Scribbleville

This is a great book with wonderful, interesting illustrations that will keep young ones looking at the pictures; rhymes that are interesting for parents to read over and over again without wanting to tear your hair out; and a great thinly veiled message about tolerance and diversity without being preachy. Little kids probably won't get it right off, but will probably sink in if, like me, it becomes part of the bedtime routine and it's requested every night. I love this book!

Have you ever felt like you don't belong? Try being the only straight person in Scribbleville, where everyone is squiggly! This is exactly what the "new stranger" encounters when he moves to Scribbleville until a scribbled woman looks past his straight lines to become his friend. She illuminates the straight-lined Scribbleville people: "on the outside he's odd, but that's not where I look." Scribbleville is somewhat fantastical but the creative scribbles and purposefully placed color bring the story to life and speak to all aged children alike advocating embracing differences. The rhymed verse sometimes has an awkward rhythm, but will entertain and delight elementary schoolers. The next time you're looking for a well-versed story with a positive social illustration intertwined, share Scribbleville!

Such JOY to read a book with adorable illustrations, fantastic rhymes, and a heartwarming story. As with Holwitz's other books, this is wonderful.