Children’s Book Reviews by Andrea Dochney of The Oakland Public Library
Woolbur
By: Leslie Helakoski
Is your child not one to follow the flock? Woolbur, an adorable tale about a free spirit sheep, touts the value of individuality. Follow Woolbur through traditional sheep activities and jobs as he makes his own statement. Although Maa and Paa pull on their wool worrying about their wild child, Grandpaa knows not to worry about a child expressing themselves. The illustrations present Woolbur in silly situations as he experiments and acts against the flock.
I Can Be Anything
By: Jerry Spinelli
Newberry Award-winning author Jerry Spinelli creates another delightful story with this book. Whimsical rhymes and illustrations depict the various jobs a child will do when he grows up. From everything to a puddle stomper to apple chomper, Spinelli will have readers dreaming about their own possibilities. The climax of the book entails a double fold out which highlights what job the young boy will select. The book is a great way to start a discussion on what your child may want to be when they grow up.
It’s a Dragonfly!
By: Elisa Peters
Although a non-fiction title, It’s a Dragonfly! is a great option for beginning readers. Peters presents simple facts in singular sentences paired with large close up photographs. The large images truly capture the beauty of dragonflies. The back of the book features a brief index, links to a website with further information and a brief Words to Know section that features text matched with images. Starting readers with non-fiction titles, as well as fiction, will demonstrate the educational worth of books and set children up for more informational reading.
My Friend Has ADHD
By: Amanda Doering Tourville
This book is an excellent way to introduce attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder to inquisitive children. A boy, Marcus, explains what the disorder means for his friend Robby. Marcus explains some of the challenges for children with ADHD and encourages others to realize some behaviors are out of Robby’s control. Interesting illustrations depict various scenes from their days together, as well as fact boxes containing more information about ADHD. The end of the book suggests other books and websites to learn more about the disorder.