An Armadillo in New York

April 1, 2016

K-Gr 3-Arlo the armadillo is back, and this time, his wanderlust leads to New York City. Born in Brazil, Arlo has inherited his grandfather Augustin's love of travel-as well as his favorite travel journals. In this sequel to An Armadillo in Paris, the little tourist follows his ancestor's guide in search of Lady Liberty. Beginning at the Top of the Rock, he heads to Grand Central, the 42nd Street library, Broadway, the Guggenheim Museum, Central Park, Lincoln Center, Yankee Stadium, the Brooklyn Bridge, and, finally, Liberty Island. Along the way, he explores the city's diverse neighborhoods and samples treats from the local food vendors. Each spread features an illustration of the little armored creature enjoying a sight, along with a note from his grandpa and an additional short narrative. Every location cleverly references the mysterious Lady Liberty in some way, sparking both Arlo's curiosity and imagination. When he finally arrives, "Arlo looks up in wonder, dazzled by her towering height and beautiful aqua dress." An endnote provides more information about the statue. The illustrations, rendered in oil and graphite, accurately capture the city's unique attractions with a sense of whimsy and delight. VERDICT Readers will vicariously experience all the city has to offer while eagerly anticipating Arlo's next trip. A lovely addition for most collections.-Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 15, 2016
An intrepid armadillo feels that special itch that tweaks his curiosity and leads him to new places. Arlo has been to Paris (An Armadillo in Paris, 2014) and now seeks new adventures. Reading his grandfather Augustin's travel journal about New York City inspires him to see that exciting metropolis for himself. The journal guides him to one sight after another, giving clues along the way about the mysterious Lady Liberty that will be his final destination in the city. Continuing the format of the previous work, each sight on the itinerary is given a double-page spread with an excerpted page from Augustin's journal, an oil-and-graphite illustration softly hued with pops of color, and a description of Arlo's experience at each destination. He visits the Top of the Rock, the New York Public Library, Grand Central Terminal, and more. He tastes lots of ethnic street food and sees a baseball game at Yankee Stadium. He gathers the clues about Lady Liberty and finally sees her, the Statue of Liberty in all her towering glory. (An appended page of facts on the statue provides further information.) Kraulis' double narration forms a neat package, combining Augustin's enthusiasm with Arlo's reactions. A large-scale Arlo is always center stage in the illustrations, and the humans seem to be OK with this stranger in their midst. A fun trip to the Big Apple. (Picture book. 5-9)

COPYRIGHT(2016) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.