Me and Momma and Big John (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780763643591)

Momma is a stonecutter at the cathedral called Big John -- and little John and his sisters can't wait to see her special stone -- in this luminous true-life story.

Building a cathedral isn't a job, it's an art.

Momma comes home from work, tired and sore from a long day at her job. She used to work on the factory line, but now an early bus takes her across the bridge into New York City. Momma is a stonecutter now, helping to build the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine. She works all day on just one stone, and little John and his two sisters wonder how she does it. Finally, Momma's stone is finished, and little John can't wait to see it. But when he arrives at the cathedral, he's confused. Where is Momma's name? How will all the people know this is Momma's art? This touching story from a child's perspective, based on real events, lovingly shows the grace and dignity of having pride in one's work -- and in one's Momma. Gorgeously illustrated with the illuminated artwork of William Low, the transcendent beauty of Saint John's Cathedral radiates with warmth and light.

Author: Mara Rockliff
ISBN-10: 0763643599
ISBN-13: 9780763643591
Publisher: Candlewick Press (MA)
Language: English
Published: 08/28/2012
Pages: 32
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 1.35lbs
Size: 11.90h x 9.90w x 0.50d

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 3.8
Point Value: 0.5
Interest Level: Lower Grade
Quiz #/Name: 152753 / Me and Momma and Big John

Award: Keystone to Reading Book Award - Nominee
Award: Golden Kite - Winner
Award: Charlotte Zolotow Award - Honor Book

Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 06/18/2012 pg. 59
Kirkus Reviews 07/15/2012
School Library Journal 09/01/2012 pg. 122
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 10/01/2012
Booklist 11/15/2012 pg. 49
Hornbook Guide to Children 01/01/2013 pg. 41 - Recommended, Satisfactory

About the Author
Mara Rockliff is the author of many books for children, including The Busiest Street in Town. She lives in Virginia.

William Low is a much-lauded illustrator, author, and painter who has received numerous awards. His books include Chinatown and Old Penn Station. He lives in New York City.