Monday, January 18, 2016

The Little Crooked Bookshelf

THE QUICKEST KID IN CLARKSVILLE  
by Pat Zietlow Miller
Illustrated by Frank Morrison  
This week's pick is from Cottager Jamie Michalak.

What it's all about . . .
Ata, the quickest kid in Clarksville, Tennessee, can't wait for the parade tomorrow. Her hero, Olympic gold medalist Wilma Rudolph, will be riding on a float! But what happens when a new girl with shiny new shoes challenges Ata to a race?

Why it's on The Little Crooked Bookshelf . . .
We immediately got swept up in Pat Zietlow Miller's timeless story about how heart and determination -- not squeaky new shoes -- win races. She expertly weaves together many subtle lessons about dreams, hard work, and friendship. The story is perfectly matched by Frank Morrison's energetic, watercolor illustrations. Go, Ata!

Our favorite lines . . .
"Got me some new shoes," Charmaine says.
Boy-howdy, does she ever.
Brand-new, only-been-worn-by-her shoes with stripes down the sides and laces so white they glow.
 
Why kids will love it . . . 
The Quickest Kid in Clarksville is a rhythmic, lively read-aloud. Kids will enjoy chanting along with the sidewalk beat of Ata's worn sneakers: "Wil-ma Ru-dolph. Wil-ma Rudolph."

Why grown-ups will love it . . . 
An excellent choice for those seeking to inspire young readers. The Author's Note highlights Wilma Rudolph's victories, including her major role in the first racially integrated event in Clarksville history.

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