Fab Four Friends: The Boys Who Became Beatles

Gr 2–5—This beautiful picture book is an affectionate tribute to the Fab Four, describing their childhoods and adolescence and concluding right as they began their rise to fame. Though on the lengthy side, the text is conversational and includes details that humanize the band. As Reich states in her author's note, she's a longtime Beatles devotee, and her enthusiasm is obvious from her copious research: there are quotes from the four sprinkled liberally throughout, all cited in the back matter. Positively dripping with nostalgia, the rich oil paintings have a retro, Norman Rockwell-esque flavor, depicting classic scenes (the Beatles in their early days, kitted out in leather) as well as re-creating moments from the boys' childhood, such as John Lennon dancing with his mother, Julia. Gustavson makes expert use of shadow and light, and there are some truly striking images here. This is a gorgeous love letter to an unforgettable band, though adult fans will most likely appreciate this effort more than children. While potentially unfamiliar terms—such as Teddy boy or scousers—are defined in the glossary, they may prove off-putting to those unfamiliar with 1960s England; educators may want to provide background for readers. Pair this title with Mick Manning and Brita Granström's slightly more comprehensive The Beatles (Frances Lincoln, 2014) for a unit on Beatlemania.