To Ride a Butterfly

Works gathered in honor of RIF

Kindergarten-Grade 4-- The jacket copy states that 52 of the nation's best-loved authors and artists contributed their work to this volume, the proceeds of which will go to Reading Is Fundamental. However, this is not high-calibre work from many of the parties involved, with some exceptions. "My Mother's Magic Eyes Invent Horses" by Nancy Willard, with an accompanying illustration by Emily Arnold McCully, is a fine collaboration. Barbara Cohen's retelling of a traditional Jewish fable, "God's Bread," has a wry simplicity, and is beautifully complemented by Patricia Polacco's watercolor and pencil sketch. However, Barbara Bush's opening letter seems a model of literary composition and thought compared to, for example, Tomie dePaola's double-page treatment of aging and dreaming. This is a handsomely designed book, oversized with clear, large typeface. Still, a better compilation (although aimed at an older audience and not without its disappointments) is The Big Book for Peace (Dutton, 1990). The proceeds from that volume also go for a good cause, and the quality is better. --Ann Welton, Thomas Academy, Kent, WA
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

In honor of Reading Is Fundamental's 25th anniversary, 52 noted authors and illustrators have contributed original works to this snappy anthology. The writing styles in the eclectic collection range from poetry and songs to fairy tales and scientific nonfiction; authors include Rosemary Wells, Eve Merriam, John Steptoe and Patricia McKissack. A variety of art forms is represented as well, including photographs of constellations and planets, rugged pen and ink sketches and warm watercolor portraits. Of particular interest are a bold, kinetic cat painting by Petra Mathers, a humorous Kanuri folktale illustration by Will Hillenbrand and a tender pencil and watercolor drawing of two old Israeli men by Patricia Polacco. Children will enjoy the diversity, while the adults who read with them will appreciate the introductions by Barbara Bush and RIF officers. Short biographies of the contributors and an index are included. All proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to RIF. Ages 4-8.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Another grab-bag of contributions from well-known authors and illustrators, published in aid of a worthy cause--here, to support RIF (Reading Is Fundamental) on its 25th anniversary. Perhaps because the subject is especially dear to the hearts of the 52 eminent contributors, the result is unusually felicitous; previously, illustrations have tended to outclass text, but here the quality of many of the stories and poems transcends the usual written-to-order tone. Inviting, large-size, and with something for everyone--even science (Franklyn Branley), technology (Seymour Simon), and autobiography (Cynthia Rylant) are represented. Especially rewarding for browsers or at bedtime. (Anthology. 4-10) -- Copyright ©1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.