Graphics rule!

The books in today's Battle of the Kids' Books' match are both visually striking.  Sweethearts of Rhythm is illustrated by Jerry Pinkney, one of the supreme beings of illustration.  Every painting is a treat.  Marilyn Nelson's poems tell the story of the first all-female swing band by letting the band instruments speak.  The Storm in the Barn by Matt Phelan is a graphic fairy tale about dust storms during the Depression and one boy's struggles with finding his place in a time of worry.  Done in grays and browns, this book gives the reader a lot to see and ponder.

Anita Silvey, the judge for today's match, points out that both books describe America's history in different almost equally appealing ways.  She chose The Storm in the Barn  to go on to Round 2.  Read her explanation.  And then, read both books to see if you agree.

Tomorrow's match between Shaun Tan's Tales from Outer Suburbia and Rebecca Stead's When You Reach Me is the final match in Round 1.  The Parkland Community Library YS staff is split between these great books.  Stay tuned!

As April approaches, the YS staff is preparing for National Poetry Month and National Kite Month with the Fly a Poem activity.  Check the Children's area for more information.