Book Review

By

Margie Ree Threadgill

For many people the art of reading has almost been lost in our high-tech world. Many children and young people spend much of their free time playing video and computer games.  They often complain that reading is “boring”. But this is not true for four-year-old Tovah.  In Miss America and the Silver Metal Jacquelin McCord tells how Tovah longs for the time when she can check out library books, using her very own library card. Tovah is the only member of her family who does not have a library card.

Miss America and the Silver Metal is a tribute to libraries and librarians.  Perhaps, without realizing it, McCord also pays tribute to the role that families play in the lives of their children.  In her well-written book we see a family who routinely visits the library.  They participate in library programs and activities. They also check out books to read. Herein, lies Tovah’s problem. She cannot write her name on a straight line yet.  Before she can be issued a library card to check out books she must be able to write her name on a straight line.  It is the rule.

After being denied a library card on several occasions, you would think that Tovah would become discouraged and give up.  But McCord does a wonderful job of illustrating determination, patience, and a willingness to work hard.  Tovah keeps practicing writing her name. Her family quietly watches her go through this painstaking process.  The librarians also watch quietly and patiently while Tovah keeps trying to write her name on a straight line.

Finally Tovah’s hard work pays off.  She demonstrates to the librarians that she can write her name on a straight line. She is granted her own library card!  For Tovah’s mom, this is tantamount to receiving the coveted Miss America crown or a silver metal.  She knows how hard the recipients of both must work to achieve their goal; and she knows how hard her daughter worked to achieve her goal.

Through his seemingly simple graphite pencil drawings, Pulliam adds life to McCord’s story.  His illustrations make you feel that you’re right there with Tovah as she works to write her name on a straight line. He skillfully makes you feel that you are a part of the story, instead of just a reader of the story.

I love books and reading. Consequently, I find this book very refreshing and inspiring.  It speaks to the importance of libraries and librarians. Equally as important, it speaks to the awesome power of books and the power that comes from reading. All families should make Miss America and the Silver Metal a part of their book collection. I highly recommend it for all ages.