To Ride a Butterfly

In honor of Reading Is Fundamental's 25th anniversary, 52 noted authors and illustrators have contributed original works to this snappy anthology. The writing styles in the eclectic collection range from poetry and songs to fairy tales and scientific nonfiction; authors include Rosemary Wells, Eve Merriam, John Steptoe and Patricia McKissack. A variety of art forms is represented as well, including photographs of constellations and planets, rugged pen and ink sketches and warm watercolor portraits. Of particular interest are a bold, kinetic cat painting by Petra Mathers, a humorous Kanuri folktale illustration by Will Hillenbrand and a tender pencil and watercolor drawing of two old Israeli men by Patricia Polacco. Children will enjoy the diversity, while the adults who read with them will appreciate the introductions by Barbara Bush and RIF officers. Short biographies of the contributors and an index are included. All proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to RIF. Ages 4-8. (Oct.)