Reviews

Gr 1-4‘A welcome reissue of Fisher's Easter (Crowell, 1968; o.p.), newly illustrated. While much of the content remains the same, the text in many instances has been rearranged and adapted. Sentences have been edited for a smoother flow. Terminology has been altered occasionally to reflect both gender and multicultural sensitivities. Scriptural excerpts are not as prolific and are often paraphrased. The White House egg roll is the only noticeable deletion. Selected activities have been included, e.g., a recipe for hot-cross buns and directions for decorating eggs, but no cautions are extended concerning working with an adult. Vitale's oils on wood panels are a wonderfully effective addition. Their clear, crisp, stylized and almost iconographic appearance provides a highly effective match to Fisher's text. Along with the full-page illustrations, the artist enhances the presentation with border panel motifs that mirror a folk-art style similar to that of the traditional Pysanki eggs. Fisher's attention to Biblical accuracy, in combination with the discussions of customs and origins, results in a fine addition to the holiday shelves. It complements Gail Gibbons's more basic Easter (Holiday, 1989).‘Celia A. Huffman, Worthington Public Library, OH

Fisher condenses and makes plain the Bible accounts of the Passion and Resurrection of Christ and introduces young readers to the Easter season traditions from around the world in her newly reissued picture book. While Christians rejoice in the new life of Jesus on this important holiday, the whole world celebrates the rebirth of spring, whether it be by elaborately decorating Easter eggs or by strolling in an Easter parade. Fisher is careful to include Easter lore and symbols from many nations, and she also skillfully draws several parallels between this holiday and Passover. Vitale's richly textured paintings on wood range from glorious icon-like portraits of Jesus to scenes of frolicking children hunting for Easter eggs. The informative text, including directions for baking hot cross buns and egg-decorating ideas, offers many points for family discussion. Ages 7-10. (Feb.)