Sarah Tsiang

I read this with my little one and she liked it even more than I expected her to and a lot more than I did. I will rate this based on her experience because I am undoubtedly not the target demographic.

There is a lot going on on the pages of this book but the pictures are definitely the highlight. The graphics are vivid, whimsical, sweet and fun. The text, on the other hand, is rhythmic and cute. It questions persistent gender specific labels and offers up some really unique alternatives. My daughter's favorite alternative was, "Maybe it was boys are made of balloons and mutts? And fresh chicken butts"...oh, how Littles love all talk of hineys.

Overall, I would reccomend this to those in the 2-5 year old range. The message is a good one. The graphics are silly and engaging and my daughter really enjoyed the package as a whole BUT I wish it had a stronger ending. The end just stops, no true feeling of things being wrapped up nicely...oh well, opportunity missed though I still I would reccomend this one. It's sweet and the message is worth sharing.

*** I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ***… (mehr)

I am not sure how I feel about this book. The illustrations are amazing and really have a haunting type feel to them. The story is about how "The Night Children" come out of the shadows when it starts to get dark, so all the children should go inside. During the night they play harmless pranks like tearing the leaves off trees, dancing on the rooftops, stealing slices of the moon etc. When dawn comes, this children wake up and The Night Children hide in the shadows until night comes again. It is told in a poetic form, but I am just not sure if children will understand the story.

Thank you Netgalley and Annick Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.… (mehr)