Ida PearleCritiques

This one was fine. I don't think it's as notable or stand-out as the other picture books I've read this week. The cut-paper illustrations are really well done, but I think the nature/outdoors ones are more visually appealing than the ones with people. I would probably enjoy a more nature-focused book from this author better.

Charming. A lovely bedtime book.

The illustrations are what make the book. Absolutely beautiful.

This book is an excellent tool to help young children learn their alphabet. Each page has a letter and word that begins with letter and is accompanied by a unique work of art done in cut-paper collage. The illustrations add an element of fun to the story and children will respond really well to it.

Each word of the alphabet is shown with a picture and a word matching it. For example: E is eat. So it shows someone eating. This is a wonderful tool to teach those youngsters their alphabet.

This is a simple alphabet book. What I thought was absolutely awesome was that for once, x was not for xylophone. Finally a book changes things up. Still it is a bit boring.

"Ida Pearle''s artwork captures the joy, curiosity, wonder and delight in childhood. And considering that she works almost exclusively in cut paper and silhouettes, we can only marvel at her gifts. It''s not surprising to learn that Ida Pearle is also a gifted musician. You can almost see the music moving through her pictures. I''m thrilled with her first book, A Child''s Day, and look forward to many more from this gifted artist."-Brian Selznick, Caldecott Medalist (The Invention of Hugo Cabret) (Brian Selznick 20081001)

"Adults are . . . likely to appreciate this nostalgic work."--Kirkus Reviews, July 15, 2008 (Kirkus Reviews )

"Colorfully patterned papers and great use of line make visual links from one page to the next. The children, in many shades of tan and brown, reflect children of the world. As a visual feast, the book will trigger as much discussion about the art as about the alphabet."--Booklist, November 1, 2008 (Booklist )

"The design is particularly effective. Large, colorful cut-paper collages of multiethnic children feature interesting patterns that stand out against solid backgrounds. Tie-dye-like endpapers are inviting as well. A good choice for the very young."