Exactly the Opposite

From Publishers Weekly The prolific master of the preschool photo-essay has produced another winner in which, as the title succinctly states, she wordlessly explores opposites. In 13 contrasting spreads framed by equally effective first- and last-page single photos, Hoban represents such ideas as closed/open, intact/ broken, big/little, front/back, hot/cold, up/down, tied/untied and more. The vivid color pictures are well composed, and often so intriguingly detailed that the viewer might even forget the book's "point." But as is often the case with Hoban, her photographic prowess alone is worth the price of the book. Ages 2-up. Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc. From School Library Journal Hoban has done it again. Using a variety of people, animals, and objects found in outdoor settings of both the city and the country, she introduces and expands on the concept of opposites in this wordless photographic book. The photographs are clear, bright, and enticing. Pairs of opposites are presented on facing pages; some are repeated and thus reinforced. For instance, in one set of two girls playing with a wagon, there are the opposites of push/pull, in/out, left/right, and back/front. As with all of Hoban's books, readers are asked to view their environment in a new light while learning a new concept. A worthy addition to any collection. --Martha Topol, Interlochen Public Library, MICopyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.