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Recommend this book:
The Fin-Tastic Cleanup
Laura Mancuso
2025 Finalist
38 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
In The Fin-Tastic Cleanup, author Laura Mancuso introduces young readers to three spirited mermaids, Sara, Alix, and Lucy, who live in a cheerful undersea village. Their joyful world takes a serious turn when they discover pollution harming their ocean home. From a cracked bottle injuring a fish to a seal nearly choking on a plastic bag, the mermaids witness firsthand the dangers of marine debris. Moved to action, they team up with a group of children on land, forming a unique cleanup crew that works together to protect the sea. With rhyming text and Jenna Guidi’s colorful illustrations, the story blends fantasy and real-world urgency, helping children understand environmental responsibility in an engaging, age-appropriate way. The book ends with a powerful real-life summary of global ocean cleanup efforts and resources for getting involved.
Laura Mancuso’s The Fin-Tastic Cleanup is more than just charming; it’s an excellent educational tool. As an educator, I appreciate how it introduces complex environmental issues in a way that empowers rather than overwhelms young readers. The teamwork between the mermaids and the children offers a hopeful model for change, while the rhymes and vibrant images keep early learners engaged. Mancuso’s inclusion of facts, statistics, and trusted organizations at the end turns this picture book into a springboard for classroom discussions, Earth Day activities, or home projects. It’s ideal for sparking early environmental awareness and giving kids a sense of agency. The Fin-Tastic Cleanup is a heartfelt and accessible story that promotes empathy, collaboration, and care for our planet, qualities every educator hopes to nurture.
In The Fin-Tastic Cleanup, author Laura Mancuso introduces young readers to three spirited mermaids, Sara, Alix, and Lucy, who live in a cheerful undersea village. Their joyful world takes a serious turn when they discover pollution harming their ocean home. From a cracked bottle injuring a fish to a seal nearly choking on a plastic bag, the mermaids witness firsthand the dangers of marine debris. Moved to action, they team up with a group of children on land, forming a unique cleanup crew that works together to protect the sea. With rhyming text and Jenna Guidi’s colorful illustrations, the story blends fantasy and real-world urgency, helping children understand environmental responsibility in an engaging, age-appropriate way. The book ends with a powerful real-life summary of global ocean cleanup efforts and resources for getting involved.
Laura Mancuso’s The Fin-Tastic Cleanup is more than just charming; it’s an excellent educational tool. As an educator, I appreciate how it introduces complex environmental issues in a way that empowers rather than overwhelms young readers. The teamwork between the mermaids and the children offers a hopeful model for change, while the rhymes and vibrant images keep early learners engaged. Mancuso’s inclusion of facts, statistics, and trusted organizations at the end turns this picture book into a springboard for classroom discussions, Earth Day activities, or home projects. It’s ideal for sparking early environmental awareness and giving kids a sense of agency. The Fin-Tastic Cleanup is a heartfelt and accessible story that promotes empathy, collaboration, and care for our planet, qualities every educator hopes to nurture.
Recommend this book:
Dax to the Max
Blah Blah Blobs vs. Power Pods
Scott Feld, Kezzia Crossley
2025 Honorable Mention
74 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Dax to the Max: Blah Blah Blobs vs. Power Pods by Scott Feld is a captivating children’s chapter book that embarks on a journey with Dax, a young boy grappling with self-doubt and fear. Through imaginative storytelling and lively characters, Dax confronts his “stinky blobs” of negative self-talk and discovers his inner superpower, providing young readers with an important lesson about the strength of positive thinking and self-belief. Dax’s struggles mirror children’s everyday challenges, making the lessons learned motivating. Feld’s use of playful language and creative scenarios crafts a fun and educational read that is both enjoyable and insightful.
The illustrations by Kezzia Crossley complement the story with vibrant visuals that capture the essence of Dax’s adventures. These images enhance the connection between young readers and the story, making the themes of courage and self-confidence more impactful. This is an excellent tool for parents and educators to discuss the importance of overcoming fears and the impact of positive versus negative thoughts. Dax to the Max encourages children to engage actively with their inner dialogue and to recognize their capacity to influence their feelings and actions through positive thinking. Scott Feld offers a story that is educational and entertaining. It’s a resource that can help children navigate their feelings and fears, making it a valuable book for anyone looking to empower young minds to face challenges confidently and positively. It’s also a good book for story time at school, as it can prompt interesting discussions about positive thinking and overcoming fears.
Dax to the Max: Blah Blah Blobs vs. Power Pods by Scott Feld is a captivating children’s chapter book that embarks on a journey with Dax, a young boy grappling with self-doubt and fear. Through imaginative storytelling and lively characters, Dax confronts his “stinky blobs” of negative self-talk and discovers his inner superpower, providing young readers with an important lesson about the strength of positive thinking and self-belief. Dax’s struggles mirror children’s everyday challenges, making the lessons learned motivating. Feld’s use of playful language and creative scenarios crafts a fun and educational read that is both enjoyable and insightful.
The illustrations by Kezzia Crossley complement the story with vibrant visuals that capture the essence of Dax’s adventures. These images enhance the connection between young readers and the story, making the themes of courage and self-confidence more impactful. This is an excellent tool for parents and educators to discuss the importance of overcoming fears and the impact of positive versus negative thoughts. Dax to the Max encourages children to engage actively with their inner dialogue and to recognize their capacity to influence their feelings and actions through positive thinking. Scott Feld offers a story that is educational and entertaining. It’s a resource that can help children navigate their feelings and fears, making it a valuable book for anyone looking to empower young minds to face challenges confidently and positively. It’s also a good book for story time at school, as it can prompt interesting discussions about positive thinking and overcoming fears.
Recommend this book:
Dogfish and the Gift of Inclusion
Rita Reed
2025 Bronze Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Dogfish and the Gift of Inclusion is a children’s picture book written by Rita Reed, with illustrations by Craig Cartwright. The story follows Dogfish, who has been invited to celebrate his friend Wally the Whale Shark’s birthday in Los Cabos, Mexico. Excited about the invitation, Dogfish joyfully swims south to Mexico with his close friend Elly, who wears earmuffs due to her sensitivity to sound. The two friends are eager to meet their other classmates, each of whom is special and unique. They include Angelfish, who uses a hearing aid; Shark, who wears shades because he is blind; and Tilly Turtle, who has a missing limb. Amidst the excitement of their reunion, Dogfish notices that Ollie, a shy and nervous octopus who is new in town, is missing and probably hiding from everyone. Dogfish understands that without Ollie, the party won't be as enjoyable, as they will be missing a vital member of the group. Join Dogfish and his friends as they devise ways to encourage Ollie to come out of his hiding place and join the fun.
Dogfish and the Gift of Inclusion is a heartwarming story that teaches children about kindness and inclusivity. It emphasizes the value of embracing differences and ensuring that everyone feels welcome. Rita Reed skillfully raises awareness about various disabilities through this narrative, promoting acceptance and genuine friendship. Dogfish is a lovable character who embodies kindness and compassion. His determination to include the shy newcomer, Ollie the Octopus, highlights the central message that a community is only complete when everyone is present and valued. This narrative effectively uses linguistic elements, such as bold keywords and Latino lingo, to create an engaging story that fosters reading skills and promotes cultural understanding and appreciation. This book is a visual delight, with vibrant illustrations that depict the colorful aquatic friends in their beautiful environment. I highly recommend sharing it with your children to teach them the importance of inclusivity and embracing one another's differences.
Dogfish and the Gift of Inclusion is a children’s picture book written by Rita Reed, with illustrations by Craig Cartwright. The story follows Dogfish, who has been invited to celebrate his friend Wally the Whale Shark’s birthday in Los Cabos, Mexico. Excited about the invitation, Dogfish joyfully swims south to Mexico with his close friend Elly, who wears earmuffs due to her sensitivity to sound. The two friends are eager to meet their other classmates, each of whom is special and unique. They include Angelfish, who uses a hearing aid; Shark, who wears shades because he is blind; and Tilly Turtle, who has a missing limb. Amidst the excitement of their reunion, Dogfish notices that Ollie, a shy and nervous octopus who is new in town, is missing and probably hiding from everyone. Dogfish understands that without Ollie, the party won't be as enjoyable, as they will be missing a vital member of the group. Join Dogfish and his friends as they devise ways to encourage Ollie to come out of his hiding place and join the fun.
Dogfish and the Gift of Inclusion is a heartwarming story that teaches children about kindness and inclusivity. It emphasizes the value of embracing differences and ensuring that everyone feels welcome. Rita Reed skillfully raises awareness about various disabilities through this narrative, promoting acceptance and genuine friendship. Dogfish is a lovable character who embodies kindness and compassion. His determination to include the shy newcomer, Ollie the Octopus, highlights the central message that a community is only complete when everyone is present and valued. This narrative effectively uses linguistic elements, such as bold keywords and Latino lingo, to create an engaging story that fosters reading skills and promotes cultural understanding and appreciation. This book is a visual delight, with vibrant illustrations that depict the colorful aquatic friends in their beautiful environment. I highly recommend sharing it with your children to teach them the importance of inclusivity and embracing one another's differences.
Recommend this book:
Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control
Brandon Moore, Mick Edrick M Marcellana
2025 Bronze Medal
24 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control is a children’s picture book written by Brandon Moore, with illustrations by Mick Edrick M. Marcellana. The story follows Bridget Kimble as she attends school for the first time. Excited to make friends and learn new things, Bridget steps off the school bus and is assigned to Ms. Widget’s class. All the students are given the task of introducing themselves to the rest of the class. Although feeling shy and nervous, the first student shares his name, where he comes from, and what he wants to be when he grows up. Unfortunately, when it’s Bridget’s turn, another student rushes to the front, leading to a situation that teaches Bridget and her classmates valuable lessons about self-control, patience, and respect.
Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control is a heartwarming story that promotes social-emotional skills. In this book, children see Bridget practicing patience and self-control. Despite feeling angry with her new classmate, she manages her emotions in a challenging situation and sets a good example for her classmates. Bridget is an adorable character that many children will relate to. Her excitement about school is palpable, and her ability to follow rules and positively manage her feelings is inspiring. Brandon Moore's narration encourages children to develop empathy and respectful behavior as they navigate different social situations. The beautiful illustrations bring the animal characters to life. Each character has a unique color that is vibrant and eye-catching. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend sharing it with your children to teach them about self-control and respect.
Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control is a children’s picture book written by Brandon Moore, with illustrations by Mick Edrick M. Marcellana. The story follows Bridget Kimble as she attends school for the first time. Excited to make friends and learn new things, Bridget steps off the school bus and is assigned to Ms. Widget’s class. All the students are given the task of introducing themselves to the rest of the class. Although feeling shy and nervous, the first student shares his name, where he comes from, and what he wants to be when he grows up. Unfortunately, when it’s Bridget’s turn, another student rushes to the front, leading to a situation that teaches Bridget and her classmates valuable lessons about self-control, patience, and respect.
Bridget Kimble Learns Self-Control is a heartwarming story that promotes social-emotional skills. In this book, children see Bridget practicing patience and self-control. Despite feeling angry with her new classmate, she manages her emotions in a challenging situation and sets a good example for her classmates. Bridget is an adorable character that many children will relate to. Her excitement about school is palpable, and her ability to follow rules and positively manage her feelings is inspiring. Brandon Moore's narration encourages children to develop empathy and respectful behavior as they navigate different social situations. The beautiful illustrations bring the animal characters to life. Each character has a unique color that is vibrant and eye-catching. I enjoyed this book and highly recommend sharing it with your children to teach them about self-control and respect.
Recommend this book:
Because I Love Me
Cynthia Tatum Robinson
2025 Silver Medal
42 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Asher Syed for Readers' Favorite
Because I Love Me by Cynthia Tatum Robinson is a children's affirmation book about self-acceptance and individuality. In it, children see their reflection and recognize their unique qualities, such as smile, skin tone, hair texture, and marks like freckles or scars. The book states that these differences, including height and body shape, do not affect one’s value. It champions celebrating oneself without comparing to others and recognizing personal strength and worth. The message connects self-love with kindness toward others and encourages caring for the body, heart, and mind to promote happiness. It also speaks of loving oneself, which allows for genuine love of others, creating a life filled with kindness and pride. The book concludes with the idea that love always wins and self-love is essential for healthy relationships and well-being.
Because I Love Me by Cynthia Tatum Robinson shines with its rhythmic, lyrical writing that makes reading aloud a joyful experience. The contemporary graphic animation style of the illustrations, featuring bold, bright primary colors, perfectly complements the text’s energetic and uplifting tone. The book celebrates diversity through its inclusive depiction of children of various skin tones, hair textures, and body shapes, giving us a welcoming and affirming atmosphere. There is a harmony between the art and the words, and while this book does not have an actual story, Robinson makes it immersive. This read stands out not only for its artistic qualities but also for the positive, affirming message shared, and, partnered with an approachable and warm presentation, this makes it a wonderful addition to any child’s bookshelf. Very highly recommended.
Because I Love Me by Cynthia Tatum Robinson is a children's affirmation book about self-acceptance and individuality. In it, children see their reflection and recognize their unique qualities, such as smile, skin tone, hair texture, and marks like freckles or scars. The book states that these differences, including height and body shape, do not affect one’s value. It champions celebrating oneself without comparing to others and recognizing personal strength and worth. The message connects self-love with kindness toward others and encourages caring for the body, heart, and mind to promote happiness. It also speaks of loving oneself, which allows for genuine love of others, creating a life filled with kindness and pride. The book concludes with the idea that love always wins and self-love is essential for healthy relationships and well-being.
Because I Love Me by Cynthia Tatum Robinson shines with its rhythmic, lyrical writing that makes reading aloud a joyful experience. The contemporary graphic animation style of the illustrations, featuring bold, bright primary colors, perfectly complements the text’s energetic and uplifting tone. The book celebrates diversity through its inclusive depiction of children of various skin tones, hair textures, and body shapes, giving us a welcoming and affirming atmosphere. There is a harmony between the art and the words, and while this book does not have an actual story, Robinson makes it immersive. This read stands out not only for its artistic qualities but also for the positive, affirming message shared, and, partnered with an approachable and warm presentation, this makes it a wonderful addition to any child’s bookshelf. Very highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
Misty and the Magical Emotions Tree
Adriana E
2025 Silver Medal
34 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Julia Schemmer for Readers' Favorite
Emotions are part of what it means to be human - they ebb and flow, they show us what our emotional temperature is, and they help us make decisions. Teaching kids the difference between our emotions can help create a more emotionally resilient and healthy generation, understanding that each emotion has a valid circumstance. In Misty and the Magical Emotions Tree by author Adriana E, readers meet a curious bunny named Misty. She is determined to visit the Magical Emotions Tree, an enchanted tree with color-changing leaves that represent the different emotions. Not only is the book a valuable tool for helping children process and name their emotions, but it is also a great learning tool for memorizing the colors. This book encourages children to reflect on moments when they experience anger, sadness, and joy healthily and validates each emotion by showing that it is okay to feel those things. By normalizing the ebb and flow of each emotion, and what it can teach us in the moment, children can better communicate how they are feeling and what support they need.
Misty and the Magical Emotions Tree by Adriana E takes readers on a journey to the Magical Emotions Tree, where they can learn about their different feelings in a fun, positive way. The book has captivating watercolor illustrations that bring the reader into their world and show them that each emotion is healthy and normal to experience. I thought this was a great learning tool to teach children about their feelings, while also encouraging them to reflect on an experience and why it made them feel a certain way. This level of reflection is so crucial in developing their emotional intelligence, and it was done charmingly. Misty is an adorable bunny rabbit that children will love, and it’s a great story that families can read together.
Emotions are part of what it means to be human - they ebb and flow, they show us what our emotional temperature is, and they help us make decisions. Teaching kids the difference between our emotions can help create a more emotionally resilient and healthy generation, understanding that each emotion has a valid circumstance. In Misty and the Magical Emotions Tree by author Adriana E, readers meet a curious bunny named Misty. She is determined to visit the Magical Emotions Tree, an enchanted tree with color-changing leaves that represent the different emotions. Not only is the book a valuable tool for helping children process and name their emotions, but it is also a great learning tool for memorizing the colors. This book encourages children to reflect on moments when they experience anger, sadness, and joy healthily and validates each emotion by showing that it is okay to feel those things. By normalizing the ebb and flow of each emotion, and what it can teach us in the moment, children can better communicate how they are feeling and what support they need.
Misty and the Magical Emotions Tree by Adriana E takes readers on a journey to the Magical Emotions Tree, where they can learn about their different feelings in a fun, positive way. The book has captivating watercolor illustrations that bring the reader into their world and show them that each emotion is healthy and normal to experience. I thought this was a great learning tool to teach children about their feelings, while also encouraging them to reflect on an experience and why it made them feel a certain way. This level of reflection is so crucial in developing their emotional intelligence, and it was done charmingly. Misty is an adorable bunny rabbit that children will love, and it’s a great story that families can read together.
Recommend this book:
The Power of Respect
Forever Friends
Ruth Maille
2025 Gold Medal
Kindle Edition
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Kristine Zimmerman for Readers' Favorite
Ruth Maille's series The Power Of returns with a new entry, The Power of Respect: Forever Friends. Orbit, a walking, talking earth, is the guide in this tale. He visits two girls who have been friends for a decade and asks them for help. They have learned many lessons about how respect makes for a solid friendship. Respect for others is valuable, but so is self-respect, and both are covered. The girls share several examples of respect from their friendship, like supporting each other, sharing, and most importantly, communicating their feelings to one another. Equally as important is the ability to be kind and caring to yourself. A list of activities that caregivers can do with children follows the story.
Ruth Maille does an excellent job of explaining values to a young audience engagingly and genuinely. The Power of Respect: Forever Friends is a perfect choice for educators to read to classes at the start of the school year. The examples the girls share will be relatable to a wide audience. Ruth understands children. I appreciated the acknowledgment that mistakes happen and feelings get hurt, but kids can learn from them. The illustrations by Remesh Ram are polished, colorful, and engaging. Orbit is a recognizable character with his white shoes and gloves and the band-aids on his head, which is explained in the introduction. The Power of Respect: Forever Friends is an outstanding addition to the Power Of series! Orbit is a positive and appealing guide on the path to learning values.
Ruth Maille's series The Power Of returns with a new entry, The Power of Respect: Forever Friends. Orbit, a walking, talking earth, is the guide in this tale. He visits two girls who have been friends for a decade and asks them for help. They have learned many lessons about how respect makes for a solid friendship. Respect for others is valuable, but so is self-respect, and both are covered. The girls share several examples of respect from their friendship, like supporting each other, sharing, and most importantly, communicating their feelings to one another. Equally as important is the ability to be kind and caring to yourself. A list of activities that caregivers can do with children follows the story.
Ruth Maille does an excellent job of explaining values to a young audience engagingly and genuinely. The Power of Respect: Forever Friends is a perfect choice for educators to read to classes at the start of the school year. The examples the girls share will be relatable to a wide audience. Ruth understands children. I appreciated the acknowledgment that mistakes happen and feelings get hurt, but kids can learn from them. The illustrations by Remesh Ram are polished, colorful, and engaging. Orbit is a recognizable character with his white shoes and gloves and the band-aids on his head, which is explained in the introduction. The Power of Respect: Forever Friends is an outstanding addition to the Power Of series! Orbit is a positive and appealing guide on the path to learning values.
Recommend this book:
 on her school trip to Montgomery, AL, and her learning project that followed. The term BAD Girls of Mo...){kind=link}
LML-BAD Girls of Montgomery
Linda J Holloway
2024 Finalist
73 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite
Linda J Holloway has given us another hit with LML-BAD Girls of Montgomery, the story of the women who played important roles in the Montgomery Boycott and helped change the Civil Rights Movement forever. This story follows Little Miss Linda (LML) on her school trip to Montgomery, AL, and her learning project that followed. The term BAD Girls of Montgomery refers to the women connected with the Civil Rights movement who were Bold and Determined (BAD). Your child will be excited to learn about all the places LML visited on her school trip and then learn about the seven women who are nothing less than inspiring. Most people know who Rosa Parks was, but do you know about Mary Fair Burks, Aurelia Browder, or the other four women discussed in this book? Hopefully, this book will inspire your child to work for the continuation of the spirit of the Civil Rights movement.
LML-BAD Girls of Montgomery by Linda J. Holloway is well-written for elementary school children and the illustrations will keep their attention. She shares her excitement about famous women of color and inspires children to learn all they can about the Civil Rights Movement so they can keep it going. I found this book interesting because it explores what things were like during the Civil Rights Movement. Even the town that Linda grew up in was founded by two freed slaves and is the oldest African-American municipality in America. I have two cousins who were very active Freedom Riders in the fight for equality. I believe they would highly recommend this book. In a world where people of color are beginning to be recognized for their contributions to the development of society, this book will open the door to learning more about the acceptance of everyone.
Linda J Holloway has given us another hit with LML-BAD Girls of Montgomery, the story of the women who played important roles in the Montgomery Boycott and helped change the Civil Rights Movement forever. This story follows Little Miss Linda (LML) on her school trip to Montgomery, AL, and her learning project that followed. The term BAD Girls of Montgomery refers to the women connected with the Civil Rights movement who were Bold and Determined (BAD). Your child will be excited to learn about all the places LML visited on her school trip and then learn about the seven women who are nothing less than inspiring. Most people know who Rosa Parks was, but do you know about Mary Fair Burks, Aurelia Browder, or the other four women discussed in this book? Hopefully, this book will inspire your child to work for the continuation of the spirit of the Civil Rights movement.
LML-BAD Girls of Montgomery by Linda J. Holloway is well-written for elementary school children and the illustrations will keep their attention. She shares her excitement about famous women of color and inspires children to learn all they can about the Civil Rights Movement so they can keep it going. I found this book interesting because it explores what things were like during the Civil Rights Movement. Even the town that Linda grew up in was founded by two freed slaves and is the oldest African-American municipality in America. I have two cousins who were very active Freedom Riders in the fight for equality. I believe they would highly recommend this book. In a world where people of color are beginning to be recognized for their contributions to the development of society, this book will open the door to learning more about the acceptance of everyone.
Recommend this book:
Grandma's Lost Treasure
How Kintsugi Turns Brokenness into Beauty
David Huerta
2024 Bronze Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Grandma's Lost Treasure is a children's picture book by David Huerta. Kin and Sugi are two siblings living on their grandmother's farm in the small mountain town of Daigo. While going through her attic, they stumble upon a mysterious box full of old dishes that had been gathering dust for years. Upon seeing the broken dishes, Kin and Sugi decide to restore them to their former glory. They gather natural sap from the nearby Urushi tree and mix it with rice powder to make a fine golden paste, which they use to mend the old dishes. Soon, they begin to see the change and marvel at how the imperfections brought life to the dishes and made them even more beautiful, all thanks to the Japanese art of Kintsugi.
Author David Huerta infuses his love for Japanese culture and arts into this delightful children's tale that tugs at your heartstrings in the most unexpected ways. Grandma's Lost Treasure is not just a fun read but also imparts a valuable lesson to readers. There is beauty to be found in imperfections or things that seem broken if only we know how to look for it. Apart from the engaging story, the meticulously detailed illustrations keep your eyes glued to the pages. Every character brings something of its own to the narrative, and despite this being a short story, Huerta manages to make them feel distinct with personalities of their own. I was not previously aware of Kintsugi, and this picture book has made me even more interested in this art form and Japanese culture in general. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it to kids and adults alike.
Grandma's Lost Treasure is a children's picture book by David Huerta. Kin and Sugi are two siblings living on their grandmother's farm in the small mountain town of Daigo. While going through her attic, they stumble upon a mysterious box full of old dishes that had been gathering dust for years. Upon seeing the broken dishes, Kin and Sugi decide to restore them to their former glory. They gather natural sap from the nearby Urushi tree and mix it with rice powder to make a fine golden paste, which they use to mend the old dishes. Soon, they begin to see the change and marvel at how the imperfections brought life to the dishes and made them even more beautiful, all thanks to the Japanese art of Kintsugi.
Author David Huerta infuses his love for Japanese culture and arts into this delightful children's tale that tugs at your heartstrings in the most unexpected ways. Grandma's Lost Treasure is not just a fun read but also imparts a valuable lesson to readers. There is beauty to be found in imperfections or things that seem broken if only we know how to look for it. Apart from the engaging story, the meticulously detailed illustrations keep your eyes glued to the pages. Every character brings something of its own to the narrative, and despite this being a short story, Huerta manages to make them feel distinct with personalities of their own. I was not previously aware of Kintsugi, and this picture book has made me even more interested in this art form and Japanese culture in general. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and highly recommend it to kids and adults alike.
Recommend this book:
Maggie the Military Rat
Monica Voicu Denniston
2024 Silver Medal
40 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Engage yourselves in a tale of adventure and patriotism with Maggie the Military Rat by Monica Voicu Denniston. Illustrated by Elia Velasquez Murray, this delightful children's picture book follows the story of Maggie P. Worthington, a little rat living on a military base. Maggie always wanted to serve in the military and did her part by keeping her quarters clean and practicing marching every day. But when she went to the recruitment office, she was sent back for being too short. Disappointed, Maggie decides to serve in the kitchens, only for the chef to kick her out. She finally tries sending the troops letters, but even the postmaster can't read her small handwriting. Maggie was about to give up when she finally saw an opportunity to serve the troops. Will she take it?
Monica Voicu Denniston tells a heartwarming tale with a gentle message about chasing one's dreams. Maggie the Military Rat is about adventure, friendship, and the willingness to serve one's country in their own way. With some catchy rhyming dialogue, humor, and a spunky protagonist, Denniston delivers an entertaining children's book that kids are bound to love. Maggie is full of life and never lets anything or anyone discourage her from chasing the dream of serving her country. This makes her someone who is very easy to root for. Additionally, Elia Velasquez Murray's colorful illustrations bring the character to life and complement Denniston's writing perfectly. The book is short, concise, and an absolute joy to read. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it to children under the age of ten.
Engage yourselves in a tale of adventure and patriotism with Maggie the Military Rat by Monica Voicu Denniston. Illustrated by Elia Velasquez Murray, this delightful children's picture book follows the story of Maggie P. Worthington, a little rat living on a military base. Maggie always wanted to serve in the military and did her part by keeping her quarters clean and practicing marching every day. But when she went to the recruitment office, she was sent back for being too short. Disappointed, Maggie decides to serve in the kitchens, only for the chef to kick her out. She finally tries sending the troops letters, but even the postmaster can't read her small handwriting. Maggie was about to give up when she finally saw an opportunity to serve the troops. Will she take it?
Monica Voicu Denniston tells a heartwarming tale with a gentle message about chasing one's dreams. Maggie the Military Rat is about adventure, friendship, and the willingness to serve one's country in their own way. With some catchy rhyming dialogue, humor, and a spunky protagonist, Denniston delivers an entertaining children's book that kids are bound to love. Maggie is full of life and never lets anything or anyone discourage her from chasing the dream of serving her country. This makes her someone who is very easy to root for. Additionally, Elia Velasquez Murray's colorful illustrations bring the character to life and complement Denniston's writing perfectly. The book is short, concise, and an absolute joy to read. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it to children under the age of ten.
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