Kicks in the Sky - by C G Esperanza (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Colorful, psychedelic, magical sneakers hang from telephone wires all over the city. Up in the sky, they hang for all to marvel at. But when a few special pairs get knocked down, the kids have to try them on. Soon they're jumping, dancing, learning to fly! These enchanted sneaks are out of this world-but where did they come from? And who wouldleave them behind?"--

Book Synopsis

Pura Belprè Honor and Coretta Scott King Honor winner C. G. Esperanza delivers color, rhythm, and style in this rollicking tale about everyday treasures turned magical!

Red kicks, green kicks, yellow kicks, blue!

Colorful, psychedelic sneakers hang from telephones wires all over the city. Up in the sky, they hang for all to marvel at.

But when a few special pairs get knocked down, the kids have to try them on. Soon they're racing, dancing, leaning to fly! These enchanted sneaks are out of this world--but where did they come from? And who would ever leave these behind?

This joyous book is full of fun read moments--perfect for story time and craft activity inspiration!

Review Quotes

"[A] fast-paced, entertaining story. The wildly energetic, psychedelic-hued illustrations bring these city scenes to life, and innovative perspectives and angles keep readers guessing what amazing abilities the shoes will bestow next. A strikingly original pourquoi tale in which tennis shoes make life much more interesting." -- Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"Alongside electric-hued illustrations of the children's largely brown-skinned community, neighborhood sounds and thumping text offer musical accompaniment. Neighborhood speculation doesn't solve questions about the shoes' provenance, leaving a lingering sense of enchantment behind at the end of this unique adventure told in tuneful, rhythmic rhyme." -- Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"A vibrant and magical take on a common urban sight, creating a modern mythology out of the seemingly mundane. A great choice for most shelves." -- School Library Journal

"[A]n increasingly joyful readaloud. The electric art matches the rhyme's upbeat tempo, with pages saturated in vivid, neon tones that create a riotous, rainbow-colored background for the Black and brown cast to run, race, jump, and fly through." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

PRAISE FOR BOOGIE BOOGIE, Y'ALL: "After one listen, the print book will never feel the same, but one listen is surely just the beginning for this standout, immersive, wholly original audio celebration of art, creativity, and imagination." -- Booklist (starred review)

"C.G. Esperanza's joyous picture book, the graffiti, sounds and scenes of the Bronx are a feast for the eyes and ears. Combined with a rhythm and beat perfect for reading out loud, Boogie, Boogie, Y'all is a party on every page and everyone is invited." -- NPR Books

"Esperanza establishes a groovy rhythm in this celebration of art and music, set in the Bronx. Adult readers will appreciate nods to Keith Haring and Basquiat, while readers of all ages will enjoy the richly detailed cityscapes. A lovingly rendered, upbeat recognition of contemporary art forms, and a salient reminder to revel in art, culture, and community." -- Publishers Weekly

"How refreshing to read a picture book that centers the experience of the many children growing up in diverse cityscapes and acknowledges the unique beauty of cities and the many forms urban art can take. A book boogie." -- Kirkus Reviews

"Joyful, vibrant scenes. This ode to graffiti art offers a fresh take on its role in the beautification of the urban landscape." -- Booklist

"Neon colored pictures explode off the pages with dramatic perspectives... Edge-to-edge rich with the details of city life. Purchase anywhere--everywhere!--an appreciative take on the vibe and culture of urban life is needed." -- School Library Journal