February brings new tales of presidents and black history.
The White House: A Pop-Up of Our Nation’s Home
By Robert Sabua
Best for: Ages 6-9
There is no question as to who the king of pop-up books is: Robert Sabuda. Part artist, part engineer, all storyteller. From The Wizard of Oz to Peter Pan to The White House, Sabuda brings such detail and wonder to his creations that readers are transported into the environments. In The White House, Sabuda takes readers on a tour of the president’s home, beginning with the North Face and visiting the East Room, the Lincoln Bedroom, the Rose Garden, the Oval Office and the South Lawn of the White House. Each spread offers interesting information about the rooms and a stanza from the poem “Inauguration Day” by Richard Watson Gilder.
If you are a pop-up collector or fan of Sabuda, you won’t be disappointed. If you are interested in American history or traveling to Washington, D.C., you won’t be disappointed either. From a spread of the chandelier in the East Room to the full White House façade, each work will make you say, “Wow!”
What’s good: Amazing craftsmanship that offers a chance to create wonder.
What’s bad: The poem seemed superfluous, but the facts added more interest.
Two Friends: Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglas
By Dean Robbins
Illustrated by Sean Qualls & Selina Alko
Best for: Ages 4-8
Children who are learning about civil rights could surely use this primer about two of the movement’s huge icons: Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglas. Robbins excels at including both individuals’ biographic information while simultaneously sharing their thoughts on civil rights. The illustrations use mixed media to capture the moment these two figures meet for tea and discuss why some people have rights and others don’t. Obviously, they both want all people to be treated equally. The story is intricately woven to really capture the essence of life in the late 1800s. Two Friends will be a great addition for any classroom setting.
What’s good: The engaging illustrations keep children entertained and wanting to know more.
What’s bad: Longer author’s notes on both Susan B. Anthony’s and Frederick Douglass’ lives would have been nice.
A Birthday Cake for George Washington
By Ramin Ganeshram
Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton
Best for: Ages 7-10
History is filled with interesting stories. Sometimes we get to share them as picture books. In this story we hear about a real event through the voice of Chef Hercules’ daughter. The chef takes great pride in his work and desires to make the best birthday cake ever. Unfortunately, the sugar is missing. The daughter’s eagerness drives the pacing of this story and highlights the family bond. Through it all, a bittersweet taste is left in your mouth as you realize the chef and his daughter are slaves. Although they get to bake for the president and taste treats, the one thing they will never taste is freedom
A Birthday Cake for George Washington is a good book for classroom story time, for discussing presidential birthdays and for Black History Month. It is satisfying for both the visual style and the tasty text.
What’s good: Subtle storytelling allows for a sweet family tale in the midst of slavery.
What’s bad: The lack of focus on the slavery aspects of the story could be seen as a failing.