Davis, Danielle. To Make. Mags DeRoma, Illus. Harper Collins/Katherine Tegen, 05/2022. [48]pp. Picture Book. Grades Pre-3. $18.99. 978-0-06-308406-3. High Additional.
A sweet, simplistic picture book about the creative process and the importance of patience. “Gather, make, wait” is the repeating mantra throughout. Kids with different skin tones and physical abilities are featured working on a variety of activities and projects like cooking, gardening, and more. Sometimes they even have the help of magical fairies and gnome friends. The art, most of which appears to be painted, drawn, and collaged, offers lots of details to discover. The print is large and minimal, and the playful illustrations feature more color with every turn of the page, concluding in a colorful gathering of kids sharing their creations. The book’s overall message is that we all have something unique to offer our communities, and would be most enjoyed in any creative setting: a library craft storytime, a classroom, or for inspiration at home.
Greta Marti—Marin County Free Library