I've already reviewed a couple of books by my internet friend, Kevin McNamee, so I was pleased when he sent me his newest one. I love it! The Soggy Town of Hilltop is a rhyming picture book and, unlike some of those I've seen, the rhyme and meter are consistent without being forced. But that's not the important part. The story is loaded with the kind of humor kids enjoy.
I won't give away the plot, but can't resist saying it gives a whole new meaning to 'trickle down economy.' ;-)
The book also teaches kids a lesson about bullying in a very subtle way.
But I don't want to make it sound too serious. The Soggy Town of Hilltop is a fun and funny story, and the colorful illustrations by Eugene Ruble do an excellent job of capturing that feeling. Children will love it.
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25 comments:
I love getting reviews on blogs. I like knowing what real readers and fellow authors think of a book. Thanks for this Jan!
Best,
Carolyn Howard-Johnson
Also offering a new review concept at my blog www.thenewbookreview.blogspot.com
Kevin,
Love the cover! Good luck with your book
Martha Swirzinski
I love hearing about a rhyming book for children without forced rhymed. I just rejected one that had forced rhyme, which irritates me like fingernails on a chalkboard. For those of you after the chalkboard era, that sounds sets teeth on edge.
I've enjoyed Kevin's books. Glad to he's continuing to create stories bubbling with humoor and fun.
Blessings,
J. Aday Kennedy
The Differently-Abled Writer
Children's picture Book Klutzy Kantor
Coming Soon Marta Gargantuan Wings
It's nice to mix up blog interviews and reviews. I haven't read any of your books, Kevin (I've only just now heard about you!), but you've got me intrigued with this latest one.
Thanks to everyone for the nice comments.
I love rhyming books. It takes a lot of talent to write a good book with rhyme in it. Thanks for sharing this review jan.
Nicole weaver
http://outskirtspress.com/nicoleweaver
http://readyabletolearnfrenchspanish.blogspot.com
I'm struggling right now with a rhyming book. It's soooo dificult to get right. My hats off to you, Kevin, for succeeding! I fyou need another review I'm available. Good luck with your sales.
This newest book of Kevin's sounds just as much fun as his others. And the artwork looks great. Can't wait to read this one. Thanks Jan.
Sounds like a fun book, and that's a nice review, Jan! Makes me want to check it out and see if it's one my grandsons would enjoy. The do love rhyming picture books!
Thanks for the great review Jan and thanks for the nice comments everyone.
Kevin :-)
Kevin, I enjoyed reviewing your book and I appreciate everyone's comments, too.
Kevin, your cover looks great and the book sounds like something kids will really enjoy.
Rhyming is such a difficult task to do well. I congratulate you also and wish you much success with the book.
Kevin, I love the title of your new book and Janet's review certainly has me intrigued! Whilst I enjoy writing poetry for adults (free verse), I haven't yet attempted to write any for children because of the rhyming challenges, so kudos to you for doing it so well! Do you write all your picture books in rhyme?
Helena
This book looks wonderful! I am always looking for fun, humorous kids books to recommend. This one has been added to the list! :)
Kevin’s book sounds like the type of fun story I enjoy reading to my grandson.
I've read this one too. Though I love all of Kevin's books, this one is my favorite.
Cheryl
Helena, I write both prose and rhyming stories. Rhyming definitely add a layer of complexity and difficulty though. Not only do I need to pay attention to character, plot and pacing, I need to pay attention to rhyme and meter as well.
Thanks everyone for all the great comments.
Kevin :-)
Kevin, you did a great job and deserve the good comments.
My niece is coming for a visit this summer. I think she'll enjoy this book.
Sounds like a cute book for kids to read. Good review of the book Janet. I like the title and the cover artwork is great.
I appreciate all the nice comments. Thanks to everyone.
Thanks for sharing your take on this new book. I love with fellow authors send each other their books for review. It not helps each of us get the word out, but the reviews are ones most readers will take to heart because it comes from an author.
You're right, Virginia. If anyone should know what a good book requires it's another writer.
I've also reviewed his books in the past. I wish I had his talent for rhyme! :-)
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