Sun (Seasons with Granddad)

PreS-Gr 2--A boy and his grandfather set out to picnic on a sunny day not knowing what they will discover. It's a very hot day, hotter than broccoli soup even, and an absolutely perfect day to go on a picnic. Together they pack up the necessary supplies and set out onto the sun-baked expanse. They stop often to take a rest and to navigate. At each rest stop, they catch glimpses of something fantastic through the spyglass and readers will be able to guess what marvelous adventure waits for the pair at the end of their travels. The watercolor-and-ink illustrations create exotic and strange landscapes for the two adventurers. The sun's rays pour onto each spread, filling the page to the edge, while the broad expanse of sky allows unexpected discoveries to loom up onto the page ominously. VERDICT The simple, repetitive text is clearly printed on white space on each page, making this a possible choice for beginning readers, but the large trim size and bright illustrations make it an ideal choice for preschool storytime.--Laken Hottle, Providence Community Library

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Usher's jaunty visual style is a mash-up of two British greats, Quentin Blake and John Burningham.
—The New York Times Book Review

A delightfully warm read about a grandfather and grandchild...How much of this adventure is imagined and how much is real within the world of the book doesn't matter at all in terms of the characters' enjoyment of each other's company, nor will it affect readers' pleasure...A grand sun story, indeed.
—Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

The simple, repetitive text is clearly printed on white space on each page, making this a possible choice for beginning readers, but the large trim size and bright illustrations make it an ideal choice for preschool storytime.
—School Library Journal

While the text is understated, the watercolor-and-ink illustrations switch dramatically from moderately detailed close-ups to panoramic scenes that culminate in the elaborately detailed party scene. No matter what the weather, an excursion with this winsome twosome is always a treat.
—Booklist Online

Summertime often means a visit to grandparents, and this lovingly imagined adventure will tickle any kid who has one (or more).
—USA Today