Reviews by Andrea Dochney of the Oakland Public Library
Balloons Over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade
By: Melissa Sweet
Ever wondered about the first balloons used in the beloved Thanksgiving parade? Melissa Sweet takes us into the story of puppeteer Tony Sarg, who first created the balloons now famous in the Macy’s parade. The colorful watercolor and collage illustrations delight the eye as we learn how the Macy’s parade transformed from the typical float parade to the magical balloons that float above onlookers. The true story is education and engaging and extols the benefits of truly creative and visionary thinking.
Over the River and Through the Wood
By: Lydia Child and Matt Tavares
A beautiful presentation of the holiday classic, Matt Tavares brings to life the well-known song. The illustrations are lively and truly bring to life the holiday spirit. In light of our recent snowstorm, readers will identify with the snowy scenes. The book concludes with the best and most delicious reward at the end of the long journey, a thanksgiving feast!
Thanksgiving Day
By: Dorothy Goeller
Simple bright cartoon style figures tell the tale of five turkeys fleeing Thanksgiving dinner in this early reader. The text and concept are simple, humorous and straightforward, perfect for any beginning reader looking for a holiday tale.
Call for a New Alphabet
By: Jef Czekaj
A study in alphabet democracy, the letter X decides he tired of life in the back of the alphabet. As he calls for a change in the alphabet constitution, X experiences new grammatical rules and variations and decides life might not be so bad where he is. A good read for those students frustrated with learning grammar rules, the book is part graphic novel and part picture book.