Benched

December 1, 2010

Gr 3-6-These hefty, oversize editions of childhood classics include congenial paintings executed by Foreman in previous decades. The artwork is pleasant, but not really dominant here. Though inflated in size, the books employ a traditional layout of illustrated novels with thoughtful, sparing placement of pictures and uninterrupted flow of the original texts. Gentle, often humorous interpretations of characters and events appear in one full-page scene in most chapters; occasional small views and set pieces open and conclude chapters. With paintings that beautifully complement the enduring stories, these might be welcome new editions. Not visually lavish by today's standards, but still showy, they will serve as gift items or for reading aloud in some situations. Libraries with a particular interest in Foreman's work will definitely want them.-Margaret Bush, Simmons College, Boston

Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

January 1, 2011
Grades 2-4 Worried about his parents frequent arguments, Ben starts acting out at school, where he loses recess privileges after fighting on the playground, and on the soccer field, where he is benched for two games after some aggressive moves. Wallace makes the scenes on the soccer field as readable as those set at home and at school. Holders illustrations underscore the characters emotions. Like the other volumes in the Kickers series, this beginning chapter book concludes with a page of soccer tips. Reflecting the story, here they emphasize controlling anger as much as passing the ball and having fun.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2011, American Library Association.)