Available Formats
Brontorina
By (Author) James Howe
Illustrated by Randy Cecil
Candlewick Press,U.S.
Candlewick Press,U.S.
1st July 2010
United States
Children
Fiction
Short-listed for Beehive Awards (Picture) 2012
Hardback
32
Width 256mm, Height 278mm, Spine 9mm
471g
From the sure-footed duo of James Howe and Randy Cecil comes a hugely endearing new character in a humorous, heart-warming tale about holding on to your dreams.
Brontorina has a dream. She wants to dance. But Brontorina is rather large too large to fit in Madame Lucilles dance studio. Brontorina does not have the right shoes, and everyone knows you cant dance without the proper footwear. Still, Brontorina knows, deep in her heart, that she is meant to be a ballerina. James Howe introduces a lovable dinosaur whose size is outmatched only by her determination, and whose talent is outmatched only by her charm. Accompanied by Randy Cecils beguiling illustrations, here is an irresistible story that proves that no problem is too big when the heart and imagination know no bounds.
Text and illustrations work beautifully together in this witty fantasy. . . . speech balloons alternate with narration to tell the story in a fresh, droll manner. In Cecils arresting oil paintings, the tawny orange dinosaur stands out boldly against slate blue or white backgrounds, and the unusual texture of the paint creates a distinctive effect. Brontorina makes a hugely sympathetic heroine.
Booklist (starred review)
The frankly funny illustrations complement Howes understated text, resulting in a sweet, frothy story, complete with tutus and arabesques, for the little (and big) dreamer in everyone, lightheartedly demonstrating that the skys the limit, so think big!
Kirkus Reviews
A humorous and inspiring tale a satisfying story that adheres closely to its central message about overcoming obstacles.
Publishers Weekly
A delightful story that reminds us to chase our dreams and to help others chase theirs, even if modifications are required
Library Media Connection
Young readers will have a ball with James Howes story of a dinosaur with a big dream. The dancers include both boys and girlsBrontorina is perfect for a classroom visit or a bedtime story...The message remains en pointe: Go for it, even if you don t have the right build. Or the right footwear.
Tampa Tribune
Randy Cecils depictions are divine.
Scholastic Parent and Child
A heartwarming tale about holding onto your dreams and never giving up despite ridicule and disappointment Children and parents will love Brontorinas charm and passion.
Fort Worth StarTelegram
James Howeis the acclaimed author of more than eighty books for young readers, including the E. B. White Read Aloud Award-winningHoundsley and Catinaand its sequels, as well as the much-lauded series aboutBunnicula. James Howe lives in New York State.
Randy Cecilhas illustrated many books for children, includingLooking for a Mooseby Phyllis Root,And Heres to You!by David Elliot,Weve All Got Bellybuttons!by David Martin, andMy Father the Dogby Elizabeth Bluemle. He is also the author-illustrator ofGatorandDuck. Randy Cecil lives in Houston.