Thursday, April 16, 2020

"Accordionly" - a bookwrap










Unwrapping






Accordionly: Abuelo and Opa Make Music

Authored by Michael Genhart, PhD
Illustrated by Priscilla Burris


* Ages:  4-8 
* Grade Level:  PS-2
* Hardcover:  32 pages
* Publisher:  Magination Press, 1 edition 
* Pub. Date:  April 21, 2020
* Language:  English



Editorial Reviews 



“Genhart draws on his own family's history for inspiration in his newest diversity-celebrating picture book…. This is a reassuring story, emphasizing that though we may be different we can find common ground, an especially important message for multiracial/multiethnic children who can often feel pulled between competing identities… Burris' dot-eyed and brightly colored illustrations are darling, highlighting each culture well…. As mixed-race families continue to grow, this title is sure to find a ready audience.” —Kirkus Reviews
, Kirkus Reviews Published On: 2020-02-04

“Members of multiracial families may have more in common than expected… Even more, the boy’s problem-solving abilities offer an opportunity to talk to children about situations that trouble them, and possible solutions. A thoughtful picture book for storytime and one-on-one reads.” —School Library Journal
, School Library Journal

“Genhart pulls from his own childhood growing up in bicultural family in this cheery picture book, which tells of a young boy and how the accordion brought his family together…. Music is the universal language…. Great for reading aloud and featuring bright, energetic illustrations, this endearing story supports diversity and multicultural inclusion.” —Booklist


Unwrapping Some Great Illustrations for You





















The Book



Growing up in a very musical family I can totally relate to the joy and happiness that music, the universal language, can bring to family gatherings.  

Two grandpas, from two different cultures, and who speak two different languages, have one thing in common... they both play the accordion.  

When they come for a visit the silence between the two is deafening and their little grandson and other members of the family feel very uncomfortable.  The two say please and thank you a lot but not much else.  The day is spent in mostly silence with glances, not words being exchanged.  

Their little grandson becomes very sad and then eureka... he has a splendid idea to break the ice and bring everyone together.  He asks Abuelo and Opa to play their accordions and both are happy to comply.  The grandpas' passion for their instruments and their genre of music create a magical spell that brings harmony to all.  

The colourful illustrations are beautifully done and are full of expression and cultural truths.  This unique book includes a bonus fold-out and a note from the author sharing the true story of his own family.  "Accordingly" is about diversity and multicultural inclusion."  I highly recommend it.




Storywraps Rating - 5 +++ HUGS!





About the Author/Illustrator








Michael Genhart, PhD, is the descendant of Mexican Americans and Swiss Americans, and is a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice in San Francisco. He has also written Rainbow: A First Book of Pride; Cake & I Scream!...being bossy isn’t sweet; Mac & Geeeez!...being real is what it’s all about; Peanut Butter & Jellyous...sometimes friendships get sticky; Ouch! Moments: When Words Are Used in Hurtful Ways; I See You; and So Many Smarts! He lives with his family in Marin County. Visit MichaelGenhart.com or visit him on Facebook @picturebookauthor.

Priscilla Burris is Mexican American and is a member of the board of advisors for the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and its national illustrator coordinator and advisor. She lives with her family in Southern California. Visit priscillaburris.com and visit her on Instagram and Twitter @PriscillaDesign.




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