John's Turn

The quiet text tells the story simply, though during the lively, eight-page dance sequence featuring images of John in motion, two words suffice: 'He danced.' Berube's sensitive drawings, created with ink and paint, capture the look and ambiance of the elementary-school setting as well as John's emotions. A respectful, wonderfully childlike introduction to ballet.

 A lovely, empowering book about having the courage to express one's individuality.

Employing sweet humor and sensory detail, Barnett (What Is Love?) and Berube (Second Banana) convey the unexpected beauty of a school performance. Sometimes, "if we're good," Friday Assembly ends with a student presenting a talent--"It's called 'Sharing Gifts.' A lot of us think that's kind of a dumb name, but we also think Sharing Gifts is the best." Recent examples include a tuba performance, magic tricks, and stand-up comedy, and today, it's John's turn. Berube draws the tan-skinned child sitting silently in front of an untouched breakfast tray ("We knew why. He was nervous"). Soon, children of varying skin tones sit on the floor of the cafeteria, which "still smells like breakfast." In a series of vignettes, John dons a white leotard, black pants, and black slippers behind a curtain, and then stands tensely onstage as music begins. One snarky audience comment is quickly squelched before "he danced": in a breathlessly kinetic, wordless sequence, spreads show John turning, leaping, and landing, light as a feather, until he comes to the end of his routine, "breathing hard"--and the audience knows just how to respond. 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. Ages 4-8. Author's agent: Steven Malk, Writers House. Illustrator's agent: Lori Kilkelly, LK Literary. (Mar.)

Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

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.

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, including five elegantly and economically composed, almost wordless spreads. . . . John faces down his fear to share his gift with determination, beauty and a style that is all his own. A true gift, indeed.

—BookPage (starred review) 

Dappled textures and simple lines of the ink and watercolor art play well with perspective. . . Viewers who struggle with stage fright and embracing their hobbies may gain some confidence from John's journey and the book's welcoming, inclusive tone.
—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

This wonderful children's book is filled with tender illustrations and a lovely story about a boy who is waiting for his turn at Friday Assembly where they have a "Sharing Gifts" portion. I just loved this book, especially the ending.
—Book Riot