Stuff for Your Space. (Kids Can Do It). Ellen Warwick. Illustrated by Bernice Lum. Toronto, ON: Kids Can, 2004. 40 pp., pbk. & cl., $6.95 (pbk.), $14.95 (cl.). ISBN 1-55337-399-5 (pbk.), ISBN 1-55337-398-7 (cl.). Subject Headings: Handicraft-Juvenile literature. Interior decoration-Juvenile literature. Grades 4-7 / Ages 9-12. Review by Cheryl Archer. *** /4

excerpt:

Your space is the one place in the world that's all yours. So use it to show off your one-of-a-kind style, your stellar personality and your creative genius!

In this book you'll find fabulous ideas for making big or small changes, without spending lots of time or money. Whether you want to add a few hip accessories, spiff up an old look or just clear up the clutter, this book is for you.

Stuff for Your Space, another title in the “Kids Can Do It” series from Kids Can Press, is an attractive, user-friendly book that shows young people how to make their space a unique place.

     Author Ellen Warwick introduces readers to decorating themes and color schemes as well as 15 easy-to-do projects in less than fifty pages. The projects are clearly explained, and, even though most of the projects will appeal primarily to girls (groovy bead curtain, glitzy jewelry box, tutu lamp shade), there are some for boys as well (baseball clock, starry night switch plate).

     "You will need" and "Other ideas" sections in the book will help crafters get organized for their projects as well as provide additional ideas. To keep things simple and less costly, Warwick asks kids to look around the house for craft materials. She further recommends that permission be sought before changes are made to anyone's space or stuff. The protection of work surfaces is also suggested.

     An appealing aspect of Stuff for Your Space is that youngsters are encouraged to be bold and creative, and to look at the big "decorating" picture including theme and color. According to the author, choosing a theme is an awesome way to make a statement about you and what makes you unique. Themes covered in the book through the various crafts are Fun and Funky, Sporty Space, Think Pink, and Starry Night. Tips on color as well as an introduction to the color wheel (complementary and harmonious colors) are also included so kids can pick a color scheme that will create the mood they want--quiet and soothing, or exciting and energetic.

     The colorful illustrations by Bernice Lum are funky and energetic. These illustrations also enhance the text by clarifying information as well as instructions. A table of contents and a template page offer further assistance to readers. Also included is a two-page spread discussing materials needed for the various projects (ie. glue, paint, spray paints and finishes, fabric) as well as safety and sewing tips.

     Stuff for Your Space will appeal to anyone with an interest in interior decorating and crafting, and all those who want to make their space their own. Warwick has been crafting since she could hold a glue stick, and she will inspire readers of this book to make their own personal statement with flair and style.

Recommended.

Alberta’s Cheryl Archer, author of Snow Watch, adored her "pink room" as a child.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

Copyright © the Manitoba Library Association. Reproduction for personal use is permitted only if this copyright notice is maintained. Any other reproduction is prohibited without permission.

Published by The Manitoba Library Association ISSN 1201-9364

Hosted by the University of Manitoba.

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