Reviews: (by author)

Bertram, Debbie and Susan Bloom. The Best Time to Read. Illus. Michael Garland. New York : Random House, 2005. ISBN 0-375-85025-1

A young boy no longer reads the pictures in a book; he now reads the story's words. Wanting to share his enthusiasm and show his ability, he seeks out family members. Unfortunately, his parents, siblings, grandparents, and even his dog have other plans: mom makes stew; dad mows the lawn; sister tries on clothes; brother works on computer; baby sleeps; grandparents watch the news; and Rover dashes to his kibble. Where does a little boy go to find companions to listen to him read? Naturally, he goes to his "toy family. . .bunnies and bears." He is reading out loud to the stuffed animals when his entire human family joins in.
The illustrations enhance the clear, straightforward story. Michael Garland, award-winning author and artist, received a silver medal from the Society of Illustrators Original Art Show for his book Icarus Swinebuckle. In The Best Time to Read , he uses mix media lavishly. The end-papers have different timepieces, complete with white wings, flying across a pale blue sky.
This story encourages reading and sharing reading with others, an idea reinforced on the book's cover: "Read to a Child! The most important 20 minutes of your day." The audience is grades K-2.

Toni Rowden, January 2006

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