PICTURE BOOK REVIEWS: Hot Dog by Doug Salati & A Day for Sandcastles by JonArno Lawson & Qin Leng
Ironically, I am choosing to review two books today that directly contradict the weather I'm experiencing here in Utah. It hovered around 0 degrees today. Burr! But these books brought a smile to my face in reminding me that the warmth will return and in the meantime I'll keep reading books like these and sharing them with children. Another remarkable thing is that HOT DOG just won the Caldecott Medal! Congratulations, Doug Salati! Thank you for producing such a wonderful book.
REVIEW
In poetic text combined with lovely pencil, gouache on paper and Photoshopped illustrations, Salati presents readers with a delightful reminder of the need to enjoy nature's beauty's once in a while. The story follows a dachshund getting walked around New York as his owner runs errands. Eventually the dog refuses to move one more step. Naturally he does this in the middle of the street. Luckily his owner knows exactly what to do. After taxi, train, and ferry rides, the dog and his lady arrive at the beach where the dog can run. At this point the book becomes wordless. No words are needed to show the dogs delight in playing with the waves, digging and fetching shells, and encountering a seal. Eventually they return home to the city with lots of new memories to dream about in their apartment. This adorable little dog is bound to win over many a young reader with his antics. Salati does an expert job showing the dogs' feelings as he droops in the heat and rebounds in the ocean breezes. Definitely made me want to be there as well. A book that manages to pay homage to both the beauty of the seashore and the wonders of the city. A fun book that more than deserves the Caldecott Medal it recently won, guaranteeing the book will be around for years to come for readers young and old to enjoy.
REVIEW
This lovely wordless picture book reminded me of all the trips I've taken to the beach. While the children in this one never enter the water, they do enjoy their vacation. What I found especially enjoyable was the persistence of the children. After watching their sandcastle get wiped out over and over again, by a hat, a toddler, and the water, the children don't give up, they just make adjustments and try again with each castle getting bigger and better. Leng's ink and watercolor illustrations are relatable and comfortable. They remind me of my own childhood with their free flowing lines and open spaces. The expressions and body language of the children tell much of the story. Their frustration is almost palpable. The detailed illustrations provide much for a young reader to share with a companion. The nature of the book makes it most appropriate for slightly older, more experienced readers. A soft, gentle reminder of the joys of childhood and the wonders of the natural world.
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