cover image Apples and Robins

Apples and Robins

Lucie Félix. Chronicle, $16.99 (56p) ISBN 978-1-4521-3264-8

French author-artist Félix explores not just the advent of spring but shapes, colors, and the interplay between positive and negative space. The poetic, if occasionally esoteric, text begins by claiming, “All you need for apples are circles and the color red.” This is proven true with a page turn, as two die-cut circles fill with the red background from the preceding page (a few green leaves and stems complete the effect). A large die-cut rectangle combines with a stack of smaller rectangles to form a ladder, while a cutout circle transforms a red oval and three triangles into a robin with outstretched wings. While the writing may keep some readers at arm’s length, it’s a striking example of how overlaying simple geometric shapes can lead to some remarkable visual transformations. Ages 5–8. (Mar.)