From: Connie Rockman <connie.rock>
Date: Thu, 09 Dec 1999 14:35:03 -0400

I agree with Steve - in a crop of really interesting picture books, Sector 7 stands out for me. Not to belabor the comparison to Tuesday too much - I think Sector 7 does much more with developing personality through the pictures, which is one of the hallmarks of a truly great picture book in my opinion. That little cloud is as playful as a kitten
- the adults are sooo adult - the boy is so bemused and involved in his adventure -- and all without a word of text. Remarkable.

At a mock Caldecott vote this week by the Fairfield County (CT) children's librarians, Sector 7 won by a landslide. Weslandia and Red-eyed Tree Frog were the Honor books.

I'd also like to put in a word for Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis as a Newbery possibility. The characterization of Bud is so fully realized - he's quick, he's feisty, and he moves through a landscape peopled with interesting folks. There is a touch of fairy tale quality to the story, but that's what makes it such a good story. This is one book that has stayed with me long after turning the last page.

Connie Rockman Children's Literature Consultant Stratford, CT
Received on Thu 09 Dec 1999 12:35:03 PM CST