A review by jthelibrarian
Silent Movie by Avi

3.0

Wonderful historical fiction (and realistic fiction) writer Avi tackles a picture book. The concept is great--the American immigrant experience at the time of silent movies shown in nickelodeons. Avi's story is shown as the written panels in a silent movie, while Mordan's illustrations mimic the black-and-white movie images.

Avi does better with chapter books--this was so short and choppy. It DID hit the melodramatic style of silent movies with its over-the-top, unrealistic story.

Mordan's illustrations were almost too dark and did not resemble photographic images enough.

Still, I love the attempt, and I think some kids would enjoy this one. I like authors willing to break out of their comfort zone!