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40 pp.
| Simon/Beach Lane |
March, 2023 |
TradeISBN 9781534487819$18.99
|
EbookISBN 9781534487826$10.99
(2)
K-3
With a poetic text and sharp, uncluttered photographs, the Sayres examine transitions in the natural world--transitions from physical spaces as well as those between states of being. The initial double-page spread sets the stage: "Every creature / on earth / at times / finds / itself / in / between." A stark white background encourages scrutiny of the accompanying photograph of three chicks, "in between" birth and maturity, lined up in a nest located inside the V of two intersecting rafters. Other spreads, composed of two, three, or four images, create similar tableaux with layers of meaning; text placement expands the viewing experience. The authors gradually introduce synonyms; readers see a pair of birds with eyes just about closed, "almost asleep, / but not yet"; and see a duckling flapping its wings, as "in the meanwhiles" it grows stronger. Ideal for a group read-aloud, this book encourages discussion of personal "in betweens."
Reviewer: Betty Carter
| Horn Book Magazine Issue:
March, 2023