OK Go by Carin Berger

Berger, C. (2009). Ok Go. New York: Greenwillow Books.

Genre: (Nearly) Wordless
Format: Picture Book
Recommended Age: 2-4

Carin Berger uses OK Go as an environmental plea to children to take care of their planet. Charming collages made of recycled materials such as old patterned papers, magazines, letters, & newspapers create a setting of a seemingly neverending traffic jam, where the only accompanying words are "Go." Soon after, though, smog fills the air, and the characters are pleaded with a two-page spread yelling "Stop!" A few pages later, children are given a solution with a whimsically illustrated fold-out spread filled with flowers, balloons, sunshine, and a plethora of happy things, accompanied by the chracters finding new ways to get to where they're going. "Waste less, Jess," it says. "Roller skate, Kate," it suggests. "Use the bus, Gus. Recycle, Michael," it pleads. At the end, the characters are assured that all is well conce again as one yells happily, "OK Go!"

Being a nearly wordless book, I would suggest this book for children aged 2-4 years. Children will love the bright, unique illustrations, and will undoubtedly love reciting the simple words back as it's read to them. Some parent could possibly have an issue with the strong environmentalist message of the book, yet the message is not too overpowering. After all, it's never too early to teach children to be resourceful and to be a good steward of their belongings and this beautiful planet on which we reside. I would recommend this book for home, school, and public libraries, as it serves as an excellent introduction to teaching children good stewardship.

Elleman, B. (2009, April 1). Reviews: Preschool to Grade 4. [a book review of OK Go]. School Library Journal. Retrieved April 4, 2010 from http://www.schoollibraryjournal.com/article/CA6648615.html?q=OK+Go.

Never have I read a more eloquent review of a book with so little words in it itself. Elleman perfectly captures the essence of OK Go through her description of the plot, using phrases such as, "Idiosyncratic creatures decked out in fabric pieces, buttons, and tall imaginative hats sail along in even more idiosyncratic vehicles that are variously colored and decorated with stickers and decals." Elleman gives the book an overall positive review, saying "While the opening pages may puzzle younger children, the offbeat presentation will undoubtedly initiate interest among older readers, and the fanciful collages (made from recycled materials) will have artistic readers poring over the pages." I couldn't agree more with Elleman's review, as I personally found the message to be positive yet not overwhelming, and was utterly captivated by the fanciful illustrations. A good review of a good book in my opinion.