Book Reviews: The Fox Wish and The Snail and the Whale

Found both of these heartwarming books in the Spring and they are such great choices for read alouds about kindness, generosity, and friendship. I used them as reinforcement s when I had teachers asking for extra lessons around being caring and kind. Many times when I read books I am very focused on skill building. These ones helped students develop character and opened up a space for discussion on acts of kindness. Loved them!

Author: Kimiko Aman

Illustrator: Komako Sakai

From the Book Jacket: Have you ever had a wish come true? Have you ever felt the hand of a kid smaller than you? Have you ever found something you didn't know you believed in? Have you ever talked to a fox? In this subtle, sensitive glimpse of magic, sister, brother, and reader alike find that the trusted familiar often lives right next to the truly extraordinary - if only you have the eyes to see it. 

Author: Julia Donaldson

Illustrator: Axel Scheffler

From the Book Jacket: When a tiny snail meets a humpback whale the two travel together to far-off lands. It's a dream come true for the snail, who has never left home before. But when the whale swims too close to shore, will the snail be able to save her new friend? This is a touching tale of adventure and friendship that reminds us that even the smallest creatures can help others in a big way. 

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Book Review: All Are Welcome

 

Author: Alexandra Penfold
Illustrator: Suzanne Kaufman

From the Book Jacket: Follow a group of children through a say in their school, where everyone is welcomed with open arms no matter their race, religion, or background. All Are Welcome celebrates kindness, inclusivity, and diversity in a joyous read-aloud that is a must for every child's bookshelf. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I would love to read this in our first school assembly. It has the best community builder message I have ever read in any book. It will also work for ALL grades. Often times our beginning of the year assemblies revolve around teaching the kids school expectations and rules. How about we first let them know they have a place in our school? No matter their background, color of skin, culture, etc. their school is welcoming to them. Cannot wait to share this with my staff and students! 

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Book Review: Saturday is Swimming Day

Author/Illustrator: Hyewon Yum

From the Book Jacket: I changed ever so slowly. I even went to the bathroom three times. When Mary called everyone to the pool, I was the last in line. Swimming lessons are on Saturdays, and every Saturday one little girl has a stomachache. 

She eventually gets in the pool, where her patient swim instructor, Mary, holds her while she practices her kicks. The next Saturday she gets in the pool on her own and even tries floating like a starfish. And - even better - no stomachache! Sometimes a little bravery and a lot of patience are all you need to face your fear. 

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Lots of kids complain of stomachaches when they are feeling fear or panic. This is a sneaky trick of anxiety. I was happy to see a picture book that talks about this symptom because it can completely shut down a child and convince them to give up. Now that I am teaching kids about their tummies and how they can be connected to nerves - I am seeing a lot more kids use coping skills to overcome those anxious moments. 

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