Up and Adam

May 15, 2022
A boy and his dog lend a hand--and a paw--after a storm. When Adam and his dog, Up, see Madam Mayor on TV discussing the aftermath of a recent storm, they are stirred to act--after all, the mayor did say, "Now, it's time to get to work. Up and at 'em!" Hearing their names, Up and Adam rise to the challenge. They pick up toys with Mr. Janitor, help a pizzeria employee sweep the sidewalk, and more. Adam smiles at everyone he meets, receiving smiles in return. Kang's cartoon-style illustrations readily convey Adam's exuberance. Finally, as Adam hands out homemade cookies on the boardwalk, the mayor commends him for bringing the townspeople closer. At bedtime, Adam sees his reflection and happily realizes that "a pair of smiles can make a difference." An author's note explains that Adam is based on Zapata's son, who has Down syndrome (though Down syndrome is unnamed in the text), and her love for her son shines through. Unfortunately, in light of the author's explanation, the emphasis on Adam's "amazing smile" as he cheers up the town risks evoking the tired trope of people with intellectual disabilities serving to inspire nondisabled people, as does the author's note itself ("He reminds us to practice patience, share the gift of a smile, and take time to have fun"). Adam is light-skinned and dark-haired; background characters are racially diverse. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A well-intentioned reminder that everyone can make a difference hampered by problematic framing. (resources) (Picture book. 4-6)

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July 1, 2022
Preschool-Grade 2 Young Adam and his dog named Up hear a television newscast in which his Portville mayor describes damage to their town from a recent storm. She asks all listeners to assist in the recovery work, exhorting them to get "Up and at 'em." Adam takes this command literally, and soon he and Up are picking up sticks, cleaning the school grounds, helping to repair a bird feeder, and sweeping away dirt. He even bakes cookies, which he distributes along the boardwalk, earning a high-five from the mayor. Zapata's debut picture book emphasizes Adam's cheery disposition and willingness to contribute to his community; an author's note explains that the character was inspired by her son Adam, who has Down syndrome, something not obvious from the text. Kang's digital-cartoon illustrations feature mostly pastel shadings. Like the text, the artwork signals no disability; Adam proceeds with his activities in confidence and without adult assistance. Appended with a list of Down syndrome resources, this will also be successful as a story encouraging community involvement and participation.

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July 29, 2022

PreS-Gr 2-Zapata's story is a delightful and uplifting story of the positive impact being helpful can have on so many people. After a storm affects their town, a boy named Adam and his dog, Up, are inspired by their mayor to help. Adam and Up venture across town and work with several members of the community cleaning toys, fixing birdhouses, and tidying a local pizza shop. They even bake chocolate chip cookies for the entire town to help lift their spirits. Adam feels as if he and Up have made a big impact on their town. Parents will find this story a great read for teaching their children the importance of being willing to pitch in. Additionally, Zapata's own son, Adam, who has Down syndrome, was the inspiration for the main character; she helpfully includes resources for parents in the back matter. VERDICT A great example of a story that will inspire all kids to work with others in an amiable way, making its points sweetly and simply.-David Roberts

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