Ruby's Sword

February 1, 2019
A quiet picture book explores sibling squabbles and the powers of imagination and, ultimately, reconciliation.Spunky Ruby finds three "swords"--long sticks in a clearing--and offers two of them to her older brothers, who have raced ahead of her. When they engage in play between themselves and leave Ruby out again, she "storm[s] off in a cloud of dust and disappointment." With her sword, she spears apples ("a royal feast") and helps a colony of ants traverse a puddle ("loyal subjects saved"). As a storm gathers overhead, Ruby raises her "trusty sword" while "wild winds [whip]." When a mighty gust blows a sheet off a clothesline, Ruby catches it with her stick and uses it to build a "magnificent castle"--with the help of her brothers, who return to her with peace offerings (twigs, rocks, dandelions). Zakimi's beautifully illustrated double-page spreads capture Ruby's bouncy bob, the anger in her eyes, and the windy, leaf-strewing storm. She adds delightful, whimsical grace notes in the form of two rabbits and a squirrel who engage in playful shenanigans on almost every page. Their anthropomorphic behaviors further enhance the theme of make-believe. Ruby and her brothers both have very light brown skin and straight, dark hair.A charmer. (Picture book. 3-5)

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April 1, 2019

PreS-Gr 1-Little snub-nosed Ruby wants to play with her brothers, but they ignore her as the two go off on their own. While meandering through the meadow, Ruby comes across three long sticks that would make perfect swords, so she shares them with her siblings, who, once again, exclude her as they have a make-believe fencing match. Since she has no one with whom to play, she makes her own entertainment, using her stick to draw, to assist a colony of ants, and to knock apples off a tree. When Ruby uses her stick and her imagination once more, her brothers decide they want to play her game and make amends. The three children have an idyllic place to frolic, which includes friendly insects, curious critters, sunshine, and blooming flowers that make the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of fun. Digitally finished illustrations in pencil and watercolor are bright, and cheerful and young readers will be charmed by the rabbits and squirrel that mimic some of the children's antics. Using ordinary objects and one's imagination can turn a disappointing day into an adventure. VERDICT An engaging tribute to creative play, perfect for sharing with a group.-Maryann H. Owen, Oak Creek Public Library WI

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