Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Happy Belly, Happy Smile Rachel Isadora

Happy Belly, Happy Smile by Rachel Isadora I've been a fan of author/illustrator Isadora since I first discovered her. A good picture book should draw out some emotion from the reader before the book is even opened. Isadora covers always make me smile, Happy Belly, Happy Smile is no exception.
Its Friday, Louie is having dinner with Grandpa Sam at his Chinese restaurant. Louie always looks forward to these Friday nights out with his Grandpa. There are only a few lines of text on all but one page. Louie's face is very expressive. I especially love when Louie's Grandpa ask if he wants to try his fish. Louie's eyes are downcast, as if he feels bad about not wanting to try the fish. On the next page crabs are brought to the table.

Louie says "I don't think so" his eyes have a priceless eww people eat this look. Many kids will be able to relate to Louie's avoidance of food from the sea. Isadora brings life to this story with color. Happy Belly, Happy Smile is a visual joy, though I may be a little biased since collage is one of my favorite styles. Happy Belly, Happy Smile is a wonderful picture book. Ages 4up

4 comments:

Tarie Sabido said...

"A good picture book should draw out some emotion from the reader before the book is even opened." -----> This is so beautiful and so true, Doret. Man, I love you!

P.S. Collage is one of my favorites too!

Doret said...

Thanks, Tarie - And I do enjoy me some collage.

Bam-Bam said...

Ooh, nice! I can identify with hating swimmy things. Especially eating them.

Doret said...

I liked seafood when I was little but I hated brussels sprouts still do.