Chicks Rock!

January 8, 2021

K-Gr 2-In a world of talented young chicks, all are gifted in different ways, but one in particular loves to sing, belt out her tunes, and strum her guitar. Digital paintings with bold color details and a variety of perspectives and illustration sizes add to the cartoon representation of the Chicks, their clothing and "skin" tones representing diverse backgrounds. Rhyming verse highlights Rocker Chick as she sings for an audience of her personal plush-toys and then surprisingly receives an invitation to headline a show for many. Can she do it? Standing in front of a full house waiting for her to belt out a tune, she simply folds. Like "poultry in slow motion" she hides behind her guitar and sadly admits her fears-"I can't rock. I'm too chicken." With the help of her peeps, Rocker Chick performs her best, and brings the crowd to their feet. VERDICT A suggested general purchase for libraries assisting social-emotional learning, this title brings a message of courage and growing self-esteem through the support of friends.-Mary Elam, Learning Media Services, Plano I.S.D., TX

Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

February 1, 2021
A cool cat, er, chick suffers from stage fright. Rocker Chick has all the gear: star-shaped glasses, a pink skull-and-crossbones sweater, and an edgy, purple guitar. She thrashes around her bedroom, wailing blistering solos and belting out ballads. But her audience has only ever been her stuffed animals. When given the opportunity to star at a "big wing-ding," she can't wait. However, as she climbs the tall, hay-bale stage during rehearsal and is thrust into the spotlight, she freezes. Luckily her chick pals use their own individual strengths to help. Zen Chick leads some calming breaths, Artsy Chick (who is wearing a head covering) does makeup, and Coding Chick controls the lights. The whole clutch pitches in to show Rocker Chick she is not going through this alone. True to its musical core, Bardhan-Quallen's text has a lively spring, which is snappy to read aloud and helps to soften the platitude: "Rocker Chick says, 'Thank you all-- / you helped me reach my dream.' / Her friends reply, 'That's why we're here.' 'We're always on your team!' " Kurilla's bean-shaped chicks are as cute and thoughtfully developed as in the story's predecessor, Chicks Rule! (2019). Sly barnyard wordplay is also included, "poultry in slow motion" being a highlight. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10.5-by-17-inch double-page spreads viewed at 47.8% of actual size.) A quick boost of confidence from a flock of friends. (Picture book. 3-6)

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January 29, 2021
Grades K-3 The chicks first introduced in Chicks Rule! (2019) put their talents to good use in this upbeat companion title. Rocker Chick is filled with excitement when she is invited to be the headliner for a "Big Wing-Ding." She gathers her guitar and song books and heads out to dress rehearsal. Unfortunately, when she sees the enormous venue, Rocker Chick is struck with a powerful case of stage fright, shouting "I'm too chicken!" when it's her time to sing. No need to fear! Her friends flock to her aid, using their talents to help her get ready and restore her confidence. Pop Chick teaches her dance moves, Artsy Chick does her makeup, and Zen Chick helps her with the stress. When the time comes for Rocker Chick to perform, she spots her friends and rocks her heart out for the cheering crowd. The saturated, cartoon illustrations are wonderfully cute and encompass a range of individual talents and styles. Panel art moves this story of friendship and teamwork along quickly for a lighthearted yet relatable read.

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