Amy Crane Johnson

One caveat: I did not read this book to or with a child, so the opinions and review are mine alone.

Neither the text nor illustrations in this book can be recommended. The writing was uninspired, and when read aloud the phrasing was awkward. The main thrust of the story seems to be that preparation is the key to weathering a storm. That is a fine message, but it comes off as pedantic and anxiety-inducing. Especially when the only "preparation" seems to be making sure you are safe at home.

The illustrator certainly has a style; however it the color palette suggested autumn more readily than the April of the title. Most of the illustrations were so low-contrast as to lose the main characters into the background scenery.

Note that the book is published in multiple language editions. I was looking forward to was the bilingual text; however, I received and reviewed the English-only version.… (meer)

This book is part of a series, set in a forest, that reflects the weather of the seasons. This book occurs during the spring and describes the impact of spring showers on the baby animals and their families in the forest. The title does not reflect the actual events of the story. Cinnamon is a bear cub, yet the central character of the story is the raven. The illustrations are not child-friendly but are dark and almost sinister. The raven especially has a rather mean aspect. Although the premise of the book is valuable, the book itself does not match the descriptions and is an unsatisfactory read for both children and adults.… (meer)