Dow Phumiruk

A surprisingly average picture book from the author of the amazing Rosie Revere series. The text is sparse and supposed to be inspiring but there are other books that do that job better. The illustrations are nice, but lacking something. It took me a second to realize that the comets were books streaking through the sky. Children likely aren't going to see the details and understand the text's aim without it being a read-aloud with a grown-up who's aware of the lack of global education for millions of girls.

Not good, not bad.… (more)

I dunno. To me it seemed insufficient. I want to know about her other works besides their names and a sketch of their appearance (location, significance, ...). I want a 'further reading' instead of just the obvious websites (hers and those of the Wall). But I did like learning a bit about what the design was supposed to achieve.

And it does achieve that. I visited it on my trip to D.C. in 1995. And even though I actually knew none of the names and did not pause but just walked slowly past, I was sloppy crying by the end. And I still remember that feeling. Brilliant work of art and effective memorial. Give the young, fresh voices a chance to express the power they know from their souls... the power that, in too many of us, fades as we grow older.… (more)