered illustrations feature a multiethnic cast of characters and have plenty of kid appeal."Grace Oliff, Ann Blanche Smith School, Hillsdale, NJ"
Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
July 1, 2010
Each volume includes information about a book-related topic. Whether discussing the publication process, differences among genres, or library organization, the titles attempt to contextualize their broad concepts within a wacky picture book format. Some of the writing--like Pingpong Perry's extensive alliteration--is grating. The digital mixed-media illustrations add a level of hipness, though they sometimes obscure the information. Reading list. Glos., ind.
(Copyright 2010 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)