A Book, Too, Can Be a Star: The Story of Madeleine L’Engle and the Making of A Wrinkle in Time
by Charlotte Jones Voiklis and Jennifer Adams; illus. by Adelina Lirius
Primary, Intermediate    Farrar    40 pp.    g
10/22    978-0-374-38848-5    $18.99

This picture book, a partial biography co-written by L’Engle’s granddaughter, ­Voiklis, begins when baby Madeleine’s parents introduce her to the stars in the night sky, a formative memory. It then takes readers through her childhood and early career, and up to the storied publication of her 1963 Newbery Award–­winning classic, A Wrinkle in Time . ­Flowing throughout the text is the ­connection between humanity and the stars, both metaphorical and scientific, from which L’Engle drew comfort and inspiration. Full of stars and starlight, the digital illustrations, with some elements painted traditionally with gouache, blend reality and the fantastical in glorious contrasting colors and swirling lines. Text incorporated into the art poses questions that the author herself might have asked, offering opportunities for readers to consider their own answers: “What is my place in the universe?” “Should I keep doing this?” The ­questions change as she matures but are always rooted in the themes of finding purpose and fulfillment. The book celebrates L’Engle for her writing career but also for her inquisitive approach to the world around her, highlighting her love of music, art, theater, and stories. For those whose interest is piqued, expansive back matter provides more insight into L’Engle’s life and work as well as the ­creators’ connections to her.

From the November/December 2022 issue of The Horn Book Magazine.