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Recommend this book:
Can We Watch?
S.A. Dymond and Shiloh Dymond
2017 Gold Medal
30 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Carla Trueheart for Readers' Favorite
An adorable book with a positive message, Can We Watch? follows Isabelle and her brother, Joe, as they continually implore their parents: can we watch television? But one day, when the electricity goes out, Isabelle and Joe spend the time not with electronics, but playing cards, riding bikes, doing puzzles, playing games, and spending time with their mother and father. They eat food without the television, have fun with the family without the use of electronics, and even find that they like this much better than their normal daily activities. Authors S.A. Dymond and Shiloh Dymond do a superb job telling this wonderful story without pushing an obvious message onto children. The illustrations in the book are fun and quirky and add much to the cute narrative. This book was a joy to read.
Can We Watch? not only teaches children about the power of family time versus watching television, it also teaches them about the importance of manners and doing chores. Isabelle and Joe are told to finish chores such as brushing teeth and making beds before they get what they want, which does leave the young reader with a sense of responsibility. While the central theme was about spending time with family and not watching so much television, I appreciated that other lessons were cleverly woven into the story as well. Authors S.A. Dymond and Shiloh Dymond did a fine job with the memorable tale, and the book should be a welcome addition to any children’s library.
An adorable book with a positive message, Can We Watch? follows Isabelle and her brother, Joe, as they continually implore their parents: can we watch television? But one day, when the electricity goes out, Isabelle and Joe spend the time not with electronics, but playing cards, riding bikes, doing puzzles, playing games, and spending time with their mother and father. They eat food without the television, have fun with the family without the use of electronics, and even find that they like this much better than their normal daily activities. Authors S.A. Dymond and Shiloh Dymond do a superb job telling this wonderful story without pushing an obvious message onto children. The illustrations in the book are fun and quirky and add much to the cute narrative. This book was a joy to read.
Can We Watch? not only teaches children about the power of family time versus watching television, it also teaches them about the importance of manners and doing chores. Isabelle and Joe are told to finish chores such as brushing teeth and making beds before they get what they want, which does leave the young reader with a sense of responsibility. While the central theme was about spending time with family and not watching so much television, I appreciated that other lessons were cleverly woven into the story as well. Authors S.A. Dymond and Shiloh Dymond did a fine job with the memorable tale, and the book should be a welcome addition to any children’s library.
Recommend this book:
Ethan's Secret
Patrick Hodges
2016 Finalist
337 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Francine Zane for Readers' Favorite
Ethan's Secret by Patrick Hodges is set in the last year of middle school. Kelsey Callahan meets new kid Ethan. There is something mysterious about this new boy. He does not really fit his bad boy persona. As Kelsey learns more about Ethan, she discovers she has feelings for this cute boy with no past. Meanwhile, Kelsey's longtime friends - April, Brea and Penny - are going through their own growing pains that pull the girls apart, only to be reunited with a better understanding of unconditional love.
Patrick Hodges utilizes Ethan's Secret to address important issues that all young people face as they transition from childhood to adulthood, such as bullies in school, drinking and dating. He has created a strong cast of characters who are flawed but likable, and places them in exciting situations that require them to think on their feet. Anyone with a heart will find the romantic tension and heartbreaking drama among these teens intense and touching, and the element of mystery surrounding Ethan's secret past will keep the detective in you reading from beginning to end.
Ethan's Secret is an exceptional read for middle school boys and girls who enjoy a healthy dose of mystery and suspense mixed in with age appropriate romance. As an adult, I enjoyed the sentimental journey back to first romance when something as simple as who likes whom was a complicated, newsworthy affair that could make or break lifelong friendships. As a parent, I appreciated the way the kids supported each other through tough times and allowed loving parents a lifeline into their constantly changing lives.
Ethan's Secret by Patrick Hodges is set in the last year of middle school. Kelsey Callahan meets new kid Ethan. There is something mysterious about this new boy. He does not really fit his bad boy persona. As Kelsey learns more about Ethan, she discovers she has feelings for this cute boy with no past. Meanwhile, Kelsey's longtime friends - April, Brea and Penny - are going through their own growing pains that pull the girls apart, only to be reunited with a better understanding of unconditional love.
Patrick Hodges utilizes Ethan's Secret to address important issues that all young people face as they transition from childhood to adulthood, such as bullies in school, drinking and dating. He has created a strong cast of characters who are flawed but likable, and places them in exciting situations that require them to think on their feet. Anyone with a heart will find the romantic tension and heartbreaking drama among these teens intense and touching, and the element of mystery surrounding Ethan's secret past will keep the detective in you reading from beginning to end.
Ethan's Secret is an exceptional read for middle school boys and girls who enjoy a healthy dose of mystery and suspense mixed in with age appropriate romance. As an adult, I enjoyed the sentimental journey back to first romance when something as simple as who likes whom was a complicated, newsworthy affair that could make or break lifelong friendships. As a parent, I appreciated the way the kids supported each other through tough times and allowed loving parents a lifeline into their constantly changing lives.
Recommend this book:
Hopping to America
A Rabbit's Tale of Immigration
Diana Pishner Walker
2016 Honorable Mention
32 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Lori A. Moore for Readers' Favorite
Hopping to America: A Rabbit's Tale of Immigration by Diana Pishner Walker is the tale of a rabbit family that immigrates from Italy to the United States. They find things difficult at first, like speaking the language, and of course missing their native country. They settle in West Virginia where other family members are already living. When Fall comes, the rabbit kids start school and make friends, learning more about America and teaching their friends about Italian customs. The story peaks when the rabbit family gets to celebrate at an Italian Easter Festival. This is a fully illustrated children's book. The story has a lot going on, from immigration and passports to learning the language and then celebrating their native heritage.
Hopping to America: A Rabbit's Tale of Immigration by Diana Pishner Walker is written to be a tale of social issues about culture and assimilation as depicted by a rabbit family moving from Italy to America. This book might be a little complicated for younger children, so would I recommend it more for those a little older, perhaps just below middle grade readers. I did like how there was a glossary of Italian terms at the end of the book so that children could learn something new and understand some of the words used in the book. Hopping to America: A Rabbit's Tale of Immigration by Diana Pishner Walker shows kids how different people can come together to celebrate both their differences and similarities.
Hopping to America: A Rabbit's Tale of Immigration by Diana Pishner Walker is the tale of a rabbit family that immigrates from Italy to the United States. They find things difficult at first, like speaking the language, and of course missing their native country. They settle in West Virginia where other family members are already living. When Fall comes, the rabbit kids start school and make friends, learning more about America and teaching their friends about Italian customs. The story peaks when the rabbit family gets to celebrate at an Italian Easter Festival. This is a fully illustrated children's book. The story has a lot going on, from immigration and passports to learning the language and then celebrating their native heritage.
Hopping to America: A Rabbit's Tale of Immigration by Diana Pishner Walker is written to be a tale of social issues about culture and assimilation as depicted by a rabbit family moving from Italy to America. This book might be a little complicated for younger children, so would I recommend it more for those a little older, perhaps just below middle grade readers. I did like how there was a glossary of Italian terms at the end of the book so that children could learn something new and understand some of the words used in the book. Hopping to America: A Rabbit's Tale of Immigration by Diana Pishner Walker shows kids how different people can come together to celebrate both their differences and similarities.
Recommend this book:
Lexicon Chase and the Riddle Song
Jonathan Fore
2016 Bronze Medal
318 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Ryan Jordan for Readers' Favorite
Lexicon Chase and the Riddle Song by Jonathan Fore is a fast-paced fantasy novel with a lot of strong and evocative characters. We are introduced to Lexicon Chase, the princess, at the beginning of the story as she recounts her companions from previous adventures and, now that she is returned, her life seems completely different. She is overwhelmed and inundated with daily problems, but we start to get an introduction to her as a character as she interacts with people, standing up to bullies and introducing herself to people, but insisting she's nothing more than an ordinary girl. Everything changes, however, when there is an attempt made on her life and she is nearly killed. Terrors are sent after her, and she is forced to flee from her own home as it's the only chance she has to save her own life.
This is a well-written story with a lot of interesting moving parts. There is intrigue and many exciting moments. The action is described with eloquent detail and there are enough fantasy elements and tropes to keep anyone who is a fan of the genre more than pleased. I liked the way the author was able to tie in previous details and cleanly wrap up loose ends, and I really enjoyed the character of the princess. I thought Lexicon was well-written and very heroic, but without being made too unbelievable. Lexicon Chase and the Riddle Song by Jonathan Fore is a real winner, and fans of the genre will be thrilled to have stumbled upon this gem.
Lexicon Chase and the Riddle Song by Jonathan Fore is a fast-paced fantasy novel with a lot of strong and evocative characters. We are introduced to Lexicon Chase, the princess, at the beginning of the story as she recounts her companions from previous adventures and, now that she is returned, her life seems completely different. She is overwhelmed and inundated with daily problems, but we start to get an introduction to her as a character as she interacts with people, standing up to bullies and introducing herself to people, but insisting she's nothing more than an ordinary girl. Everything changes, however, when there is an attempt made on her life and she is nearly killed. Terrors are sent after her, and she is forced to flee from her own home as it's the only chance she has to save her own life.
This is a well-written story with a lot of interesting moving parts. There is intrigue and many exciting moments. The action is described with eloquent detail and there are enough fantasy elements and tropes to keep anyone who is a fan of the genre more than pleased. I liked the way the author was able to tie in previous details and cleanly wrap up loose ends, and I really enjoyed the character of the princess. I thought Lexicon was well-written and very heroic, but without being made too unbelievable. Lexicon Chase and the Riddle Song by Jonathan Fore is a real winner, and fans of the genre will be thrilled to have stumbled upon this gem.
Recommend this book:
Ronel & The Best Gift Ever!
The story of a boy's love for Animals, Nature, Art, and his Friends!
Ronel D. Pierre
2016 Silver Medal
54 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Hilary Hawkes for Readers' Favorite
Ronel and the Best Gift Ever by Ronel D. Pierre is based on the true story of young Ronel who lives in the orphanage and longs to find his real parents. Through his imagination, he befriends Tootie the parrot and Sofy the spotted dog, who both agree to help him in his search. He puts posters of his lost family up in the forest. The other children at the orphanage laugh at his ideas, and when Kat, a kind woman, visits the home with gifts for all, Ronel misses out on a present and sits alone and lonely. But then Kat has a wonderful surprise for the little boy and Ronel finds happiness and a home of his own after all.
Ronel and the Best Gift Ever is one of those special stories that are part story and part concept book. Pierre’s account of the sadness and loneliness of an orphaned child is touching and heart-breaking. Ronel experiences what many children in such a situation experience: a longing and hopefulness that their parents are somewhere and that things will change for them. I love the way his imagination provides him with motivation and further hope, and his boldness in asking for what he wants. What a perceptive child too, to see that the unkind words and laughter of the other children at the orphanage are just projections of their own feelings of rejection and longing.
This book has a few special messages for young readers: about appreciating our homes and loved ones, understanding others, and doing what we can where we can to make a difference. We can’t have everything we long for in life, but it is good to believe situations can and do change in time. And it is always better to allow what happens to us in life to help us develop compassion and appreciation, and to use that to understand others. A gentle, poignant and well-written story that is accompanied by colorful and detailed illustrations on every page. A special book to share with a child or group of children which can prompt discussions about the issues raised by the story. So, a very worthy addition to any child’s home or class library.
Ronel and the Best Gift Ever by Ronel D. Pierre is based on the true story of young Ronel who lives in the orphanage and longs to find his real parents. Through his imagination, he befriends Tootie the parrot and Sofy the spotted dog, who both agree to help him in his search. He puts posters of his lost family up in the forest. The other children at the orphanage laugh at his ideas, and when Kat, a kind woman, visits the home with gifts for all, Ronel misses out on a present and sits alone and lonely. But then Kat has a wonderful surprise for the little boy and Ronel finds happiness and a home of his own after all.
Ronel and the Best Gift Ever is one of those special stories that are part story and part concept book. Pierre’s account of the sadness and loneliness of an orphaned child is touching and heart-breaking. Ronel experiences what many children in such a situation experience: a longing and hopefulness that their parents are somewhere and that things will change for them. I love the way his imagination provides him with motivation and further hope, and his boldness in asking for what he wants. What a perceptive child too, to see that the unkind words and laughter of the other children at the orphanage are just projections of their own feelings of rejection and longing.
This book has a few special messages for young readers: about appreciating our homes and loved ones, understanding others, and doing what we can where we can to make a difference. We can’t have everything we long for in life, but it is good to believe situations can and do change in time. And it is always better to allow what happens to us in life to help us develop compassion and appreciation, and to use that to understand others. A gentle, poignant and well-written story that is accompanied by colorful and detailed illustrations on every page. A special book to share with a child or group of children which can prompt discussions about the issues raised by the story. So, a very worthy addition to any child’s home or class library.
Recommend this book:
Chilly Billy
Melinda Chambers
2016 Gold Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Lori A. Moore for Readers' Favorite
Chilly Billy by Melinda Chambers is a children's picture book that tells the story of a young lamb born on a very cold night. He loves his life on the farm, exploring the yard each day, until one day his friends want to explore outside of the fenced yard. Chilly Billy stays back, causing the flock to call him Silly Billy, but he remains steadfast in his beliefs. The lambs who escaped the fence then become lost and in danger and have to be rescued by the farmer. Then they realize that maybe Billy wasn't so silly after all. Chilly Billy realizes that it's good to have friends, but sometimes you have to stand up for what you believe in and do your own thing without "being a sheep."
Melinda Chambers has done a great job in Chilly Billy, telling children (and adults too for that matter) that sometimes it's best not to follow others like a sheep, but to make decisions for yourself. This moral, hidden cleverly in the story of Chilly Billy, is such an important lesson for kids to learn. Beautifully illustrated, Chilly Billy is a feast for the eyes as well as a wonderful story to read to your children. Melinda Chambers is superb at teaching a lesson in Chilly Billy without pounding it into your head. Kids will enjoy reading Chilly Billy alone or having it read to them by their parents, opening up a good opportunity to talk about not being a sheep.
Chilly Billy by Melinda Chambers is a children's picture book that tells the story of a young lamb born on a very cold night. He loves his life on the farm, exploring the yard each day, until one day his friends want to explore outside of the fenced yard. Chilly Billy stays back, causing the flock to call him Silly Billy, but he remains steadfast in his beliefs. The lambs who escaped the fence then become lost and in danger and have to be rescued by the farmer. Then they realize that maybe Billy wasn't so silly after all. Chilly Billy realizes that it's good to have friends, but sometimes you have to stand up for what you believe in and do your own thing without "being a sheep."
Melinda Chambers has done a great job in Chilly Billy, telling children (and adults too for that matter) that sometimes it's best not to follow others like a sheep, but to make decisions for yourself. This moral, hidden cleverly in the story of Chilly Billy, is such an important lesson for kids to learn. Beautifully illustrated, Chilly Billy is a feast for the eyes as well as a wonderful story to read to your children. Melinda Chambers is superb at teaching a lesson in Chilly Billy without pounding it into your head. Kids will enjoy reading Chilly Billy alone or having it read to them by their parents, opening up a good opportunity to talk about not being a sheep.
Recommend this book:
Ricky's Reflection
Kerry Jankowski
2015 Finalist
36 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Rich Follett for Readers' Favorite
Ricky's Reflection by Kerry Jankowski packs a powerful message into its 32 pages: we are mirrors for those who bully us. Author Kerry Jankowski states in the closing notes that she believes in empowering children to direct negative energy away from ourselves. This powerful message from the teachings of Louise Hay is especially relevant and timely for children in today's world of social media abuses and rampant bullying in schools, despite active campaigns to discourage such negative behaviors. In the most simple and straightforward language imaginable, Kerry Jankowski offers children on both sides of the equation an honest look at the truth behind the bullying and some food for thought as well. In addition, the illustrations by her son Trey Jankowski offer a wonderful child's perspective on the events of the story as they unfold.
Trey, a young boy from a loving family, is being bullied at school by an insecure, angry fellow student named Ricky. After Trey tells his mother about the situation, she gives him a powerful strategy and a practical tool to remind Ricky that he is only speaking of himself when he loudly proclaims how much he dislikes others. As is the case with most bullies, Ricky's bravado crumbles when he is faced with the truth.
Sometimes, the simplest, most earnest messages can be the most powerful. Appropriately timed and sensitively reinforced, the message contained in Ricky's Reflection by Kerry Jankowski could bring about positive change and perhaps even save young lives. Ricky's Reflection by Kerry Jankowski would be an ideal teaching tool for classrooms and youth groups, and a powerful springboard for discussion at home - it is an important book that should not be missed.
Ricky's Reflection by Kerry Jankowski packs a powerful message into its 32 pages: we are mirrors for those who bully us. Author Kerry Jankowski states in the closing notes that she believes in empowering children to direct negative energy away from ourselves. This powerful message from the teachings of Louise Hay is especially relevant and timely for children in today's world of social media abuses and rampant bullying in schools, despite active campaigns to discourage such negative behaviors. In the most simple and straightforward language imaginable, Kerry Jankowski offers children on both sides of the equation an honest look at the truth behind the bullying and some food for thought as well. In addition, the illustrations by her son Trey Jankowski offer a wonderful child's perspective on the events of the story as they unfold.
Trey, a young boy from a loving family, is being bullied at school by an insecure, angry fellow student named Ricky. After Trey tells his mother about the situation, she gives him a powerful strategy and a practical tool to remind Ricky that he is only speaking of himself when he loudly proclaims how much he dislikes others. As is the case with most bullies, Ricky's bravado crumbles when he is faced with the truth.
Sometimes, the simplest, most earnest messages can be the most powerful. Appropriately timed and sensitively reinforced, the message contained in Ricky's Reflection by Kerry Jankowski could bring about positive change and perhaps even save young lives. Ricky's Reflection by Kerry Jankowski would be an ideal teaching tool for classrooms and youth groups, and a powerful springboard for discussion at home - it is an important book that should not be missed.
Recommend this book:
Gabbie Flowers and the Key to the Universe
Dianne Caplin
2015 Honorable Mention
156 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite
Gabbie Flowers and the Key to the Universe is a children and preteens' book written by Dianne Caplin. Gabbie seems like a normal, everyday eleven-year-old kid by day. She lives with her grandmother, Nana Alice, and her older sister, Victoria, in a brownstone in New York City. By night, however, she astral projects in the company of her spirit guide, Samuel, and they visit with Gabbie's mother, Katherine, at the Hall of Reconnection. Katherine died when Gabbie was only 4, but the two still get to spend their night times together. Gabbie is excited about the art competition at school. The winner gets to paint a mural on a large wall in the hallway, but Gabbie still can't visualize her master work. Samuel takes Gabbie to the Temple of Artistic Endeavors to learn from great artists from the past for inspiration.
Dianne Caplin's children and preteens' book, Gabbie Flowers and the Key to the Universe, is marvelous on so many levels. My favorite part has to be where Gabbie visits with Van Gogh and the other artists in the Temple of Artistic Endeavors, and works with their guidance on her idea for a mural. Caplin also addresses the very serious issue of bullying and the profound impact it can have on children and adults' lives. Caplin's characters are well-defined and personable, except for the mean and somewhat awful bully, Melissa. The illustrations that appear throughout the text are fabulous, especially the very spooky one of Gabbie at the gate of St. Anne's reform school with her very scary escorts. I had a lot of fun reading Gabbie Flowers and the Key to the Universe and am looking forward to reading about her further adventures. Gabbie Flowers and the Key to the Universe is most highly recommended.
Gabbie Flowers and the Key to the Universe is a children and preteens' book written by Dianne Caplin. Gabbie seems like a normal, everyday eleven-year-old kid by day. She lives with her grandmother, Nana Alice, and her older sister, Victoria, in a brownstone in New York City. By night, however, she astral projects in the company of her spirit guide, Samuel, and they visit with Gabbie's mother, Katherine, at the Hall of Reconnection. Katherine died when Gabbie was only 4, but the two still get to spend their night times together. Gabbie is excited about the art competition at school. The winner gets to paint a mural on a large wall in the hallway, but Gabbie still can't visualize her master work. Samuel takes Gabbie to the Temple of Artistic Endeavors to learn from great artists from the past for inspiration.
Dianne Caplin's children and preteens' book, Gabbie Flowers and the Key to the Universe, is marvelous on so many levels. My favorite part has to be where Gabbie visits with Van Gogh and the other artists in the Temple of Artistic Endeavors, and works with their guidance on her idea for a mural. Caplin also addresses the very serious issue of bullying and the profound impact it can have on children and adults' lives. Caplin's characters are well-defined and personable, except for the mean and somewhat awful bully, Melissa. The illustrations that appear throughout the text are fabulous, especially the very spooky one of Gabbie at the gate of St. Anne's reform school with her very scary escorts. I had a lot of fun reading Gabbie Flowers and the Key to the Universe and am looking forward to reading about her further adventures. Gabbie Flowers and the Key to the Universe is most highly recommended.
Recommend this book:
 by James S. Martinez is a delightfully uplifting storybook for children. The hero in this story is Teddy T-Rex, a young dinosaur who is excited about going to school. He wants to show off his new shoes to his friends. He has a good day at school. He remembers the names of many of his new friends, especially Br...){kind=link}
The Dinosaur's New Shoes
Teddy T-Rex
James S. Martinez
2015 Bronze Medal
78 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite
The Dinosaur's New Shoes (Teddy T-Rex) by James S. Martinez is a delightfully uplifting storybook for children. The hero in this story is Teddy T-Rex, a young dinosaur who is excited about going to school. He wants to show off his new shoes to his friends. He has a good day at school. He remembers the names of many of his new friends, especially Bruno the Bully. Teddy T-Rex is not like others who are scared of a bully. He voices his opinion to Coach Long, who decides to speak to Bruno. It's a beautiful story of reaching out, and being compassionate and caring to everyone.
The book is informative and teaches kids how to respond to bullying and also how to confront bullies. The illustrations are bright and colorful and they breathe life not only into the characters, but also into the story. Teddy T-Rex is a lovable character to whom kids can relate. The book is useful to teachers, educators, parents and children as it helps them to know more about bullying and bullies. It's also a good bedtime storybook for children and can be used for interactive sessions in classrooms and school libraries.
This is a must-have in any parent's personal collection as it has tips on how to identify a bully and how to understand if one is being bullied. It's a very inspiring and upbeat storybook for kids. The author handles a relevant topic masterfully and with elan, reaching out to young readers in a good way.
The Dinosaur's New Shoes (Teddy T-Rex) by James S. Martinez is a delightfully uplifting storybook for children. The hero in this story is Teddy T-Rex, a young dinosaur who is excited about going to school. He wants to show off his new shoes to his friends. He has a good day at school. He remembers the names of many of his new friends, especially Bruno the Bully. Teddy T-Rex is not like others who are scared of a bully. He voices his opinion to Coach Long, who decides to speak to Bruno. It's a beautiful story of reaching out, and being compassionate and caring to everyone.
The book is informative and teaches kids how to respond to bullying and also how to confront bullies. The illustrations are bright and colorful and they breathe life not only into the characters, but also into the story. Teddy T-Rex is a lovable character to whom kids can relate. The book is useful to teachers, educators, parents and children as it helps them to know more about bullying and bullies. It's also a good bedtime storybook for children and can be used for interactive sessions in classrooms and school libraries.
This is a must-have in any parent's personal collection as it has tips on how to identify a bully and how to understand if one is being bullied. It's a very inspiring and upbeat storybook for kids. The author handles a relevant topic masterfully and with elan, reaching out to young readers in a good way.
Recommend this book:
One Creepy Street
The Spider on the Web
Lee Jordan
2015 Silver Medal
31 Pages
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Children - Social Issues
Reviewed by Janelle Alex, Ph.D. for Readers' Favorite
Lee Jordan has come up with an interesting story in One Creepy Street: The Spider on the Web to teach children about the dangers of child predators on the Internet. Jordan uses an adorable young teenage girl as the main character. Creating a humorously spooky setting to grab the reader's attention, the author and illustrator achieved that goal beautifully. Annica, the red-headed thirteen-year-old witch, loves playing online and making friends. Her pet bat, Murray, has concerns about her decision to meet up with a new friend she met online, and her mother apparently has not been paying attention to Annica's online activities. As expected, Annica opts to meet her new friend without telling her mother she was leaving the house and without leaving a note. The new spider friend is actually one of the child predators that many innocent children succumb to. Annica's mother discovers she is missing from her room and phones the police for help. Can Officer Tate save the day and Annica?
One Creepy Street: The Spider on the Web is very colorful and eye catching - if not a bit spooky. But, it covers a very frightening and serious topic in a softer way. The story expresses how many children are not saved. Going forward, Annica's mother and her pet bat, Murray, will mentor her on best practices for being online. There is a great lesson for both children and their parents within the pages of Jordan's tale. It may be a bit young for tweens and teens, but even so the message is deeply important. And, to top it off, Jordan has written it in rhythmical poetic style. Fun, cute, colorful, spooky and powerful! Good job!
Lee Jordan has come up with an interesting story in One Creepy Street: The Spider on the Web to teach children about the dangers of child predators on the Internet. Jordan uses an adorable young teenage girl as the main character. Creating a humorously spooky setting to grab the reader's attention, the author and illustrator achieved that goal beautifully. Annica, the red-headed thirteen-year-old witch, loves playing online and making friends. Her pet bat, Murray, has concerns about her decision to meet up with a new friend she met online, and her mother apparently has not been paying attention to Annica's online activities. As expected, Annica opts to meet her new friend without telling her mother she was leaving the house and without leaving a note. The new spider friend is actually one of the child predators that many innocent children succumb to. Annica's mother discovers she is missing from her room and phones the police for help. Can Officer Tate save the day and Annica?
One Creepy Street: The Spider on the Web is very colorful and eye catching - if not a bit spooky. But, it covers a very frightening and serious topic in a softer way. The story expresses how many children are not saved. Going forward, Annica's mother and her pet bat, Murray, will mentor her on best practices for being online. There is a great lesson for both children and their parents within the pages of Jordan's tale. It may be a bit young for tweens and teens, but even so the message is deeply important. And, to top it off, Jordan has written it in rhythmical poetic style. Fun, cute, colorful, spooky and powerful! Good job!
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