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Staff Pick
John loves dancing. But will he be able to put aside his nervousness and show his friends at school his talent when it’s his day for “Sharing Gifts”? Written from those friends’ point of view, John’s Turn is a lovely story that celebrates difference with subtlety, humor, and grace. Recommended By Gigi L., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
E. B. White Read-Aloud winner Mac Barnett celebrates individuality in a story told with tenderness and subtlety.
It's John's big day at school today — a performance for Sharing Gifts time. His bag is carefully packed and prepared, his classmates are ready, and the curtain is waiting to open. John is nervous, looking out at all the other children staring back at him. But he takes a big breath and begins. Mac Barnett's compassionate text and Kate Berube's understated and expressive art tell the story of a kid who finds the courage to show others his talent for dancing.
Review
“The story's collective, omniscient voice and graceful illustrations, wonderfully reminiscent of The Philharmonic Gets Dressed, portray a community that stays open and curious — and a child who shares their effort with brave vulnerability.” Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)
Review
“Barnett and Berube bring mastery of craft as well as an understanding of human nature to offer a fresh take on a familiar trope.” The Horn Book (Starred Review)
Review
“Berube's sensitive drawings, created with ink and paint, capture the look and ambiance of the elementary-school setting as well as John's emotions. A respectful, wonderfully childlike introduction to ballet.” Booklist
Review
“A lovely, empowering book about having the courage to express one's individuality.” Kirkus Reviews
Review
“This wonderful children's book is filled with tender illustrations and a lovely story about a boy who is waiting for his turn at Friday Assembly where they have a "Sharing Gifts" portion. I just loved this book, especially the ending.” Book Riot
About the Author
Mac Barnett is the author of numerous books for children, including A Polar Bear in the Snow, illustrated by Shawn Harris; Just Because, illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault; President Taft Is Stuck in the Bath, illustrated by Chris Van Dusen; and several books illustrated by Jon Klassen, including Sam & Dave Dig a Hole, which received a Caldecott Honor and an E. B. White Read-Aloud Award; The Wolf, the Duck, and the Mouse; and the shape trilogy. Mac Barnett lives in California.
Kate Berube is the author-illustrator of Hannah and Sugar, which won the Marion Vannett Ridgway Award and the Oregon Book Award for Children's Literature, and Mae's First Day of School, which was a finalist for the Oregon Book Award for Children's Literature . Kate Berube lives in Oregon with her family.