From School Library Journal
Grade 1-3-Yanni lives in a small Greek village and has taken over the job of hauling away the town's garbage while his father is working in Germany. He and his donkey are cruelly taunted by the other boys, who nickname him "Yanni Rubbish," but he and his mother eventually come up with an inspired solution to deal with the problem. The story presents an accurate picture of life in a poor Greek community as well as a gentle lesson on teasing. The impressionistic oil paintings in predominantly tans, blues, browns, and creams are beautifully done; each one in itself an artistic statement. A story that is of value for its focus on the universal problem of teasing and its positive solution.
Judith Constantinides, East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
Judith Constantinides, East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
From Kirkus Reviews
A resonant story unfolds quickly under Oppenheim's sure hand. Yanni, a boy living in a Greek village, has the task of driving a beat-up wagon, collecting garbage for his father, who has taken temporary work in Germany. Yanni's playmates are cruel to him, jeering at the cart and the poor donkey who pulls it. His mother is sympathetic, butgratifyinglyit is Yanni who makes changes and alters the depressing situation. A family photograph persuades him that paint, a sign, and other improvements will make the wagon something to be proud of. Although the setting is unusual, the family's drastic financial problems, as well as the boy's dilemma, are rendered at a universal level. The well-told story is accompanied by oil paintings that show a dearth of detail; backgrounds are indistinct, yet every picture evokes the mood as well as the actions. The somber tones used early in the book give way to the cheerful blue of the newly painted wagon; the troubles are not over, but it's clear that Yanni and his family will more than endure. (Picture book. 5-8) -- Copyright ©1999, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.
--This text refers to the
Hardcover
edition.
