Bigmama's

Crews's first book in five years is a departure for this gifted author/artist, and a truly joyous celebration. In his dynamic tale of family togetherness, an African American man recalls boyhood summers spent at his grandmother's rural home in Florida. Each year the vacation began with an adventurous three-day train ride to Bigmama's ("Not that she was big, but she was Mama's mama") in Cottondale. The hot, hazy months that followed were filled with relatives, fishing and good times. A backyard coop "where Sunday dinner's chicken spent its last days," the barn and pond all begged to be explored by rambunctious visitors. Even the stars shone brighter in the night sky at this wondrous place. Like the title character so lovingly depicted within, the book's jacket is warm and enticing--vibrant, boldly outlined letters draw readers into a fragrant slice of Americana. Crews's rich earth tones perfectly portray the rustic life of this bygone era, while the lanky, barefoot children embody the relaxed--and utterly relaxing--freedom of summer. In the manner of exemplary works for children, Bigmama's works splendidly on more than one level. The evocative text provides plenty of action to interest younger readers and--for their parents--the nostalgic tone cannot fail to lovingly recall carefree days long past. Reality, in the form of a present-day metropolis viewed through a window, brings the story to an appropriate close, as the narrator, older and bearded, "even now" longs to recapture the essence of enchantment that was found at Bigmama's. Ages 4-up. (Oct.) .

Gr 1-4-- In this very appealing picture-book reminiscence, Crews invites readers to journey back to his childhood. Four African-American children and their mother travel by train to visit grandparents in a rural town. When the family reaches its destination, the children inspect each room of the house. Outside, they investigate the yard, the toolshed, the barn, the stable, and, finally, the pond. To their everlasting delight and satisfaction, they see that everything is "still the same." Crews departs from the graphic style employed so memorably in Freight Train (1978) and Parade (1983, both Greenwillow). His watercolor and goache illustrations are an attractive blend of simplicity and sophistication. His expertise is evident throughout. Characters are placed in their setting with utmost consideration, and are dressed in colors that create a sort of "warm rainbow" scattered about the farm and the happy household. This offering is intended for a somewhat older audience than Crews's earlier works, and will work well in classrooms. It is similar in mood and content to James Stevenson's When I Was Nine (Greenwillow, 1986) and Cynthia Rylant's When I Was Young in the Mountains (Dutton, 1982). A wonderful selection for family story times. --Eve Larkin, Chicago Public Library

★ "A rich sensory experience."—Kirkus Reviews (pointered review)