Mary McKenna Siddals

Arollicking, rhyming alphabetical recipe for making successful compost. Aiming at young readers and even younger listeners, Siddals keeps the tone light while providing easy instructions on how everyone can participate in this eco-friendly activity. Bright pictures in collage created with recycled and found items are not only well-executed but recall the texture of the materials and tactile experience of the characters in the book. Wolff features a diverse cast of people of all ages collecting, saving, hauling and tossing ingredients to “[j]ust add to the pot / and let it all rot / into Compost Stew.” Kids will also enjoy spotting the frisky Dalmatian and/or helpful duck on each spread. The title begins with an author’s note explaining the roles of lesser-known items and why they make good compost and closes with a “Chef's Note” cautioning all to pay special attention to local regulations as those presented are general recommendations. Consider this recipe an ideal, accessible title to expand composting information for budding environmentalists. (Informational picture book. 3-6)

-Kirkus Review… (mehr)

What color is Halloween? This rhyming romp of a picture book sets out to explore that topic, demonstrating that the spooky holiday is about far more than simply orange and black! From the green of vile brews and clammy skin to the orange of leaves and jack-o-lanterns, many shades contribute to the Halloween experience...

Shivery Shades of Halloween is my first book from both author Mary McKenna Siddals and illustrator Jimmy Pickering, but I hope it will not be my last. With an entertaining, sing-song narrative and bright, colorful illustrations that are full of fun and humor, this would make an excellent read-aloud selection for a Halloween story-time. It is for that purpose that I would recommend it, as well as to those seeking more seasonal concept books exploring colors.… (mehr)