From: 4joyces at mchsi.com <4joyces>
Date: Tue, 10 Feb 2009 15:10:23 +0000

 What I really love about HOUSE IN THE NIGHT is the exquisite balance of text and art. This is truly a picture book in every sense of the term. The text is rhythmic, balanced, and evocative; each word counts. Susan Marie Swanson's verbs are strong and vivid: "burns", "rests", "waits", "shines", kindling the imagination--and her text is minimal, which is both a boon and a challenge. Beth Krommes rose to this challenge so beautifully, creating a storyline which both complemented and transcended the text. She created a lush dream of black, white and gold that draws the reader into its magical journey. The book is also handsomely designed and produced.

To me, it's a perfect picture book--one that I had already given as a gift several times before the Caldecott announcement--and I am thrilled that it has won.

Joyce Sidman www.joycesidman.com
Received on Tue 10 Feb 2009 09:10:23 AM CST