School Library Journal finds Marilyn Singer's I'M THE BIG ONE NOW “fun and approachable”
“A simple yet delightful collection of poems from Singer," begins the School Library Journal review of Marilyn Singer's I'M THE BIG ONE NOW! POEMS ABOUT GROWING UP (Boyds Mills Press/WordSong). It goes on to add: “The collection features 12 poems highlighting the rights of passage which take us from “little kid” to “big.” While not every poem is universal, the collection as a whole has more than enough for most. Even if readers don't ever have a first piano or ballet recital, most are going to lose their baby teeth and learn to tie their shoes. Singer turns the spotlight on challenges that may seem mundane to grown-ups but are incredibly meaningful: learning left from right, taking a first ride on the bus alone, or figuring out what to do around unfamiliar people. The individual poems are short and very approachable; it's clear Singe kept her audience in mind while penning each one. Teachers and caregivers will appreciate the ability to pick up and set aside the book at will, reading only one or two poems or the entire collection in one go. The illustrations, while perhaps not exceptional, are very in-tune with the offering. Soft lines and smudged shapes help to steer the interest level, and the diverse cast is particularly notable. When adults appear in the pages, they are equally diverse and always play a supporting role. VERDICT: This encouraging kid-centric collection of poems is a fun and approachable homage to iconic rights of passage. A general purchase.” Taylor Worley, Springfield Public Library, OR
