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Recommend this book:
Charlie and Sophie's Great Escape
Farial English
2025 Bronze Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite
Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape is a delightful children’s picture book written by Farial English, with illustrations by Patrizia Donaera. It follows the adventurous tale of two dogs, Charlie and Sophie, as they explore their surroundings after a rainstorm. When their owner, Nicky, returns to the house to retrieve his hat during their walk, the dogs do not follow his instructions to wait for him. Instead, they run into the woods, chasing after a deer. Even after losing sight of the deer, they continue to sniff around and look for other creatures. They encounter a large bird that scares them, and by the time they manage to escape, they realize they are lost and far from home. Using their senses, Charlie and Sophie try to find their way back. Will they be able to navigate through the unfamiliar woods and reunite with Nicky?
Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape is a fun story with adorable characters and an engaging plot. It introduces children to Charlie and Sophie, two dogs inspired by real-life pets, while teaching readers about dogs’ sensory perceptions. The story encompasses themes of friendship, adventure, teamwork, and curiosity. Farial English’s narration is captivating, reflecting her love for animals and nature. The vibrant illustrations bring Charlie and Sophie’s adventure to life, showing the beautiful outdoors and lush greenery. The vivid colors enhance the whimsical feel of the story, making it visually appealing to young readers. It includes interactive activities that encourage readers to explore their senses. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend sharing it with animal lovers and children to help them learn about dogs’ senses.
Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape is a delightful children’s picture book written by Farial English, with illustrations by Patrizia Donaera. It follows the adventurous tale of two dogs, Charlie and Sophie, as they explore their surroundings after a rainstorm. When their owner, Nicky, returns to the house to retrieve his hat during their walk, the dogs do not follow his instructions to wait for him. Instead, they run into the woods, chasing after a deer. Even after losing sight of the deer, they continue to sniff around and look for other creatures. They encounter a large bird that scares them, and by the time they manage to escape, they realize they are lost and far from home. Using their senses, Charlie and Sophie try to find their way back. Will they be able to navigate through the unfamiliar woods and reunite with Nicky?
Charlie and Sophie’s Great Escape is a fun story with adorable characters and an engaging plot. It introduces children to Charlie and Sophie, two dogs inspired by real-life pets, while teaching readers about dogs’ sensory perceptions. The story encompasses themes of friendship, adventure, teamwork, and curiosity. Farial English’s narration is captivating, reflecting her love for animals and nature. The vibrant illustrations bring Charlie and Sophie’s adventure to life, showing the beautiful outdoors and lush greenery. The vivid colors enhance the whimsical feel of the story, making it visually appealing to young readers. It includes interactive activities that encourage readers to explore their senses. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend sharing it with animal lovers and children to help them learn about dogs’ senses.
Recommend this book:
Dolly's Ocean Rescue
An Interactive Story of Problem-Solving, Leadership, and Teamwork
Melissa Eastin
2025 Silver Medal
42 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite
Can you clean every beach in the world by yourself? The simple answer is “No.” However, when you problem-solve and get everyone to do their part, the beaches and oceans can be cleaned. Dolly’s Ocean Rescue by Melissa Eastin encourages children to learn how to make a difference by applying four steps to problem-solving. Melissa teaches that when coupled with problem-solving, leadership, teamwork, good deeds, and love will make the world a better place to live. Reading this book will teach your child how to be environmentally active and help them learn how to use problem-solving techniques in all areas of life. This book is exciting and interactive, so your child will love spending time with Dolly as she does small acts of kindness that will change the world.
With the help of animals, Dolly learns valuable lessons in Dolly’s Ocean Rescue. Melissa Eastin includes reflection questions for K-2 and 3-6 graders. Along with the questions, Melissa has a section for teachers and caregivers to use as they teach the fine art of problem-solving. At the end of the book, the author has several pages of questions about how to be a problem-solver for children to answer, with lines to write their answers. Lana Lee does a wonderful job of illustrating this book, adding beauty and meaning to the story. Often, children and adults feel they can’t do enough to make a difference in the environment, so they do nothing. This book will encourage your child to do what they can and encourage others to do what they can. Little things add up to earth-changing big things when each child does their part.
Can you clean every beach in the world by yourself? The simple answer is “No.” However, when you problem-solve and get everyone to do their part, the beaches and oceans can be cleaned. Dolly’s Ocean Rescue by Melissa Eastin encourages children to learn how to make a difference by applying four steps to problem-solving. Melissa teaches that when coupled with problem-solving, leadership, teamwork, good deeds, and love will make the world a better place to live. Reading this book will teach your child how to be environmentally active and help them learn how to use problem-solving techniques in all areas of life. This book is exciting and interactive, so your child will love spending time with Dolly as she does small acts of kindness that will change the world.
With the help of animals, Dolly learns valuable lessons in Dolly’s Ocean Rescue. Melissa Eastin includes reflection questions for K-2 and 3-6 graders. Along with the questions, Melissa has a section for teachers and caregivers to use as they teach the fine art of problem-solving. At the end of the book, the author has several pages of questions about how to be a problem-solver for children to answer, with lines to write their answers. Lana Lee does a wonderful job of illustrating this book, adding beauty and meaning to the story. Often, children and adults feel they can’t do enough to make a difference in the environment, so they do nothing. This book will encourage your child to do what they can and encourage others to do what they can. Little things add up to earth-changing big things when each child does their part.
Recommend this book:
Let’s Go on a Hike!
A family hiking adventure!
Katrina Liu
2025 Silver Medal
30 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
Let’s Go on a Hike! by Katrina Liu is a charming and engaging picture book that captures the simple joy of a family nature adventure. The story begins with excitement and preparation as the family sets off on a hike, equipped with boots, sunscreen, and curiosity. Along the trail, the child starts to feel discouraged, complaining of sore feet, the heat, and a lack of interest in the scenery. Everything shifts, however, when Dad hands over a pair of binoculars. With this new perspective, the child begins to discover small wonders all around: a rare blue feather, a bunny bathing, and a frog resting on a lily pad, among other woodland wonders. These discoveries gradually turn frustration into fascination, transforming the hike into a fun and memorable journey. As the sun sets, the day ends with tired feet, happy hearts, and the promise of future adventures. The illustrations by Heru Setiawan are detailed and immersive, using soft textures and natural colors to bring the outdoor scenes vividly to life.
As an educator, I found Let’s Go on a Hike! by Katrina Liu a delightful resource for encouraging observation skills, environmental awareness, and positive family experiences in nature. The vocabulary is illustrative yet age-appropriate, introducing words like “binoculars,” “lily pads,” and “nest” in context. I appreciated how the story realistically portrays a child’s shift in mindset from reluctant or maybe even bored to curious, offering a great opportunity to discuss emotions, patience, and resilience. Heru Setiawan’s illustrations are visually appealing and thoughtfully composed to support the text and maintain children's attention. The soft color palette and expressive character drawings add warmth and relatability, making each page feel inviting. This book would be a wonderful addition to any early childhood classroom, especially when introducing outdoor activities, science units, or lessons on mindfulness and gratitude. Let’s Go on a Hike! reminds us that sometimes, a simple shift in perspective is all it takes to turn a boring day into a beautiful one.
Let’s Go on a Hike! by Katrina Liu is a charming and engaging picture book that captures the simple joy of a family nature adventure. The story begins with excitement and preparation as the family sets off on a hike, equipped with boots, sunscreen, and curiosity. Along the trail, the child starts to feel discouraged, complaining of sore feet, the heat, and a lack of interest in the scenery. Everything shifts, however, when Dad hands over a pair of binoculars. With this new perspective, the child begins to discover small wonders all around: a rare blue feather, a bunny bathing, and a frog resting on a lily pad, among other woodland wonders. These discoveries gradually turn frustration into fascination, transforming the hike into a fun and memorable journey. As the sun sets, the day ends with tired feet, happy hearts, and the promise of future adventures. The illustrations by Heru Setiawan are detailed and immersive, using soft textures and natural colors to bring the outdoor scenes vividly to life.
As an educator, I found Let’s Go on a Hike! by Katrina Liu a delightful resource for encouraging observation skills, environmental awareness, and positive family experiences in nature. The vocabulary is illustrative yet age-appropriate, introducing words like “binoculars,” “lily pads,” and “nest” in context. I appreciated how the story realistically portrays a child’s shift in mindset from reluctant or maybe even bored to curious, offering a great opportunity to discuss emotions, patience, and resilience. Heru Setiawan’s illustrations are visually appealing and thoughtfully composed to support the text and maintain children's attention. The soft color palette and expressive character drawings add warmth and relatability, making each page feel inviting. This book would be a wonderful addition to any early childhood classroom, especially when introducing outdoor activities, science units, or lessons on mindfulness and gratitude. Let’s Go on a Hike! reminds us that sometimes, a simple shift in perspective is all it takes to turn a boring day into a beautiful one.
Recommend this book:
The Gift
Laura-Lee Blackmore, Paul Schultz
2025 Gold Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
The Gift is a children’s picture book written by Laura-Lee Blackmore with illustrations by Paul Schultz. It follows the story of Loxley, a young girl scheduled for heart surgery. She is scared and wishes to return home, but after receiving a gingerbread-colored bear from a hospital volunteer, she feels less anxious. Loxley names the bear Patch, and he becomes her source of comfort and support during the surgery. After the procedure, Loxley receives encouragement from her family and finds solace in her connections with loved ones. When she has the opportunity to be there for someone else in her family, Loxley passes on the gift of Patch, ensuring that another person can experience the same comfort and support she felt during her surgery.
The Gift is a heartwarming story that beautifully illustrates themes of love, resilience, and the importance of connection. It shows how simple gestures can have a profound impact on those facing challenging times. The tale teaches children about empathy and the significance of giving and receiving support during difficult moments. Laura-Lee Blackmore's narration is straightforward, making it easy for children to follow and understand, especially for those who are learning to read. Many readers will feel inspired to face their challenges with confidence and remember that they are never alone. I particularly loved the metaphor of tears and leaves, as it was both unique and heartfelt. Additionally, the colorful illustrations enhance the narrative, making it visually engaging for young readers. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to readers of all ages, as it offers valuable lessons on empathy, resilience, and the power of love during tough times.
The Gift is a children’s picture book written by Laura-Lee Blackmore with illustrations by Paul Schultz. It follows the story of Loxley, a young girl scheduled for heart surgery. She is scared and wishes to return home, but after receiving a gingerbread-colored bear from a hospital volunteer, she feels less anxious. Loxley names the bear Patch, and he becomes her source of comfort and support during the surgery. After the procedure, Loxley receives encouragement from her family and finds solace in her connections with loved ones. When she has the opportunity to be there for someone else in her family, Loxley passes on the gift of Patch, ensuring that another person can experience the same comfort and support she felt during her surgery.
The Gift is a heartwarming story that beautifully illustrates themes of love, resilience, and the importance of connection. It shows how simple gestures can have a profound impact on those facing challenging times. The tale teaches children about empathy and the significance of giving and receiving support during difficult moments. Laura-Lee Blackmore's narration is straightforward, making it easy for children to follow and understand, especially for those who are learning to read. Many readers will feel inspired to face their challenges with confidence and remember that they are never alone. I particularly loved the metaphor of tears and leaves, as it was both unique and heartfelt. Additionally, the colorful illustrations enhance the narrative, making it visually engaging for young readers. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and highly recommend it to readers of all ages, as it offers valuable lessons on empathy, resilience, and the power of love during tough times.
Recommend this book:
Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code
Rick Felty
2024 Finalist
97 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite
The Old West can teach modern society much about living. Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code by Rick Felty teaches young children civility in a fun way. Tabitha is a one-eyed cat who is the sheriff of the town. The town is full of kind people who care for each other. To this nice peaceful town comes Ornery the Outlaw. Many people would just avoid someone who is onery, but Tabitha wants him to feel welcome and to find out why he is ornery. Ornery the Outlaw is ornery because he feels he does not have a friend and never will. The kindness of the townspeople transforms Ornery and he becomes kind and friendly. Read this book to learn how you can use the Cowboy Code to help others learn to be kind and friendly. Learn to focus on joy and not on sadness.
Do you want your child to grow into a kind, gentle, caring soul? Then Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code by Rick Felty is the book for your child, which teaches that kindness can be shown in many different ways. This is a great picture book for children with wonderful illustrations and a rhyming style that add to the joy of reading the story. I love the fact that the rhymes are not contrived but flow naturally. As your child grows into adulthood, you will be glad you taught them the Cowboy Code, which teaches them to be kind and friendly, helpful, and that being unique is good. Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code has so many wonderful lessons, I highly recommend it for all children.
The Old West can teach modern society much about living. Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code by Rick Felty teaches young children civility in a fun way. Tabitha is a one-eyed cat who is the sheriff of the town. The town is full of kind people who care for each other. To this nice peaceful town comes Ornery the Outlaw. Many people would just avoid someone who is onery, but Tabitha wants him to feel welcome and to find out why he is ornery. Ornery the Outlaw is ornery because he feels he does not have a friend and never will. The kindness of the townspeople transforms Ornery and he becomes kind and friendly. Read this book to learn how you can use the Cowboy Code to help others learn to be kind and friendly. Learn to focus on joy and not on sadness.
Do you want your child to grow into a kind, gentle, caring soul? Then Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code by Rick Felty is the book for your child, which teaches that kindness can be shown in many different ways. This is a great picture book for children with wonderful illustrations and a rhyming style that add to the joy of reading the story. I love the fact that the rhymes are not contrived but flow naturally. As your child grows into adulthood, you will be glad you taught them the Cowboy Code, which teaches them to be kind and friendly, helpful, and that being unique is good. Tabitha Fink and the Cowboy Code has so many wonderful lessons, I highly recommend it for all children.
Recommend this book:
The Power of Empathy
Be the Friend You've Always Wanted
Ruth Maille
2024 Honorable Mention
35 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite
The Power of Empathy: Be the Friend You've Always Wanted is a children’s book by Ruth Maille. Orbit, a personified image of our planet, gathers a group of children together to discover a superpower: empathy. Orbit explains the emotion, and gives some examples, before asking the children to describe instances where they have shown empathy. Orbit goes on by showing examples of where empathy can provide a positive experience, and the story ends with positive affirmations.
Ruth Maille has owned an early learning center for thirty-two years, and her ability to connect with children on their level is shown through her wording. Her writing is clear, and the examples are relatable. I read the book with two of my young children, and they were engaged by the content and beautiful illustrations. The material could encourage meaningful discussions about behavior and empathy, and children may find a comparable example in their lives from one of the events in the story. The note at the beginning of the book speaks positively about our world as it heals from the recent pandemic and explains the reason why Orbit is wearing two bandages.
The story is part of “The Power of…” series, which has won well-deserved awards, and parents can feel confident knowing that an experienced proponent of children’s emotional development wrote this book. It would be a fantastic fit for libraries and community centers where young children are present. The Power of Empathy is a beautiful learning tool for parents or caregivers to place in home libraries.
The Power of Empathy: Be the Friend You've Always Wanted is a children’s book by Ruth Maille. Orbit, a personified image of our planet, gathers a group of children together to discover a superpower: empathy. Orbit explains the emotion, and gives some examples, before asking the children to describe instances where they have shown empathy. Orbit goes on by showing examples of where empathy can provide a positive experience, and the story ends with positive affirmations.
Ruth Maille has owned an early learning center for thirty-two years, and her ability to connect with children on their level is shown through her wording. Her writing is clear, and the examples are relatable. I read the book with two of my young children, and they were engaged by the content and beautiful illustrations. The material could encourage meaningful discussions about behavior and empathy, and children may find a comparable example in their lives from one of the events in the story. The note at the beginning of the book speaks positively about our world as it heals from the recent pandemic and explains the reason why Orbit is wearing two bandages.
The story is part of “The Power of…” series, which has won well-deserved awards, and parents can feel confident knowing that an experienced proponent of children’s emotional development wrote this book. It would be a fantastic fit for libraries and community centers where young children are present. The Power of Empathy is a beautiful learning tool for parents or caregivers to place in home libraries.
Recommend this book:
Tutti
A Yoga Story of Self Acceptance
Agnieszka Migew
2024 Bronze Medal
31 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Amy Louise Hill for Readers' Favorite
Tutti: A Yoga Story of Self Acceptance, written by Agnieszka Migew, is an inspirational children’s book about self-acceptance. Tutti, the conker tree, and his family live in a forest. One day Tutti wakes up and does his usual morning routine of stretching, yawning, and saying, “Hello, Sun! Hands together, make a cloud shape!” This particular morning, Tutti notices a white cloud coming out of his mouth, and his leaves fall off due to the cold. Tutti is confused and rushes to his mum, who calms him and explains that Autumn is coming. Tutti immediately dislikes Autumn and all its changes, until one day he wakes up to beautiful red and yellow leaves, which changes Tutti’s outlook on Autumn entirely. Tutti learns the important lesson of loving himself the way he is, no matter what changes come his way. Read Tutti’s full journey in this beautifully written book and you too will learn the message the author is trying to teach.
Talented author Agnieszka Migew has created the ideal self-love book for young children. It perfectly delivers the author's message and also demonstrates how to use yoga to control your emotions. The dialogue has been written simply for children to follow along, and the illustrations by Jo Parry are colorful and bright, which will certainly attract the young reader’s attention. The story of Tutti is beautiful and heart-warming and will fill children with love and positive thoughts about themselves. Learning self-acceptance is extremely important, and I’m so glad the author chose this topic for her book. I hope Agnieszka Migew continues to write more brilliant content like Tutti: A Yoga Story of Self Acceptance, and I wish her all the best!
Tutti: A Yoga Story of Self Acceptance, written by Agnieszka Migew, is an inspirational children’s book about self-acceptance. Tutti, the conker tree, and his family live in a forest. One day Tutti wakes up and does his usual morning routine of stretching, yawning, and saying, “Hello, Sun! Hands together, make a cloud shape!” This particular morning, Tutti notices a white cloud coming out of his mouth, and his leaves fall off due to the cold. Tutti is confused and rushes to his mum, who calms him and explains that Autumn is coming. Tutti immediately dislikes Autumn and all its changes, until one day he wakes up to beautiful red and yellow leaves, which changes Tutti’s outlook on Autumn entirely. Tutti learns the important lesson of loving himself the way he is, no matter what changes come his way. Read Tutti’s full journey in this beautifully written book and you too will learn the message the author is trying to teach.
Talented author Agnieszka Migew has created the ideal self-love book for young children. It perfectly delivers the author's message and also demonstrates how to use yoga to control your emotions. The dialogue has been written simply for children to follow along, and the illustrations by Jo Parry are colorful and bright, which will certainly attract the young reader’s attention. The story of Tutti is beautiful and heart-warming and will fill children with love and positive thoughts about themselves. Learning self-acceptance is extremely important, and I’m so glad the author chose this topic for her book. I hope Agnieszka Migew continues to write more brilliant content like Tutti: A Yoga Story of Self Acceptance, and I wish her all the best!
Recommend this book:
Miso and Kili's Flying Adventures
New Island Friends (1) (Miso and Kili Flying Adventures)
J.M. Chrismer
2024 Silver Medal
36 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Miso and Kili's Flying Adventures: New Island Friends is a children’s picture book written by J.M. Chrismer with illustrations by Ilya Fortuna. The story follows Miso the ragdoll and his friend Kili as they embark on a thrilling journey across the ocean. They explore the wonders of the sea and encounter unexpected surprises along the way. When bad weather forces them to make an emergency landing on a mysterious island, they meet a charming group of wild kitty cats led by a stunning green-striped tigress, who welcome them with open arms. During their stay on the island, Kili is initially skeptical while Miso is optimistic. However, their night turns out to be a truly special and unforgettable experience, filled with memories that stay with them for a long time.
Miso and Kili's Flying Adventures: New Island Friends is the first book in the Miso and Kili Flying Adventures series. It's an exciting start to the series, with a captivating storyline, lovable characters, and a perfect balance of thrills and discovery. The story takes readers on an exciting journey with Miso and Kili as they meet fun-loving friends and learn valuable lessons about friendship, optimism, and adapting to new situations. J.M. Chrismer's cheerful narration brings the adventure to life, making it an enjoyable read for children and parents alike. The illustrations are stunning, and the warm color palette creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The characters and their world feel vivid and real, making it easy to become fully immersed in the story. I enjoyed reading this book, and I look forward to reading more from the author and series. Overall, this is great work.
Miso and Kili's Flying Adventures: New Island Friends is a children’s picture book written by J.M. Chrismer with illustrations by Ilya Fortuna. The story follows Miso the ragdoll and his friend Kili as they embark on a thrilling journey across the ocean. They explore the wonders of the sea and encounter unexpected surprises along the way. When bad weather forces them to make an emergency landing on a mysterious island, they meet a charming group of wild kitty cats led by a stunning green-striped tigress, who welcome them with open arms. During their stay on the island, Kili is initially skeptical while Miso is optimistic. However, their night turns out to be a truly special and unforgettable experience, filled with memories that stay with them for a long time.
Miso and Kili's Flying Adventures: New Island Friends is the first book in the Miso and Kili Flying Adventures series. It's an exciting start to the series, with a captivating storyline, lovable characters, and a perfect balance of thrills and discovery. The story takes readers on an exciting journey with Miso and Kili as they meet fun-loving friends and learn valuable lessons about friendship, optimism, and adapting to new situations. J.M. Chrismer's cheerful narration brings the adventure to life, making it an enjoyable read for children and parents alike. The illustrations are stunning, and the warm color palette creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The characters and their world feel vivid and real, making it easy to become fully immersed in the story. I enjoyed reading this book, and I look forward to reading more from the author and series. Overall, this is great work.
Recommend this book:
Stella's Brave Voice
Marissa Bader
2024 Silver Medal
39 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Stella's Brave Voice is a children's picture book written by Marissa Bader with illustrations by Arlene Soto. The book follows the story of twin sisters, Stella and Paige. Stella loves that she has a twin sister who always has her back because she talks less than Paige, who is more outgoing. Unfortunately, sometimes Paige oversteps and forgets that Stella can speak for herself if she wants to. Stella confides in their mother and informs her that she feels a burning feeling in her stomach whenever Paige talks for her. What could it be? And will her mother’s advice help her find the courage to speak up for herself? Get a copy of this book to find out.
Stella's Brave Voice is a fun story that encourages children to speak up and share their opinions. Stella is an adorable character whose plight will resonate with many shy children who are afraid to voice their ideas. Marissa Bader uses this story to teach children to get out of their shells and stand up for themselves. Bottling up your feelings and not sharing your views can cause you to feel stressed, and like Stella, it can give you a burning sensation in your stomach. Freedom and joy come with speaking out, and this can be seen in Stella’s character development from a timid child to a cheerful and brave girl. I loved the book’s art because it was eye-catching and told the story through visuals. I recommend parents and caregivers to read this book with their children and help them find fun ideas to help them overcome their fear of speaking up.
Stella's Brave Voice is a children's picture book written by Marissa Bader with illustrations by Arlene Soto. The book follows the story of twin sisters, Stella and Paige. Stella loves that she has a twin sister who always has her back because she talks less than Paige, who is more outgoing. Unfortunately, sometimes Paige oversteps and forgets that Stella can speak for herself if she wants to. Stella confides in their mother and informs her that she feels a burning feeling in her stomach whenever Paige talks for her. What could it be? And will her mother’s advice help her find the courage to speak up for herself? Get a copy of this book to find out.
Stella's Brave Voice is a fun story that encourages children to speak up and share their opinions. Stella is an adorable character whose plight will resonate with many shy children who are afraid to voice their ideas. Marissa Bader uses this story to teach children to get out of their shells and stand up for themselves. Bottling up your feelings and not sharing your views can cause you to feel stressed, and like Stella, it can give you a burning sensation in your stomach. Freedom and joy come with speaking out, and this can be seen in Stella’s character development from a timid child to a cheerful and brave girl. I loved the book’s art because it was eye-catching and told the story through visuals. I recommend parents and caregivers to read this book with their children and help them find fun ideas to help them overcome their fear of speaking up.
Recommend this book:
I Can't Believe They're Gone
A kid's grief book that hugs, helps, and gives hope
Karen Brough, Hiruni Kariyawasam
2024 Gold Medal
39 Pages
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Children - Picture Book
Reviewed by Zahid Sheikh for Readers' Favorite
I Can't Believe They're Gone by Karen Brough is a heartwarming and empathetic guide designed to provide support and understanding to children navigating the complex emotions of grief. The narrative captures the responses of different characters, each struggling with their emotions after losing someone dear to them. The story is beautifully structured, with each character seeking solace and wisdom from Wise Old Bear, who provides them with compassionate guidance and the reassurance that emotions are neither good nor bad but simply part of being human. The mice represent a range of emotional reactions, from disbelief and sadness to anger, guilt, and numbness. The turning point of the story, where Tiny Mouse sheds tears and finds comfort through creating something meaningful, is particularly touching.
The narrative showcases the different emotional responses and the characters' coping mechanisms to navigate their grief. From productive activities to creative outlets, the characters find ways to channel their emotions positively. Karen Brough showcases the importance of finding healthy ways to express and process feelings. These emotions are handled delicately and realistically, allowing readers to connect with the characters and their feelings. Hiruni Kariyawasam's illustrations are vital in enhancing the book's impact. The colorful and expressive artwork complements the text beautifully, capturing the essence of the emotional rollercoaster that children experience when dealing with loss. Through its relatable characters and gentle storytelling, I Can't Believe They're Gone offers young readers a touching portrayal of the human experience of loss and the myriad emotions that come with it.
I Can't Believe They're Gone by Karen Brough is a heartwarming and empathetic guide designed to provide support and understanding to children navigating the complex emotions of grief. The narrative captures the responses of different characters, each struggling with their emotions after losing someone dear to them. The story is beautifully structured, with each character seeking solace and wisdom from Wise Old Bear, who provides them with compassionate guidance and the reassurance that emotions are neither good nor bad but simply part of being human. The mice represent a range of emotional reactions, from disbelief and sadness to anger, guilt, and numbness. The turning point of the story, where Tiny Mouse sheds tears and finds comfort through creating something meaningful, is particularly touching.
The narrative showcases the different emotional responses and the characters' coping mechanisms to navigate their grief. From productive activities to creative outlets, the characters find ways to channel their emotions positively. Karen Brough showcases the importance of finding healthy ways to express and process feelings. These emotions are handled delicately and realistically, allowing readers to connect with the characters and their feelings. Hiruni Kariyawasam's illustrations are vital in enhancing the book's impact. The colorful and expressive artwork complements the text beautifully, capturing the essence of the emotional rollercoaster that children experience when dealing with loss. Through its relatable characters and gentle storytelling, I Can't Believe They're Gone offers young readers a touching portrayal of the human experience of loss and the myriad emotions that come with it.
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