Mr. Wayne's Masterpiece

“In Polacco’s world, children confront fears and solve problems with the help of loving adults, their exchanges captured with exceptional powers of observation. . . . Readers will feel the exhilaration of the standing ovation she receives and the warmth of Mr. Wayne’s praise. . . . Saddle shoes, stick-out skirts, and her English teacher’s brush cut all contribute to the period setting. Even the shyest readers may find themselves inspired.” — Publishers Weekly

“Like Polacco’s Thank You, Mr. Falker and others, an inspiring tale made all the more so by its roots in life.” — Kirkus Reviews

“Polacco has done it again! . . . Polacco’s realistic, vibrant illustrations convey a range of emotions, especially her own, which vary from utter terror to extreme exuberance. She credits Mr. Wayne with enabling her to now speak to audiences of hundreds, sometimes thousands of people.” — School Library Journal

“Polacco’s pencil and marker illustrations are expressive and immediate. . . . The depictions of Mr. T. and Mr. Wayne are particularly dynamic and even tender. . . . A lovely tribute to teachers and their life-changing impact on the author and countless other young people.” — The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books