Kicks in the Sky

K-Gr 2--In this latest picture book by Esperanza, readers are dropped into colorful and dreamlike city scenery, this time to examine a rainbow's array of sneakers dangling by their shoelaces above a lively street. The book explores what happens when those shoes fall to the ground, only to be collected by the local children, who can suddenly dance, skate, and play basketball like seasoned professionals. While neighborhood onlookers take turns guessing as to where the shoes came from, the children play into the night, exploring the streets as much as their own limitless potential. Esperanza's dynamic pastel illustrations are the biggest draw, imbuing the story with mind-bending joy. This title will make for an engaging story time, although not the smoothest read, as the rhymes can be inconsistent and the meter tends to shift from verse to verse. VERDICT A vibrant and magical take on a common urban sight, creating a modern mythology out of the seemingly mundane. A great choice for most shelves. --Alexandra Quay

"[A] fast-paced, entertaining story. The wildly energetic, psychedelic-hued illustrations bring these city scenes to life, and innovative perspectives and angles keep readers guessing what amazing abilities the shoes will bestow next. A strikingly original pourquoi tale in which tennis shoes make life much more interesting." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"A vibrant and magical take on a common urban sight, creating a modern mythology out of the seemingly mundane. A great choice for most shelves." — School Library Journal

"[A]n increasingly joyful readaloud. The electric art matches the rhyme's upbeat tempo, with pages saturated in vivid, neon tones that create a riotous, rainbow-colored background for the Black and brown cast to run, race, jump, and fly through." — Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

PRAISE FOR BOOGIE BOOGIE, Y'ALL: "After one listen, the print book will never feel the same, but one listen is surely just the beginning for this standout, immersive, wholly original audio celebration of art, creativity, and imagination." — Booklist (starred review)

"C.G. Esperanza's joyous picture book, the graffiti, sounds and scenes of the Bronx are a feast for the eyes and ears. Combined with a rhythm and beat perfect for reading out loud, Boogie, Boogie, Y'all is a party on every page and everyone is invited." — NPR Books

"Esperanza establishes a groovy rhythm in this celebration of art and music, set in the Bronx. Adult readers will appreciate nods to Keith Haring and Basquiat, while readers of all ages will enjoy the richly detailed cityscapes. A lovingly rendered, upbeat recognition of contemporary art forms, and a salient reminder to revel in art, culture, and community." — Publishers Weekly