John's Turn
Illustrated by Kate Berube
★A 2023 Cooperative Children's Book Center Choice★
★A New York Public Library’s Best Book of 2022★
★A BookPage’s Best Book of 2022★
★A Chicago Public Library’s Best Picture Book of 2022★
★ “Employing sweet humor and sensory detail, Barnett and Berube convey the unexpected beauty of a school performance. The story’s collective, omniscient voice and graceful illustrations, wonderfully reminiscent of The Philharmonic Gets Dressed, portray a community that stays open and curious—and a child who shares their effort with brave vulnerability.”
—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
★ “It’s about the abundant and everyday courage of children, and it is also about “sharing gifts.” John faces down his fear to share his gift with determination, beauty and a style that is all his own. A true gift, indeed.”
—BookPage, Starred Review
★ “A sensitive story… Barnett and Berube bring mastery of craft as well as an understanding of human nature.”
The Horn Book, Starred Review
“A respectful, wonderfully childlike introduction to ballet.”
—Booklist
“A lovely, empowering book.”
—Kirkus Reviews
“This wonderful children’s book is filled with tender illustrations and a lovely story about a boy who is waiting for his turn at Friday Assembly where they have a “Sharing Gifts” portion. I just loved this book, especially the ending.”
—Book Riot
