Citation:
Krishnaswami,
Uma. 2012. Ill. by Uma Krishnaswamy. Out of the Way! Out of the Way! Toronto:
Groundwood.
ISBN 9781554981304
Summary:
A young boy finds a
small tree in the middle of a dusty path. The boy protects the tree as those
passing along the path yell “Out of the way! Out of the way!” as they move
around the tree. The many people passing form a curving path around the tree
and the tree flourishes. As the town’s population increases the tree grows in addition
to the traffic and industry.
Critical Analysis:
The story and
illustrations are both cheerful and unique. Set in India, the story depicts a
young boy eager to spare a small tree located on an increasingly busy path. As
the boy continues to hear “Get out of the Way!” he does not budge and those who
originally were saying the phrase, find themselves making way for the tree and
form a new path. The tree is central to the growing population and serves as a
physical representation of beauty and stability. The tree provides shelter and food
to local animals and is a visual joy for those passing through.
Krishnaswany’s
illustrations enrich the story and help create authenticity. The Indian culture
is effectively portrayed through the characters, as well as the depicted
landscape. The colors are dynamic with a mixture of both straight black lines
and vivid colors throughout. The book’s title Out of the Way! Out of the Way! , is emphasized on numerous pages with
large, bold letters. Indian clothing is detailed accurately with traditional
saris for women and headwear for men. As the time passes, the illustrated modes
of transportation change from foot, to bicycle, to ultimately motor vehicles.
However, the most impressive illustrations within the book would have to be the
tree as it progresses through the story. The reader is able to witness its transformation
from a sapling, to a full, magnificent tree. The final page simply illustrates
the tree with bright green leaves, full, red berries, and small animals scurrying
among the branches.
Review Excerpt(s):
“An evocative picture
of time's passage, as well as a reminder of nature's value, in our modern lives.”
~Booklist, July 2012
“The message to stop and smell the roses (or enjoy the tree)
comes through effectively as spreads become more and more saturated with
imagery that crowd out white space.”
~Kirkus, Starred Review, March 2012
Connections:
Krishnaswami, Uma.
2003. Ill. by Akib Jamel. Monsoon. New York: Farrar, Straus, Giroux.
ISBN 9780374350154
Makhijani, Pooja.
2007. Ill. by Elena Gomez. Mama's Saris. New York: Little, Brown.
ISBN 9780316011051
Classroom Activity: Author website with many great activities related
to Out of the Way! Out of the Way!:
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