ABOUTJOHNS TURN

E. B. White Read-Aloud winner Mac Barnett celebrates individuality in a story told with tenderness and subtlety.

Its Johns big day at school todaya performance for Sharing Gifts time. His bag is carefully packed and prepared, his classmates are ready, and the curtain is waiting to open. John is nervous, looking out at all the other children staring back at him. But he takes a big breath and begins. Mac Barnetts compassionate text and Kate Berubes understated and expressive art tell the story of a kid who finds the courage to show others his talent for dancing.