John's Turn

Compassionate and uplifting, this beautifully handled picture book from the author of the former Waterstones Book of the Year shortlisted How Does Santa Go Down the Chimney? revolves around a nervous schoolboy's first dance performance. 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 expressive art tell the story of a child who finds the courage to show others his talent for dancing. MEDIA REVIEWS Employing sweet humor and sensory detail, Barnett (What Is Love?) and Berube (Second Banana) convey the unexpected beauty of a school performance. . . in a breathlessly kinetic, wordless sequence, spreads show John turning, leaping, and landing, light as a feather. . . 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) Barnett and Berube offer a sensitive story about a boy grappling with stage fright and insecurity. . . . 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) Berube’s warmly colored illustrations capture how John’s apprehension turns to confidence and even elation as he dances his facial expressions and body language are spot-on. Much of this perfectly paced book is devoted to John’s performance, inclu