  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 03/15/2015 In his energetic picture-book debut, Federle (Better Nate Than Ever, 2013) once again effectively translates his Broadway experience to the page. Tommy literally can’t stop moving. He bounces like a pogo stick, kicks like a bulldozer, and hurdles like an antelope. His frustrated family tries to wear him out with trampoline jumping jacks and one-armed tennis. But it’s his sister, clad in a pink tutu, that suggests tap classes. A reluctant Tommy (he must be dragged to the studio) quickly learns that his favorite things to do are actually dance moves, where a bounce is a hop, a kick is a brush, and a hurdle is a leap. Tommy, now in his element, shines onstage while his family can finally sit back and enjoy the show. Brightly colored, bulge-eyed cartoon illustrations capture Tommy in all his frenetic glory, from the cover filled with bouncing Tommys to the final curtain drop. Many children (and their long-suffering families) will relate, and perhaps be inspired to dance on their own. - Copyright 2015 Booklist. School Library Journal - 04/01/2015 PreS-Gr 3—Tommy's family thinks he behaves like an ANIMAL. He just can't keep still. He clomps like an elephant and hurdles like an antelope. Tommy's parents and sister are over it! They decide it is time for a change, and they take turns coming up with ideas to tire Tommy out. But they are the only ones getting tired. Finally, after one-armed tennis and jumping jacks on trampoline, Tommy's sister suggests tap dancing. Tap dancing? No way. Tommy just won't have it, but his mother insists that he gives it a try. What does he discover? The teacher can bounce like a pogo stick and kick like a bulldozer. Tommy is impressed and gives it a go. What do you know? A star is born. Three cheers for Tommy Can't Stop!, an endearing picture book that kids and adults will relate to. The story is a fabulous reminder that all of the qualities that make one unique, even those that seem troublesome, can be used to fulfill a higher purpose. The story also reinforces that boys can dance, too. Gorgeously illustrated in bright colors and cartoonish characters, the pictures add humor and allure to the kid-friendly text. Perfect as a read-aloud or for independent reading. VERDICT Looking for a picture book that has humor, conflict, and a great message? This is it.—Amy Shepherd, St. Anne's Episcopal School, Middleton, DE - Copyright 2015 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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