Publishers Weekly Review
Every member of the animal staff works hard to welcome animal guests to The Hotel--from the worm porters ("They love to say, 'Let us help you with that!' ") to the front desk turtles whose shells resemble the big domed service bell beside them. The staff favorite, though, is the purple-feathered, orange-beaked elevator attendant, who wears a blue tie and hat and uses a stick to push the buttons. "Elevator Bird always has a kind word for everyone," writes Williamson (Cactus and Flower), "and he certainly is very helpful." He's also a connoisseur of fine views, but he seldom gets to enjoy them, what with working long hours and living in the basement amid a maze of pipes. When his colleagues learn of his passion, though, they finagle a rooftop surprise. Adult readers may have a hard time not comparing this elegant little story to sweeter moments of The Grand Budapest Hotel, but that familiarity isn't necessary to appreciate the toylike cast. Rendered in dabs of jaunty gouache and pastel, and wearing eager, diligent expressions, they are graciousness personified. Ages 4--7. Agent: Steven Malk, Writers House. (Nov.) |
School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 2--All are welcome at the hotel, and it takes a big team to ensure that it runs smoothly. Mr. Rumpley is the manager, who oversees the daily operations. The worms are the porters, Jane and Olivia the turtles work at reception, and Mousey does the housekeeping. No job is too big or too small. At the center of it all is Elevator Bird, who must take the guests up and down in the elevator and welcome everyone in, both tall and small. Elevator Bird always has a kind word to offer and is very helpful to his hotel coworkers. He loves his job, but he wishes he could get out to enjoy the city he knows so well a little bit more. He shares his dreams of escaping his basement room with Mousey, who then tells Mr. Rumpley. Before long, the rest of the staff is involved, and they surprise Elevator Bird with a brand-new home, complete with the view of his dreams. From cover to cover, complete with fun endpapers and gorgeous spreads, quirky, colorful, and expressive animal illustrations pair well with the funny, unpredictable text on each page. There are giggle-inducing asides, details to pore over, and clues to each worker's personality in vivid details. Just as every job matters at the hotel, every animal has a part to play in this sweet story about showing up for a friend. VERDICT A beyond charming story about kindness and friendship, sure to bring a smile to the face of every reader.--Elizabeth Blake, Fields Corner Lib., Dorchester, MA |