Mother's Day, 2002
The following reviews were presented in our 2002 Mother's Day feature.
Reviews
Barnyard Lullaby
Frank Asch
The clucking, mooing, neighing, oinking, baaing and honking barnyard sounds keep the friendly farmer awake on a night when he longs for peace and quiet. However, to the baby barnyard animals, these sounds offer up a calm and soothing lullaby sweetly sung by their own mothers. The farmer yells for quiet when he cannot stand the "noise" any longer, and in so doing, he wakes his own baby. When his little one cries with a loud waaing sound, the farmer's wife sings a lullaby in words the farmer can understand. The calming music lulls not only the baby, but the farmer, too, and he is finally able to fall into a restful sleep. Simple text and the repetitive rhyming lullaby sung by all the mothers in the book make this one that little children will want to hear again and again. They will be able to chime in with the words after hearing the book a few times. Asch's brightly colored, simple illustrations add visual pleasure to the book. 2001 (orig. 1998), Aladdin Paperbacks/Simon & Schuster, Ages 2 to 6, $5.99. Reviewer Nancy Garhan Attebury
ISBN: 0-689-84256-2
Betty Doll
Patricia Polacco
Betty Doll, made by the author's mother to replace dolls lost in a fire, was always part of her life. Her mother left her story along with the doll, where it was discovered after her death. With the author, we relive the important events of her mother's life, from a dramatic rescue in a snow storm and an exciting trip to Chicago through her marriage and birth of children and grandchildren. As always, Polacco warms the heart with the love of family through the passages of life. Her visual story is told in somewhat rough-hewn, black pencil strokes, which suggest pre-color family snapshots; only touches of color are added. There are the details of generations-old furniture, clothes, sewing machine and the family members themselves, all depicted in large, double-page scenes and in photographs, as well. But Betty is always in color, for she connects the past with the present, in this valuable form of social history. 2001, Philomel Books/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, Ages 5 to 10, $16.99. Reviewer Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-399-23638-4
A Day for Vincent Chin and Me
Jacqueline Turner Banks
Tommy would like nothing better than to blend in with the crowd. His mother is planning a rally to draw attention to the murder of Vincent Chin, a Detroit auto worker killed in 1982 by disgruntled workers who blamed the Chinese for the industry's downturn. Tommy is annoyed because he knows the demonstration will draw attention to his Japanese heritage. Tommy's friends, a racially mixed bunch affectionately called the Posse, have a problem of their own. To slow down speeding drivers on their busy street and protect a young deaf neighbor, they plot to build a speed bump under the cover of darkness. It seems to be the perfect solution, although Tommy knows he is breaking the law. With his own dilemma weighing heavily on his mind, Tommy at last comes to terms with his mother's stand for Vincent Chin's rights. In standing up for what he believes, he finds a common ground with his mother. The lively, first person narrative presents parallel stories with a common thread. Issues of racism and committing to your own beliefs are nicely addressed and the solution is credible. An afterward provides the historical context for Vincent Chin's story. This would make a good discussion starter about cultural awareness. 2001, Houghton, Ages 10 to 12, $15.00. Reviewer: Beverley Fahey
ISBN: 0-618-13199-X
Dear Mother, Dear Daughter
Jane Yolen and Heidi Stemple
Illustrated by Gil Ashby
Acclaimed storyteller Jane Yolen and her grown daughter Heidi Stemple trade words in Dear Mother, Dear Daughter, a collection of paired poems. Stemple provides the young daughter's voice in the lead poem on each double-page spread and brings up subjects such as homework, crushes, phone calls-to which Yolen's mother poem replies. The poems explore the gamut of emotions-sadness, jubilation, anxiety-and the tone ranges, very believably, from tenderness to a plaintive whine. Gil Ashby's black-and-white illustrations add to the mood without overwhelming the short poems. Who knows, this book may inspire a child/parent poem dialogue in your family. 2001, Boyds Mills Press, Ages 7 to 11, $15.95. Reviewer Mary Quattlebaum
ISBN: 1-56397-886-5
Good Night, Baby Bear
Frank Asch
Although the mother and child are bears trying to settle down in their snug cave for their winter hibernation, they reflect the human experience of a restless little one trying to put off bedtime. Baby complains about his bed having to be inside, wants a snack, needs a drink and declares he can't go to sleep without seeing the moon. Patient Mama explains that it will be too cold to sleep under the stars anymore, finds him the last apple on an old tree, brings him some leaves dipped in a stream to lick and rolls a big silvery snowball into the cave to represent the moon. At last, after a loving hug and kiss, they both fall asleep. The cartoon-style, acrylic illustrations in a variety of sizes are simple but eloquent and tender, showing the bears in the dim interior of the cave and the mother bear going about her errands in the snow under a frosty night sky. The text has a warm and understanding tone and a lively, informal cadence. 2001 (orig. 1998), Voyager/Harcourt, Ages 2 to 5, $14.00 and $6.00. Reviewer Patricia Dole
ISBN: 0-15-200836-5
ISBN: 0-15-216368-9
Grump
Janet S. Wong
Illustrated by John Wallace
The grump here is a tired Mommy, "grouchy, chumpy," cleaning up while Happy Baby messes away, but of course won't take his nap. So Mommy reads until "Fast asleep in her big chair/ Mommy's fast asleep/ already?" Baby, "Smart, good baby," finally ends up asleep in her lap, "No more GRUMP." Peace at last. Wallace's light-hearted vignettes leave out all but the most essential details of Baby's actions and Mommy's reactions. The drawing is sketchy; the washy watercolors are applied almost casually. The very young should recognize themselves in this classic tale, while moms and dads will find it all too familiar. 2001, Margaret K. McElderry Books/Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division, Ages 2 to 5, $16.00. Reviewer Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-689-83485-3
The Hope Tree
Laura Numeroff and Wendy S. Harpham, M.D.
Illustrated by David McPhail
Breast cancer is a very scary and devastating disease not only for the patient but also for the entire family. This beautiful book was written to help children cope with a mother's breast cancer. It is the story of ten animal characters between the ages of five and twelve in a support group. Each of the characters talks about the feelings and chaos they are facing as their mother fights this terrible disease. Each page touches on one aspect of the coping process, from reacting to the diagnosis, meeting the doctors and nurses, trying to look for good things among the bad, to offering hints for helping Mom feel better. The title of the book comes from the final spread that shows "Jessie, age 9 1/2," as she expresses her feelings and creates a hope tree on which each leaf represents one wish for the future. The illustrations of the animal children in typical human situations are soft and comforting. This book would be perfectly suited for any child of women with breast cancer. It addresses the fears and turmoil of a family that is trying to deal with a cancer diagnosis. This book will help a child understand some of the things that are happening and encourage them to talk about their thoughts and feelings. 1999, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, Ages 5 to 8, $12.00. Reviewer Julie Eick Granchelli
ISBN: 0-689-84526-X
I Am the King!
Nathalie Dieterle
Every child's dream is to become a ruler of his own kingdom. After Little Louis's mom makes him a crown and presents it to her little king, Little Louis has no trouble commanding his new subjects. King Louis decides he needs to make new laws for his kingdom. He announces, "King Louis will not go to school." "The King will not take a bath!" "The King eats only chocolate!" King Louis is amazed when his subjects turn on him and announce, "No one wants a king like you!" The king, indignant at this unexpected turn of events, denounces his throne and heads for bed. Parents and young readers alike will find the message in this story humorous; yet will certainly empathize with the young Louis when he discovers the reaction to his demands. The full double-page illustrations are a perfect accompaniment to the balloon text. 2001, Orchard Books, Ages 4 to 8, $15.95. Reviewer Sue Reichard
ISBN: 0-531-30324-1
I Love You Because You're You
Liza Baker
Illustrated by David McPhail
This book is a sweet story about a mama fox and her cub. Each page lovingly illustrates the range of emotions that a child experiences daily. Whether the little fox is frightened, bashful, happy or sick, Mama Fox reassures her baby that he is loved. The text is brief enough for a young child yet the message is suited for a child of any age. This story could be used to discuss emotions, feelings and behavior. The illustrations lend themselves to discussion of the baby's actions and the mother's expressions. Perfect for story time or bedtime, it is destined to be a classic tale of unconditional love. 2001, Cartwheel/Scholastic,Ages 2 to 6, $9.95. Reviewer Julie Eick Granchelli
ISBN: 0-439-20638-3
I Want to Say I Love You
Caralyn Buehner
Pictures by Jacqueline Rogers
A mother expresses, in rhymed couplets, all the times and in all the ways she loves her child. Sometimes "We don't see things the same at all. But that's okay." They share many warm, happy moments of adventure and discovery. Rogers visualizes this heartfelt emotion with comforting scenes of togetherness. She builds her full and double-page naturalistic illustrations with layers of textured papers upon which she draws and paints details. The frequently torn edges of the shapes enhance the solidity of the compositions as forms blend with subtle three-dimensional solidity. Sometimes, however, there is an intrusive halo effect around the figures. A reassuring read-aloud that may call for multiple readings. 2001, Phyllis Fogelman Books/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, Ages 3 to 6, $15.99. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-8037-2547-7
I'll Always Be Your Friend
Sam McBratney
Illustrations by Kim Lewis
McBratney, author of the book Guess How Much I Love You, has succeeded in writing another heartwarming and comforting picture book for children. This time he chooses a mother fox and her son for the main characters. The foxes are playing games together when the mother fox tells her son that it is getting dark and time for them to go home. As many children do when they don't want to leave the fun behind, the young fox defies his mother and tells her that she is not his friend anymore. The mother slowly makes her way home while the young fox becomes afraid of being by himself. Eventually, he can't stand being alone and runs ahead to find his mother to make amends. Parents who face similar opposition with their children will appreciate this story, and children may be able to recognize themselves in the young fox. The soft lines and warm colors of the illustrations create the loving mood of the book. This book is highly recommended and is sure to become a well-loved classic. 2001, HarperCollins, Ages 4 to 8, $15.95. Reviewer Melissa A. Caudill
ISBN: 0-06-029485-X
If I Had a Snowplow
Jean L. S. Patrick
Illustrated by Karen Dugan
"If I had a snowplow, you know what I'd do? I'd crash through the deep snow, just for you" begins this picture book, a love poem from a little guy who loves his construction equipment about as much as his mother. He is big; the equipment he controls and Mom are pictured as tiny and focused on him. For love of her, he will shift, shape and build the environment as she enjoys from the sidelines. What a beautiful world it presents from a child's viewpoint! Turning the finely detailed paintings page by page, the delighted reader will encounter a loader, cement mixer, tractor, tree spade, tow truck, fire truck, cherry picker, backhoe, bulldozer, tall crane and dump truck. What more could a child want? Only that warm hug on the last page as the snowstorm rages outside and he promises his now life-size mother, "I'll give you huge hugs, strong hugs, love-you-all-day hugs. I'll stay inside, close to you." 2001, Boyds Mill, Ages 3 to 7, $14.95. Reviewer Judy Chernak
ISBN: 1-56397-746-X
If My Mom Were a Platypus
Dia L. Michels
Illustrations by Andrew Barthelmes
Moms and their kids will together enjoy this opportunity to discover the fascinating facts that celebrate the wonders of birth in the animal kingdom. This well-written nature book is by an author known for her nonfiction adult material. But her writing here is geared to children for the first time and successfully so. The fascinating facts depict how thirteen mammal infants begin life dependent on their mothers and grow to be self-sufficient adults. The book is organized by describing the different animals, with sections about each covering the topics of birth, growth, knowledge and eating. Each animal tells his or her own story. The platypus begins, "To get ready for me, my mom built a nest beside a stream." Though the vocabulary may be somewhat advanced for elementary school children, the text, read aloud and combined with the realistic artwork is definitely manageable. Colorful, up-close drawings combine with black-and-white sketches illustrating each stage. It is apropos that the fourteenth and last of the species presented is a human infant, with amazing similarities to the stories of the other thirteen. Moms, be prepared to end the shared reading with questions that just seem to naturally follow such as-"So Mom, when I was born..." 2001, Platypus, Ages 8 up, $16.95. Reviewer Kathleen Orosz
ISBN: 1-930775-02-4
In the Wild: Animals and Their Babies
Stephanie Maze
This is a gorgeous nature book about animal babies with their mothers. Each species has a double-page spread with a single sentence describing the action. Most of the photos are irresistibly sweet, such as a polar bear cub asleep on her mother's back or a baby hippo bathing with his mother. In addition to including the popular, cute animals like cheetahs, penguins and elephants, this book deserves credit for including some less cuddly creatures such as crocodiles, scorpions and snakes. This is a terrific book for observing wild animals in natural settings, and all of the photos are fantastic. The only flaw with (and it's a serious flaw for a science book) is the conclusion on the last page that reads, "Animals love their babies3/4just like humans do." Unfortunately, this implies that humans are not animals, although the theme of the book clearly shows that all of these species are similar to us because we are animals, too. Photographs are from National Geographic Image Collection and DRK Photo. 2001, Moonstone Press, Ages 2 to 6, $15.00. Reviewer: Seth Berg
ISBN: 0-9707768-0-2
Jubela
Christina Kessler
Illustrated by JoEllen McAllister Stammen
The plains of Swaziland come to life in this moving story of Jubela, an orphaned baby rhino. Readers feel Jubela's bewilderment after his mother's death, when the land is "oh...so...quiet." They follow his exhausting journey among alert impala and running zebras as he battles thirst and hunger. Then he stands, "oh...so...still," while an old mother rhino considers adopting him as her own. "Passing elephants, their long, heavy trunks sweeping the earth, brought the sunrise," is one of many lyrical sentences conveying the energy and grace of Africa's land and wildlife. The pastel illustrations enhance the prose, depicting the play of light and shadow that makes the African landscape memorable. Large spreads give stirring perspectives: sometimes rhinos and elephants are so massive the pages can't contain them, other times they are solitary silhouettes on the horizon. Based on an actual story witnessed by park rangers in the Mkhaya Game Reserve, the book portrays authentic animal behavior. Although the mother's death and the fears associated with survival may worry some children, the subject is handled artfully and balanced with the tenderness of animals caring for their young. This book is eloquent, but even more important, its story will captivate young readers from beginning to end. 2001, Simon & Schuster, Ages 4 to 8, $16.00. Reviewer Betty Hicks
ISBN: 0-689-81895-5
Kiss Good Night
Amy Hest
Illustrated by Anita Jeram
It is a dark and stormy night and Little Bear is having trouble going to sleep. His mother reads his favorite book, tucks him into bed with his red blanket and his stuffed animal friends, and drinks warm milk with him. Little Bear responds to each of these activities with, "I'm waiting." Finally, Mrs. Bear gives him good night kisses and he falls asleep. Jeram's large colorful pictures contribute to the coziness of this book. Perfect for bedtime. 2001, Candlewick Press, Ages 1 to 5, $15.99. Reviewer Phyllis Kennemer
ISBN: 0-7636-0780-0
A Kitten Called Moonlight
Martin Waddell
Illustrated by Christian Birmingham
What makes this picture book special, besides the artwork, is that the story is Charlotte's own, about a lost white kitten. "I'd like my story again," Charlotte said. "Which story?" asked Mommy. "The one I like best, about Moonlight and me," Charlotte said. "I thought that's the one it might be," Mommy said. Through an intimate conversation, Charlotte and Mommy tell the story of a lost kitten, Moonlight, and how they rescue him on a moonlit night on the rocks at the edge of the sea. With chalk pastel illustrations and lots of blue sky and sea, the intensity of the moonlight search is brought to life. The pictures create expressive reactions of both mother and child, as well as the vastness of the night near the sea. An endearing picture of Charlotte with her own drawing of Moonlight adorns the title page and will draw young listeners right into this perfect bedtime story about "Moonlight and Mommy and Me." 2001, Candlewick Press, Ages 3 to 7, $15.99. Reviewer Elaine Wick
ISBN: 0-7636-1176-X
Louie's Search
Ezra Jack Keats
"Nobody notices a kid around here." That is what Louie thinks about as he goes in search of a father. Walking through his own neighborhood, Louie happens to catch an old-fashioned music box as it is jostled from a truck marked "Barney's Wonderful Things." Barney, the driver (and owner) of the truck misjudges Louie's move to replace the box as thievery and begins to act accordingly. Louie's mother, hearing the ruckus, intervenes, revealing a kinder, gentler side of Barney. She thus becomes the deus ex machina to accomplish a successful outcome for her son's search. Barney will now do fine, thank you. 2001 (orig. 1980), Puffin Books, Ages 7 to 9, $15.99 and $5.99. Reviewer Carolyn DCL Michaels
ISBN: 0-670-89224-6
ISBN: 0-14-056761-5
Love Is a Family
Roma Downey
Illustrated by Justine Gasquet
Lily and her mama live alone, but Lily wants a real family, like Melissa. Melissa's house is never neat and never quiet. Melissa has a mother and a father and brothers and sisters. Lily is afraid that when she goes to Family Fun Night with her mama they will be the strangest family there. Lily's mama tries to explain that love is what makes a family, not the people in the family, but Lily remains unconvinced3/4until they go to Family Fun Night. When Lily and her mama arrive there are already plenty of families there. Some are like Melissa's family with a mother, father, sisters and brothers. But Remi's family is just Remi and her dad. And there are families with adopted children, and families with different colored skin, and families that are grandparents and grandchildren. Lily finally realizes that it is love that makes a family and not two parents and children. Richly illustrated with full-page color pictures, this book teaches an important lesson for all children. 2001, Derry-Air, Ages 5 to 8, $16.95. Reviewer Danielle Williams
ISBN: 0-06-039374-2
Love to Mama: A Tribute to Mothers
Edited by Pat Mora
Illustrated by Paula B. Barragan M.
Mexican-American author Pat Mora has gathered together the work of thirteen poets who speak in a wide spectrum of Latino voices. In one vibrant and spirited volume, these writers sing with joy, humor and love about their various heritages-Puerto Rican, Cuban, Venezuelan and Mexican-American. Their work rings true as they touch upon the powerful bond among mothers, grandmothers and children-universal relationships that transcend cultures; primary love that speaks to us all. Selected poems address childhood memories, dreams and worries from a child's point of view, often using both Spanish and English words within the verse. The illustrations by Paula B. Barragan M. are a visual delight. Her quirky collages of pencil, cut paper and gouache paint are done with exuberant joy in strong, hot colors that reflect the passion of the emotions expressed in each poem. This collection will give young readers a taste of Latino culture and customs, creating in them a hunger for more. 2001, Lee & Low Books, Ages 8 to 12, $16.95. Reviewer Dianne Ochiltree
ISBN: 1-58430-019-1
Mallard Duck at Meadow View Pond
Wendy Pfeffer
Illustrated by Taylor Oughton
It is spring at Meadow View Pond and mallard hen patiently sits on her nest of creamy tan eggs. The young ducklings use their egg tooth like a hammer to tap their way out of the shells. They have much to learn as they grow up on the pond, including how to avoid the dangers that lurk there. Their mother uses quick thinking to save them from a snapping turtle and a diving hawk. By September they have grown into their adult plumage and soon, they will migrate south to find mates of their own. Glorious full-color paintings accompany this simple tale of the life cycle of mallard ducks. This is part of the "Smithsonian's Backyard" series that is designed to educate children about the habits of wildlife commonly found in their own backyards. The last page includes facts about the mallard duck, a glossary and points of interest. This would make a wonderful classroom resource for a unit about ponds and pond life. A companion audiocassette and stuffed animal toy is also available. 2001, Soundprints, Ages 5 to 9, $15.95. Reviewer Cheryl Peterson
ISBN: 1-56899-956-9
Mama Does the Mambo
Katherine Leiner
Illustrated by Edel Rodriguez
Sofia used to love to watch her mother and father dance, especially at Carnival. But since her father died her mother, who used to dance all the time, has lost all interest. When Carnival time approaches, all her friends in Havana tell her that her mama needs a partner, perhaps for more than dancing. Many men would like to dance with her. Unfortunately Eduardo, the nicest, can't dance. Finally, at Carnival, as their favorite Mambo begins, Sofia and mama dance it together, to the delight of all. The tale is filled with the spirit, color, rhythm, even food of Havana, as well as Spanish words, all explained in the glossary. Colored line woodcuts with paint exploit the warm colors of the semi-tropical country, while the double and single-page scenes exude the upbeat community spirit. Included are bits of local settings, from street scenes to backyards hung with laundry to architectural facades on the endpapers. Teachers may have to answer tough questions about our Cuban boycott after this delightful, foot-tapping picture of Cuban life. 2001, Hyperion Books for Children, Ages 5 to 9, $15.99. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-7868-0646-X
Mama's Little Bears
Nancy Tafuri
Starting with the endpapers, we follow the progress of cinnamon brown Mama and her three curious cubs as they fish, explore and climb on their own. A sinister-looking owl at the top of a tree surprises the cubs, who now want nothing so much as their "Mama!" Of course, she's there with reassuring hugs for all. The bears start off again as the sun begins to set and disappear into the back endpapers. Where have they gone? Be sure to look at the back cover. Tafuri, author and illustrator of so many notable books for the youngest readers (including her Caldecott Honor Book, Have You Seen My Duckling?), has produced a charming blend of appealing animals, a chance for pre-schoolers to practice place words like in, under, over, down, and up, and an ending with a happy sense of security and order. The oversized type makes it easy for beginning readers to participate in reading the tale, which is presented in an attractive, almost-square format and warm, soft colors of the natural world. 2002, Scholastic, Ages 18 mo. to 5, $15.95. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft
ISBN: 0-439-27311-0
Mom Pie
Lynne Jonell
Illustrated by Petra Mathers
Mommy is busy fixing dinner for company, and has no time for her two sons. ("The potatoes are boiling over! I have to baste the turkey! Oh, no! I forgot to order flowers!") So big brother Christopher cooks up the idea to make "Mom pie" in order to comfort little Robbie. The two boys fill a cake pan with "little bits of Mommy"-a soft, smooth glove, a snuggly pair of bunny slippers, her earring, her perfume and the teal candle that is the centerpiece of the table for "her favorite color." The candle won't fit in the pan, so Christopher breaks it in two. Needless to say, Mommy is shocked when she sees the "pie" on her table, but she soon understands its significance, and when the guests arrive she is seated in a big armchair, both boys in her lap, and "she did not get up." The guests pitch in with meal preparations, Mommy fixes the candle with a Band-Aid and all is well. The warmth of this soothing tale is underscored by Mathers' expressive, stick-like figures drawn in crayon-bright colors. Touches of whimsy, such as a reflection in a mirror of Mommy zooming past holding a large bowl, add details to the story line. 2001, Putnam, Ages 3 to 6, $12.99. Reviewer Cherri Jones
ISBN: 0-399-23422-5
Mommy Poems
Compiled by John Micklos, Jr.
Illustrated by Lori McElrath-Eslick
While I read this short compilation of poems about mothers, I couldn't help but think of my own mother. Memories of sneaking in early on a Saturday morning to see if mommy was awake to watch cartoons or fix breakfast and of how she took care of me while I was sick rolled through my mind. Each of these memories was heightened when I read poems of other people's memories of their mothers. This seems more suited as a gift from a child to a mother than as a children's book. The colorful illustrations of mothers with children serve to emphasize their special relationship. Even everyday activities are brought to light through these poems, which can create peaceful memories for a mother when her child has grown up and moved away. 2001, Boyds Mills Press, Ages 5 up, $15.95 and $8.95. Reviewer Danielle Williams
ISBN: 1-56397-849-0
ISBN: 1-56397-908-X
Mommy Time!
Elisabeth Brami
Illustrated by Anne-Sophie Tschiegg
"What is Mommy doing while I'm in school?" children frequently wonder. Here, as the school day proceeds, simply told but often wild speculations abound, from washing dishes to being on her way to Mars. These alternate with concerns from mom being careful crossing the street to the all-important "Will she get here on time?" to pick me up so they can have Mommy Time together. Even the youngest can smile at the ridiculous as their worries are revealed. Tschiegg combines her stylized mother with many collage-y objects, scumbled paint backgrounds, and black-outlined sketchy people on the small pages to interpret the statements, one per page, in an eye-stretching, unconventional way. Each picture deserves time to appreciate what is included in her interpretation. 2002 (orig. 2000), Kane/Miller Book Publishers, Ages 3 to 6, $9.95. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 1-929132-22-0
A Mother's Heart, a Daughter's Love: Poems for Us to Share
Joyce Carol Thomas
National Book Award novelist Thomas shares a mother-daughter poetic dialogue in this slim volume. The conversation begins at birth, continues through childhood, adolescence, and into adulthood. Thomas uses a back and forth technique in which mother/child thoughts vary, blur, and finally merge into separate but equal insights. A mother and grandmother herself, Joyce Carol Thomas has an intuitive understanding of the female bond. Her perceptive poems are both humorous and moving. This would be a fine gift for any new mother of a girl-child. 2001, Joanna Cotler Books, Ages 5 up, $14.95 and $14.89. Reviewer Kathleen Karr
ISBN: 0-06-029649-6
ISBN: 0-06-029650-X
Mother, Mother, I Feel Sick Send for the Doctor Quick, Quick, Quick
Remy Charlip and Burton Spree
This picture book for young kids features a boy, his mom and a doctor. It is an imaginative and colorful story about a little boy who has a stomachache. Mother is worried and calls the doctor, who immediately comes to the boy's aid, only to discover that the boy ate everything in sight. This story draws on the experience of every mother's nightmare of sending her children to a doctor. Yet this doctor reminds you of a ringmaster in a circus. One can't help but poke fun at the discoveries that the mother makes while she waits for the doctor to cure her son. At the end, the author gives examples of how to create a shadow play from this story. 2001, Tricycle, Ages 3 to 6, $16.95. Reviewer Darick K. Jones
ISBN: 1-58246-043-4
My Mother Is Mine
Marion Dane Bauer
Illustrated by Peter Elwell
In a brief sentence for each two-page spread, children of various species tell something special about their mothers. There are rhymes along with the love expressed in these simple statements-"She holds me tight." "She never forgets to kiss me good night." This book is meant for reassuring reading and re-reading in a comfortable relationship. Elwell's naturalistic illustrations are simple scenes of each pair, including a young girl at the end, created with a fuzzy warmth that reinforces the text's message. The creatures are not named, but their identification could be part of the shared reading with pre-schoolers. A greeting card with one of the rhymes is included. 2001, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, Ages 2 to 5, $13.00. Reviewer Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz
ISBN: 0-689-82267-7
Now What Can I Do?
Margaret Park Bridges
Illustrated by Melissa Sweet
Little Raccoon has nothing to amuse himself on a rainy day, and turns to his mother for help. She tells him that there are a million things to do and suggests that he make his bed. He counters with "Oh, Mommy-that's not fun," but she responds that it can be, if he pretends his bed is a boat and he an explorer with sheets for sails. He agrees, and he folds his sheets "when the wind is calm." Various other imagined activities enable him to pick up his clothes, put his toys away, help fold the laundry and so on until he gets into his "space suit" and climbs into bed. This book might prove very popular with parents who need suggestions to offer their children to enlist their help with everyday chores. Melissa Sweet's charming illustrations, made with acrylics, keep the tone light and friendly for the child who might otherwise resist these instructions. 2001, SeaStar Books/North-South Books, Ages 3 to 6, $15.95. Reviewer: Candace Deisley
ISBN: 1-58717-046-9
Princess
Ted Staunton
Illustrations by Susan Gardos
Wearing frilly dresses and performing in a talent show are not high on Mary Beth's list of favorite activities. They are important to Mary Beth's mother because she was never able to do them herself, but Mary Beth chooses to pull some shenanigans in order to wear her comfy jeans and sweatshirt. As for activities, she would rather draw than perform. She spends a great deal of time trying to get her mother to believe this. She also has to deal with the everyday trials and tribulations of Travis Bee, the class prankster. In the long run, Mary Beth's own talents show through and she and her mother come to understand each other better. Ted Staunton successfully uses a format of journal entries alternating with narration to keep the reader laughing. This chapter book is part of "The Kids from Monkey Mountain" series featuring realistic, well-paced episodes of humor for students in early grades. 2001, Northern Lights Young Novels/Red Deer Press, Ages 7 to 10, $4.95. Reviewer Nancy Garhan Attebury
ISBN: 0-88995-242-6
Singing the Dark
Gail Sproule
Illustrations by Sheena Lott
A mother and a daughter travel together into dusk's beauty to call the night. Singing low and gently, they tempt night into their garden through song and dance. Despite the little girl's sleepiness, she relishes in the almost spiritual experience of welcoming dark's wonders to her world. Intrigued and inspired by the poetic text, the reader believes that the power of controlling nature is within hand's grasp. The melody of the song is heard within and the peacefulness of the story is felt deeply. The inviting and beautiful watercolors may keep the sleepy child awake for a few more moments, but they, too, will lull sleep into the once fascinated eyes. It is bedtime and the reader is ready. This book will tickle a child's sense of wonder and encourage peaceful slumber, gifts to both child and parent. 2001, Fitzhenry and Whiteside, Ages 3 to 9, $16.95. Reviewer: Andrea Sears Andrews
ISBN: 1-55041-6480
Supermom
Mick Manning
Illustrated by Brita Granström
Hooray for mom! This endearing picture book celebrates the diversity of motherhood while highlighting the tasks common to the role, regardless of the species. Whether she is a mother of a human being, a baby chick or a blue whale, a mom's job is pretty much the same and always multi-faceted. The authors warmly describe how mothers birth, care for, feed, defend and love their offspring. Mothers are charged with so much importance, in fact, that the authors bestow the title Supermom upon them. Each page is a delight as it warmly connects moms and children of all shapes and sizes, and urges readers to focus on similarities among creatures rather than differences. At the end of the book, the authors have helpfully added an index, which points out one important fact about each animal in the book and a reference to the appropriate page. 2001, Albert Whitman & Company, Ages 4 up, $15.95. Reviewer Michele Coulombe
ISBN: 0-8075-7666-2
Weave Little Stars into My Sleep: Native American Lullabies
Edited by Neil Philip
Photographs by Edward S. Curtis
Fifteen Native American lullabies have been freely rendered from their original sources. Philip has taken some liberties in order to put them into English verse but has taken care to maintain their spirit. The selections are from the Northeast, the Plains, the Southwest, the Northwest Coast and the Inuit. Soothing lines, such as the title of the book, and "Sleep, sleep, sleep. Baby, shut your eyes," as well as admonitions to go to sleep and never cry or the Owl will come "And gobble you up" can be found alongside lullabies for happy dreams. The duotone photographs, which were first published in the early twentieth century, set the scene and create the mood. Many depict mothers and their children while others show adults performing the tasks talked about in the lullabies. They work well together in recreating snippets of these Native American cultures while at the same time presenting the universality of lullabies. The only drawback here is that the melodies are not included. 2001, Clarion Books, Ages 6 up, $16.00. Reviewer Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-618-08856-3
Webster J. Duck
Martin Waddell
Illustrated by David Parkins
Whether it be in a park or the friendly neighborhood supermarket, it can be a terrifying experience for a child to lose sight of her mother. Webster J. Duck's experience is even worse-his mother is nowhere to be seen when he first cracks open his egg and enters the world. The courageous duckling sets off to find his mother. He meets a wooly duck that says "baa," a waggly-tailed duck that says "bow-wow," and a big-eared duck that says "moo." Nowhere, however, can he find a duck that says "quack." In the way of all good picture books, Webster's mother does return. The delight on both Webster's face and his mother's is palpable. The gentle watercolors are as comforting as the text. They are very focused with few extraneous details, appropriate for the very young reader, as is the simple word repetition. Read before playtime or naptime, this book assures the child that she can depend on her mother's presence. 2001, Candlewick Press, Ages 18 mo. to 4, $13.99. Reviewer Stephanie Farrow
ISBN: 0-7636-1506-4
When Mama Comes Home Tonight
Eileen Spinelli
Illustrated by Jane Dyer
Now in a board book format, this book makes the transition, but the text is a bit long. That aside, this is the ultimate book for the child whose mother works away from home. A very sweet verse details all of the wonderful things Mother will do when she comes home. Not only will she hug you and kiss you, she will dance in the halls, feed you soup and applesauce and wrap you in her shawl. The rhythm of the words makes it a perfect bedtime book. The illustrations are gentle and calming watercolor/color pencil drawings of a mother and child winding down at the end of the day. This is a book that kids and caregivers will read over and over again. 2001, Little Simon,Ages 6 mo. to 5, $7.99. Reviewer Kristin Harris
ISBN: 0-689-84220-1
When Mommy and Daddy Go to Work
Joanna Cole
Illustrated by Maxie Chambliss
For young kids going to daycare, the separation from parents is difficult and also the real fear that their parents may not be coming back. What may seem like a short time (a work day) can be an eternity for young children. Joanna Cole has a written a reassuring story. The parents take Carley and her stuffed animal to daycare. The normal routine for the kids is detailed as well as pauses to wonder what Mom and Dad are doing at work or eating for lunch. It is all quite upbeat and the illustrations are a perfect match; not too formal and filled with ordinary people and events. The one nice twist is having Mom as the car salesperson and Dad as the school teacher. A good choice for daycare centers and working parents. 2001, HarperCollins, Ages 1 to 4, $5.95. Reviewer: Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-688-17044-7
Where Are My Chicks?
Sally Grindley
Illustrated by Jill Newton
"I've lost my chicks!" cries Mother Hen and the barnyard animals offer to help her search for them. Mother Goose, with her nose up in the air says, "You should take better care of your chicks." Frog, donkey, pig and bee each find one, and wise owl counts them in words and also on his wing feathers. Rabbit, goat, sheep and dragonfly find four more. A confused Mother Hen says, "But I only had four!" The mystery is solved when Mother Goose appears looking for her babies. Mother Hen has the last word as she turns over the four goslings to their mother. Preschoolers will enjoy locating the chicks and goslings on the pages and counting them. They will want to name all the barnyard animals and recite their sounds. The cheery summertime palette of the acrylic illustrations matches the warm and cozy feeling at the end of the story. There are varying perspectives which keep the barnyard scenes fresh. With much to see in each double-page spread, toddlers will pore over the pages. 2002, Phyllis Fogelman Books/Penguin Putnam Books for Young Readers, Ages 2 to 5, $9.99. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 0-8037-2497-7
Where Is Baby's Mommy?
Karen Katz
Hide-and-seek is lots of fun and this baby is playing the game with his mother. He looks in the closet, behind a big overstuffed chair, under the table and finally under the covers on Mommy's bed, where the clever Mom has hidden and probably enjoyed a little rest. As the cute little boy lifts the flaps, he spies lots of his toys, beginning with his red wagon in the closet. While his adventure continues he adds the items found behind the flaps to his wagon. By the time he finds Mommy, his wagon is full. A board book that will be entertaining and fun for both caregiver and baby. 2001, Little Simon,Ages 1 to 3, $5.99. Reviewer Marilyn Courtot
ISBN: 0-689-83561-2
Why Do You Love Me?
Dr. Laura Schlessinger and Martha Lambert
Illustrations by Daniel McFeeley
At bedtime, Sammy asks the question, "Why do you love me?" His attempts to answer his own question give his loving (and patient) mom the opportunity to explore the nature of love with her young son. Mother explains that her love is not dependent on the things Sammy can do, or buy, or agree to; but rather on the person he is. The author is well known psychologist and radio personality, Dr. Laura Schlessinger. She has a message to deliver here, and she does it forthrightly. This is the first in a planned series of books about important life issues for children. If the other books are as well conceived and carried out as this one, the series will serve an important function, if not for fans of subtly, then certainly for adult readers who want to open the communication doors with their young reading partners. Cartoon like illustrations don't exactly detract from the text, but neither do they reflect the tone and sincerity of the book. Adult readers will definitely be motivated to share the text with their lovable reading partners; but they'll be tempted to keep the pictures to themselves. 1999, Cliff Street Books/HarperCollins Publishers, Ages 3 to 7, $15.95. Reviewer Judy Katsh
ISBN: 0-06-027866-8
You Don't Look Like Your Mother
Aileen Fisher
Illustrated by Lilith Jones
Families seldom manage to produce members that look alike, but each member can be a unique and valuable part of any family. An important lesson for any child to learn is that there are no rules about what makes a family, and this tale demonstrates that looking alike is not what makes a family. A robin sits in a forest and observes a fawn, a caterpillar, a pollywog, ducklings and baby mice. None of the animals that the robin watches looks anything like their mother. But each child is claimed and cared for by a mother who recognizes them as her children, despite their different looks. The robin eventually lays eggs in a nest she had built. Each egg then hatches into a baby bird that looks nothing like her. But she cares for the birds and understands that they are her own children. The full-color illustrations are watercolor renditions of forest scenes. 2002, Mondo Publishing, Ages 3 to 9, $15.95. Reviewer Danielle Williams
ISBN: 1-58653-856-X
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