  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 04/01/2015 Gr 2–5—This beautiful picture book is an affectionate tribute to the Fab Four, describing their childhoods and adolescence and concluding right as they began their rise to fame. Though on the lengthy side, the text is conversational and includes details that humanize the band. As Reich states in her author's note, she's a longtime Beatles devotee, and her enthusiasm is obvious from her copious research: there are quotes from the four sprinkled liberally throughout, all cited in the back matter. Positively dripping with nostalgia, the rich oil paintings have a retro, Norman Rockwell-esque flavor, depicting classic scenes (the Beatles in their early days, kitted out in leather) as well as re-creating moments from the boys' childhood, such as John Lennon dancing with his mother, Julia. Gustavson makes expert use of shadow and light, and there are some truly striking images here. This is a gorgeous love letter to an unforgettable band, though adult fans will most likely appreciate this effort more than children. While potentially unfamiliar terms—such as Teddy boy or scousers—are defined in the glossary, they may prove off-putting to those unfamiliar with 1960s England; educators may want to provide background for readers. Pair this title with Mick Manning and Brita Granström's slightly more comprehensive The Beatles (Frances Lincoln, 2014) for a unit on Beatlemania. VERDICT An attractive offering, ideal for those seeking to introduce older elementary school students to the quartet.—Mahnaz Dar, School Library Journal - Copyright 2015 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Booklist - 07/01/2015 This thorough and well-researched collective biography traces the origins of the Beatles, examining John, Paul, George, and Ringo individually while also considering the dynamic relationships between them, and the qualities that would propel the band to extraordinary popularity and success. Reich connects the four portraits in a cohesive arc, offering details about the difficulties, as well as the contentments, each member of the Fab Four experienced while growing up in working class Liverpool. From absent fathers and hospitalizations to attentive girls and first guitars, concrete details bring her subjects to life. Though we get specifics about the boys as individuals, Reich concentrates on the qualities that brought them together, focusing especially on their humor, their work ethic, and their consummate musicianship. Gustavson’s luminous oil paintings capture likenesses and personalities that are utterly recognizable, even when the bandmates are just little boys and teens. The comprehensive back matter includes an author’s note, a glossary, endnotes, and a strong selection of sources. - Copyright 2015 Booklist. Loading...
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