Kimmelman's (Hanukkah Lights, Hanukkah Nights) round-the-table expressions of gratitude in verse bog down with forced rhymes and cloying characterizations. As a large family gathers, young Jesse sets the tone: "They're coming for turkey/ and stuffing and pie,/ for hugs and for kisses/ and handshakes and `hi.' " Once seated for the meal, Nana suggests they each express their thanks. Cousin Milo describes holding the flag at the school assembly ("Everybody came:/ the principal, the teachers,/ and Mayor What's-His-Name"); Susan talks about her speech therapist ("Every Thurthday, all latht year,/ I went to thee Mith Vandermeer"). Cote's (The Can-Do Thanksgiving) spot illustrations, as simpering as the text, do little to flesh out the speakers. Ages 5-8.
Copyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Kindergarten-Grade 2-Through rhymes, the members of an extended family take turns sharing what they are grateful for on Thanksgiving. This collection of short poems begins and ends with young Jesse, who interjects comments throughout in italics. The first page features a family tree with each of the characters' portraits. The illustrations are lively and colorful, and show the many situations for which the individuals give thanks. The concept has potential, but falls flat in its execution. Peggy's selection is filled with "Yakity-yaks" and teen-speak ("I'm thankful, you know,/for my new phone, see?/Briiing! Gotta go./That's prob'ly for me!"). Mark and Aunt Julie's poem is written in alternating lines about how they met in a coffee shop after having a morning full of mishaps. Jesse asks, "Is Aunt Julie getting married again, Mom?" "She sure is, Jesse." The poems are all over the map in terms of subject, length, and rhythm, and have only the illustrations to tie them together. One poem is about how Aunt Terry and Uncle Dave went far away to adopt Kaitlyn. It is accompanied by Asian symbols, but the country and culture of their daughter are not identified. Although the idea of each family member giving thanks may sound like a worthy subject, this attempt lacks child appeal in tone and structure.
Genevieve Gallagher, New York Public Library
Copyright 2002 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
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