Rulers of the Playground

Kuefler (Beyond the Pond) returns with a smart, funny examination of power and control, set in the milieu of slides and swing sets. One day at the playground, a boy named Jonah appoints himself "king of this land." He classmates quickly acquiesce, but asserting rule isn't as easy as keeping it: a girl named Lennox asserts herself queen and claims the swings as her territory, and their classmates get caught in the ensuing power struggle. The careful detailing and muted palette of Kuefler's previous book are just as appealing in this story, and his use of royal trappings bring understated humor to the conflict--Jonah and Lennox both wear crowns and other regalia, and small flags mark out their holdings on the seesaw and climbing dome as they attempt to out-conquer each other. Meanwhile, their classmates' growing displeasure can be read loud and clear on their faces, portending not a revolution but a lack of subjects as they take their play elsewhere. It's a sly reminder that being in charge isn't always as fun as it looks. Ages 4-8. Agent: Elena Giovinazzo, Pippin Properties. (Apr.)

PreS-Gr 3--Jonah declares himself king of the playground. King Jonah and the other kids on the playground play peacefully, except for Lennox, who wants to rule the playground, too. She claims the side of the playground with swings as her queendom. All the other kids like the swings, so they agree. However, King Jonah is unhappy with Queen Lennox, the usurper. They divide the playground in two and with pencil, crayon, and paper draw out plans to expand their influence. Jonah and Lennox separately conquer the teeter-totter and the merry-go-round, all the while shouting demands of their vassals. Soon, there is nothing left to conquer and no friends left in the playground. After everyone goes away, being rulers of the playground loses its appeal. Jonah and Lennox make a new plan together: apologize to their friends and promise never to rule the playground again. Soon, the playground fills up with friends. Visually appealing mixed-media and digital illustrations contain a racially inclusive cast of supporting characters. The two rulers of the playground wear historical royal garb, and the addition of birds and one expressive puppy brings extra whimsy to the images. In darker tones set against a white background, the artwork plays the main role, as the text is much smaller and spare enough for storytime. VERDICT This readable title is sure to speak to bossy and not so bossy kids alike. A great choice for the beginning of the school year.--Mindy Hiatt, Salt Lake County Library Services