FICTION

The Case of the Missing Chalk Drawings

by Richard BYRNE
illus. by Richard Byrne. 32p. Holt/Godwin Bks. Nov. 2018. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781250189592. POP
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 1–Googly-eyed chalk sticks of various hues and heights are wondering who keeps stealing the flower artwork they create. Sergeant Blue investigates and produces a suspect lineup of pencil, glue, scissors, ruler, paintbrush, and eraser. The dusty robber flees the scene, creating twirls of mixed colors as all the other chalk pieces give chase. Eraser escapes, so Sergeant Blue creates a sting, having the chalk crew create an enormous rainbow, irresistible to the culprit who confesses that he erases only because he wants them to "draw more stuff." Byrne (This Book Ate My Dog and This Book Is Out of Control), proves that his humor and flawless pacing aren't limited to stories about books. Black-backed illustrations make the multitude of colors pop.
VERDICT In addition to being pure fun, the story demonstrates the importance of understanding motives before judging actions. An excellent choice for storytimes and classroom read-alouds.
Reviewed by Gay Lynn Van Vleck, Henrico County Library, Glen Allen, VA , Nov 01, 2018

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