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Hey, Water! by Antoinette Portis

Hey,water! I know you!

Recent children's nonfiction has taken a quantum leap forward. Gone are the didactic, textbook-style approaches to informational books, Today young readers are treated to interesting information in a variety of print formats. 

Hey, Water! is a stellar example of this current evolution in nonfiction. Portis has created a picture book that combines striking images, carefully selected text, and accurate information.

The author employs an unusual literary device. Little Zoe, enjoying a bath, considers her surroundings and speaks directly to water, an everyday friend. Zoe itemizes her ongoing experiences with water and considers the properties of this essential substance.

Color palette is primarily shades of blue. Black and white text convey Zoe's running dialog. Image labels are pastel blue and gray. Occasional pops of color provide visual contrast. Simple bold shapes rendered in flat color fill the two-page spreads. Text is precise and complements Portis' arresting graphic design. For example: an enlarged dewdrop on a grass leaf is captioned "you wink at me from a blade of grass."
​The final page forgoes the standard linear narrative as Zoe concludes her bath. "Hey, water, thank you!" is inscribed on the red bathmat. Note: love the scuba mask on the cover. Zoe, and by extension the world, appear differently when viewed through an underwater lens.

The almost square (9.2 x 9.3) trim size, is ideal for small hands. Open and spread flat, the book fits nicely on an individual desk or table top. Perfect for personal exploration.

Back matter provides additional information of water forms, the water cycle, and water conservation.

Expand story time, enrich science lessons, explore elements of design. and invite personal response. This multi-purpose informational book is as refreshing as cool, clear water.  Kids and educators will drink it up!

​Copy provided by publisher.

​Pub date: March 26, 2019  Publisher: Neal Porter Books  ISBN: 978-0823441556