Anne Rockwell
Anne Rockwell grew up knowing what she wanted to do -- draw and write. Her artistic interests leaned toward painting and sculpting. When she spoke to members of the Children's Book Guild of Washington DC in October of 2002, she noted that she had the good fortune to be part of the "Golden Age" of children's books--the 1950s and 60s. When she tried to break into the field of children's book illustration she went to see the art director at Doubleday. She was advised that as an unknown she could not be given an established writer's manuscript and she was advised to write her own. That was all Anne needed to hear, she created her own book and took it in; within a day of submission she had a contract. Although her first book did not do well, she was hooked on the field and she created a second book that looked at New York City and all of its ethnicity. After sending it to twenty-two publishers she finally chose one that had a book club and managed to make a few dollars.
Listening to kids and understanding what they like about books has been one of the keys to her success. She also had a husband who was a better illustrator than she was, so she became the writer. At that time there was not much nonfiction for young kids and most editors believed that nonfiction should not be published for 3-year-olds-it was supposed to be for 8-year-olds and above. Anne believes kids don't really distinguish between fiction and nonfiction. Nonfiction is a tool for finding one's way in the world. A child reads the entire picture whereas an adult looks at the color, line, etc. and often misses the message that the picture is conveying. Pictures are an integral part of the message in books for young kids. For this reason, Anne believed that it was important for her to also create the art: otherwise it felt like she was just writing half a sentence. A physical injury however, limited what she was able to do with her art, so the writer in her has come out, but she continues to try very hard to write nonfiction with color.
Among the people who have captured her attention for books are Sojourner Truth and Molly Pitcher. Sojourner was an illiterate slave woman who spoke Dutch as her first language. Her new life as a free woman didn't start until she was forty. She loved to have her children read to her and in spite of everything that had happened in her life she was a joyous person. The final book Only Passing Through: The Story of Sojourner Truth contains really powerful illustrations by Gregory Christie. Since the publication of the book, the two have become friends. Anne's biography of Molly Pitcher features another strong woman, who saw something that needed to be done and just went ahead and did it. She was a very practical woman and as Anne noted that is one of the strengths of our country. For example, while the British troops in full uniform were dropping in the heat, the American troops stripped down in the heat. They called, "Molly . . . Pitcher!" asking her to bring them water and that is how she came to be called Molly Pitcher. George Washington heard of her services to the troops and her bravery on the battlefield and arranged a meeting. He made her a sergeant in the Continental Army and she even got a sergeant's pension. As a matter of fact the first title selected for the book was Sergeant Molly.
Her latest endeavor is a book about George Washington for a young audience--Big George who was both large in size and large in spirit. As some may have noticed Anne prefers to focus on those who are deceased. Her writing is spare and poetic and she is once again back to illustrating and at the time of her talk she had three books under contract and one more in development.
Tragedy has also entered her life in another form. When her husband died, he wanted their daughter, Lizzy Rockwell, to finish the book Apples and Pumpkins. It became a best selling backlist book and the bright spot in this tragedy is that her daughter's career has taken off. Anne also works with her daughter, but recognizes that there is a completely different dynamic in the relationship. Her daughter is more of a teacher. Anne may be up there in years, but she is still working just as hard as ever and generations of kids will continue to enjoy her wonderful nonfiction stories.
Contributor: Marilyn Courtot
For more information, you can visit the author's website at www.annerockwell.com.
Reviews
Becoming Butterflies
Anne Rockwell
Pictures by Megan Halsey
Miss Dana brings three striped caterpillars and a milkweed plant to school. Her students watch in fascination as the metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly takes place. Rockwell has created another captivating concept book that will delight children as they follow Miss Dana's caterpillars through the cycle of life. The detailed watercolor paintings perfectly illustrate a Monarch from caterpillar to chrysalis to butterfly. The front flyleaf illustrates a variety of caterpillars, and the back flyleaf illustrates the butterflies they become. Children can have fun matching the caterpillar with the butterfly. Teachers of young children will be thrilled to add this simple, yet factual, explanation of the life cycle to their classroom library. 2002, Walker Publishing, $15.95. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Cheryl Peterson
ISBN: 0-8027-8798-3
ISBN: 0-8027-8797-5
Bugs Are Insects
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Steve Jenkins
Is a spider an insect? No! This answer may surprise you, but after reading this book, you will learn that an insect is defined as an animal with three parts and six legs. The eight-legged spider doesn't fit that category. Reading this book, you will learn how to identify what an insect is and which bugs are not insects. The unique illustrations in the book are beautiful. Insects and other small creatures have been cut out of paper and other fabric materials so that a young child can quickly discover which are insects and which are not by looking at the details of the tiny creatures. The back of the book has an index of the types included so that a teacher or parent can quickly identify it with a young person. The book is designed to teach simple science concepts to preschoolers and kindergartners. It would be well used in a classroom setting as well as in a home setting. Part of the "Lets-Read-and-Find-Out Science" series. 2001, HarperCollins Publishers, $15.95, $15.89 and $4.95. Ages 3 to 5. Reviewer: Nicole Peterson
The basic facts about common insects are available in many books for youngsters. What raises this above the ordinary is not just Rockwell's well-written text in large type, clearly explaining how insects differ from other creatures and each other, and the parts they have in common. What really distinguishes this work are the cut paper creatures that Jenkins creates and places on the pages with only the barest of detail. Included are ladybugs, mosquitoes, crickets, butterflies, bees, grasshoppers, ants and others. These are accurate representations, but produced with a keen esthetic eye. Even as we learn some facts about "bugs," it is hard to keep from carefully examining the ways that the various papers have been shaped, joined and manipulated, and to delight in Jenkins' art process. Part of the "Let's-Read-and-Find-Out" series, this includes suggested activities to find out more, and an index to the insects included. 2001, HarperCollins, $15.95, $15.89, and $4.95. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-06-028568-0
ISBN: 0-06-028569-9
ISBN: 0-06-445203-4
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
Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children, 2002 ; National Science Teachers Association; United States
Bumblebee, Bumblebee, Do You Know Me? : A Garden Guessing Game
Anne Rockwell
What flower is yellow and green and waves to the breeze to say that spring is here? And what flower is "curly and speckled," with the sweetest of all smells? Early readers will learn the answers to these and other riddles, in Bumblebee, Bumblebee, an introduction to the wonders and beauty of flowers. And, along the way, they'll make friends with all kinds of different bugs! Lots of colorful pictures and a simple text make this an engaging story for very young readers. 1999, HarperCollins, $14.95. Ages 3 to 7. Reviewer: Helen J. Gaush
ISBN: 0-06-027330-5
ISBN: 0-06-028212-6
Career Day
Anne Rockwell
Pictures by Lizzy Rockwell
On this special day, each child in Mrs. Madoff's class brings a grown-up to tell the class about the work he or she does. The narrator introduces his dad. Each man or woman worker is shown at work on the adjoining page, and ten exciting occupations are represented. Some families have two working parents. Even the teacher participates by introducing her husband. Another student's grandmother is a crossing guard at the school. The principal surprises the kids by bringing his college teacher. After the sharing, the adults join the class and find the children's work interesting, too. This is a very attractive and useful book relating to the early childhood social studies curriculum. It may be used as a springboard for discussion or as a model for an exciting experience. 2000, HarperCollins, $14.95 and $14.89. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Margarette Reid
ISBN: 0-06-027565-0
ISBN: 0-06-027566-9
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Ferryboat Ride!
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Maggie Smith
Drawing from her childhood memories, Anne Rockwell produces another sensory delight through her literature. A little girl looks forward to her summer at the family's cottage across the sea. The best part is the ferryboat ride on the Julianna B. From the upper deck of the ferryboat there's so much to see and hear: from the blast of the ferryboat whistle to the muffled sounds of the lobster boat's foghorn. If you've ever been on a ferryboat, then you'll appreciate Maggie Smith's illustrations. Thanks to Ms. Smith, there are many vivid details to enjoy that aren't cited in the text and they make you feel as though you're right there. But true to form, Anne Rockwell not only entertains the reader but educates them as well. She shares definitions of nautical terms, such as: the bow and the stern, and explains the need for instruments such as the radar antenna. This happy story offers so much detail that you'll never see the same thing twice, and the reader will want to take this ride over, and over again! 1999, Crown Publishers, $17.00. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Rhenda Fearrington
ISBN: 0-5177-0959-7
ISBN: 0-5177-0960-0
Growing Like Me
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Holly Keller
Keller's spare watercolor and ink drawings show readers how plants and animals grow, as a preschool-age boy contemplates the world in and around a pond. "White blossoms...will grow into berries--black, juicy, and sweet. Blue eggs, safe and warm in their nest...will hatch into robins that sing in the grass." At the end, the boy tells his baby brother "One day you'll be a big boy--just like me." The simple subject matter, straightforward text and vivid, uncluttered pictures make this a good choice for toddler and preschool story times. 2001, Silver Whistle/Harcourt, $14.00. Ages 2 to 5. Reviewer: Cherri Jones
ISBN: 0-15-202202-3
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Halloween Day
Anne Rockwell
Pictures by Lizzy Rockwell
Making a costume and getting dressed for the Halloween parade is great fun for young kids. Each spread shows one of the kids from the class in his or her costume, and the facing page shows how it was made or the source for the inspiration. As the class gets ready for the parade, they notice that their teacher is missing; when the parade starts a beautiful fairy godmother joins them. Do you suppose it is Mrs. Madoff? Bright illustrations of an ethnically diverse group of kids having a wonderful time on Halloween make this book a winner for classroom or home. 1997, HarperCollins, $5.95. Ages 2 to 5. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-06-027567-7
ISBN: 0-06-443589-X
Long Ago Yesterday
Stories and pictures by Anne F. Rockwell
This collection of 10 simple stories would make excellent nighttime reading when your toddler wants to stay up for just a few more minutes. Every two-page tale starts with "Not so long ago..." taking toddlers on a real life adventure. They could experience a snowy sled ride or visit with make-believe space aliens. Each story is easy to relate to and makes a great stepping stone for conversation with your child. The charming illustrations are strategically placed around the pages giving your young audience something to look at throughout the story. Don't be surprised if they keep asking for just one more. 1999, Greenwillow Books, $16.00. Ages 3 to 5. Reviewer: Sharon Tolle
ISBN: 0-688-14411-X
Morgan Plays Soccer
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Paul Meisel
Just as clothes do not make the man, a soccer jersey received as a gift does not make a soccer player out of Morgan Brownbear. At least not until he visits his new neighborhood's soccer fanatic, Nina Jane Monkey. Even her father is a soccer coach, and eventually Morgan is convinced that he wants to play, too. After the soccer accouterments are purchased, Morgan can't wait for Saturday morning practice. During practice, Mr. Monkey teaches all players their moves and explains the rules, including NO HANDS. Morgan discovers he is only good at a few soccer things--kicking and running. He is not so good at dribbling and not using his hands. Morgan is embarrassed after practice and wants to quit since he feels like a failure. Undaunted, Nina Jane encourages him to give it another try and she will be his personal coach. Morgan agrees to this second chance and even plays in the team scrimmage. Morgan forgets everything Nina Jane has taught him and does what seems natural--using his hands. The coach's quick thinking finds a place for Morgan doing just that--as the goalie. The characters in this story are depicted as always being helpful to one another, a trait more children should be exposed to. Done with cheerful illustrations and simple colors, the characters are the focal point of this happily ending story. All types of readers will relate to the message of not feeling good enough in one area. With the help and support of strong friends and 'coaches,' anyone can find their niche and succeed, just by being themselves, naturally. 2001, HarperCollins, $14.95. Ages 4 to 6. Reviewer: Elizabeth Young
ISBN: 0-06-028440-4
ISBN: 0-06-028444-7
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
My Pet Hamster
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Bernice Lum
Part of the "Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science" series, this book is a great introduction to hamsters and other small rodents for preschool-age children. It is fact- filled, but written in a story format that makes the facts easily understood by young children. For example--"My hamster is four months old now, but it's already as big as it will ever get. My little cousin Caroline is six months old, but she is still a baby. Hamsters finish growing sooner than people do." The illustrations are simple, but lively, with bright colors and happy faces. This would be an excellent book for both classrooms and families that have small rodent pets, as well as for young animal-lovers in general. It would also be a good early-reader, particularly for children who enjoy nonfiction more than stories. 2002, HarperCollins, $4.99. Ages 3 to 7. Reviewer: Barbara Carroll Roberts
ISBN: 0-06-028564-8
ISBN: 0-06-445205-0
ISBN: 0-06-028565-6
Once Upon a Time This Morning
Anne Rockwell
Pictures by Suçie Stevenson
This collection of toddler tales pursues an interesting concept: the stories are all about everyday occurrences, such as a lost toy, a busy dad, a little girl not wanting to take a bath, or a boy who gets up very early and hears a bird singing. None of the stories have a point, per se--they're just re-creations of what might happen to a kid during a typical day. Kids may find this fascinating, particularly if they have lost toys or frequently object to taking a bath. Parents, however, may find it a bit of a bore. And while the pictures are warm and charming, they're small and greatly overwhelmed by the text. Since children tend to focus on illustrations, all that white space may frustrate them. 1997, Greenwillow, $15.00 and $14.93. Ages 1 to 3. Reviewer: Donna Freedman
ISBN: 0-688-14706-2
ISBN: 0-6881-4707-0
The One-Eyed Giant And Other Monsters From The Greek Myths
Anne Rockwell
With economy of phrase, and playful and appropriately horrific illustrations, Rockwell retells ten well-known tales about monsters from Greek mythology. Medusa and the Cyclops are here; so are the Hydra and the Minotaur, and Scylla and Charybdis. Each story is short and eminently readable. Note, however, that Rockwell does not water down these tales to soothe the sensibilities of parents concerning violence. The myths carry all their original punch. In this reviewer's opinion, that's as it should be. Source note, pronunciation guide, and an author's preface are provided. 1996, Greenwillow, $16.00 and $15.93. Ages 5 to 8. Reviewer: Uma Krishnaswami
ISBN: 0-688-13809-8
ISBN: 0-688-13810-1
Best Books:
The Children's Literature Choice List, 1997 ; Children's Literature; United States
Only Passing Through : The Story of Sojourner Truth
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Gregory Christie
Born a slave in New York State in the late 18th century, a young girl named Isabella was sold several times. She grew tall and strong, married, had children, and was finally freed. She then began to feel the power that turned her into the anti-slavery crusader, Sojourner Truth. Rockwell details the remarkable life of this inspirational speaker for the rights of slaves, ex-slaves, and women, in a clear and compelling fashion. Christie's visual story is told in full-page paintings opposite the pages of lengthy text. The illustrations are not detailed or naturalistic, but potently expressionistic, with colors applied almost crudely to create sculpturesque heads. The compositions emphasize Sojourner's strength of character and unblinking resolve to speak out. The author adds notes and personal reflections. There is also a chronology. 2000, Alfred A. Knopf, $18.99 and $16.95. Ages 8 to 11. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-679-89186-2
ISBN: 0-679-99186-7
Best Books:
Amelia Bloomer List, 2002 ; American Library Association-SRRT; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Not Just for Children Any More, 2001 ; Children's Book Council; United States
Notable Books for Children, 2001 ; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Recommended Literature: Kindergarten through Grade Twelve, 2002 ; California Department of Education; California
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Coretta Scott King Awards Honor Book 2001 United States
New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Books of the Year Winner 2000 United States
Storytelling World Awards Honor 2001 Stories for Young Listeners United States
Our Earth
Anne Rockwell
For young readers just beginning to get a sense of geography, this book shows the beautiful variety of landscapes on Earth. From glaciers to coral reefs, Rockwell has crafted a simply written and illustrated book that depicts the great diversity of our planet. It will encourage further exploration of the different landforms and most importantly, it will instill an appreciation for our beautiful home. 1998, Silver Whistle/Harcourt Brace, $13.00. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Melissa A. Caudill
ISBN: 0-15-201679-1
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 1999 ; National Council for the Social Studies; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Society of School Librarians International Book Awards Honor 1999 Science- K-6 United States
Our Stars
Anne Rockwell
This is a marvelous resource to introduce young children to the wonders of astronomy and space. Told in simple language, it explains basic concepts about stars, planets, meteors, and space exploration. The full-color illustrations by the author enhance the learning experience and demonstrate phases of the moon, comets, meteors, constellations, and the arrangement of the planets in the solar system. The book could possibly be read independently by first and second graders; however, younger children may need help understanding some of the complex information included. This is a great book to have on hand when young children look up into the sky and ask, "Why?" 2002 (orig. 1999), Voyager Books, $6.00. Ages 3 to 7. Reviewer: Joanne Draper
ISBN: 0-15-201868-9
Best Books:
Best Books for Children, 1999 ; Science Books & Films; United States
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
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
2X2 Reading List, 2000 ; Texas
The Prince Who Ran Away : The Story of Guatama Buddha
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Fahimeh Amiri
Buddhism is an important world religion that began 2500 years ago in Nepal. Anyone knowledgeable about Buddhism will appreciate this picture book biography of Prince Siddhartha's transformation from a privileged, sheltered child to the peaceful and wise Buddha. The fast paced writing, carefully selected details and respectful and nonjudgmental tone all make the life story of Buddha accessible to children. Although biographical in the retelling, there are elements that readers may consider more folkloric--for example, when the prince leaves his palace in a chariot, flowers bloom instantly behind the wheels; or that the cobra king protects Siddhartha from a thunderstorm sent by a devil. Flat, stylized, jewel-and-earth-toned illustrations, reminiscent of East Indian miniature paintings, complement the legend-style story of the life of the Buddha. Miniature paintings were often used in 17th and 18th century India to convey a particular life incident, especially of royalty. The vivid royal blue endpapers with stylized paintings of water and the lotus flower (in varying life stages, from bud to full blossom) are surely symbolic to those who practice or know Buddhism. Few picture books about the life of Buddha are available, and perhaps finding a child audience for these books is the reason. Those, however, who are interested in exploring this important historical and religious figure with children will find Demi's Buddha to be an equally lovely companion book aimed at a slightly younger audience. 2001, Alfred K. Knopf, $18.99 and $16.95. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Darcy H. Bradley
ISBN: 0-679-89188-9
ISBN: 0-679-99188-3
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002 ; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Top 10 Religious Books for Youth, 2002 ; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Pumpkin Day, Pumpkin Night
Anne Rockwell
Pictures by Megan Halsey
Here we have the traditional Halloween pumpkin-carving ritual described from the point of view of an excited child. Pumpkin time begins with leaves turning colors, squirrels collecting seeds and nuts, and children cutting out paper pumpkins at school and at home. When pumpkin day arrives, the boy and his mother shop at the farmer's market where the child picks out his own perfectly round pumpkin for carving and the mother chooses ten little pumpkins for pies. The rest of the day and night, mother and son have a warm, memorable experience creating a wonderful jack-o-lantern. They both agree that it is the best pumpkin ever with its fiery orange glow--brighter than any star in the sky. The illustrations appear to be paper cutouts much like the cutout pumpkin faces. The drawings are sometimes layered on and look as if you could lift them up or move their parts. The orange pumpkins, the deep blue night, and the pale-faced child are simple and attractive. 1999, Walker and Company, $15.95 and $16.00. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Carol Raker Collins
ISBN: 0-8027-8696-0
ISBN: 0-8027-8697-9
Romulus and Remus
Anne Rockwell
Anne Rockwell's charming retelling of the legend of Romulus and Remus begins with the infant twins' separation from their mother when they float down the River Tiber in a basket. They stop on a bank near the Palatine Hill, where a mother wolf rescues the brothers and raises them alongside her cubs. As the boys grow, they develop their own personalities and interests. Remus prefers to run and hunt with the wolves, while his more social-minded brother discovers a talent for carpentry and begins to build houses on the hill. Romulus, of course, goes on to found the city of Rome, while Remus returns to the woods. Rockwell supplements her chapter book with a page-long historical note that explores the origins of the story and the significance of the rival brothers in Rome and throughout history. Her colorful illustrations are a perfect complement to the text and should capture young readers' attention. 1997, Aladdin, $15.00 and $3.99. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Catherine Petrini
ISBN: 0-689-81291-4
Show & Tell Day
Anne Rockwell
Pictures by Lizzy Rockwell
Show and Tell is probably every young child's favorite part of the school week. Who can blame them? It's their opportunity to be proud of and share a part of their of their lives with fellow classmates. By incorporating diverse and lovable children and objects, mother and daughter, Anne and Lizzy, have created a wonderfully inviting, realistic atmosphere in the fictional Mrs. Madoff's classroom. This book itself would be a great "show and tell." 1997, HarperCollins, $14.95 and $14.89. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Trina Heidt
ISBN: 0-06-027300-3
ISBN: 0-06-027301-1
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K--Grade 6, 12th Edition, 1999 ; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
The Storm
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Robert Sauber
Go ahead, 'Manda," she says, "tell me what it is you like in this world." The story begins just after Amanda's friend Bobby steals the ball away from her during a game. This upsets Amanda, but her Aunt Ruby talks with her. She encourages Amanda to think of things that make her feel good. While Amanda nestles in her arm, Aunt Ruby shares her list of things that give her good feelings: the enjoyment of mixing blueberries, strawberries, and peaches together and seeing the bright colors and glistening juices; listening to the sound of Mr. Franklin's sax while Callie sings along; and sometimes even a dark storm, knowing that everyone is safe inside together. A warmhearted story, with exquisite illustrations to match. 1995, Hyperion, $14.95 and $14.89. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Beverly Rice
Remember the last time you watched out your window as a big storm rolled in on pitch-painted clouds with leaf funnels dancing wildly? Rockwell's reminiscent text and Sauber's lustrous paintings filled with movement, energy, and emotion recreate a vivid portrayal of a family weathering the storm together. Gather your children or grandchildren in bed with you, cuddle up together under a cozy quilt, and savor this special book that captures both the power of the storm and the reassurance of being surrounded by loved ones. 1994, Hyperion, $15.95 and $15.89. Ages 4 up. Reviewer: Marilyn Bagel
ISBN: 0-7868-0018-6
ISBN: 0-7868-2013-6
Best Books:
Smithsonian Magazine's Notable Books for Children, 1996 ; Smithsonian; United States
The Story Snail
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Theresa Smith
The story is somewhat of a fairy tale in nature--a boy finds a magical snail who provides him with stories to tell his friends. Teaching the value of storytelling is certainly worthwhile in this day and age, and readers will pick up on this lesson. This book is intended for the reader who is just learning to truly read all by him or herself, and is recommended for the shelves of teachers of the early elementary grades. 1997 (orig. 1974), Aladdin, $15.00, $3.99 and $3.95. Ages 6 to 8. Reviewer: Karen Saxe
ISBN: 0-689-81221-3
ISBN: 0-689-81220-5
They Called Her Molly Pitcher
Anne Rockwell
Illustrated by Cynthia von Buhler
During the Revolutionary War some colonial women followed their men to Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, where they helped with cooking, cleaning, and nursing the sick. One such woman was Mary Hays who was nicknamed Molly. Under the leadership of George Washington the rag-tag army suffered from lack of supplies and training, but they excelled at guerilla warfare. At the battle of Monmouth the colonials and British clashed. The day was terribly hot and the British suffered in their uniforms, many succumbed to heat stroke. The colonials removed heavy clothing and were kept cool thanks to Molly. She had a pitcher with her and filled it repeatedly with cool water for the fighting men. When her husband was wounded she took up his position and fired the canon. Her perseverance and bravery soon gave her two more names. The men called her Molly Pitcher and Washington bestowed the rank of sergeant to her. There is no reason for young readers to be bored with history when it is presented in such an engaging manner. The meticulously detailed biography is written on linen and accompanied by glorious oil paintings that capture the emotion and fervor of battle. The legendary Molly Pitcher surely deserves a place in a social studies curriculum. 2002, Alfred A Knopf, $15.95. Ages 6 to 10. Reviewer: Laura Hummel
ISBN: 0-679-99187-5
ISBN: 0-679-89187-0
Valentine's Day
Anne Rockwell
Pictures by Lizzy Rockwell
At school everyone is busy making valentines to send to their friend Michiko in Japan. As they cut, paste and decorate, they reflect back on the wonderful times they had with their friend. After they finish, all the kids head off to the post office to mail their cards. Later in the week, a package arrives and it has valentines for each of them from Michiko. It is a cheerful story filled with a multicultural cast of kids. The big question, however, that parents and caregivers will be asked-why is Michiko in Japan? Was she only a visitor to the school, or is she just visiting her grandparents and due to return-a good subject for discussion. There is also a challenge offered to kids by the illustrator, who asks them to find the more than two hundred hearts depicted throughout. 2001, HarperCollins, Ages 3 to 6, $14.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-06-027794-7
Best Books:
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002 ; H.W. Wilson; United States
Welcome To Kindergarten
Anne Rockwell
Young readers can join Tim as he visits his future kindergarten class. The classroom looks very big, but his mother says it's just big enough to learn all sorts of things. He explores the science, cooking, reading and art centers. He discovers all the things he will be doing and learning in the coming year. As he leaves, he looks back and sees that the building isn't too big after all, but just the right size for him. Preschoolers will find this book a reassuring look at a typical kindergarten classroom. The transition to kindergarten is a big adjustment for most children, even for those who have been in preschool a couple of years. The text is simple with just a few lines on each page, and is perfectly complemented by beautiful, full-page color paintings. A perfect book for a preschool classroom discussion of what kindergarten will be like. 2001, Walker Publishing, $16.85 and $15.95. Ages 3 to 5. Reviewer: Cheryl Peterson
ISBN: 0-8027-8745-2
ISBN: 0-8027-8746-0
Added 03/01/03
To stay up to date on new books by this author, consider subscribing to The Children's Literature Comprehensive Database. For your free trial, click here.
If you’re interested in reviewing children's and young adult books, then send a resume and writing sample to marilyn@childrenslit.com.