BOOK REVIEWS

Title: Rosa Loves to Read

Author: Diane Z. Shore

"Even though they are not yet smuggled-flashlight-under-the-covers readers, children beginning to read can empathize with Rosa as she settles on her urban front stoop with her book. 'Dogs bark. Feet Stomp.' are the first of many two-word activities that build pressure for an explosive 'Rosa yells QUIET!' Instantly the mood changes. 'Toes tiptoe. Cats purr,' initiates the sequence of peaceful activities that culminate in Rosa's whisper, 'I love to read!' The use of staccato subject-verb sentences results in subtle sound effects that are accompanied by Larry Day's illustrations of every action. Pictured, too, is Rosa's increasing irritation at the interfering noises: even her toes express her growing tension and relaxed enjoyment. Rosa's story is part of the 'Rookie reader' series. It includes a list of 44 words in alphabetical order ('tiptoe, to, toes' is an interesting sequence) and is altogether a worthwhile addition to a beginning reader's collection."

2004, Scholastic, Ages 4 to 8.

     Children's Literature