Schoochie and Skiddles: Schoochie’s Adoption Story

Written by Tom Tracy

Illustrated by Dustin James

Scoochie has been adopted by two men. She understands that her mother needed help in raising her. Scoochie explains the steps in the adoption process and how she feels loved and accepted. The subject is handled in a non-judgmental way that clearly explains the adoption process for children of all ages to understand. Non-traditional families with two dads as the adopters willing to maintain a relationship with birth mother and sister are presented simply and logically so that even the youngest child may grasp the situation. This picture book is part of a series that focuses on the non-traditional family.

I would highly recommend it for all parents, teachers, elementary and middle-school children as a springboard for discussion about both adoption and non-traditional families.

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The Prince Who Was a Piccolo

Written by Barbara Roman

Illustrated by Vladimir Cebu

A beautifully illustrated picture book with an important message for parents and their children.

A king receives a prophecy that his son will be a talented musician. The king immediately decides the prince will be a royal trumpeteer. After the child is born, the king becomes frustrated when it appears the prince has no musical talent.

Eventually, the prince meets someone who inspires him to find his own way. Children learn that they must listen to their heart and use their own talents. Parents learn that it is wrong to place their own expectations or desires upon their children.

A book for elementary school readers and their parents or teachers to enjoy reading together.

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What’s Up, Little Pup?

Written by Mr. Marmion

Illustrated by Sarah Chang

Little Nimbus the pup generally spends his days looking out the window imagining the possibilities of the world outside while his human family goes to work and school.

One day that suddenly changes. The children stay home and become listless while mom frantically works from home while struggling to manage the household tasks. Why doesn’t anyone go out?

Nimbus resolves to cheer them up. At first, he doesn’t succeed. Then he comes up with a brilliant idea!

The author does not mention Covid specifically but alludes to doctors recommending to stay home to remain healthy.

This illustrated, rhyming, picture book could serve as an opener to a discussion for families and students to talk about the mental health issues brought about by the pandemic. Highly recommended for children ages five and up.

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While Daddy is Away: Days of Deployment

Written by Trista Lawrence

Illustrated by Denny Poliquit

A Christian family talks about how to stay strong while dad is deployed in military service. The older brother and sister help with chores, assist their baby brother and create projects to send dad and keep his spirits up. Though it is difficult for them, they understand the meaning of his sacrifice and are proud of him.

This picture book is recommended as a resource for families in military service.

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What is Supply and Demand?: Personal Finance for Kids

Written by Kelly Lee

Kids love ice cream and cookies. What a creative and fun way to explain the concept of supply and demand to young children!

The author uses animals to explain what happens to the owner of a cookie and ice cream shop when supply and demand change. Ava and Hank are customers who visit the shop in different seasons and note the differences. There are clear explanations and beautiful illustrations.

I especially love that the author makes the book interactive by posing different scenarios for children to think about and offering solutions. Parents are also provided with tips to illustrate supply and demand with their children in everyday situations.

Highly recommended for parents and teachers of children ages three through eight.

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Millie the Cat Has Borderline Personality Disorder

Written by Jessie Shepherd

Some reviewers have criticized the book for being too simplistic. The author uses a cat named Millie as the protagonist with a borderline personality disorder. Using simple illustrations, Millie first explains the disorder by revealing the opposite emotions it brings on.

The second part of the book is my favorite part. Millie points out certain skills may be learned to control her emotions and then provides concrete examples of how persons suffering from this disorder have significant strengths and advantages as well as weaknesses and disadvantages.

I believe this book can be a valuable tool when used in conjunction with a skilled therapist or teacher. If read independently by a child, it will need adult explanation and elaboration to ensure there are no misunderstandings.

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Take a listen, March 20, 2022

When The Sky Roars: Dyslexia Font Edition

Written and Illustrated by Katie Weaver

A little boy is afraid of thunder. He decides he must put his foot down and conquer this fear. He ventures off on a trip to the sky with helium balloons. Once there he meets all kinds of fascinating scenarios like a pirate ship and a family of dinosaurs who are eating their delicious pie.

Bonus extras include a yummy recipe for Berry Crumb pie. Children will lose their anxiety about thunder and enjoy a delightful rhyming picture book filled with imaginative pictures and verse. I particularly like the color enhancement of key vocabulary words and the font that is friendly for dyslexic readers.

Recommended for parents and teachers of children ages three through eight.

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Bubble Head, It’s Time for Bed: A fun, way to learn the days of the week, hygiene, and bedtime routine

Written by Misty Black

Illustrated by Ana Rankovic

This book teaches the days of the week while sharing a fun adventure on each day. Bubble Head has a vivid imagination. He presents the reader with catchy phrases that they will want to repeat.

The text is large and easy to read. Illustrations are colorful and vibrant. Not only will readers learn the days of the week, but they will begin to recognize the necessary steps of a bedtime routine.

As a bonus, there is a checklist for the child to complete and a selection of activities that can be downloaded to continue the fun.

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A Dreidel of Wonders: A whimsical Hanukkah story with a twist for kids

Written and Illustrated by Edith Naaman

This book combines a whimsical tale of the dreidel with an informative guide for teachers and parents. The first part of the story written in rhyme teaches children about Hanukkah and the role of the dreidel.

Each year when the holiday season passes, Nana packs the dreidel away. One year the dreidel objects and asks why it cannot remain on the shelf with the other toys. Nana accedes to his request.

The second part of the book reflects on the theory of NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Program) which is a collection of research, practices, and ideas that assist children to connect with their abilities and other people. This section of the book shows how the dreidel prepares children to conquer pain, fear, and find the courage to try within themselves.

Children as young as three can enjoy the first part of the story, while the second part is a useful resource for caretakers and parents.

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