FICTION

Stewart the Goodheart

by Judith Henderson (text) & illus. by Binny Talib
Reycraft. Apr. 2024. 40p. Tr $17.95. ISBN 9781478880363.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 2–Stewart, with red hair and light brown skin, wants to be a hero and help others; his “doctor,” a small girl with burnished amber hair and slightly darker skin, who carries a handbag with a medical cross on it, names him Stewart the Goodheart. In very few words, which continuously express Stewart’s noble deeds, the story unfolds; but even more happens in the colorful illustrations, full of flowing vibrant shapes, where readers can constantly measure the distance between what’s happening and how it’s described. For example, when a child is bullied and has hurt feelings, Stewart ushers the girl to the doctor, who prescribes hot cocoa for the wounded and cotton balls for the others’ ears so they won’t be able to hear the bully.
VERDICT While not the most realistic depiction of childhood overall, this book has a sweet message and an idiosyncratic storytelling style that will please listeners at story hour.
Reviewed by Kerri L. Williams , May 01, 2024

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BOOKS

Maddie and Mabel Ready for Snow
by Allen, Kari
BOOKS

Welcome to the Woofmore
by Gephart, Donna & Lori Haskins Houran
BOOKS

Eleven Houses
by Oakes, Colleen
BOOKS

Don’t Let the Forest In
by Drews, CG
BOOKS

Summer Nights and Meteorites
by Reynolds, Hannah
BOOKS

A Vile Season
by Ferraro, David
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?