Sharon, Lois and Bram's Skinnamarink

June 15, 2019
A beloved children's song is expanded for a new generation. Sharon, Lois, and Bram, a folk trio from Toronto, began singing "Skinnamarink" in 1978. They didn't write the song, but it gained fame thanks to their popular Canadian TV show, The Elephant Show. With three new verses written by Sharon's daughter, Randi, this catchy ditty is re-imagined for a new audience of youngsters. Beginning with the classic lines "I love you in the morning, / and in the afternoon. // I love you in the evening, / underneath the moon," young tots are encouraged to find and share love at all times of the day. The new verses expand to cover emotions ("I love you when you're happy, / and when you're feeling blue"), geography ("I love you in the Arctic, the desert, by the sea") and seasons ("I love you in the summer, / the fall and winter too"). The landscape orientation showcases the growing crowd that joins in to sing during the chorus, which turns into a full-fledged happy throng of many races, ethnicities, abilities, ages, and even species (fans of Sharon, Lois, and Bram will delight in the large pachyderm included). The smooth timing of the page turns lends the book beautifully to reading--or, of course, singing--aloud, but the relatively small figures and busy compositions mean it will be best enjoyed up close or in a lap. A lighthearted frolic ready for a rousing singalong. (Picture book. 3-6)

COPYRIGHT(2019) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

August 19, 2019
One of the world’s best-loved children’s songs is now a picture book, with extended verses that are as catchy and joyful as the original 1978 tune. The poignant, simple message of encouragement and love remains as resonant and pertinent as ever. Verses expand upon the theme of empathy, helping children to understand that love persists through transient moods and behaviors. Leng’s ink-and-watercolor illustrations are as effervescent as the melody, with a soft wit and charm reminiscent of Quentin Blake’s work. Each colorful spread bursts with life and inclusivity (families of all sorts show each other care; a child in a wheelchair dances alongside a hijabi girl), welcoming readers into detailed commotion and celebration. A joyful sing-aloud book that will have readers humming its tune long after its covers are closed. Ages 3–7.