Book Review Summary: Make Way for McCloskey: A Robert McCloskey Treasury

Introduction

Robert McCloskey, an American writer and illustrator of children's books, has captured the hearts of generations with his timeless stories. In "Make Way for McCloskey: A Robert McCloskey Treasury," readers are treated to a comprehensive collection of all his published works. This book brings together classics such as "Make Way for Ducklings," "Blueberries for Sal," and "Time of Wonder," along with biographical information and photographs, providing an in-depth look at McCloskey's life and work. With its beautiful illustrations and captivating narratives, this treasury is a must-read for anyone who loves children's literature.

About Robert McCloskey

Robert McCloskey, born in Hamilton, Ohio, in 1914, was an extraordinary children's book legend. He won two Caldecott Medals from the American Library Association for his exceptional illustrations and writing. Four of his eight picture books were set in Maine, where he spent much of his life, while the others explored different coastal settings. McCloskey's wife and eldest daughter served as inspiration for characters in some of his stories. His artistic talent and dedication to storytelling have left an indelible mark on the world of children's literature.

Analysis of Views

1. A treasure trove of timeless stories: Readers describe "Make Way for McCloskey: A Robert McCloskey Treasury" as a treasure, praising its collection of classic stories that have stood the test of time. They appreciate the opportunity to revisit beloved characters and explore new ones.

2. Grand and homely touch: Many readers appreciate the way McCloskey's stories blend the grand and the homely, creating a sense of warmth and familiarity that resonates with young readers. They find his ability to capture the essence of childhood experiences remarkable.

3. Full-page illustrations missing: Some readers express disappointment that the collection does not reproduce the full-page illustrations from the original stories. They feel that this reduction in illustrations diminishes the overall experience, particularly when it comes to books like "Time of Wonder."

4. Sweet and relevant stories: Readers find McCloskey's stories to be sweet and relevant, with themes that continue to resonate with children today. They appreciate how his narratives help children develop a sense of perspective and broaden their awareness beyond themselves.

5. Charming and timeless: Many readers describe McCloskey's books as charming and timeless, praising his ability to create stories that are both entertaining and educational. They appreciate his attention to detail and his ability to capture the essence of childhood experiences.

Reasons for Recommendation

1. Comprehensive collection: The book offers a comprehensive collection of all of McCloskey's published works, making it a valuable resource for fans of his writing and illustrations. It provides a chance to explore his entire body of work in one volume.

2. Biographical information and photographs: In addition to the stories themselves, "Make Way for McCloskey: A Robert McCloskey Treasury" includes biographical information and photographs, offering readers insights into the life and work of this extraordinary author/illustrator. This extra content adds depth to the reading experience.

3. Classic children's tales: The collection features classic children's tales that have stood the test of time. Readers appreciate the opportunity to revisit these stories and share them with their own children, passing on a love for literature that has been passed down through generations.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

1. Missing full-page illustrations: Some readers express disappointment that the collection does not reproduce the full-page illustrations from the original stories, which they feel detracts from the overall experience. They believe that it would have been better to purchase individual books instead of this collection.

2. Limited reproduction of illustrations: While some readers acknowledge the inclusion of illustrations, they note that they are not reproduced at full size or in their original format, which diminishes their impact on the reading experience. This limitation may be a deciding factor for those who value the visual aspect of children's books as much as the text.

Conclusion

"Make Way for McCloskey: A Robert McCloskey Treasury" is a must-read for anyone who loves children's literature. This comprehensive collection brings together all of Robert McCloskey's published works, offering readers a chance to explore his entire body of work in one volume. With its beautiful illustrations and captivating narratives, this treasury is a timeless treasure that will continue to delight generations to come. While some readers express disappointment about missing full-page illustrations or limited reproduction, the overall consensus is clear: Robert McCloskey's stories are charming, timeless, and a true treasure for any bookshelf.