And Then Comes Halloween (And Then Comes)

K-Gr 2When autumn arrives, a group of suburban children and their parents rake leaves, carve pumpkins, decorate yards and porches, and make Halloween costumes. The big day comes at last, and the children go trick-or-treating. As the story closes, they share their treats with friends and then start planning next year's costumes as they get ready for bed. A special visual treat throughout the story is the children's pet black cat that appears on each spread. The author effectively uses a repeating pattern of alternating pages with "When]" and "Then]" to move the minimal plot along. The descriptions beautifully evoke the feeling of fallfrom the V of geese squawking their way south to the dried corn husks that sound like grasshoppers. The watercolor and collage art contributes to the autumnal mood, and the varied perspectives and page design make the story more dynamic. The text and illustrations are a perfect complement to one another, emphasizing creative homemade decorations and costumes and minimal adult intervention. A fun read-aloud to get in the spirit of Halloween."Marilyn Ackerman, Brooklyn Public Library, NY" Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Brenner's debut picture book delicately evokes the arrival of Halloween, explaining the right time to engage in seasonal activities, such as carving pumpkins and picking costumes ("When" Papa stacks firewood under the eaves, and a V of geese squawks its way south, and chilly morning air turns noses pink... "Then" cut out paper witches on brooms and dangle skeletons in doorways). In Meade's watercolor collages, leaves swirl and paper bats fly as boys and girls prepare for the big event. A comforting, atmospheric take on Halloween night, as the air rings with laughter and shrieks. Ages 47. "(July)" Copyright 2009 Publishers Weekly Used with permission.