Yo! Yes?

A book with just 34 words seems a risky choice for an audio production, yet this innovative Caldecott Honor story pulls it off. This tale of a growing friendship is told through minimal dialogue and has a decidedly urban feeling: It's propelled by a finger-snapping, rap-like rhythm, complete with the occasional siren in the background. The two children narrating do an excellent job, infusing their few words ("What's up?"/"Not much.") with a surprising depth of meaning that conveys the subtle emotions and risks of getting acquainted with another person. Children will enjoy this treat for the eyes, ears, and imagination. J.C.G. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine

March 1, 1993
Raschka's innovative picture book aims to explore the nature of friendship in only 34 words. It's a risk, but as a writer and artist Raschka is no stranger to risk-taking--his debut ( Charlie Parker Played Be Bop ) was a sly, joyous exercise in avant-garde that stretched the definition of picture book. And here, he does the same. After the briefest of exchanges, two boys--one black, one white, one shy, one outgoing, one nerdy, one street-smart--decide to take a chance on friendship. Like a two-character play with no scenery and minimal dialogue, the story relies on the expressiveness of the ``actors'' and the raw energy of the artwork to hook the reader. Raschka's watercolor and charcoal pencil illustrations certainly do the trick--they're brash, witty and offbeat, and easily portray a vigorous range of emotion. At least in the small realm of this cheeky picture book, less is definitely more. Ages 3-6.