Those of us who were kids or had children are probably familiar with Patricia Polacco’s work. Many of her stories are based on her own experiences growing up. One of her popular books is Thank You, Mr. Falker. This is the story of a Trisha, an eager girl who cannot wait for school to start so she can learn to read. However, things are not easy, and many of her teachers and classmates label her as stupid. Including Trisha, herself. IT is not until Mr. Falker that she learns the truth and finds a teacher willing to help her.
With Polacco’s newest creation, Holes in the Sky, we see a little more about a character from other books. One of them is Miss Eula. After moving to California, Trisha meets Stewart and his grandmother, Miss Eula. And with Miss Eula’s help, Trisha learns that the love of her own beloved grandmother is not gone. And Miss Eula also shows the neighborhood how to be not just neighbors, but be family as well.
I only combine these two books because I do not have the space to talk about all the amazing books Patricia Polacco has created. Her signature illustrations are quirky, fun and full of life. They bring to the story to completion. And the words are the illustrations best friend. As the illustrious are the best friend to the words. They just fit. And Polacco’s stories just fit. They are happy, sad, funny, and more all wrapped up in a delightful book.
Polacco is not for everyone as her stories are a little on the longer side and most deal with issues. However, she never talks down or makes them “more” than can be handled. From bullies to grandmothers to folk tales, there is something for everyone when it comes to these books.