Free At Last!

Perritano, John. Free At Last! Crabtree Publishing Company: 2009. ISBN: 9780778741855.


Free At Last! a book in the Graphic America nonfiction series embodies the very essence of how the Freedmen impacted American History. At first glance the book pulls educators in with its educational possibilities and students in with its dialogue and graphic novel setup. The extensive and well-explained table of contents highlights Sharecropping, the Klu Klux Klan, and black codes. Bold words appear to later be found in a glossary, as well as asterisks to mark actual quotes. An African American historical timeline follows the story, ranging from 1863 to 1896. The bold words from the back appear again in the glossary, which is followed by the index as well as a web finder. Each thought-provoking chapter with vivid and detailed pictures paints a clear scene of the past events of our country. Each pane includes a summarizing paragraph as well as captions. The summaries provide an excellent introduction or conclusion for each page, while the dialogue helps one to imagine what historical figures must have been thinking. Even without the words, the illustrations provide a way to see into the minds of the figures through their facial expressions. Perritano has managed to create a nonfiction piece which reads more like a story.


Erin L. Schneider, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Find Your Function at Conjunction Junction

Hall, Pamela. Find Your Function at Conjunction Junction. Magic Wagon: 2009. ISBN: 9781602706156.

Duct tape is not the handy man’s tool in Find Your Function at Conjunction Junction when it comes to fixing sentences in a jiff. Ben, the function finder at the Conjunction Junction store, assists various occupations as they wander in with a variety of conjunction issues involving words, phrases, or sentences. The complexity of the conjunctions progresses from simple words to phrases to sentences when each new costumer walks through the door. Whether it is a sign, menu, brochure, or ad that needs repairing, the book emphasizes that no matter the occupation, it is necessary to use proper wording to attract business. Ben invites the reader to help him find missing conjunctions in a in a fax from his boss. Additional information is offered at the end of the book with definitions of the seven different conjunctions and when best to use them; a web site is listed for the reader to inquire more about grammar. The illustrations show the customers coming in with befuddled countenances and leaving with sigh-of-relief expressions, suggesting conjunctions are easily fixed and the product is correct and complete when the customer exits the building. Conversational dialog between each customer and Ben teaches each progression. The vocabulary is simple, not beyond a second or third grade level. Real life, practical situations teach the importance of conjunctions and their functions in clarifying words, phrases, and sentences by using only a simple two or three letter word.


Celeste Elrich, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Pete & Pickles

Breathed, Berkeley. Pete & Pickles. Philomel Books: 2008. ISBN: 9780399250828.


Breathed’s use of colorful imagery and intricate wording lends itself to the heartwarming story of Pete & Pickles. From the practical, predictable, and uncomplicated way Pete lived before acquiring an unexpected house guest to the chaotic and exciting life he soon experiences, this book had you sitting on the edge of your seat wondering what is going to happen next. The illustrator’s way of intertwining acrylics and watercolors used throughout the book blend to form a lush, mixed media experience that is breathtaking for the readers. The vibrant and elaborate illustrations lead the reader through Pete and Pickles journey by exposing them to brilliantly laid out pages and visually stimulating design. Pete & Pickles is a book that opens the door for many lessons. Looking into personal feelings and emotions felt throughout the book will allow students a glimpse into personal feeling and how to express them. The author has done a phenomenal job of teaching the value of a true friendship.


Ashley Schumm, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Peaceful Piggy Yoga

MacLean, Kerry Lee. Peaceful Piggy Yoga. Albert Whitman & Company: 2008. ISBN: 9780807563823.


In Peaceful Piggy Yoga MacLean has cleverly combined the child-like illustrations of a picture book with user-friendly, step-by-step instructions, creating a charming, useful book for all ages. Turning the first page, the reader is greeted with an explanation of yoga, what to expect when implementing the poses illustrated within, potential benefits of the exercise, and suggestions for when and where to practice yoga. MacLean’s humorous, simplistic captions compliment her whimsical, somewhat primitive illustrations. Using bright acrylics and primary brush strokes, she depicts animated pigs effortlessly executing yoga poses. While children of all ages will delight in these magical interpretations, “serious” yoga buffs will appreciate the sequential instructions, complete with a “human” example (this may be somewhat easier to follow than the “prancing piggy” counterparts). Children will be captivated by the easy flow of the text and playful illustrations. More importantly, Peaceful Piggy Yoga displays an inviting appeal that beckons the reader to give yoga a try. It’s so easy, even a little piggy can do it!


Terry Meyer, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Never Take a Shark to the Dentist

Barrett, Judi. Never Take a Shark to the Dentist (and other things not to do). Atheneum Books for Young Readers: 2008. ISBN: 9781416907244.

Never Take a Shark to the Dentist read aloud is lighthearted and wacky and is sure to make kids giggle. The story is playful yet serious because it portrays animals doing humanlike activities. Young children know there is a list of things they should never do and are sure to get a kick out of the no-no’s in this story such as “never holding hands with a lobster”. The repetitive nature of this book is sure to appeal to young, new readers who are just learning to read. It has a two-page spread with a simple line of text on a white background on one page with humorous acrylic paintings on the other. The bright pictures stand out with the stark white borders that surround them. This child-friendly story has an unforeseen happy twist at the end that will put a smile on your child’s face. It is sure to be a charming bedtime favorite for any young child!


Kristin Brown, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

The Hat That Wore Clara B.

Turner-Denstaedt, Melanie. The Hat That Wore Clara B. Farrar, Straus & Giroux: 2009. ISBN: 9780374327941.


The Hat That Wore Clara B. is an inviting story that develops from a sense of anticipation that all young children can relate to. Children can easily empathize with the charming Clara B.’s overwhelming desire to try on her grandma’s exquisite Sunday hat. The anticipation grows as several of Clara’s attempts are foiled. When she finally gets her opportunity, the unexpected happens. However, the author uses expressive, tender language to reassure readers that Clara’s predicament is not unfavorable. A very touching ending leaves the reader with a sense of sweet satisfaction. Rich, descriptive language is used which enables the reader to identify with Clara and her situation. The pictures are done in soft oil paints and show subtle details in the characters faces. This effect masterfully portrays the emotions of all characters. The story is brilliantly told with a plot that young and old can identify with. The author and illustrator work very well together to paint a story which comes to life through both pictures and words.


Kelly Ulinski, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

The Imaginary Garden

Larsen, Andrew. The Imaginary Garden. Kids Can Press Ltd.: 2009. ISBN: 9781554532797.


The Imaginary Garden follows little Theo and her grandpa as they create a garden for Grandpa’s new apartment. Because the concrete jungle of the city disables Grandpa from actually planting a garden similar to the one at his old house, he and Theo must think of an innovative way to appreciate nature outside. When Grandpa leaves on vacation, Theo’s responsibility, creativity, and devotion to the imaginary garden are tested. This charming story reveals a unique companionship held between child and grandparent, allows readers to experience the infinity of an imagination, and makes clear the power of visualization in order to alter your environment. Although the text of the book has much dialogue, for me, the book is about the illustrations. Irene Luxbacher creates a colorful, innocent, and whimsical world by using multiple medium. Her colorful texture and pattern infused objects emphasize the most important parts of the picture as well as provide contrast to the background which is black pen and ink. Anyone who loves to learn, create, garden, or imagine will love the innocent naivety of a childhood experience found in this book.


Jennifer Christopher, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Duck! Rabbit!

Rosenthal, Amy Krouse. Duck! Rabbit! Chronicle Books LLC: 2009. ISBN: 9780811868655.


Duck! Rabbit! takes one image throughout the story and creates two different animal representations. It has a feel similar to Mo Willems’, Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus, as the story is told through two people’s conversation. These two people are fighting between whether or not they see a duck or a rabbit. They each see the animal doing things that help to reinforce why they believe it is either a duck or a rabbit. By the end of the story, they switch opinions and believe the image is the opposite from in the beginning. Then, just when you think the book ends a new image is presented. Now they have to try to figure out if this is an anteater or a brachiosaurus. This book’s “illustrations were rendered in ink, watercolor, and a wee bit of colored pencil”. Each image was presented so simple, yet had enough detail to really accent the author’s writing in a beneficial manner.


Emily Jones, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Endangered! Sharks

Nobleman, Marc Tyler. Sharks. Marshall Cavendish Benchmark: 2009. ISBN: 9780761429883.

Nobleman takes Sharks, a somewhat terrifying topic to most people, and puts the intimidating creatures into a new perspective. Sharks are normally looked upon as a malicious creatures and are known, especially in movies, for human attacks. However, after reading the factual information presented, the reader is somewhat sympathetic to the predators that seem to be increasingly becoming the prey. The illustrations are fabulous photographs with a variety of interesting angles and perspectives. By looking at the photos I feel like I have had a close up encounter with a real shark. The captions and index are very well laid out and informative. This book is a very captivating and powerful one which will make the reader want to go out and learn more about sharks and how to save the sharks from becoming endangered.


Ashley Martin, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

You Can Do It!

Dungy, Tony. You Can Do It! Little Simon Inspirations: 2008. ISBN: 9781416954613.


This is a kid friendly realistic account of Tony Dungy’s little brother, Linden, in You Can Do It! He is a third grade student having a horrible day at school. Linden is represented as the class clown, always getting in mischief at school. He is the youngest family member who is the least motivated and has not found his passion in life. Everyone else in his family recognizes their special talent, however Linden realizes all he wants is to make people smile. With his family’s encouragement, a helpful brother, and an inspiration from God Linden learns that he can do anything. After an unusual trip to the dentist office, he realizes that being a dentist is a vocation that assists people in smiling. This religious based text is captivating to readers that might be having a dilemma in his or her personal life. This is an inspirational book that reveals that having faith is very valuable throughout life. The watercolor paintings in this book are whimsically sketched with a black outline of figures is an animated way to show the feelings Linden exhibits.

Torri Saul, bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Blue

Stockland, Patricia. Blue. Magic Wagon: 2009. ISBN: 9781602702561.


Blue is a non-fiction book based around the color blue. Patricia Stockland uses simple phrases to explain what the color blue is, and objects that are blue. Beach bags, swimsuits, boats, water, and birds are just a few of the items used in the pictures that are blue. The repetitive text makes it easy for young students to catch on to the simple words, and allows them to predict what the next page will say. The illustrations are done with watercolors and mainly blue hues are used making the images really correlate with the information about the color blue. An informational page at the end of the book would be very beneficial for young students because it offers facts about the color wheel and primary colors. Any child just learning his/her colors would enjoy this simplistic, engaging book about the color blue! And the best part is, it belongs to a series of color books in which the student could learn other colors through a different book similar to this one!


Michelle Oberdick, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Madam President

Smith, Lane. Madam President. Hyperion Books for Children: 2008. ISBN: 9781423108467.


In this patriotic fiction story, Madam President, a freckled face fun loving little girl wakes up one morning, after reading a book about Presidents, and wonders what it would be like to be President. The spunky girl begins at breakfast with an executive order for “More waffles, please,” and proceeds to negotiate a treaty between a cat and dog before vetoing tuna casserole for lunch. Finally, at day’s end she is asked to contain a disaster area. The undemanding language allows young readers to begin to grasp the wide array of powers which belong to the Executive Branch. The colorful and animated illustrations of Lane add thoughtfulness to the day. Madam President’s facial expressions and wispy hair paint a picture of what she must be thinking of her ever-growing duties. In an “oval office” (bedroom) scene a collage of historical “artifacts” covers the floor; for any age, this collage would spark wonderful historical dialogue. This fast moving story makes the study of government just a little more kid-friendly.


Erin L. Schneider, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

For the Love of Autumn

Polacco, Patricia. For the Love of Autumn. Philomel Books: 2008. ISBN: 9780399245411.


In For the Love of Autumn Polacco has masterfully woven together another inviting, heart-warming, sure to be “exactly the one” realistic narrative that any kitten-loving student would choose to read or have read to him. A love story on many levels, Autumn, an orphaned kitten, becomes “the heartbeat of the house” for new teacher Danielle Parks, her adoring students, and a mystery neighbor, who wonderfully cares for the mischievous kitten during a “stormy” night. Polacco’s signature red-headed freckle-faced youngsters and wispy haired Miss Parks seek to unravel the mystery of the intermittent custody they share with the unidentified individual, leading to an unpredictable epilogue that is heart-warmingly powerful. Polacco’s readers will be in love at first sight, whether it is ash-covered Autumn exploring a sooty cottage chimney or prodigal Autumn appearing at her own eulogy. Using pencil and marker, this beloved Michigan author and illustrator welcomes us into Miss Parks’ home of patterned pillows and colorful carpets, sharing views of ankles, laps, and tops of birdbaths from the scampering kitten’s perspective.


Rhonda Huddle, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

El Barrio

Chocolate, Debbi. El Barrio. Henry Holt and Company, LLC: 2009. ISBN: 9780805074574.

David Diaz's illustrations in El Barrio take the reader on a journey through life in a Southern California barrio with bright and sometimes jarring photographs of murals, textures and mosaics from his hometown. The Day of the Dead Skeleton makes you reel back in shock and takes away from your supposed enjoyment of the book. It is an exploration of Spanish terms that both intrigue and frustrate the reader throughout. A limited knowledge of basic Spanish terms offered a bit of assistance but not enough. A glossary was discovered that was neither mentioned nor placed where you could find it easily. It is assumed that proper placement would be on the inside back cover. El Barrio is an infusion of culture with repetitive text that draws you in and then confuses you. It is a bilingual exploration of family and tradition at la iglesia (the church), mariachi bands, munching on churros (a cinnamon treat) and watching grandparents dance. A child like revelation that his sister is growing up is awkwardly out of context. The question remains as to the enjoyment of the book with the pieced together illustrations, backgrounds that don’t seem to fit and sporadic topics that jump from one thing to the next.


Shannon Leary, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Living Sunlight: How Plants Bring the Earth to Life

Bang, Molly. Chisholm, Penny. Living Sunlight: How Plants Bring the Earth to Life. Blue Sky Press: 2009. ISBN: 9780545044226.

This factual picture book, Living Sunlight, has more of an imaginative feel rather than a sterile science text. It is a deceptively educational story. Additional learning points are presented at the conclusion of the story, making it adaptable for any grade level. The language is simply phrased throughout. The colorful, full page pictures easily teach how important plants are to every living thing on earth. The hand drawn, descriptive illustrations also convey abstract concepts such as photosynthesis and how living things receive energy from the sun. Yellow dots representing the sun’s life-giving energy and warmth, blanket the Earth on every page thus showing its importance. The glowing dots fill all the living things pictured. The text is written by the sun, who invites the reader to explore the miracle of plants and energy. It will capture any reader. Brilliant!

Charlene Turner, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

If You Were a Fraction

Shaskan, Trisha Speed. If You Were a Fraction. Picture Window Books: 2009. ISBN: 9781404847903.

Trisha Speed Shaskan’s If You Were a Fraction teaches fractions using real-life examples and imagery that appeal to all age levels. This informational picture book contains a glossary, index, suggested readings, and website for future expansion on the concept of fractions. The book entices readers by pulling them into the situations and places where the fractions are found. Flowing from the masterfully sketched illustrations and the rhythm of the story the reader in whisked into setting and experience first hand how fractions emerge from everyday activities. Simplistic illustrations allow the fractions to pop off the page and draw the reader’s attention to the concept at hand. Fractions are presented in simple form with the end introducing the next step of reducing fractions. Whether reviewing fractions or creating an engaging way to reach students on a difficult concept this book demonstrates with visual and written expression to reach all levels of students. From the simplistic imagines to the varied writing the book has great use and teach ability.


Ashley Schumm, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Otto Runs For President

Wells, Rosemary. Otto Runs for President. Scholastic Press: 2008. ISBN: 9780545037228.


In Otto Runs for President election frenzy takes its toll at Barkadelphia School when two rival stereo-typed dogs, Tiffany (a French poodle) and Charles (an English bulldog), combat for the class presidential candidacy. Their true bark and bite are demonstrated as they indulge themselves in their vanity and self-centered personalities. Like politicians, they engage others to implement any scheme to gain positive attention while they destroy each other by employing negative techniques. Even though the author does not directly name the political campaign strategies and techniques practiced, she creatively incorporates examples of them at a level that an upper grade elementary and middle school student could comprehend. Throughout the book, her colored pencil illustrations present the strategies and techniques by using activities and school materials found daily in any elementary and middle school setting. The vocabulary is simple; no political terminology appears even though the concepts are developed using conversational dialogue. Emotions flare as the candidates bombard each other with their demeaning plans. While all eyes are on the next political moves of Tiffany and Charles, another dog unexpectedly enters the presidential race. Could his grass root, ordinary mutt personality and interest of the constituents be genuine enough to be the dark horse candidate? This book demonstrates the proper way of running a campaign right from an initial paw signature petition to the election results. This book creatively examines the campaign process and the effects it has on the candidates.

Celeste Eirich, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Paula Bunyan

Root, Phyllis. Paula Bunyan. Farrar, Straus and Giroux: 2009. ISBN: 9780374357597.

Paula Bunyan is the wonderfully upbeat story about Paul Bunyan’s little (although equally large) sister. Just like her big brother, she finds that she can’t fit in with the Eastern folks. With the help of her parents, she packs up, and sets off for the far North. This is the story about her exploits. Once there, she befriends the wolves (whom she teaches to sing in three part harmony) and an angry bear. She is dismayed when she discovers the work of the lumberjacks, and they are dismayed when she drives them off with some north-country mosquitoes.
You can read about her many adventures as she sings her way through her story. Kevin O’Malley’s pictures help capture the mood of the story. Done as both black and white sketches and full color, they add to the story’s charm. I think this would be a wonderful read aloud for kindergarten through second grade. All students will love this story, especially the part about the flying bear!



Karen Zapiecki, Bowling Freen State University, EDTL 6950

Peter Spit a Seed at Sue

Koller, Jackie French. Peter Spit a Seed at Sue. Viking: 2008. ISBN: 9780670063093.


In the wonderfully whimsically fictional story of Peter Spit a Seed at Sue, Jackie French Koller uses rhythm and rhyme in this tongue twisting text of fun loving trouble involving watermelon seeds. Starting as a boring morning in a picturesque town, four children are at a loss for fun when a watermelon salesman crosses their path, and they start to spit seeds at each other. This freefalls into more excitement with townspeople as the friendly battle begins. Will anyone stop them? Koller uses action oriented text and magnifies certain words for more significance. The oil pastel and watercolors are vibrant and advances the plot through pictures. A child could read the book without using the words. The kid friendly and brilliantly conceived story will make anyone want to eat watermelon and have the pleasure of spitting a seed at someone special.



Holly Matla, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Ballyhoo Bay

Sierra, Judy. Ballyhoo Bay. Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers: 2009. ISBN: 9781416958888.

July Sierra has created a whimsical, animated tale, Ballyhoo Bay, which takes place at a perfect summer destination, the beach! In this engaging adventure, an energetic Mira Bella teaches babies, grandmas, otters and pelicans a variety of art mediums while working in the midst of the sand and surf. Young and old alike will enjoy the predictable rhythm and rhyme this text has to offer, along with humorous hyperboles, and kid-friendly storyline. Readers will capture the characters’ emotions through both expressive dialogue and exaggerated facial expressions. But the gleeful adventure soon comes to a halt as ominous, gray clouds begin to roll in, mirroring feelings of gloom and defeat. Developers have decided to turn peaceful Ballyhoo Bay into an exclusive vacation resort. Mira Bella rallies her forces with banners and signs, marching them straight to Ballyhoo Hall. The group is determined to convince the town council to change their despicable plans. The plot continues to seamlessly unfold with the use of vibrant, acrylic illustrations. The characters convincingly present their own “Plan B”, simply leave the beach the way it is.

Terry Meyer, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

The Rubber-Legged Ducky

Keller, John G. The Rubber-Legged Ducky. Harcourt: 2008. ISBN: 9780152052898.


When a duckling is born differently than his siblings, he encounters a lot of grief from the other farm animals in this tender fictional tale The Rubber-Legged Ducky. His family looks at his rubber leg as a special characteristic; however, he must prove himself to the other animals. Keller uses an inviting storyline to draw children in and engage them within the trials of the duckling. The story is a comforting reminder to a reader that it is a good thing to be proud of yourself. The author does a fantastic job of stressing the value of uniqueness. Gentle humorous events are encountered by the duck throughout this kid friendly tale. Henry Cole’s bright, colorful acrylic and ink illustrations are very captivating and realistic. These pictures are very animated and tell the story for a non-reader. Children and adults alike will be very empathetic with the odd duck, and the ending is very satisfying.



Ashley Martin, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Firefighter

Rau, Dana Meachen. Firefighter. Marshall Cavendish Benchmark, 2008. ISBN: 9780761426172.

Firefighter is an inviting factual look at the materials used by a firefighter. Each of the rebus words used is a photo of the main word, in the short 4-5 word sentences. The entire book is completed in 9 pages of text. The pictures are a realistic view in the day and life of a firefighter and what predictable adventure awaits the firefighter for each day. The vibrantly colored photographs masterfully depict the adventure of the day and life of a firefighter. Firefighter is kid-friendly, easy and inviting book for all children and brilliantly brings the firefighter to life. This book is excellent for young non-readers, and relates how words and pictures have meaning.

Bridget Harding, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Waiting for Benjamin: A Story about Autism

Altman, Alexandra Jessup. Waiting for Benjamin A Story about Autism. Albert Whitman & Company, 2008. ISBN: 9780807573648.


Alexandra Jessup Altman is a Senior Interventionist for the Autism Spectrum Program for the HowardCenter for Human Services; therefore, with her background knowledge she was able to create a realistic fiction book with a heart wrenching, emotional account of how a big brother, Alexander, deals with his brother Ben’s diagnosis of autism. Altman takes the reader on an emotionally narrative roller coaster leaving one empathetic, understanding, and enlightened into the trials and tribulations an entire family faces upon diagnosis. “Zander” experiences anger, embarrassment in front of friends, envy of the attention and praise Ben receives, and frustration. The text flows smoothly leaving one eager for a contented ending. The pictures are boldly colored paintings with vivid brushstrokes, yet Susan Keeter (illustrator) is still able to capture detailed, telling facial expressions of the characters. Due to Altman’s experiences, she is able to portray reasonable emotions for adults, kids, and teachers who are dealing with acceptance of a disability. This book can easily be used as a read aloud for K-2 or as an independent read for 3-6, but regardless of age Waiting for Benjamin is sure to lead to meaningful, deep discussion where kids can feel free to express how they relate to the characters.

Kerry Fatzinger, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Ducks Quack

Scheunemann, Pam. Ducks Quack. ABDO Publishing Company: 2009. ISBN: 9781604535716.

This vibrant book, Ducks Quack, introduces children to an astonishing, yet not overwhelming variety of interesting facts about ducks. A glossary is provided for unfamiliar words along with an entertainingly clever account of duck sounds in different languages. Young children would appreciate the bright bold text which uses simple words along with new “duck” vocabulary to introduce new ideas. More advanced students are challenged with the “fact boxes” included on each page which provide supplementary information about the fact presented on that specific page. Immediate attention is drawn to the real-life photographs that encompass the entire span of each page. These action shots help to accurately depict the information given so the reader can truly see what the author is explaining. This kid friendly book offers an easy and inviting flare that entices children at diverse reading levels to take a closer look. Engaging pictures and clever use of words and information easily draw the attention of young readers.

Kelly Ulinski, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950

Math Attack

Horton, Joan. Math Attack. Farrar, Straus and Giroux: 2009. ISBN: 9780374348618.

In Math Attack, Joan Horton takes the reader into the often dreaded world of arithmetic and introduces a frustrated young lady who experiences math trouble. Through vivid, detailed illustrations and rhythmic poetry that bring the reader back into the classroom, you immediately are taken on an adventure in which a young lady finds herself unable to remember her math facts. Little did she know that agonizing over simple multiplication would unleash a whirlwind of chaos affecting not only her classroom and school, but her quaint, uneventful town. Throughout the day many people are found trying to help this unfortunate young lady ranging from what one may imagine as a typical, well meaning nurse to the obtrusive efforts of the National Guard. Only the main character can stop the domino effect her basic math skills has (or lack of) on her town and finds it within herself to make it happen. From the seemingly minute details on each wonderfully illustrated scene to the whimsical, poetic dialogue, the reader is immediately pulled into a world where knowing your math facts can make the difference between a calm, serene school day to a wild, action-packed day where anything can happen.

Laura Guadiz, Bowling Green State University, EDTL 6950