I LOVE that Anne Carroll Moore advocated for children of the day and their rights to access the library. Through her groundbreaking work, libraries more often than not have children's sections with age appropriate materials. These areas lay the groundwork for young children to become lifelong library patrons with fond memories of what a library has to offer. I may be partial (being a school librarian) but I really do LOVE this story and the way it is presented from Annie's own childhood up through her ability to travel the country teaching others how to create welcoming spaces for children.
Perhaps my favorite illustration is the removal of the "SILENCE" sign from above the circulation desk. It is astonishing to me how many people think libraries still should be silent at all times. Granted, having quiet space is important, but having space to explore, collaborate, and read aloud is equally important. The color palette of illustrations is bright and cheerful, as is the idea of children's areas in libraries. Debby Atwell does a lovely job of incorporating variety in her color scheme. The backdrop of the marble face of the New York Public Library helps to enhance the bright colors used for clothing and the multicultural facet that including bringing children together from all of New York's diverse neighborhoods and giving those children amazing opportunities to interact with famous authors, illustrators, and dignitaries of the day.
Jan Pinborough is a debut author - amazing! In this, her first children's book, she incorporates the phrase "Miss Moore thought otherwise (Annie when she was younger)" as a refrain to show how she did things differently than other people of the time. The title/refrain really ties the ideas of the story together well.
ISBN: 978-0-547-47105-1
Published 2013 by Houghton Mifflin Books for Children
I borrowed this copy from the public library to read and review.
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