Janna and the Kings

"Filled with descriptive language, this book is a good choice to use in helping children to deal with death. The vibrant watercolor paintings successfully set the tone of this intergenerational story."

In her picture-book debut, which won the publisher's New Voices Award, Smith tells a tender story about an African American family that effectively captures colloquial phrases and rhythms: 'Girl, stop pokin' so slow or you'll be late for school," and Boyd's bright watercolor spreads nicely interpret the characters' emotions and sense of community. Many children will long for their own Granddaddy, who knows that the 'princess treatment' includes listening and encouraging a girl to speak her mind.

"Smith affectingly captures the strong bond between girl and grandfather, and the rituals that unite them. Boyd's (Babu's Song) richly toned watercolors similarly convey the affection shared by the two"