Sam Williams, illustrated by Mique Moriuchi,
Talk Peace.
Holiday House, 2005.

Ages 4-8

Most of the lines in this rap for peace are light and breezy: words that are as much rhythm and energy as substance. But that energy is infectious, and author Sam Williams slips in critical ideas for readers and listeners to think about: "Look at race / in the face, / anyplace / anywhere, / don't scare, / talk peace . . . Understand / foreign land. / Take heart, / take part, / talk peace." Imagine exploring possible meanings of Williams' words with a child or group of children; imagine the power of hearing those words chanted by a roomful of kids; or performed as a round by an entire school. Between the covers of this picture book is a wealth of ideas and dynamic possibilities.

Megan Schliesman
December 2005