When you need to write a review about two books you want people to know about and you can’t do a full count for either? You combine!
Which is a familiar theme with me. And though these two books are not connected by theme, they are connected by being two good books.
I am not sure if Pokko and the Drum by Matthew Forsythe is based on a folktale or is a folktale, but it has the elements of a South American tale, an African folklore, and has an American South tone. Pokko is a typical kid who wants to play their drum. Of course, it is loud, and parents need to ask children to play outside. And when Pokko does, they have the rest of the forest following them, strumming, tooting, and singing right along. Reminiscent of Mama Don’t Allow by Thatcher Hurd this colorful, perfectly detailed picture book is for the lover of music and the one that might dance to their own drummer.
Who has not had that special Blanket in their lives? And in Loryn Brantz’s picture book we learn al the fun and quirky things you can do with the blanket. You can make a cocoon; you can feel safe and warm. And of course, what happens when you leave that safely? You learn that too! This book deals with our comfort zone and literally, coming out of it. This book is slightly humorous but also sweet. Adults and children of all ages can appreciate the message and the journey to getting there. (By the author of Feminist Baby). The illustrations are simple, but also delightful. The minimal colors and details, however, fit everything perfectly, just like that favorite Blanket.
Pokko and the Drum is for a five and up crowd, and Blanket can be an any age book. And both are fun for all types of kids: in age and spirit.