Big Tune

Starred review from February 6, 2023
Portrayals of diasporic Caribbean culture and a child’s selflessness distinguish Agostini’s 1990s Brooklyn-set story celebrating connection and community. As “cousins, aunties, uncles, friends/ pack the house, and fun begins,” young Shane, teased by his brothers for shyness, dreams of being crowned dancehall king like their father—an honor reserved for those with the best moves. Feeling pressure, Shane practices only in secret, saving money earned by collecting cans to buy a new pair of kicks that he’s sure will rocket him to the top. But when a speaker breaks and the bashment is canceled, Shane puts his own plans on hold to save “Big Tune Saturday”—an act that’s amply rewarded. Agostini’s buoyant rhyming verse pulses with details, and Knight-Justice’s stylized illustrations layer bold patterns and textures with typewritten text, sheet music, and images of the Jamaican flag, building a joyfully immersive portrait of neighborhood gatherings where “Swaying hips wine fast and slow./ Brown skin shines with black light’s glow.” An author’s note concludes. Ages 3–6.

March 1, 2023

K-Gr 3-A celebration of Jamaican culture, from the drinks to the food and the dances. On the first weekend in June, Shane's family and friends gather for a party. Shane collects cans in exchange for money so he can save up for a new pair of sneakers, high tops with a pump-up sole. He's too shy to dance in front of others; when he's alone, he can dance and sing all night. Shane imagines the dance moves he'd do and how the crowd would cheer for him. When the speakers for the party break, everyone's sad the party is canceled. Luckily, Shane is there to save the day. The author's note provides additional context about the music and dances featured throughout. The up-tempo rhyme scheme of the lines resembles a song much like the ones Shane enjoys. The picture book stresses the importance of community and selflessness, essential lessons for a picture book audience. Distinctive and vibrant collage-style illustrations depict a Black community of various skin tones and hair textures. VERDICT This unique picture book's celebration of Jamaican culture and community is a great addition to every library.-Myiesha Speight

Copyright 2023 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from January 1, 2023
A young Black boy finds a way to keep the music and joy alive in his Caribbean American community. In Shane's neighborhood, the weekend is a time for music and partying with family and friends. While everyone else dances, he collects cans with plans to turn them into money for his sneaker fund. Shane's brothers think he's too shy to dance, but Shane dances and sings when he's alone in his room. After all, other family members are so much better. As he gets closer to his goal, he is excited and has all the moves. Unfortunately, when the next time for a gathering comes, the music speaker no longer works. Shane immediately decides to sacrifice his savings to ensure that the good times will continue. He is a hero to family and friends, and the revelers show their appreciation by passing the hat to replace his money. Finally, Shane overcomes his shyness and takes to the floor to sing and to dance with his loved ones. This lively, vibrant narrative has an infectious spirit, and Shane is irresistible. Grounded in a tightknit Jamaican American community, the story deftly incorporates visual and textual references to dance styles, food, and other cultural touchstones. The lush collages reinforce the text. Themes of joy, solidarity, and artistic expression are effortlessly woven throughout the words and images. (This book was reviewed digitally.) An exuberant celebration of community that leaps off the page. (author's note) (Picture book. 3-6)

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