Book Reviews

Pre-K-1

Brown Sugar Babies- “Through uncluttered photographs of babies whose skin tones vary from honey to black cherry and simple enchanting rhymes, Smith has captured the tactile joy of infants. Delicious phrases such as "soft peanut butter feet" and "little carob cherub" beg to be repeated and savored.”- School Library Journal

Grades 2-3

I Am America- “From clothes and music to religion and ethnicity, this handsome picture book celebrates diversity in America today. Children will enjoy finding themselves and their friends and talking about their differences and connections.”- Booklist

Loki & Alex- “Skillfully blurred action shots and a breathless text convey Loki's energy. Close-ups of Alex show his loving concern. Inability to read minds aside, communication between these two friends is totally successful.”- Booklist

Grades 4-8

Diamond Life- “The energetic, playful language begs to be read aloud. Combined with bright colors, bold print in a variety of fonts, and exceptional photography, this book is a winner.”- School Library Journal

Hoop Kings- “This book will have enormous appeal for all ages; basketball fans will love it, but so will others who respond to color, lively language, and energy. Readers will experience a wild ride!”- School Library Journal

Hoop Queens- “Smith's infectious wordplay may encourage young basketball fans to invent their own creative ways to describe the things they love. A great choice to energize poetry units."- Booklist

Rimshots- “This unconventional book might well sneak up on kids who don't think they like to read and score a slam-dunk.”- Publishers Weekly

Tall Tales- “Frenetic page design gives this collection of high and wild b-ball feats the quick energy of a fast-break playground game.”- Kirkus Reviews

Short Takes- “Varying from tight haiku to free-form rap, the poems bounce with the rhythm of the ball, rhymes jumping from the line end to the middle and back again. Stylish and immediate, this is perfect for teachers seeking accessible material for poetry units and for young fans of the game.”- Booklist

Perfect Harmony- “Children will be educated as well as energized by these strong, playful poems that may inspire them to find their own sounds in poetry or music. A must-have for teachers.”- Booklist

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