Kite Day

March 12, 2012
In 2011’s Spring Is Here! Mole worked to awaken Bear from his winter hibernation; both are up and at ’em in this sequel, in which a windy day has Bear rushing to find Mole so they can fly a kite together. Hillenbrand devotes several spreads to the creation of the kite, emphasizing teamwork and the pleasures of construction. The friends’ bright clothing and the gold of the kite stand out like beacons against the muted mixed-media backgrounds, especially when a storm moves in and threatens the fun. The ending, in which the escaped kite finds a new purpose, is a tad abrupt, but narrative repetition and onomatopoeia make this as satisfying a readaloud as its predecessor. Ages 3–6.

February 15, 2012
In this breezy kite affair, the adorable duo of Bear and Mole is back again, reveling in nature. Blue sky and a gusty day make for one ebullient Bear. Huffing home he gathers Mole to commence the kite-making. Together they collect, cut, construct--and find success with their kite until dark clouds appear. A broken string and a spool unspun leave the two racing through rain after a rainbow tail. But urgency turns to quiet joy when their loss (a broken kite) becomes a bird family's gain, as it shelters fledglings from the storm. Simple sentences, often three words or fewer, describe the action, while Hillenbrand's illustrations wonderfully animate the text. The artwork, digitally manipulated pencil with water-based coloring, has a lovely softness; the characters, with their plumpness and simplicity, are extremely appealing. Sophisticated compositions are cinematic or sequentially kinetic, cleverly matching the author's playful use of onomatopoeia. Muted tones that begin the tale give way to darker and more dramatic hues, creating a powerful shift, both visually and emotionally. This gentle and charming read-aloud will make young audiences "awww" with delight. (Picture book. 3-6)

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Starred review from March 1, 2012

PreS-Having determined that the wind is just right for flying kites, Bear and Mole investigate how to make one, gather the materials required, and test out their finished product, with unexpected results. The joyful, exuberant protagonists are set against broad expanses of field and sky, and plenty of white space. This cheerful picture book is a felicitous blend of short text and brightly colored mixedmedia illustrations. It is a winner for storytimes.-Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA

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