Jackson Free Press

"M is for Magnolia," (2003, $17.95) written by Michael Shoulders and illustrated by Rick Anderson of Clinton, is the 23rd children's book in the "Discover America State by State" series by Sleeping Bear Press. Anderson's paintings illustrate many aspects of life in the Magnolia state including famous natives (Elvis, Oprah, Jim Henson), the Native American tribes in our state and places that define quintessential Mississippi life, at least as much as is possible in a book with only 26 entries. Shoulders' education background is evident in his deft choices for representations of Mississippi in that he manages to include examples from natural history, geography and state history. His choices reflect the objectivity of someone slightly removed from his subject—he lives in Tennessee.

Each letter is introduced with a short poem, then more verbal explanation of the choice for each letter flank the realistic paintings. I must admit I am woefully ignorant of many facts concerning our state. Along with my 5-1/2-year-old, I learned about Grenada Lake and that the Flexible Flyer company, a former producer of snow sleds (!), is in West Point. Who knew X-Prairie, Miss., is named for a grove of trees growing in the shape of an X? (Obviously, residents of X-Prairie ...)

"M is for Magnolia" is a great gift book for a new baby, a friend visiting the state, or as a graduation gift for someone attending college out of state. The hardcover book stands alone nicely and doesn't seem as though it is part of a series.

Meet the author and illustrator at Lemuria Books on Saturday, May 24 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Previous Comments

ID

63921

Comment

Thanks for the review of "M is for Magnolia." I found Mississippi to be an exciting state to learn about while doing research for the book. I'm looking forward to meeting the fine folks from Mississippi at Lemuria on May 24, especially Rick Anderson, the illustrator. We have met and this will be my first opportunity to thank him in person for the work he did on the book. We hope Mississippians find the book interesting, entertaining, and informative.

Author

Michael Shoulders

Date

2003-05-19T22:31:41-06:00