The Scarecrow

"Scarecrow stands alone and scares/ the fox and deer,/ the mice and crows," Ferry (Ten Rules of the Birthday Wish) begins in sturdy verse. "It's all he does. It's all he knows." Drawn by the Fan Brothers (The Antlered Ship), the scarecrow's burlap face and blank expression are startlingly realistic. One day, a nestling drops from the tree above him, and the scarecrow does something unexpected: "He snaps his pole,/ bends down low,/ saves the tiny baby crow." He encircles it in its arms of straw and perches it on his breast; the lonely scarecrow needs a friend as much as the nestling needs him. Over the spring and summer, the two become inseparable--they're shown in dramatic silhouette against a summer moon, fireflies blinking nearby. In the autumn, the crow flies away, and the Scarecrow's sewn-on smile turns upside down--but spring brings his friend back, and new life arrives. Though the story's arc is predictable, Ferry's tale is a novel twist on the theme of love between adversaries, while the Fan Brothers' finely worked art grounds the story in the movement of the seasons. Ages 4-8. Author's agent: Elena Giovinazzo, Pippin Properties. Illustrators' agent: Kirsten Hall, Catbird Productions. (Sept.)

PreS-Gr 3—Scarecrow has a job to do—guard the field. He's good at his job. The animals don't come near. His success is lonely though, until one day a baby crow falls from the sky. Scarecrow must decide whether to guard the field or take pity on the tiny lost bird. Scarecrow's very human desire for companionship wins out as he gently nestles the baby against his straw heart, starting a journey from solitary custodian to much-loved protector. The story shows that family and friends can be found in unexpected ways and surprising places. While the lyrical text paints a lovely tale (providing examples of alliteration and rhyme), the Fan Brothers' marvelous illustrations elevate it to something magical. It's amazing to watch the play of emotions over a simple, painted, burlap face. It's impossible not to feel despair, longing, and love along with Scarecrow. From the desolate paleness of winter to the pastel palette of spring, the depth of the landscapes help readers feel the changing seasons as the story moves through the year. Mostly, it feels like a wonderful celebration of fall as the glowing warmth of autumn wheat unites the story from its melancholy beginning to its jubilant conclusion. VERDICT An emotionally impactful exploration of love and loneliness, this is an essential addition to any picture book collection.—Alyssa Annico, Youngstown State University, OH