Sep 9, 2022

Planetary Picture Books from Stef Wade: Worth the Journey!

 

CAPSTONE EDITIONS, (2019 and 2022)

Author Stef Wade writes all sorts of manuscripts, but her early success in publishing her efforts has been in the picture book realm. MOVING TO MARS is her companion/follow-up title to A PLACE FOR PLUTO. (Place for Pluto is also available in a board book version now!) The publisher for these two titles is an excellent match for the works, since they market strongly to schools and libraries. Wades mix of humor, science, and friendship allow young readers and audiences to empathize with the emotions and expressions of two "rocky" masses.

Wade's text is both direct and wry, combining standard line layouts with speech bubble dialogues Factual content is layered throughout, both in text and illustrations. Speaking of illustrations, these two deserve some closer scrutiny, side-by-side. The original Pluto title was illustrated with that warm mix of humor, science, and friendship by Melanie Demmer, whose style and color choices brought PLUTO to life own the page. 

When MARS was due to make an appearance, Demmer was fully booked with other projects and unavailable for several years. The Capstone folks searched for a different illustrator whose work could capture the style and tones of the original, but not simply "copy". Erin Taylor made the cut on this choice and achieved a challenging goal: a fully compatible book that pairs so well with the first, yet distinct individual elements can be noted by careful observers. I was impressed, and kids will be, too!

A PLACE FOR PLUTO is a lively and lighthearted offering of informational fiction that will tickle funny bones, tug heartstrings, and provide mentor text for voice, wordplay, and other writing craft skills that help STEM and science content "stick". Colorful in images, tone, and emotional arc, kids of many ages will find fun and fresh ideas about planetary study in this new picture book.

MOVING TO MARS continues the magical mix of lined text, speech bubbles, factual references and personified planets with a knack for wordplay and punchy line delivery. It is a winning combination, especially for  our planetary partner to Earth. The idea of shifting from being a loner to becoming a curious and eager host makes a fun plot arc. It also mirrors many kids who might read their own as their preference. With patience and attention (often from a respectful distance) those kids can discover the warm-hearted welcomes they'd like to offer to others. This will be a hit with kids of many ages.

Back matter is presented in equally appealing style. Both the main texts and those added details could well spark further investigation and reading. Highly recommended for classrooms, libraries, families, and space-hungry young readers!





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