Yellow Unbrella by Jae Soo Liu, Music by Dong II Sheen

This wordless picture book is accompanied by a CD to be played while reading the book; a break in the music indicates when to turn the page. The beginning opens with a single yellow umbrella venturing down the street, with the assumption made that a child is underneath carrying it. Gradually, more and more colored umbrellas appear and fill the pages. Nothing can be seen except the top of the umbrellas and the background of the pictures. All of the umbrellas are going to the same destination, following together in a pack. Along the way, they cross a bridge, pass through a park, get stuck waiting at a railroad crossing and then finally arrive at their school, which is when little legs and rain boots are revealed underneath the umbrellas. The strong message that the illustrator is portraying is that underneath the umbrellas are children that are all created equal, despite the physical differences they may possess. While I didn't mind this book, I'm not sure it is one I would use in my classroom. The colors are beautiful but I didn't find the music to be very effective. Additionally, the illustrator's message is a great one, however, I do not think that children will make a connection with this book. Perhaps I was looking for a bit more action along with the wonderful statement being made by the illustrator.