A Little Called Pauline

The eye is drawn to the stubborn looking girl with the stringy hair in a blue coverall that adorns the cover of this book. The vivid pen and ink-wash images by poet/illustrator Bianca Stone breathe life into the poetic words of Gertrude Stone. The words themselves seem mystifying at first, but Stein seems more concerned with the sounds and rhythms of the words rather than their sense. Let the young reader mouth the letter symbols and translate them into their own language. Meanwhile, look at the colorfully illustrated figures that relate the story of an obstinate independent youngster and her caring, patient parent. Watch as she voices her opinions that can translate into tantrums when her wishes are not granted then rejoice as this vulnerable young lady takes to adventure and requires rescuing by her accepting, loving mother. Watch how love is reciprocated between parent and child in this warmly embracing story. The wonderful brilliant colors illuminate this poem with its notes of chimeric characters harmonized with its own intrinsic music and each reader will find its own unique refrain.