Chalk the Walk

"Kids use bright chalk to enliven a drab urban brownstone block.

Sidewalks and walls go from dull to dazzling thanks to the handiwork of these young artists. Along the way, the children are cheered by their creations—and they inspire their neighbors to take part in enjoyable activities. Just watch that gray-haired elder cutting loose, cane in tow. The local saxophonist probably never realized that 'chalk can elevate a song.' And the mail carrier joins in on a game of hopscotch. In the end, rainfall washes away the artwork—but no worries. That’s only a temporary setback, for the chalks can be brought out tomorrow to create new projects! The lively story is aptly expressed in jaunty verse. Rhythmic, repetitive wording (most sentences start with the phrase 'Chalk is') will encourage readers to chant along, too. Grays suffuse the backdrops early on, but more vibrant hues are slowly introduced, ending the narrative on an appropriately sunny note. Readers will be pleased to see that the story’s youngsters make like-minded new friends while going about their colorful business. The book makes another good point: 'Chalk is better than a screen.' Kids will pick up some terrific ideas about sidewalk chalk projects of their own—works that could also be rendered on paper with chalk or other media. Characters are diverse.

Chalk this charmer up as a terrific exercise in creativity and camaraderie." * Kirkus Reviews *
"Oh the magic of good, old-fashioned fun. As a family of chalk lovers ourselves, this book is a sweet reminder of the endless creative play that can come from just one brightly colored stick." -- Melissa Ferguson, @ourfriendlyfarmhouse creator and bestselling author of How to Plot a Payback
“Chalk the Walk’s lyrical rhyming text and expansive sidewalk chalk-style art will have everyone longing to grab a bucket of chalk and join in the fun!” -- Kelly Bennett, author of Not Norman, A Goldfish Story and The House That Ruth Built