More Mac Barnett Book Reviews – The Chronicles Of A Children’s Book Writer – Earl Dizon

As part of my National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature (NAYPL) Reading Challenge, I decided to read more books from its current position holder- Mac Barnett. You can read about that, his platform, and some earlier book reviews here.

But here are some more since then…

John’s Turn by Mac Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I finally picked this up and I’m glad I did. A sweet story of one morning in a school where they have “Sharing Gifts” in which a kid can share a talent with the other students. Today, it’s John’s Turn. I’m amazed by Mac Barnett’s ability to write simple sentences that can captivate readers. It’s not easy to do that. And, Kate Berube’s artwork is amazing, fluid, delightful.

Billy Twitters and His Blue Whale Problem by Mac Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Very impressive first outing. I wouldn’t have been surprised reading this when it originally came out if I sensed he would have such a wonderful prolific career so many years after!

Mustache! by Mac Barnett
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A silly story that will provide a chorus of chuckles.

Oh No! Not Again!: (Or How I Built a Time Machine to Save History) (Or at Least My History Grade) by Mac Barnett
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Fun stand alone sequel. When it ended, I thought I had gotten a copy with some missing pages. Kids will no doubt enjoy the story and illustrations.

The First Cat in Space Ate Pizza by Mac Barnett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I finally read this and I can see why kids love this series. I remember when it was part of Mac’s pandemic story time. Not only is this an enjoyable graphic novel, I think it’ll make a great mentor text on how to write a funny story.

I also read some posts on his and Jon Klassen’s Substack- Looking at Picture Books.