One of the assignments for my children’s literature course last term was to write 25 annotations (snapshot reviews between 50 and 150 words) on all sorts of kidlit. It was a great opportunity to delve out of my comfort zone of MG spec fic 😉 Today’s post is the second in a series where I share those annotations by type. Links will be updated as the rest of the series goes live.
Board books | Picture books | Early readers | Chapter books | Graphic novels | Middle grade novels | Information books
Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets: A Muslim Book of Shapes by Hena Khan and Mehrdokt Amini
A celebration of Islamic faith and artistry, Hena Khan and Mehrdokt Amini’s Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets depicts Muslim religious practices around the world by way of vibrant designs and shapes seen in various spaces. The first-person narrator describes how the beauty she sees strengthens her faith. A glossary and author’s note that addresses the significance of geometry in Islamic art enhance the book for use as a teaching tool. Age 5+.
Short Stories for Little Monsters by Marie-Louise Gay
Comprised of two page comics, Marie-Louise Gay’s oversized Short Stories for Little Monsters explores how children think and imagine in their own unique ways. Stories include “Snail Nightmares”, “What Games Do Cats Play?”, and “When I Close My Eyes”. Bright and detailed watercolour illustrations feature a racially diverse cast of children. The book is light on narrative substance but full of laughter and creativity. Age 4+.
The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
This classic picture book (noted for featuring a Black child) celebrates the ways that a child can enjoy a fresh snowfall by exploring their curiosities and engaging their imagination. Various textures and bright colours depict the wonder to be found in snow, particularly in its refractions of rainbow colours. The Snowy Day may stir excitement for or curiosity about winter in young readers. Age 2+.
The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch and Michael Martchenko
When a dragon burns down Princess Elizabeth’s castle and steals Prince Ronald, she dons a paper bag and tracks down the dragon to confront him. This classic picture book subverts fairy tale tropes with a clever princess who doesn’t need rescuing. Ages 4+.
Miss Little’s Gift by Douglas Wood and Jim Burke
Kids who struggle with learning to read may find camaraderie and encouragement in this picture book memoir. Second grader Douglas isn’t happy with having to stay after school to practice reading, but his teacher Miss Little patiently supports him as he works through a picture book that connects to his own experiences. Wood captures the emotions of frustration, impatience, and eventual joy that accompany the learning process, while Burke’s oil painted illustrations capture the 1950s setting and mood of the story. In an author’s note, Wood further explains how ADHD affected him. Age 6+.
Crescent Moons and Pointed Minarets always looks so beautiful, but I haven’t read it yet. The Paper Bag Princess is one of my favorites. I love the twist at the end and the princess’s cleverness.
Crescent Moons really is lovely – in words as well as illustrations. I enjoyed taking in the bold colours and patterns. The Paper Bag Princess is still a great classic!