From the Publisher
"An inspiring and wistful message wrapped up in a subtle, thoughtful narrative and lively, beautiful art: simply superb." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
"Campoy and Howell deliver a clear, uplifting message about the power of art to revitalize people and their surroundings." — Publishers Weekly
"This empowering story of community engagement might inspire kids to get involved in their own neighborhoods." — Booklist
Booklist
"This empowering story of community engagement might inspire kids to get involved in their own neighborhoods."
Kirkus Reviews
★ 2016-01-20
In a neighborhood full of gray, young Mira shares her colorful art (and heart) with the world beyond her window. First Mira gives a painting of an apple to Mr. Henry, the shop owner. She then offers a songbird to Mr. Sax and a deep red heart to the local beat cop. Still, her art project hits its limit. "Her city was less gray—but not much." Soon a mysterious artist approaches Mira, offering a boost. "What do you see?" Mira asks him. "Maybe…something beautiful," he replies. Leading readers on an infectious ride, Campoy and Howell's text bristles with dazzling energy. Words pop out of the page in bursts of oomph ("BAM! POW!") as color begins to fill the city. The authors, moreover, mix in dynamic moments with quiet scenes, producing a tone both lively and contemplatively hopeful. The illustrations, however, are the main attraction. López, whose career as a muralist inspired this story, loads each double-page spread with curves, splashes of paint, and geometric shapes, changing page orientation for emphasis at times. As Mira's neighbors join in on the fun, the city comes alive with unforgettable human spirit. The mysterious artist sums it all up: "The world is your canvas." An inspiring and wistful message wrapped up in a subtle, thoughtful narrative and lively, beautiful art: simply superb. (authors' note) (Picture book. 4-7)
