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40 pp.
| HarperCollins/Tegen |
February, 2021 |
TradeISBN 978-0-06-302153-2$18.99
(2)
K-3
A contemplative and somewhat meditative series of "14 Questions for Humans" from French author-illustrator Majewski prompts child readers to ponder the planet we live on--and the consequences of our actions. Majewski attributes human feelings to our planet, asking readers if the Earth feels alive. Is it rested? Does it feel friendly? Does it feel love? Or could it also be lonely and/or hurt? Maybe it's tired, and maybe it feels "unheard." Each double-page spread features text on the verso and an accompanying illustration on the recto, art that suggests answers to the questions posed. Earth may feel sick, for instance, because of the ways in which we pollute it; here, Majewski depicts ships and industrial plants spewing exhaust from smokestacks. The illustrations that, midway through the book, hint at humans' destructive tendencies have a darkening palette, dimmer than the ones opening and closing the book, with their more verdant greens. All illustrations are delicately rendered acrylics on canvas; all creatures, including humans, are depicted as small, with the landscapes taking center stage. At book's close, Majewski directly addresses readers with "What do you want Earth to feel?"--a call to action to readers to safeguard our planet.
Reviewer: Julie Danielson
| Horn Book Magazine Issue:
March, 2021