Book Review: Perfectly Norman

Author/Illustrator: Tom Percival

From the Book Jacket: Meet Norman. Norman is normal - perfectly normal. That's until he grows a pair of wings! Norman loves his new wings, but he's worried about what everyone will think. After all, they're definitely NOT normal. He decides to cover them with a coat, but hiding such a big part of his life makes him feel miserable. Can Norman find the courage to be himself? This is a bold and uplifting book about daring to be different and celebrating what makes you - YOU!

Why It's On My Bookshelf: This is such a creative refreshing story about differences. I love the message that true happiness is being yourself and being proud of your unique qualities. You don't have to hide who you are to be accepted by others. And if you trying to keep things about yourself hidden - you end up feeling miserable. I love the play on the words "Perfectly Normal" in this story. We can teach our kids there is no such thing as PERFECT or NORMAL. What works is being yourself. It's the only way to happiness. 

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Book Review: I Walk With Vanessa - A Story About a Simple Act of Kindness

Author/Illustrator: Kerascoet

From the Book Jacket: Vanessa is the new girl in school. A boy is not very nice to her. But a girl helps Vanessa - and stands up for what's right. This is a simple but powerful picture book about how the actions of a single person can inspire an entire community. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: It only takes one person to change things. In this wordless picture book a child named Vanessa is on the receiving end of mean behavior. What she doesn't know is someone witnesses the unkindness and comes to her rescue later. By being an upstander she brings all the children together in a positive movement. I loved this uplifting book and it is at the top of my list to share with students as a reminder that we all have personal power to better each others lives.  

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Book Review: The Day Dad Joined My Soccer Team

By: Maureen Fergus and Mike Lowery

From the Book Jacket: When Coach asks for a parent volunteer to help with the team, Dad is excited. He runs to the bench, pulls on a jersey and...completely forgets his manners. Dad complains about having to play defense (BORING) and thinks playing soccer is all about WINNING. He kicks practice balls everywhere and throws a HAIRY FIT when things don't go his way. Dad is NOT a team player! 

In this hilarious role reversal, a young boy's patience is tested as he desperately tries to teach his dad how to behave on the field. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Once in awhile I have teachers ask me to come in and help teach and reinforce good sportsmanship when things seem to be escalating on the playground. I was so happy to see this new title. I don't have a lot of picture books on sportsmanship and this one is a winner! It's engaging and really helps show the difference between a poor sport and a team player. If you have a kiddo who is stomping off during a game or throwing a big fit over not winning - this one is sure to help you!

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