In spite of the hardship and suffering of wartime, children often find ways to see beauty and hope - in the natural world, in the love of family and friends, and in the ordinary activities of childhood. Through these graceful and eloquent poems, written from a child's perspective, readers will experience this resilience and optimism, and understand that it is possible to get through difficult times while holding onto one's hopes and dreams for a better, more peaceful future.
"Combining 17 rhythmic poems with dramatic illustrations, this title addresses a complex topic. Greenfield's deceptively simple verses express universal truths about both conflict and childhood. . . Wars as far back as ancient China and as current as this century's conflict in Iraq are viewed from a child's perspective. Brief, but thought-provoking, free verse poems are mirrored by evocative collage illustrations. A gentle way to begin a dialogue on a very serious subject."
— School Library Journal
"Greenfield's beautiful new picture book is a poetic recollection of children's experiences in wartime. Each of her simple, understandable, and haunting poems corresponds to a different war. . . It is Gilchrist's ability to put life into her art that makes her work masterful; each of her subjects has a personality that jumps off of the page and into the mind of the reader. Greenfield and Gilchrist are a brilliant team, making difficult content understandable to its intended audience. When the Horse Ride By is recommended wholeheartedly for both children and adults. Overall, it is an evocative and poignant book, perfect for use inside the classroom and at home."
— Multicultural Review
Jan Spivey Gilchrist
has also been inducted into the International Hall of Fame for Writers of African Descent and the Society of Illustrators. A native of Chicago, she lives in Olympia Fields, Illinois.
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