Down In The SubwayStory by
Miriam CohenArt by
Melanie Hope GreenbergStar Bright Books, New York
Just perfect for this time of year, here's a book that just makes you feel all bright and summery. Down In The Subway tells the story of Oscar's ride on the subway, and what happens one particular day when commuting with his mom and baby brother. Restless Oscar gets up and twirls holding onto a pole, when a woman (the Island Lady) asks him if he would like to see what is in her bag. Oscar's mom gives her approval, and from there we are taken on a magical subway ride fantasy. Each spread features island entertainment more delightful than the last. I won't spoil any of the fun spreads for you by pointing out any details but I will say that the writing and the art mesh beautifully—both wear a laid-back island vibe that bring the party right to the reader, no invitation needed.
The folk-art illustrations feature the soft and bright colors of caribbean island life, and the characters are full of personality (including the subway car itself). The design layout, illustrations and text all work together in unison. Some elements of the illustrations, for instance, are used as a backdrop for text to perfect effect. The art appears to be in gouache paint, so gouache illustration fans- this is one for you to check out!
This is a great book for those who love New York City since it is also a lovely homage to NYC as well. A super fun book with a lot of energy and spice, and a lot of "music" in the pages!
Today I was transported back to my school library author week from December 4 - 8, 2006. Why you ask? This was the week that the National Book Residency sent children's book author, Miriam Cohen for the whole week. I had never before had a writer for a week. This was a red carpet event and one of my lasting memories. Ms. Cohen brought magic to the school.
Anyway, Ms. Cohen has written a new book, Layla's Head Scarf. When we met in 2006 she promised to dedicate the book to several teachers she was working with at the time. This afternoon I arrived home to a delivery notice. I did not recognize the address until I received the package at the Post Office. It was a copy of Layla's Head Scarf. The Dedication reads to Laura Jackson, Shelia Kapur, Jessie Staub, and Sandra Vizcanio at P.S. 27, and Elizabeth O'Brien at P.S. 84. Then Ms. Cohen writes, "I got so much inspiration from your beautiful work in the library! Thank you!"
Miriam Cohen has a special way of touching on classroom moments. This title definately fits the multicultural world of a New York City Public School classroom. Layla is new to the first grade and is shy to participate in class activities because she wears a special head scarf. The main part of the story takes place in the library (First Grade loved library time). Reading this part felt like a typical library time in my library. The librarian gives Layla a special book about her country where her family comes from. The librarian also shows the book to the rest of the class so they can see where Layla comes from. She also highlights pictures showing many ladies with scarves.
However, during Art when Layla draws her family wearing scarves Danny starts to make fun of the scarves and Layla begins to cry. The teacher comes to see what is happening and Jim said, "Look! Layla drew such a nice picture! All the ladies are wearing pretty scarves like Layla's. This makes Layla smile. Her shyness slowly starts to disappear.
All the stars of the "First Grade Friends" series are back as they welcome a new classmate. Ms. Cohen has captured another "first grade moment" in her lastest book and I am honored to have had the opportunity to work with her.
Check out this interview with Author, Miriam Cohen:
http://mermaidsonparade.blogspot.com/2009/08/interview-with-great-timer-miriam-cohen.html
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Thank you so much, Kathy. What a delightful surprise!
While painting this book I discovered The Island Lady was Mother Nature. She bestows upon the subway riders her never ending gifts of Air (breeze), Water (sea), Earth (food) and Fire (musicians). The author thought she was just writing about her friend. But it was much more for me. It was my growth in doing yoga that is all over that book. The train is the chi/kundalini/shakti in the spinal canal (tunnel). The Island Lady transforms everything in her path, bringing them from the dark into the light. And Oscar will carry on what he learned.
Wow! Thanks so much for sharing your point of view and reference! How fascinating!
I love that the book comes across as so simple and inviting, yet if you look a little closer/deeper there are a myriad of little gems and ways to interpret the working parts (just as a truly excellent children's book should do)!
Such a fun review! Melanie's work never fails to impress! :)