Review by Horn Book Review
In this rollicking picture book, the main character is a bouncing gymnastic bundle of energy. Emerging from a curtain of two sheets hanging on a clothesline, Gymnastica Fantastica puts on a show that includes backward rolls, bending, balancing, a "teapot to ninja squat, toes to my nose," and more. The most dynamic performances, in the second part of the show, use hoops -- "Dodging and weaving them, keeping them moving, juggle them (nearly), I'm really improving" -- and the colorful twists of a ribbon that swirls and twirls with the flick of a wrist. Throughout, the spirited child sports a red T-shirt with a star emblazoned in the center, red and yellow striped shorts, bare feet (naturally), and an infectious smile. Talking directly to the reader in rhyming sentences, Gymnastica Fantastica lets us know that every movement may not be perfect, but they are always joyful. The cartoon depiction of a nimble child with a great jumble of brown hair is even more lively in contrast to a big, shaggy dog that faithfully follows the protagonist around. After an amazing upside-down flip from a trapeze, our star ends the show by announcing, "Hey presto! Ta-da! Your favoritest acrobatical star, Me! Gymnastica Fantastica." A confidence builder for any active, exuberant child. Joan YolleckJuly/August 2025 p.86 (c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
A young gymnast gets busy. "Quick! Come and see! Something fabulous! It's…" These words appear near an appealing image: a smiling brown face with black dots for eyes and a mop of brown curls peering from between colorful, patterned fabrics hanging from clothespins. A large yellowish sheepdog naps in the background. The next page finishes the sentence: "Me! Gymnastica Fantastica!" Throughout, the protagonist excitedly describes a series of activities. Stewart's bright, stylized illustrations match the child's exuberance and convey feelings of doubt when stunts don't go perfectly. The artwork, which often depicts the protagonist in multiple positions in sequence on the same page, complements the spirited text. The text's meter isn't entirely smooth, but that affirms the point: Have fun, keep trying, and embrace the imperfections! One adorable example shows a succession of Hula-Hoop tricks, ending with the hoop inadvertently around the dog: "Dodging and weaving them, / keeping them moving, / juggle them (nearly), / I'mreally improving!" Similarly, an unexpected dizzy landing against a wall is quickly reframed as "headstanding." The illustrations expose readers to several moves and pieces of equipment (a trapeze, a gymnast's ribbons), all deployed in varying degrees of competency by an engaging, upbeat protagonist. Those champing at the bit for a more active storytime will be pleased. A vigorous read-aloud, sure to get little ones moving.(Picture book. 3-5) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
