Whether parents are reading it with their little one scrunched up next to them or a teacher is reading to an audience of preschoolers, Denise Fleming’s Shout! Shout It Out!, invites participation and yes, SHOUTING! While it’s not a great choice for bedtime, the book will serve as an irresistible waker-upper after naptime or anytime when energy is flagging.
Fleming’s signature pulp painting is the perfect medium for Shout! Shout It Out! The art is bright and deeply saturated, and the pages are the right size for the big images and generously sized typeface. The repeated text, “SHOUT! SHOUT! Shout it out!” is not what kids are used to hearing in school or at home, so it might take a page or two for the reader to realize that volume is absolutely allowed. Starting with numbers and moving to the ABCs, Fleming taps into concepts that most children know. I especially love the colored balloons being wrangled by a toothy little girl with gorgeous curly hair and a pink hair bow. Readers will also love the pages of animals and familiar vehicles.
Each page is hosted by a small mouse who whispers little tidbits like “purple is my favorite color” and “M is for mouse” that can only be seen by looking closely. This little touch masterfully encourages children to reread—nothing like searching for a hidden critter to bring a smile to the young reader. Learning to read has never been more fun or easier.
“READ! Read it again!” will surely be the refrain heard anywhere this book is shared. After repeated readings, young readers will be able to read (or shout) the words all by themselves.
