Reviews

PreS-Gr 2-A welcome collection of 20 fresh new poems about Annie Rose, her family, and friends-beloved characters who have starred in The Big Alfie and Annie Rose Storybook (Lothrop, 1989) and other favorite titles by Hughes. The subject matter is right on target for young children-simple, everyday pleasures; humorous character studies; and flights of the imagination. Cozy English homes and tidy gardens, a nursery brimming with cuddly stuffed animals, and inviting pastoral scenes are depicted in full-and double-page paintings and vignettes with attention paid to small details. Facial expressions are particularly engaging, displaying a wide range of emotions. The rhymes have a brisk, lilting rhythm that makes them just right for sharing aloud.-Sally R. Dow, Ossining Public Library, NY