July 15, 2023
An attempt at exploring the concept of hope in a child-friendly way. In this rhyming narrative, a group of kids are shown engaging in various summer activities: flying a kite, riding a bicycle, playing in a treehouse, selling lemonade, and visiting the beach. On each two-page spread, a short verse tries to relate the activity to hope. Some of the rhymes seem to have a slight, if tenuous, connection: "Hope is two wheels / and staying upright. / Hope is pumping fast / with all of your might." But the majority are cryptic, to say the least: "Hope is being thoughtful / choosing to care. / Hope is discovering / you have so much to share." This last one seems at odds with the accepted definition of the noun form of hope: wanting and expecting a particular thing to happen. The words joy or happiness would seem a better fit. The illustrations, mirroring the narrative, give no further illumination to readers, although they are colorful, if presented a bit too uniformly in their perspective. The conclusion, which sees a large, loving family sitting down to a meal ("Hope is a tail wag / at the screen door. / Hope is a family / together once more"), brings the tale to a warm conclusion. Characters depicted are diverse, although light-skinned, red-haired kids dominate. (This book was reviewed digitally.) Sweet but puzzling. (Picture book. 4-6)
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September 15, 2023
K-Gr 2-An array of simple pleasures awaits readers in this charming picture book. Rhyming text presents examples of uplifting experiences to which nearly everyone can relate. Digital and mixed media illustrations bring to life scenes of learning to ride a bike, a hillside covered with flowers, and running for the ice cream truck. Three siblings appear throughout the book, along with their family, friends, and neighbors. A range of skin tones and hair colors and textures are used for the various characters. Along with grandmother helping to bake an apple pie or big brother giving a boost for a basketball shot, pets also offer hope as a "promise of love in a fur-covered coat." Scenes support the wonders of childhood and the possibilities for making a new friend, mastering a new skill, or spending time with loved ones. Teachers may especially enjoy the spread showing children waiting at the library checkout counter and the sentiment, "Hope is a book on a shelf just for you." VERDICT The perfect book to read with someone who is feeling discouraged, or to use with older students as a mentor text on metaphors.-Suzanne Costner
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