Book reviews contributed by participating librarians throughout the Santiago Library System

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

The ABC Book of American Homes, by Michael Shoulders



Illustrated by Sarah S. Brannen
Rating: Additional
Charlesbridge, 2008, $17.95
ISBN: 978-1570915659
Reading level: Grades 3-5
Interest level: Grades K-5

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Each letter of the alphabet is defined by a certain kind of dwelling--with the exception of Z. Most of the letters have single-page spreads, but others have a double-page spread. The alphabet starts with Apartment and ends with the usual Zzzzzz. The text is factual and averages five sentences per letter. The 9.9 x 9.7-inch size of the book makes it great for sharing, and the variety of illustrations are in bright colors, except for dwellings that were popular in the past, such as Kilbourne and Log Cabin that are in black and white or sepia. The illustrations are exceptional and would be of interest to all ages. An additional purchase.





Reviewer: Pat Campbell, Orange County Public Library/La Palma