Pop music superstar Sting gives a classic Bible story a brand new beat in this abbreviated version of "Rock Steady," Sting's funky, modern-day musical take on Noah's Ark (the song appears on his 1987 recording Nothing Like the Sun). A couple quickly signs on for duty after they see an ad in the newspaper: "Volunteers wanted/ For/ a very special trip,/ To commune with Mother Nature/ On a big wooden ship." They set sail under the leadership of "an old guy with a beard" who "heard God's message on the radio." During the 40 days of continuous rainfall, the crew members take some solace in the knowledge that their vessel is "Rock steady" and that they are "sailing with the Lord." Whyte's joyful accompaniment layers Crayola-bright geometric shapes in inviting scenes with varied perspectives. He riffs on an Old Testament–era setting, which immediately puts the story in a familiar context for kids even though it distances them from the impact of Sting's contemporary twist. Young readers will find much to like—a rendering of a dove, resplendent in sunlight, is a stunner. Ages 5-8. (May)
FYI:Proceeds from the book are being donated to the Rainforest Foundation.
