Cloth Lullaby: the Woven Life of Louise Bourgeous

Author: Amy Novesky
Illustrator: Isabelle Arsenault

Abrams Books for Young Readers (2016) ; Grades 2 and up

This is the story of the life of Louise Bourgeois, world-renowned artist best known for her giant spider sculptures. We learn what inspired Louise's artistry from her childhood including her mother, the family business and the outdoors.

The prose in this book are age appropriate. Hand written in upper case letters makes for easier reading. The author provides additional notes in the back of the book for the more curious.

The illustrations in this book are beautiful. The colors of soft with an interesting blend of mostly blues and reds intermixed with pops of yellows. But what makes these illustrations really interesting is that the illustrator employs a technique that makes the images feel textured.

I did not know about the life of Louise Bourgeois but was inspired by this intriguing book enough to do more research on this artist. This book would provide a wonderful backdrop for a discussion about the inner workings and habits of those who are creative.

Reviewed by Colleen Boff

Wolf Hollow

Written by: Lauren Wolk

Dutton Childrens Books-Penguin Young Readers Group (an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC)

2016; Grades 5-8

Eleven year old Annabelle, the straightforward and sweetly honest protagonist of this story, must cross through Wolf Hollow on her way to school every day with her two younger brothers in small town Pennsylvania in the mid 1940's. Eccentric and loner Toby, a veteran of WWI, quietly watches over them as they pass through the hollow each day and attempt to navigate the cruel antics from the class bully, Betty. A particularly violent incident occurs one day in the hollow instigated by Betty that embroils this cast of characters and the whole town in an investigation that brings out both the disappointing and commendable sides of human nature. 

It is no wonder that this author won the Newbery Honor Award for this book. Each character has depth and the plot makes the reader anxious to read to the end. 

There are so many rich discussion points in this book from grappling with moral dilemmas and bullies to what happens when a whole town sets its mind to liking or disliking someone. There are several heartbreaking moments in this book but I loved the unflappable character and dignity of Annabelle. I would highly recommend this book. 

Review by Colleen Boff

It Came in the Mail

Written and illustrated by Ben Clanton
Simon & Schuster (2016) Ages: Kindergarten - 3rd Grade

Have you ever noticed how much the love of receiving mail changes with age? Of course, as one gets older they are likely  unenthused by mail, as mail for adults typically consists of advertisements, appointment reminders, and dreaded bills. However, for kids, receiving mail is like opening a gift on Christmas. It is a magical experience for them because, as kids, they typically receive much neater items in the mail such as gift cards, letters from grandparents, and many other goodies. Liam, the main character, experienced the magic of receiving neat things in the mail, but perhaps things that are a little out of the ordinary such as dragons, flying wails, talking pineapples, and comical funny bones. One might think that receiving mail such as this is the best gift of all. But the young boy soon finds that there is indeed something better than receiving mail. Check out this book to see what it is! 

This author appears to have a set means of approaching the reader. I admire his style as I found subtle hints of humor an adult may understand and enjoy. It reminds me of childhood movies that I rewatch today as an adult and hind more humor and jokes that I may not have understood as a child. 

The illustrations are clever in my opinion because the picture are clean, organized, and keeps the reader engaged, wanting to turn to the next page to see the next illustration. Ben Clanton very cleverly adds stamps to the mailed animals and other magical creatures that may be found on mail packages. 

I recommend this book to families that love to read to their children before bedtime. It is humorous for both children and adults, it is quick to read, and engages children to be excited and informed about the mailing system. For teachers, it may be a useful way to lead into a letter writing unit.


Reviewed by Katherine McPhillips