Mel Fell by Corey R. Tabor

Abstract

Reviewed by: Mel Fell by Corey R. Tabor Kate Quealy-Gainer, Assistant Editor Tabor, Corey R. Mel Fell; written and illus. by Corey R. Tabor. Balzer + Bray, 2021 [40p] Trade ed. ISBN 9780062878014 $17.99 E-book ed. ISBN 9780063089525 $12.99 Reviewed from digital galleys R 4-7 yrs While Mama is away and breathless chicks look on, kingfisher Mel decides it's time to take the leap out of the nest, showing off with a somersault off the branch and into the air and then promptly falling. Past the worried squirrels who leap to catch her, past the buzzing bees who try to grab her, past the spider who tries to slow her down with its web, past the well intentioned but ineffective snail ("Do … not … fear, … helpless … little … bird, … I … will …catch … you … !"), she dives all the way into the water below, where she snags a pudgy fish and zips back up the way she came with a snack for her fam. Mel drops the fish in her gleeful proclamation to her mom that she flew, and what was going to be dinner takes its own dive back to safety (merrily exclaiming "I'm flying!"). Clever wordplay and lively narration give this immediate appeal, while the unique composition and dynamic mixed-media art confer buoyant energy. Illustrations are completely vertical across the spreads, so the book must be turned to be read (requiring careful strategy for a readaloud); animals move up and down the pages in accordance with Mel's trajectory, and Mel herself, with her pointed beak, serenely "falls" to the water with a sleek, aerodynamic form and then joyfully flies back up with wings confidently flapping. Audiences will appreciate Mel's no-nonsense, can-do attitude, and aspiring birdwatchers will find a few fun facts in the author's note. Copyright © 2021 The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois