Little BIG

by Jonathan Bentley

 

So glad I ignored my first assumptions about this book. The title Little BIG made me think that the pages inside would be filled with dull comparisons of littles versus BIGS. BUT . . .

Little BIG is really a heart-warming story about a younger sibling who longs to be big like his older brother. And yet he realizes the privileges of littlehood. It's that lifelong pull of wanting to grow up, and yet longing to be forever young.

Love the way the story weaves back and forth between little and big, and ties itself up with the perfectly little ending.

And have I mentioned yet that the illustrations are wonderfully adorable? They're part of the magic that brings me back to turn the pages again and again.

The only thing I'd change about the book is its title. How does If I was BIG Like a Monster sound?





#JonathanBentley #KidLit #PictureBooks #Books #LitteBIG #BookReview #Review

The Turnip

Written and Illustrated by Jan Brett

Turnip fan or not, The Turnip is an entertaining story about being in the right place at the right time. 
 

The story begins when Badger Girl discovers an enormous turnip in the garden. However, she nor Badger Boy, nor their parents, or any of the passers-by can pluck that turnip from the ground. That is, until Rooster struts along after narrowly escaping the cooking pot. He gives the over-sized turnip a good heave-ho at the same moment the bears living beneath the vegetable give it a good push to remove it from their bed. Rooster gets the credit as the turnip is finally set free. 

All are happy as Mother Badger declares there will be turnip pancakes browned in butter for all. And as everyone is enjoying the feast, Father Badger declares Rooster, who proved himself useful, has a new home.

 As always, Jan Brett's detailed and darling illustrations add to the magic of her books.

#JanBrett #KidLit #PictureBooks #Turnip #TheTurnip #books #review #bookreview 

Nerdy Birdy Review

Written by AaronReynolds

Illustrated by Matt Davies

Ever felt different? Ever want to belong? Then you’ll enjoy Nerdy Birdy.

Nerdy Birdy has big glasses, extra small wings, a birdseed allergy, and enjoys reading and video games. He feels different and alone, cast aside by the cool birds, until his peeps – a whole flock of nerdy birds just like himself – invite him to be friends. But when he wants to include another loner to the group, the nerdy birds refuse because the new guy is different. Nerdy Birdy is confused, and chooses to leave his flock to keep the new guy company.

This book teaches kids to be inclusive. And that seeing differences is okay, but seeing similarities? Even better. 

#KidLit #PictureBooks #MattDavies #AaronReynolds #Books #Reviews 

That’s (Not) Mine

Written by AnnaKang

Illustrated by Christopher Weyant

 

This is a simple book that depicts the whole “that’s mine!” mentality so spot-on. You can’t help but smile as the two creatures fight for possession of a chair. You’ve either been there, done that, or have witnessed such a dilemma.

The illustrations are simplistic too, creating three cuddly characters, and colorful, inviting scenes.  The emotions of anger, smugness, bewilderment, fright, stubbornness, and joy are well-depicted as the two main characters navigate the worlds of assertiveness, trickery, and friendship.

An enjoyable fast-paced read that opens the door for a discussion about sharing.




#KidLit #AnnaKang #ChristopherWeyant #PictureBooks #GetBrave #LiveLife #books #review #children 

What would you do?

You’ve been abducted. You’re trapped in a room with another person. One gun. One bullet. No food. No water. There’s only one way to survive. You have to kill the other person.

Would your survival instincts kick in? And if you kill that other person, could you truly live with yourself afterwards? Or would you fall victim to the weight of the guilt?

What if that other person were your business partner, your best friend, your lover, or your child? How does that impact your decision?

That’s the premise for the international bestseller Eeny Meeny written by M.J. Arlidge. Detective Inspector Helen Grace, who has personal issues of her own, is on the case, trying to solve it quickly before the next victims are abducted.

I liked Eeny Meeny for its short, quick bursts of chapters, which was easy to squeeze into my lifestyle. The writing quality was average, but the plot was intriguing/disturbing enough to retain my interest for the majority of the story. I think there may have been just one scenario too many for me, but overall I enjoyed getting to know the victims, the dynamics of their relationships, and the resolution of their horrific situation.

My rating for Eeny Meeny: 3 ½ out of 5 stars. 

#Mystery #GetBrave #MJAlridge #EenyMeeny #Books