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Editorial Reviews
Amazon.com
Mirette and the "Great Bellini" traverse the Paris skyline
on high wire in the climactic scene of this picture book about conquering
fear. The two meet at Mirette's mother's boarding house, where Bellini
is staying with a troupe of traveling performers. Mirette persuades
Bellini to teach her his art, and soon enough the two are performing
above the rooftops of Paris. While Mirette gets to step outside
her daily routine of peeling potatoes and scrubbing floors, Bellini
manages to reaffirm his mastery. The story affords a spunky, down-to-earth
role model for readers who like to dream big dreams. It also offers
rich, scenic portraits of 19th century Paris. The book won the 1993
Caldecott Medal.
From Publishers Weekly
In this picture book set in 19th-century Paris, a child helps a
daredevil who has lost his edge to regain his confidence. Many traveling
performers stay at Madame Gateaux's boarding house, but Mme.'s daughter
Mirette is particularly taken with one guest--the quiet gentleman
who can walk along the clothesline without falling off. Mirette
implores the boarder to teach her his craft, not knowing that her
instructor is the "Great Bellini" of high wire fame. After
much practice the girl joins Bellini on the wire as he conquers
his fear and demonstrates to all of Paris that he is still the best.
McCully's story has an exciting premise and starting point, but
unfortunately ends up as a missed opportunity. Bellini's anxiety
may be a bit sophisticated for the intended audience and, surprisingly,
the scenes featuring Mirette and Bellini on the high wire lack drama
and intensity. McCully's rich palette and skillful renderings of
shadow and light sources make this an inviting postcard from the
Old World. Ages 4-8.
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.
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