My Son John - Softcover

PreSchool-Grade 2-From the very first "Yellow, yellow sunup,/My son Ed,/Up he jumps/From out of bed," to the last familiar "Diddle diddle dumpling," this book is a feast for the eyes and ears. Aylesworth amplifies the simple nursery classic with a rainbow of rich, descriptive verses on additional names, evoking all of the five senses in the process. The rhymes are enhanced by an exceptional layout using brilliant woodcuts done with brightly colored oils. Each double-page spread features a full-page illustration on the left, with the rhyme facing it. A cast of multicultural children is shown joyfully carrying out various farm chores throughout the day. The singsong rhythm should have the same immediate appeal to children as Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault's Chicka Chicka Boom Boom (S.&S., 1989), Bill Martin Jr.'s Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? (1983), and Aylesworth's Old Black Fly (1992, both Holt). It will be a hit in story time, and could also serve as a creative writing stimulus to children making up similar rhymes to fit their own names. Beautifully integrated in text and design, this is a book to savor and enjoy again and again.
Judy Constantinides, East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Ages 3-6. Aylesworth, who's always so good with a rhyming beat, introduces a lively cast of characters to clap, march, or jump along with. In the tradition of "Diddle Diddle Dumpling, My Son John," Aylesworth offers 14 new verses, for example: Bonny bonny bridal, / My daughter Rose. / Combs her mare / in old work clothes. Hay in hair / and dirt on nose. / Bonny bonny bridal, / My daughter Rose." Most of the rhymes have to do with children doing everyday tasks--schoolwork, gardening, or taking care of pets--or playing, eating, and getting ready for bed. The artwork, full-page color woodcuts that face the text, is an absolute delight. The elongated shapes and interesting perspectives are well suited to Frampton's playful use of color mixing; for instance, the picture of the boy drowning his pancakes in maple syrup is executed in three colors: orange, purple, and tan. A charmer that will be especially fun to read to groups. Ilene Cooper