John's Turn by Kate Berube, Mac Barnett
Published by Candlewick Press on March 1, 2022
ISBN: 1536203955
Pages: 32
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads

Every Friday, a kid gets up and does something in front of the whole school. Today is John’s turn, and he’s going to dance. When the classical music begins, some kids laugh and wonder how you dance to that music. John is brave. He dances and dances and smiles with his whole being. His classmates cheer.

This is a wonderful book. John is dancing ballet in front of his entire (presumably) elementary school. The watercolor illustrations do a wonderful job of conveying John’s emotions as they range from nervous to fearful to elated. This book celebrates the underrepresented dancers and all who choose to do something outside the box.

Recommended for readers 3 and up and for Cream of the Crop.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME