Barbara Reid (1)

In my opinion, The Subway Mouse is a good book. I liked the book because the main character, Nib, is well developed into an adventurous and curious subway mouse. He starts collected things that other people think is trash, and then realizes that he wants to go on an adventure that everyone else is scared to. There is also some suspense and conflict when Nib and his new friend Lola get chased through the tunnel by a gang, which adds some interest to the book. Finally, the illustrations are show more very interesting and almost look like pictures made from clay. Overall, the book provided adventure with a likable main character and intriguing illustrations. show less

The text in the French version is much more literal than the English original and much more focussed on Zoe's own actions, e.g. "manger du maïs soufflé" vs. "Hungry squirrels" and "marcher avec papa" vs. "Rosy cheeks". I absolutely love the English Zoe books and have since they first appeared nearly 30 years ago, but I have to say that for purposes of language learning (whether second-language for kindergarteners or first-language for toddlers) I rather prefer the French.

This book about a travelling grandma instilling a love of travel in a stationary granddaughter with cool souvenirs has potential but then descends into "China is the Great Wall, India is a curry and rice"-level stereotyping.

Marvelous Plasticine illustrations may initially distract young readers from the thought-provoking text in Picture a Tree. Using a combination of Plasticine and paint, Ms. Reid has created beautiful, richly detailed images of trees and the variety of people living, working and playing near them.

Readers are encouraged to notice how trees, whether enormous or freshly planted, change through the year, how various creatures dwell in trees and how the life cycle of a tree can be viewed show more metaphorically. A variety of perspectives are also shown as Ms. Reid illustrates shadows of trees, more than one reflection and the view from above a forest of trees.

You may see a drawing on the sky. A game of dress-up. The first drops of colour then all the art supplies at once.

Simply beautiful, Picture a Tree is sure to inspire young artists and encourage environmental awareness. It is suitable for children aged four and up.

On our list of Wonderful Canadian Picture Books
http://goo.gl/bxDAro show less