Jerry Pinkney
Jerry Pinkneyhas been creating art for more than thirty years and has more than seventy-five children's picture books to his credit. That his art is truly exceptional is evident from the numerous awards that he has received which include Caldecott Honors, Coretta Scott King Awards, and King Honors. His recent book, Noah's Ark, published by SeaStar Books, was recently awarded a Caldecott Honor for 2003.
Jerry is a modest and unassuming man with a huge talent. It began early in life; he started drawing at age 4. While Jerry struggled in elementary school due to dyslexia, his artistic talent was recognized and encouraged. He loves to tell kids that he was the class artist-in first grade that is. Jerry found that he enjoyed the admiration of the teacher and other kids, something that was more of a challenge at home in Philadelphia growing up in a family with six kids, all of whom were vying for parental attention. Throughout his school years, Jerry was a good student and in high school he even played in the orchestra. Later, he went to a vocational school where he meet his wife Gloria Jean.
To create his award winning art Jerry frequently enlists models who are costumed appropriately and then photographed. Many of the models are family and friends such as a grandson who modeled for the boy in Sam and the Tigers (1996, Dial, $15.99). Much of this work is carried out by Gloria Jean who works as his production assistant. She also reviews manuscripts. Research is essential to get the clothing, buildings, and trappings in each scene historically correct. Jerry wants those who experience his books to fell that they are there—wherever the book is set.
In the 1970s Jerry worked on a calendar featuring Black cowboys. He sent a copy to Julius Lester and they decided to collaborate on a book—Black Cowboy, Wild Horses. Neither the story nor the art should dominate in a picture book in Jerry's opinion. They should be in balance. His latest book with Julius Lester and The Hired Hand, a collaboration with Robert D. San Souci and winner of the Aesop Prize, are excellent examples of his philosophy.
Contributor: Marilyn Courtot
Reviews
Albidaro and the Mischievous DreamJulius Lester
Jerry Pinkney
Two prize-winning powerhouses team up once again to produce a stunning book billed as a "marvelous modern fable" about Albidaro, Guardian of Children, and his sister Olara, Guardian of Animals. Albidaro notices that children are tired of doing what they're told to do and decides to help them out at the same time he plays a trick on Olara. Although the world's teddy bear warns that no good will come of this caper, he sends a mischievous dream to tell all the children and animals that they no longer have to mind anyone. Predictable havoc ensues, with children uttering their respective linguistic negatives--Nyet (Russia), Lo (Israel), Non (France), Nein (Germany), Uh-uh (United States). Lester also inserts a bit of whimsy not found elsewhere in the book, turning rhinocerous into "rhinossyhorse" and hippopotami into "hippopotamussesessssss." One wishes he had either used the device earlier or resisted the impulse entirely. It is also disconcerting that, while Alara is lyrically described as "a woman as beautifully black as a panther on a night when there was no moon," Pinkney paints the African characters as medium brown rather than the truly striking black of some native Africans. Everything considered, the book is highly recommended as original, fun and beautifully drawn. 2000, Phyllis Fogelman/Penguin Putnam, $16.99. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Judy Chernak
ISBN: 0-8037-1987-6
Back Home
Gloria Pinkney
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Back Home brings to life Gloria's remembrances of a childhood summer when she left Philadelphia to spend time with her "kinfolk" in Lumberton, North Carolina. The main character, Ernestine, bears her mother's name. The writing is a blending of true events and characters, a fiction built on "giving myself and my mother the childhoods we really wanted" and the intrigue needed to turn personal history into a universal story. Jerry Pinkney's radiant watercolors depict the enchantment of Ernestine experiences. Detailed patterns and textures picture a home that has been loved for generations. Shining yellows predominate in the profusion of colors that tangle in country gardens. This harmony is typical of Jerry's work, as he balances "strong light and warm color." He uses yellow, not as color, but as light and also to create a hopeful sense. 1992, Dial, Ages 5 to 9, $15.00 and $14.89. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
ISBN: 0-8037-1168-9
ISBN: 0-8037-1169-7
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 1992 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, 1994 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Notable Books for Children, 1992 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of the Social Studies, 1992 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Black Cowboy, Wild Horses
Julius Lester
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Bob Lemmons, a former slave, spent his days on the vast plains as a cowboy. His knowledge and ability with horses was legendary. Lester's poetic text recounts Bob's single-handed capture of a wild mustang herd. Bob succeeded because he understood the animals, and with his own horse Warrior was able to become the herd leader. The vastness of the sky and land and the beauty of magnificent horses are gloriously depicted in Pinkney's watercolor and pencil illustrations. The mystical quality also comes through as phantom horses race across the sky. 1998, Dial, Ages 4 up, $16.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-8037-1787-3
ISBN: 0-8037-1788-1
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 1999 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 1999 ; Children's Literature; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 1999 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, April 1998 ; Cahners; United States
Teachers' Choices, 1999 ; International Reading Association; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award Nominees, 2000 ; Maryland
Drylongso
Virginia Hamilton
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
The author explains that in the Gullah language, "drylongso" is a black colloquial expression that means something rare has become so common that it is very ordinary. The boy, Drylongso, in Virginia Hamilton's latest book is neither common nor ordinary. Set west of the Mississippi River in 1975, this lengthy picture book tells the story of how one family copes with the dusty ravages of drought, and the young boy - half mythical, half folk hero - who appears as a harbinger of a better life. Jerry Pinkney's watercolors manage to glow through the gritty dust that muffles the family's farm life. Daughter Lindy's indomitable spirit is as refreshing and hopeful as spring rain. 1992, Harcourt Brace, Ages 8 up, $18.95. Reviewer: Deborah Zink Roffino
ISBN: 0-15-224241-4
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K-Grade 6, Tenth Edition, 1993 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, 1994 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Reading Magic Awards Winner 1992 United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
William Allen White Children's Book Award, 1994-1995 ; Kansas
Goin' Someplace Special
Patricia C. McKissack
Illustrations by Jerry Pinkney
'Tricia Ann endures the indignities of segregation in the 1950s South, fortified with the love of her family and friends. As a Negro, she must sit at the back of the bus. Because of Jim Crow laws, she can only sit in the back of the balcony at the theater. When a crowd rushes into a plush downtown hotel following a celebrity, 'Tricia Ann is caught up in the throng-and then thrown out of the all-white establishment. She tolerates all of these insults because she is on her way to Someplace Special. That someplace is full of good things and it welcomes all people. That place is the Public Library. Based on McKissack's early life in Nashville, Tennessee, this is a story about how unfair life can be-and how love and persistence can triumph over injustice. Artwork is rendered in pencil and watercolor on paper by artist Jerry Pinkney, the only illustrator to have won the Coretta Scott King Award five times. 2001, Atheneum Books, Ages 4 to 8, $16.00. Reviewer: Chris Gill
ISBN: 0-689-81885-8
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Books for Children, 2002 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Notable Children's Books in the Language Arts, 2002 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
ABC Children's Booksellers Choices Award Winner 2002 Picture Books United States
Coretta Scott King Awards Winner 2002 Illustrator United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award Nominees, 2003 ; Maryland
Colorado Children's Book Award List, 2003 ; Colorado
Delaware Diamonds, 2003 ; Delaware
Georgia Children's Literature Awards, 2003 ; Georgia
Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 2003 ; Kentucky
Louisiana Young Readers' Choice Award, 2004 ; Louisiana
North Carolina Children's Book Award, 2003 ; North Carolina
Pennsylvania Young Readers' Choice Award, 2002-2003 ; Pennsylvania
Texas Bluebonnet Award, 2004 ; Texas
The Hired Hand: An African-American folktale
Robert D. San Souci
Pictures by Jerry Pinkney
Magic fills this tale of an African-American stranger who comes to a town of free blacks and seeks a position in the local sawmill. The owner is a good man, but his son is lazy and mean. He treats the New Hand badly and spies on him when he rejuvenates an old farmer. When the son tries to do the same for another couple and fails, it is up to the New Hand to rescue him. The mill owner's son learns his lessons about how to treat people and how to be a better son. The pencil and watercolor illustrations are beautiful. They accurately show the people, period clothing, and mysterious settings. While an original tale, it has the feel and look of a folk tale. 1997, Dial, Ages 6 up, $15.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
The watercolors are wonderful and the story in this folktale with a Southern flavor is intriguing. According to the author, it is an adaptation of a similar tale from Greek and Roman origins. Its central character is a transient black man who comes to a small town in Virginia following the Civil War and finds work at a blacksmith shop. The blacksmith's son, who also helps out his father, is jealous of the hired man and treats him rudely. Once, while the blacksmith is away, his son accidentally witnesses the hired man performing black magic. The hired man's turns an old man into a young man. The son orders the hired man to leave the shop and proceeds to brag to others that he can perform such feats. When his sorcery backfires, he is brought before a judge who passes harsh judgement on him. At the last minute, the son is saved by the hired man who "fixes" the son's faux pas. The hired man disappears, and the son becomes an upstanding citizen. Set is a predominantly black town in which all characters, even the judge, are black, the story does not explain the unlikelihood of this occurrence in the time period although the author does refer to it in an addendum, and alludes that it may have been like Waterford, Va. Waterford was settled by Quakers and may have permitted blacks of the time equal rights. The book does not refer to the hired man's feats as black magic, which they most assuredly are. This fact may not appeal to parent's of young readers. 1997, Dial Books for Young Readers, Ages 6 to 8, $15.99. Reviewer: Meredith Kiger
ISBN: 0-8037-1296-0
ISBN: 0-8037-1297-9
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of the Social Studies, 1997; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 1998; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, April 1997; Cahners; United States
Recent and Relevant Children's Books, 1997; American Visions; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Aesop Prize Winner 1997 United States
Commonwealth Club of California Book Awards Winner 1997 Juvenile (10 & under) United States
New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books of the Year Winner 1997 United States
State Reading Lists:
Georgia Children's Literature Awards, 1999; Georgia
Texas Bluebonnet Award, 1998-1999; Texas
In for Winter, Out for Spring
Arnold Adoff
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Arnold Adoff's joyous evocation of the seasons, In for Winter, Out for Spring, also celebrates family love and togetherness. Mr. Adoff uses language the way a musician uses notes, carefully placing the words of his composition on the page so that both visual and tonal effects are in harmony. "This House Is the Center", a most reassuring and comforting poem, links all the others. These poems of rural life in an African-American home at its most satisfying and romantic, are highlighted in Jerry Pinkney's rich, warm paintings. You must see the book to appreciate it. 1991, Harcourt, Ages 7 to 12, $14.95 and $7.00. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman
ISBN: 0-15-238637-8
ISBN: 0-15-201492-6
Best Books:
Best First Novels for Youth, 1991 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 1991 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, 1994 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Lasting Connections, 1991 ; American Library Association; United States
John Henry
Julius Lester
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
"This tale attempts to be faithful to the indomitable human spirit John Henry embodies" is the opening line on a soft yellow page that introduces this African-American folk hero. John Henry challenges a steam drill in a tunnel-digging contest. He wins, but the exertion proves to be his undoing. Award winning artist Jerry Pinkney's absolutely beautiful watercolors reflect the strength, emotions and awe of John Henry and his exploits. A book for reading aloud and to be treasured for a lifetime. 1994, Dial, Ages 4 to 8, $16.99 and $16.89. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
Many versions of the legend of John Henry exist, but the most exciting version to date is Julius Lester's. The combination of dynamic tall tale language and powerful paintings set this picture book apart from all the others. "John Henry sang and he hammered and the air danced and the rainbow shimmered and the earth shook and rolled from the blows of the hammer." A read-aloud gem. 1994, Dial, $16.99 and $16.89. Ages 7 to 11. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman
ISBN: 0-8037-1606-0
ISBN: 0-8037-1607-9
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K--Grade 6, 1997 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Bulletin Blue Ribbons, 1994 ; Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Second Edition, 1997 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Notable Children's Books in the Language Arts, 1995 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002 ; California Department of Education; California
Teachers' Choices, 1995 ; International Reading Association; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
ABC Children's Booksellers Choices Award Winner 1995 Folktales United States
Aesop Prize Winner 1994 United States
Boston Globe--Horn Book Awards Winner 1995 Illustration United States
Golden Sower Award Winner 1997 K-3 Nebraska
Randolph Caldecott Medal Honor Book 1995 United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 1996 ; Kentucky
South Carolina Book Awards, 1997 ; South Carolina
Journey's with Elijah: Eight Tales of the Prophet
Barbara Diamond Goldin
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Elijah is a familiar figure to many religions, but the prophet holds a special place in the hearts of many Jews. "The belief in the possibility of an Elijah encourages us to act as if each person we meet might be Elijah in disguise. It encourages us to be more caring and considerate of others." This collection from around the world offers lessons and a variety of settings, all of which are showcased by the lush watercolors of Jerry Pinkney. His spreads and single page illustrations are full of details-the clothing, homes, scenery and most wonderfully the expressions of the men and women in the stories. From North Africa readers will wonder at the mysteries of God as they too take "A Journey with Elijah" while others will smile at the wisdom of clever Mina in "Seven Good Years," a tale set in Argentina. The final tale "Meeting Elijah" really brings home the message of what it takes to be worthy in the prophet's eyes. The book concludes with a list of further readings. Truly a book for those of any faith. 1999, Gulliver Books/Harcourt Brace, Ages 6 up, $20.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-15-200445-9
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2000 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Children's Books of Distinction, 2000 ; Riverbank Review; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2000 ; Children's Literature; United States
Middle And Junior High School Library Catalog, Eighth Edition, 2000 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Not Just for Children Any More, 2000 ; Children's Book Council; United States
Notable Books for Children, 2000 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2000 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, June 1999 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 1999 ; Cahners; United States
Smithsonian Magazine's Notable Books for Children, 1999 ; Smithsonian; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Maine Student Book Award, 2000-2001 ; Maine
The Little Match Girl
Hans Christian Andersen
Adapted and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Andersen's classic holiday tale is set here in the early twentieth century. It is a sad story, but one touched with redeeming hope, as the poor, frozen child finally finds joy and glory with her grandmother in heaven. Having done his research, Pinkney gives us a turn-of-the-century metropolis complete with holiday crowds, street traffic, building facades, and a rosy-cheeked, flesh-and-blood young girl on the cover, sitting still as the snow is falling around her. The scenes are presented like stage sets, fully realized in large, double-page watercolors loaded with the details that evoke the historic setting. The artist's vision turns what might have been a morbid sociological statistic into a spiritually uplifting story as we see the grandmother carrying the girl into the yellow brightness. 1999, Phyllis Fogelman Books/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, $16.99. Ages 5 up. Reviewers: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-8037-2314-8
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Not Just for Children Any More, 2000 ; Children's Book Council; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2000 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, September 1999 ; Cahners; United States
Mary McLeod Bethune
Eloise Greenfield
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
New in paperback is Greenfield's book for beginning readers. Each page of large print faces a black and white illustration by Jerry Pinkney. Together author and illustrator unfold the life of Mary Mcleod Bethune. Born shortly after the time of slavery, Bethune was hungry to read and learn and after meeting her own needs went forth to nurture the intellectual, physical and emotional needs of her people. 1994 (orig. 1977), HarperCollins, Ages 5 to 9, $14.89 and $5.95. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
This book presents two significant lessons. First and foremost is the importance of seeking and achieving an education, and the second is sharing your skills so that others might achieve. When Bethune first finished her education, she was denied work as a missionary in Africa. Undaunted by this discrimination, she dedicated herself to educating black youth. She built a school and eventually a college. Her life story points out that no matter how disenfranchised you are, if you have a goal and maintain a positive attitude, you can overcome and succeed. 1994 (orig. 1977), HarperCollins, Ages 5 to 9, $14.89 and $5.95. Reviewer: Leila Toledo
ISBN: 0-690-01129-6
ISBN: 0-06-446168-8
Minty: A Story of Young Harriet Tubman
Alan Schroeder
Jerry Pinkney
The Coretta Scot King picture book award was given to Minty. Schroeder gives a slice of Tubman's early life that reflects her spirited desire for freedom and the obstacles she faced in its attainment. The illustrations by Pinkney bring us the surface prettiness of the Brodas Plantation in Maryland, the hate-filled rage of the white mistress, and the warmth of loving adults who comfort young Minty and affirm her self-belief while urging self-protection. 1996, Dial, Ages 6 to 10, $16.99 and $16.89. Reviewer: Susie Wilde
Alan Schroeder tells a gripping tale. Minty is independent, feisty and incapable of being a docile slave. Her dream of freedom burns brightly even when she is whipped for freeing muskrats from her master's traps. Little is known about Tubman's childhood, but from his research, Schroeder believes that this story might have happened. Pinkney's paintings are powerful and add to the drama of the story. A fictional telling often more successful than pure facts for it puts the sufferings of slaves in human terms that touch the heart. 1996, Dial, Ages 5 to 12, $16.99 and $16.89. Reviewer: Jan Lieberman
In this stirring account of the 1820's plantation life of the young slave Minty (as Harriet Tubman was known as a child), the bold, brave 8-year-old is counseled by her mother to be more docile and to try not to anger her owners any more than she had already done. Her father, however, recognizing her strong hunger for freedom, points out the Drinking Gourd in the sky and teaches her survival skills that will be useful when she grows up to become the most famous conductor of the Underground Railroad. Beautiful, realistic watercolors depict the time, the place and the way of life very well. A foreword explains what parts of the story is fiction, while an author's note provides some information on Minty's adult life. 1996, Dial, Ages 5 to 12, $16.99 and $16.89. Reviewer: Gisela Jernigan
ISBN: 0-8037-1888-8
ISBN: 0-8037-1889-6
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K--Grade 6, 12th Edition, 1999 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
American Booksellers Pick of the Lists, Spring, 1996 ; American Booksellers Association; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 1997 ; Children's Literature; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Notable Books for a Global Society, 1997 ; International Reading Association; United States
Notable Books for Children, 1996 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Notable Books for Children, 1997 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, May 1996 ; Cahners; United States
Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002 ; California Department of Education; California
Teachers' Choices, 1997 ; International Reading Association; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Christopher Awards Winner 1997 Ages 6-9 United States
Coretta Scott King Awards Winner 1997 Illustrator United States
The Golden Kite Award Honor Book 1996 Illustration United States
Kentucky Bluegrass Award Winner 1998 Gr. 4-8 Kentucky
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 1998 ; Kentucky
Nevada Young Readers' Award, 1999 ; Nevada
Noah's Ark
Jerry Pinkney
Veteran award-winning author/illustrator Pinkney has another gem in this retelling of the traditional story from the Bible. His language is majestic and comforting, sure in its faith in the plans of God. We watch the ark being constructed in great detail, its dimensions following the cubits dictated in the Bible and its resulting shape quite different from the traditional one we usually see. (Take time to study and enjoy the double spread of the ark's framework--it is quite beautiful.) Then we watch it being provisioned by Noah's family and loaded with the two by twos of the animals as the rains come and the flood begins. The illustrations are detailed tapestries of pencil and watercolor, faultless and immensely lovely. Pinkney's tale is beautifully done in all ways, making this a classic book of a classic story. In a year deluged with books about Noah, this one is a standout for homes, schools and libraries. 2002, SeaStar, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reveiwer: Judy Chernak
ISBN: 1-58717-201-1
ISBN: 1-58717-202-X
Best Books:
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, September 30, 2002 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, November 2002 ; Cahners; United States
The Patchwork Quilt
Valerie Flourney
Illustrated By Jerry Pinkney
Essential qualities of family-love, cooperation, diversity, and responsibility-are woven through a tender story centered on the construction of a quilt. A contemporary family teams up to complete the squares and stitches that will preserve for the future that which was honored in the past. This lesson demonstrates affection and esteem across the generations. 1985, Dial Books For Young Readers, Ages 5 to 9, $14.99. Reviewer: Deborah Zink Roffino
ISBN: 0-8037-0098-9
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
California Young Reader Medal Nominee 1989 Primary California
Christopher Awards Winner 1986 Ages 4-8 United States
Coretta Scott King Awards Winner 1986 Black Illustrator United States
Ezra Jack Keats New Writer Award Winner 1986 United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 1988 ; Kentucky
Rabbit Makes a Monkey of Lion
Verna Aardema
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Story weaver Aardema sprinkles her jolly tales with syllables to mimic all manner of sounds-making this a perfect read aloud. A quick and clever rabbit stars in this folktale that proves that one does not need to be big to be smart. Wonderful, award-winning watercolor art depicts the jungle and the plains of Africa. 1989, Dial Books for Young Readers, Ages 3 to 8, $11.95 and $11.89. Reviewer: Deborah Zink Roffino
ISBN: 0-8037-0297-3
ISBN: 0-8037-0298-1
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Rikki-Tikki-Tavi
Rudyard Kipling
Adapted and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Rikki-Tikki-Tavi's valiant struggle against two scheming cobras is presented with Pinkney's stunning, sun-dappled watercolors. All of the animals depicted, from the mongoose of the title to the scolding tailorbird, are drawn realistically but remain imbued with individual personalities. In his afterword, Pinkney shares that this tale is one of his childhood favorites. This edition will undoubtedly fill that magic niche for a new generation of children. 1997, Morrow, Ages 4 to 9, $16.00 and $15.93. Reviewer: Dr. Judy Rowen
ISBN: 0-688-14320-2
ISBN: 0-688-14321-0
Best Books:
Capitol Choices, 1997 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 1997 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, June 1997 ; Cahners; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 1998 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002 ; California Department of Education; California
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, August 1997 ; Cahners; United States
Smithsonian Magazine's Notable Books for Children, 1997 ; Smithsonian; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
ABC Children's Booksellers Choices Award Winner 1998 Folktales and Poetry United States
Sam and the Tigers
Julius Lester>
Pictures by Jerry Pinkney
Using a lilting, Southern voice, Lester retells Little Black Sambo, accompanied by fabulous watercolors from Pinkney. In this version, our hero is named Sam, just like everyone else in the magical town of Sam-sam-sa-mara, where animals act like people and most everyone lives in harmony. Sam decides that he is old enough to select his own new school wardrobe, so he gets a bright red coat, rich purple pants, blazing yellow jacket, brilliant green umbrella, and shiny silver shoes. Stopped by tigers on his way to school, Sam is forced to give up his beautiful new clothes, piece by piece. But all is not lost, as this smart little boy finally outwits the greedy tigers. The detailed illustrations are beautiful double-page scenes filled with warmth and humor. 1996, Dial, Ages 4 to 8, $15.99. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-8037-2028-9
Best Books:
Bulletin Blue Ribbons, 1996 ; Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books; United States
Capitol Choices, 1996 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 1996 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Third Edition, 2001 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Lasting Connections, 1996 ; American Library Association; United States
Notable Books for Children, 1997 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Notable Books for Children, 1996 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of the Social Studies, 1996 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, August 1996 ; Cahners; United States
Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002 ; California Department of Education; California
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, August 1996 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 1996 ; Cahners; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
ABC Children's Booksellers Choices Award Winner 1997 Folktales and Poetry United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Georgia Children's Literature Awards, 1999 ; Georgia
Pennsylvania Young Readers' Choice Award, 1999-2000 ; Pennsylvania
A Starlit Somersault Downhill
Nancy Willard
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
A bear befriends a rabbit, inviting it home to share his den for a long winter's nap. The restless rabbit can't contain himself for long, however, and is soon up from the nap and outside exploring. The text is written in rhyming verses. Although the text might be difficult for a young child to understand, its value lies in exposing the youngster to the rhythmic flow of words. The illustrations depict lovely watercolor fall and winter scenes using warm earthtones. 1993, Little Brown, Ages 4 to 8, $15.95 and $6.95. Reviewer: Mary Clayton Rowen
ISBN: 0-316-94113-1
ISBN: 0-316-94129-8
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K--Grade 6, 1997 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, July 1993 ; Cahners; United States
The Sunday Outing
Gloria Jean Pinkney
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Every Sunday, Ernestine and Great Aunt Odessa ride the trolley to the railroad station to watch the silver giants roll in. Ernestine keeps her eyes peeled for the Palmetto and the Silver Star, the trains that travel all the way to Lumberton, North Carolina, near the farm where she was born. She imagines what it would be like to visit her birthplace and the relatives that Mama and Daddy talk about. But it doesn't look like her train trip on the Silver Star will happen anytime soon. That is until Odessa gives Ernestine the wisdom to make it happen. Lovingly illustrated by award-winning watercolorist Jerry Pinkney. 1994, Dial, Ages 5 up, $14.99 and $14.89. Reviewer: Marilyn Bagel
ISBN: 0-8037-1198-0
ISBN: 0-8037-1199-9
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K--Grade 6, 1997 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Second Edition, 1997 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books of the Year Winner 1994 United States
The Talking Eggs
Robert D. San Souci
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
This is an adaptation of a Creole folktale involving Blanche, whose kindness to an old witch gains her riches, while her sister who makes fun of the old woman is also duly rewarded. The wondrous talking eggs prove that the plainest object may conceal treasures within. 1989, Dial, Ages 6 to 9, $15.99 and $15.89. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-8037-0619-7
ISBN: 0-8037-0620-0
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Books for Children, 1990 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Colorado Children's Book Award Winner 1991 Colorado
Georgia Children's Book Awards Winner 1993 Georgia Child Picture Story Book Award Georgia
Golden Sower Award Winner 1992 Grades K-3 Nebraska
Irma S. and James H. Black Award for Excellence in Children's Literature Winner 1989 United States
Randolph Caldecott Medal Honor Book 1990 United States
Virginia Young Readers Program Winner 1993 Primary Virginia
Tanya's Reunion
Valerie Flournoy
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Tanya's Reunion, a sequel to The Patchwork Quilt, is a thoughtful look at what begins to be a rotten experience, until Grandma gives Tanya the ability to see the family farm through her eyes. The farm may look a little shabby, and Cousin Keisha won't leave her mother's side, and the baby cries all the time, but the love that's in the whole family is, finally, all that's important. A loving look at a loving family. 1995, Dial, Ages 5 to 8, $15.99 and $15.89. Reviewer: Judy Silverman
ISBN: 0-8037-1604-4
ISBN: 0-8037-1605-2
Best Books:
Teachers' Choices, 1996 ; International Reading Association; United States
The Ugly Duckling
Hans Christian Andersen
Adapted and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
Many of Andersen's fairy tales do not have a truly happy ending, but the story of the ugly duckling is one that ends in triumph. The duckling is not like his brothers and sisters and is taunted by them and the other ducks. His mother is protective, but the little duckling is treated so badly that he sets out on his own. After suffering much privation, he suddenly sees a flock of the same beautiful birds that flew by many months ago. He glories in his newfound wings and the strength coursing through his body and decided to join them. Much to his surprise they welcome him, for he too has become a beautiful white swan. Pinkney's watercolors are wonderful. From the mother duck's surprise at the large egg that takes so long to hatch, to the poor ducklings struggles to survive during the harsh winter to the warmth and beauty of spring and his reunion with those who welcome him as one of their own. The sunlight on the water and around the beautiful swan are a reflection of the golden glow of inner joy. A truly lovely adaptation of this classic story. 1999, Morrow, Ages 4 up, $16.00. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-688-15932-X
ISBN: 0-688-15933-8
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2000 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Capitol Choices, 1999 ; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2000 ; Children's Literature; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 1999 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Notable Books for Children, 2000 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, February 1999 ; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, May 1999 ; Cahners; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Randolph Caldecott Medal Honor Book 2000 United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
2X2 Reading List, 2000 ; Texas
Wild Wild Sunflower Child Anna
Nancy White Carlstrom
Illustrated by Jerry Pinkney
This is a celebration in words and pictures of the exuberant spirit of a child exploring the natural world. Each two-page spread features a poem segment by Carlstrom with a watercolor splash, by acclaimed illustrator Jerry Pinkney, of flowers and trees and a little girl in a bright yellow dress. The language of the poems trips, rushes, and dances (like a lively little girl). The following excerpt gives just a taste of the author's delightful word play: "Off goes berry nose Anna/ Skipping through/ the snaggle bush,/ slipping in her tangle rush./ Burr babies riding/ on her shoulders/ burr babies sleeping/ in her hair." 1991 (orig. 1987), Simon & Schuster, Ages 3 to 7, $14.95 and $5.99. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum
ISBN: 0-02-717360-7
ISBN: 0-689-71445-9
Updated 02/01/03
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If you’re interested in reviewing children's and young adult books, then send a resume and writing sample to marilyn@childrenslit.com.