Book Review: I Believe in You

Author/Illustrator: Marianne Richmond
Interest Level: Ages 4 and Up
Publisher: Sourcebooks

From the Book Jacket: I Believe in You explores the powerful feeling in every parent's heart as you watch a child take on the big job of growing up. This inspiring and meaningful book puts into words the little moments that reveal just how much you believe in them, no matter what life throws their way.

Growing up is a roller coaster ride of emotion and adventure, asking a child to show self-confidence and courage that they may not know they have. Showing you will be by their side can mean the world to them and give them the strength they often so desperately need.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: As I move closer to the arrival of my due date. I am very drawn to books with the message of unconditional love. Using positive affirming language is very important to me as a parent. I Believe in You is perfect for our family bookshelf. It's the kind of story that helps your child feel supported and loved.

I love the first illustration. 

The baby is wearing a post it note that says "To Do: Be the Best You Can Be!"

You'll love every line. Nothing in it is cheesy and I can imagine children feeling really built up and strong after reading this with a parent. I'm hoping it becomes a favorite on my daughter's bookshelf. More than anything, I can't wait to watch her grow into a wonderful person - and as a parent I love the support from all of these lovely book finds.

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Book Review: Perfect Square

Author/Illustrator: Michael Hall

Interest Level: Ages 4 and Up

From the Book Jacket: A perfect square is transformed in this adventure story that will transport you far beyond the four equal sides of this square book.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I love to look at a new book and find the secret little bibliotherapy message in it. Perfect Square is AWESOME. Each day something happens to the square. It's cut in pieces, torn in scraps, shredded to strips, and shattered. But when these things happen, it transforms itself into something beautiful like a fountain, a garden, or a park. Here's some example pages below:

On Saturday, the square was crumpled and ripped and wrinkled.

So it made itself into a mountain.

So what's my message to the kids going to be? Self-esteem! If something gets you down....you can turn it around. You can make lemonade out of lemons! This really feels like an empowerment story. It's also a great way to teach optimism. I even think there might be a lesson on bullying in this one. A lesson on how not to let bully words and behavior bring you down - find a way to keep yourself built up. Gonna have fun with this one!


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Book Review: Cloudette

Author/Illustrator: Tom Lichentenheld
Publisher: Henry Holt and Company
Interest Level: Ages 

From the Book Jacket: Being small has its advantages...if you're a little cloud like Cloudette, you can always find a good spot to watch the fireworks. But what if you want to do something big, like help a garden grow? When a thunderstorm blows Cloudette far from her neighborhood, she discovers what a little cloud can do that makes a big difference.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Cloudette has gotten a lot of praise and rightfully so. It's a 'build your kids up' kinda story. This little cloud knows she has gifts and is determined to not let anything stand in her way. I also love how she wants to do good - to be a blessing. She is a little cloud with a big heart. Being around children everyday I get to watch them discover themselves. Cloudette is an adorable story with a needed message to help kids be the best they can be.

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Book Review: Raj the Bookstore Tiger

Author: Kathleen T. Pelley
Illustrated by Page Keiser
Interest Level: Ages 4-8
Click here for Discussion Activity Guide

From the Book Jacket: Being a bookstore "tiger" is lots of work. Raj has to patrol the storerooms, keep an eye on the front window (while sun basking, of course), and greet customers with a hearty meow. But Raj loves his job, especially story time with the children.

Things change when Snowball comes on the scene. The cranky cat's snide remarks cause Raj to doubt his own tigerness. So Raj is forced to figure out if he's just an ordinary kitty-cat after all...or if, just maybe, it's Snowball who's got it wrong.



Why It's On My Bookshelf: It is such a great feeling when you feel your best self. It's a fill you up happy state called high self-esteem. But there is nothing worse when it all of a sudden plummets. And why did it plummet? WHAM - you got knocked down by a put down. This is what happens in one of my new favorites Raj the Bookstore Tiger. Another cat named Snowball takes over his turf by using put-downs and bully behavior.

I see this happen in school ALL the time. A student arrives in the morning all cheery and ready to learn and then I see them at their last recess looking absolutely broken. Whoa. What happened? A lot of times it's negative comments or mean words they received at one point during their day from another student. Just like Raj they feel withdrawn and a bit hopeless... like they want to disappear. Any power they once felt they had - poof - it disappeared. Enter one of my favorite words - EMPOWER. Raj teaches kids to stand up for themselves, don't believe in the put-downs, and guard your self-esteem. You have the POWER to not allow your self-esteem to plummet in the first place. I get excited teaching kids this stuff!

Something else I liked about this story is how Snowball and Raj didn't remain enemies but they became friends. It didn't end with Snowball being condemned as the bully and Raj as the hero. It made them equal and showed the possibility of healing a situation even when a major hurt has been caused. Stories that bring characters together are ones I relish reading to kids. Ask your students to look around the room at each other...who do they need to have healing with? This book will give them inspiration to do so.
 

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Book Review: Cassandra's Angel

Author: Gina Otto
Illustrated by Trudy Joost
Book Website: www.CassandrasAngel.com
Interest Level: Ages 4 and Up

From the Book Jacket: Cassandra's Angel has come to share a secret, one that will bring comfort and hope to children of all ages. You are invited to enter the world of Cassandra, a little girl who just can't seem to do anything right - or so the story goes.

Children's self-images are strongly influenced by the attitudes and beliefs of their parents, teachers and peers. Unfortunately, these beliefs often become negative stories that can impact children for life. This powerful tale helps children to perceive these stories in a different light. What inspiring wisdom will Cassandra's Angel reveal? As children turn the pages of this vibrant and compelling book, they will discover the truth of who they really are. 

 
Watch this powerful video:


Why It's On My Bookshelf: This is a book I would have wanted to read as a young girl. Growing up I had different struggles centered around negative belief systems I had formed based on what others said about me. Honestly, I think this is a universal struggle. But what do we do to combat it? How can you empower your child's spirit and mind?  Cassandra's Angel is a beautiful story written with the intention to over power all those negative comments, thoughts, and false beliefs. If you watched the YouTube video of the girl scouts then you saw it's power. I watched it before I read the book and thought....wow, this is how I want all children to talk and feel about themselves.

From the book:
All of these things people have said to you,
They are stories, Cassandra - not one of them true.

You are never just what they believe you to be.
You are even more than you think that you see.

There's a much greater truth. When you look you will find
The key is right there in your heart and your mind.

It's not what you do - it's about who you are.
For you are as bright as the sky's brightest star.

Those are such wonderful boosting words to wrap your child in! Kids have very susceptible minds and It can be easy to believe the not so nice things others say. Children will gain inner strength from this story as it tells them all that mean stuff is anything but true. In fact, the people who use those hurtful words are acting out their own negative stories that they were once told. What a light bulb moment for your child to hear! That message reminded me of how I'm not the one with the problem - the other person is. So don't get wrapped up into their negative energy field.

I often see parents struggling trying to help their children deal with self-esteem issues. I encourage you to read Cassandra's Angel to them. Especially if you are looking for a book with a deeper message and meaning. Looking forward to teaching my own children these life changing affirmations author Gina Otto has given us through the inspiring Cassandra.


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Book Review: Growing Up with a Bucket Full of Happiness: Three Rules for a Happier Life

Author: Carol McCloud
Illustrated by Penny Weber
Book Website: www.bucketfillers101.com 
Interest Level: Grades 3 and Up
Chapter Book

From the Book Jacket: Do you know you have an invisible bucket which is filled with all of your good thoughts and feelings? If you're new to the concepts of bucket filling and bucket dipping, then this book is for you. With  easy-to-read chapters, colorful illustrations, and daily questions to help readers become better bucket fillers, Growing Up with a Bucket Full of Happiness: Three Rules for a Happier Life gives readers the tools to live a life filled with happiness.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: When I got this awesome new addition to my bucket books I had a little fun with it. So I hid it behind my back when I showed it to my 3-5th graders. They've heard Have You Filled a Bucket and How Full Is Your Bucket? For Kids countless times over the years so I knew they'd be a little shocked and excited about this new one - because it is totally geared to their age. And of course when I showed what I was hiding, they were eagerly wanting me to read it and wanted to know when it would also be available in our school library.

It's a chapter book and well.....it's PERFECT. The kids are learning all kinds of new things about bucket filling:

• BFF = Bucket Fillers Forever (and here you thought it meant best friends forever)
• Group Bucket Filling
• How To Avoid Dipping
• Accidental Dipping
• Thoughtless Dipping
• Selective Dipping
• Group Dipping
• Dipping on Television
• Long-Handled Dipping
• Use Your Lid (I've been waiting for someone to use that idea when it comes to bucket filling.  Protect your bucket from getting dipped in the first place. Love it.)
• Use Your Lid for Others
• Advanced Bucket Fillers
• When A Lid Doesn't Work

If you are a bucket believer then I know you just got a little giddy about the above list. I haven't created any lessons to go with the book yet so I've been playing it by ear and basically doing discussion as we read it. I am sensing from the kids that they would really like to have their own copy to read from. It also has cool pictures throughout. We have ordered a few copies for our school library and they will definitely be in HOT demand. I encourage teachers (grades 3 and up) to have a copy in their kid reading library. Your students will thank you. It could also be a great read aloud to increase your classroom climate. Now who is not for that!?  

Group Dipping

Use Your Lid

Hoping more bucket books are going to be published. They are an INVALUABLE resource for children.


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Book Review: Melissa Parkington's Beautiful, Beautiful Hair

Author: Pat Brisson
Illustrated by Suzanne Bloom
Interest Level: Ages 4-10

From the Book Jacket: "Spectacular! Gorgeous! Fabulous!" Those are some of the words people use to describe Melissa Parkington's hair, which is long, thick, and so shiny that it seems to sparkle. But Melissa Parkington would like to be known for more than her hair. After all, her hair isn't really an accomplishment. It just grows out of her head. Melissa wants to do something special, something spectacular. but everything she tries doesn't seem to work out the way she plans. Then one day she discovers that she can do something special - with her hair. Pat Brisson's engaging and heartfelt story of a young girl who longs to do something positive in the world features lively illustrations by Suzanne Bloom.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Often times I think about writing a blog post of my top 10 favorite books...which would be extremely difficult because I cherish SO many. However, Melissa Parkington's Beautiful, Beautiful Hair would make the list in a heartbeat. First time I read the story it left me with an incredible warmth. But what really warmed my heart was how the students felt about this story. They were changed because of it.

Melissa Parkington is adored because of her hair. Everywhere she goes this outer beauty is pointed out to her. Even her father says at bedtime, "Good night, my Melissa of the Beautiful, Beautiful Hair." But the constant praise starts to bother her, Melissa would rather be recognized and celebrated for her inner beauty. LOVE IT. It was so powerful to introduce the concept of inner vs outer beauty to the kids. Reminded me of the saying, 'It doesn't matter what you look like on the outside, it matters what's on the inside.' This generation of kiddos doesn't hear that enough.


Melissa's dad complimenting her hair

So Melissa begins a journey to discover her inner beauty. When she receives a compliment for the kindness shown to two younger children she begins to understand her amazing caring nature for others. One day Melissa sees a sign at a beauty salon lookng for people wanting to donate their hair to kids who need wigs. Helping another boy or girl in need is what her heart desires. And guess what....she still feels just as beautiful without her locks. I asked the students, "Do you think she'll regret her good deed?' SHOUTING ERUPTED: "NO!" They got a bit passionate and protective of Melissa's amazing heart.  

 A woman (who looks like she has a lot of outer beauty

going on) can't believe Melissa would want to cut her beautiful hair

The kids love her act of kindness but it was really the last few pages that seemed to steal the show. This time Melissa's dad compliments her differently, "Good night, my Melissa of the Beautiful, Beautiful Heart." Does that not just say it all!!? 

The last lines of the story are SO touching. Sigh.

After we finished the story, we talked about the importance of giving compliments aimed at each other's inner beauty. Then we took the time to do just that. It's pretty amazing hearing kids give such heartfelt authentic compliments to each other. Kids need to hear the message given to us so wonderfully by author Pat Brisson. Take the time to discuss compliments, kindness, and the importance of focusing on inner and not outer beauty. A book written and illustrated so perfectly like this is a rarity.


A Link to This Book and Others You Might Find Helpful:

 

Book Review: Zero

Author/Illustrator: Kathryn Otoshi
Interest Level: Ages 4-8

From the Book Jacket: Zero was a big round number. When she looked at herself, she just saw a hole...right in her center. Every day she watched the other numbers line up to count. "1 2 3 4 5 6 7..." She wanted to count too! But how could a number worth nothing become something? Zero felt empty inside. And so goes Zero's search to find herself and in others.    

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Could author Kathryn Otoshi be anymore creative? She already blew my students away with the amazing One and now she's back with Zero. It's a MUST book for the littles and I've been using it to teach positive self-talk, the importance of self-concept, and self-esteem (lots of selfs!).

It isn't a particularly difficult thing to help promote a child's self-esteem. If fact, we do it without even realizing that our words and actions have great impact on how children feel about themselves. Unfortunately, kids aren't always being modeled this in a healthy way. Some students are coming to school with a negative tape of words playing in their minds. Luckily, I have an army of books like Zero ready to erase that tape and record new empowering words.

It all starts with thoughts...

You will often find me doing A LOT of drawing while I read my books to students. Thought bubbles are a great visual when explaining self-talk. Below I used post-it notes and we helped Zero develop new positive language.

There's a lot of extension activities I do with simple post-it notes (good thing I have the Costco size for the year). After I modeled thought bubbles, I gave each student one of their own post-its to fill in new self-talk they'd like to start using. It's also wonderful when students come for one on one or group counseling because when I use the thought bubbles - they know exactly what it is and how it applies to their life. Gifts and strengths are something I am constantly talking about with kids. I'm so grateful for Zero. And get One also! They are both engaging and superb.


A Link to This Book and Others You Might Find Helpful:

Book Review: How Full is Your Bucket? For Kids

Authors: Tom Rath and Mary Reckmeyer
Illustrated by Maurie J. Manning
Interest Level: Ages 4-10

From the Book Jacket: Each of us has an invisible bucket. When our bucket is full, we feel great. When it's empty, we feel awful. Yet most children (and many adults) don't realize the importance of having a full bucket throughout the day.

In How Full is Your Bucket? For Kids, Felix begins to see how every interaction in a day either fills or empties his bucket. Felix then realizes that everything he says or does to other people fills or empties their buckets as well.

Follow along with Felix as he learns how easy it can be to fill the buckets of his classmates, teachers, and family members. Before the day is over, you'll see how Felix learns to be a great bucket filler, and in the process, discovers that filling someone else's bucket also fills his own.

Why It's On My Book Shelf: I cannot even begin to describe the healing power of bucket filling in my own school. It's the #1 way I usually deal with kids when it comes to oh....EVERYTHING. I've taught this metaphor for years and it is built into our thinking and language. The kids use it for problem solving, bullying, friendship issues, home problems, helping others, expressing a need, describing their feelings, talking about a hurt and much more. Relationships are strengthened when students choose to live their lives by this philosophy.

I originally found out about bucket filling through author Carol McCloud's book Have You Filled a Bucket Today?. It's a neat picture book explaining just what is the business of "Bucket Filling." If you've been using this story (or even if you haven't) to explain this wonderful metaphor, then you ABSOLUTELY need How Full Is Your Bucket? For Kids by authors Tom Rath and Mary Reckmeyer.

What makes this book so special is the focus is on a boy, Felix, and what happens to his bucket throughout his day. He wakes up in the morning with a pretty full bucket. But he spills the cereal and his mom scolds him. Ouch, hurt feelings. DRIP. I loved watching the students' reaction to that word. They hadn't heard bucket filling described that way. Felix gets to school and has a series of negative encounters with kids. DRIP. DRIP. All those positive feelings he started with start going away until his bucket is almost empty. 

Unkind behavior = Drips.



But then something happens to stop the DRIPS. Felix's teacher gives him a compliment. DROP. The class is supportive of him and praises his effort. DROP! He starts receiving compliments and acts of kindness from others as the school day continues. DROP! His bucket starts to fill back up with positive feelings. 


Acts of Kindness = Drops.

Here comes my favorite part.  Once his bucket is filled back up he looks around the playground and notices everyone else has one too....and a lot of them need filling. He now has a real understanding of how it works. And so will your kids! So Felix gets right to it by being kind and helpful. DROP! DROP! This time there are two drops. When he fills another person's bucket, he fills his own too.


Each person receives a DROP during kindness.

The students were SO excited when they saw the cover. I've been reading it the first couple weeks of school so kids can remember to start filling others' buckets immediately. I plan on reading it again throughout the school year. This is one of those stories they like to hear over and over again. It is very well written, the illustrations are perfect, and it speaks to kids. They completely relate to Felix and the ups and downs of his day. Using the "drips" and "drops" as a way to describe positive and negative interactions was easily understood by the students. We've started putting our new discovered language to use! Bucket filling is a way of life in my school. I hope you do the same in your school and home.


A Link to This Book and Others You Might Find Helpful:

Book Review: 101 Things and Places.......

101 Things You Gotta Do Before You're 12!
Author: Joanne O'Sullivan
Interest Level: Anyone under 12

About This Book: This is an idea-packed book for the under-12 set that’s a sure cure for boredom. From exciting outings to creative activities at home, it’s crammed with stuff that’s amazing, amusing, and inspiring. Plus, this list lets kids take the lead—they can use it as a springboard for their own discoveries. So what tempting things are on the game plan? Well, how about visiting a crazy festival, like the UFO Encounter in Roswell, New Mexico? Or competing in a wacky contest—perhaps the U.S. Open Sandcastle Competition? Closer to their own backyard, enterprising youngsters can build a tree house, learn to cook a special dish, or trace their family roots. Whatever they choose, this is a fun and challenging to-do list—and, as a bonus, kids get stickers to mark what they’d like to do and what they’ve done.

101 Places You Gotta See Before You're 12!
Author: Joanne Sullivan
Interest Level: Anyone under 12

About This Book: To children, the world can seem huge, filled with exciting places to visit and new things to experience. But how can they start uncovering the many treasures that await them? This fun and informative guidebook—the first in a new series—invites kids to embark on an exhilarating scavenger hunt that opens their eyes to things they’ve never imagined before. And there’s no need to go far or plan a big, expensive vacation to see this great stuff. In fact, some of the places may be quite close to home. They can take a peek at what actually goes on at their parents’ office, experience another culture’s cuisine at an ethnic restaurant, immerse themselves in the beauty of nature at a wildlife preserve, or get the inside scoop on what really happens backstage at the theater…or even in the teacher’s lounge! And the ideas are just general enough to provide a gentle push in the right direction, while allowing young dreamers to use their imagination and fill in the specifics. In addition to tons of fun facts, lists of little-known sites, and more than 250 color photos, there’s a bonus fold-out map of North America and stickers, so youngsters can mark where they’ve been.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Every kiddo under the age of 12 needs these books. They are super duper cool. Recently, I was at a friend's house and her 8 year old daughter was immersed in a book for most of the evening. I asked her what she was reading - 101 Things To Do Before You're 12! It was so sweet to hear her talk about the things she wanted to do that were inspired by the ideas in the book. And guess what - these are POSITIVE FAMILY VALUE ideas (oh, and they are fun and creative). How can you not love that?!? The point is it gets kids thinking and brainstorming about POSITIVE (I'll say it again) things to do in their lives. Bye bye video games, TV, and computer. Children need healthy outlets that provide motivation and inspiration. These are fabulous gifts and parents will thank you and kids will LOVE them. My nieces and nephews will all get copies for sure. Boredom be gone!

Book Review: Stand Tall Molly Lou Melon

Author: Patty Lovell
Illustrated by David Catrow
Interest Level: Ages 4-8

About This Book: Author Patty Lovell has created the perfect "imperfect" character in little girl Molly Lou Melon. She's shorter than short, with buck teeth, a voice that sounds like a bullfrog being squeezed by a boa constrictor, and quite the clutz. But none of that gets her down because grandma keeps telling her, "Believe in yourself and the world will believe in you too." And little miss Molly Lou Melon lives by those words and happily sees her "flaws" as gifts. But things change when she starts a new school. She becomes the bully target of Ronald Durkin who tries to put her down every chance he gets. But grandma's words of self-esteem live strong in Molly Lou Melon. Ronald eventually finds out, this little tiny gal does not waver. Maybe he is the one with the "flaws"? Stand Tall Molly Lou Melon is a shining example of "Be Yourself." The illustrations are comedic, colorful, and very entertaining.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: A+  Yep, you heard me. This book gets an A+ from the students and me. Molly Lou Melon is a "hot mess." I say that with such love and adoration. There are certain books I depend upon to help me teach the concept of self-esteem. This one is a winner. I see kids being bullied, put-down, and made fun of (I know, sad) at school. Most of them are not "built" to take this kind of cruelty. Are any of us really? We teach kids how to say "NO" to bullying, but are we teaching them how to keep their confidence and self-esteem intact? There is a silent emotional aftermath bullying can cause. Kids can walk away emotionally scarred. My biggest fear is when children start to believe the put-downs being said. Molly Lou Melon teaches kids to not let it bring you down but to "Stand Tall." This is a fabulous read and Molly's letter to grandma on the last page is the perfect ending. If you are looking for a great story to teach self-esteem and confidence, look no further. It is difficult to teach those concepts at an early age - this will surely help you!


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Book Review: Iggy Peck, Architect

Author: Andrea Beaty

illustrated by David Roberts

Interest Level: Ages 4-9

About This Book: Meet Iggy Peck—creative, independent, and not afraid to express himself! In the spirit of David Shannon’s No, David and Rosemary Wells’s Noisy Nora, Iggy Peck will delight readers looking for irreverent, inspired fun.

Iggy has one passion: building. His parents are proud of his fabulous creations, though they’re sometimes surprised by his materials—who could forget the tower he built of dirty diapers? When his second-grade teacher declares her dislike of architecture, Iggy faces a challenge. He loves building too much to give it up! With Andrea Beaty’s irresistible rhyming text and David Roberts’s puckish illustrations, this book will charm creative kids everywhere, and amuse their sometimes bewildered parents.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: As our students are in the middle of the tiring schedule of state standards testing (don't worry, I won't go all crazy on that topic - but for the record....it's not all about reading, writing, and math), I am reminded of an AWESOME book that encourages multiple intelligences.  Iggy Peck, Architect isn't just about architecture, it's about believing in your talent no matter what the 'haters' say.  When Iggy's teacher shuts down his dreams through harsh criticism (at first I was like - OH, NO YOU DIDN'T), I thought about how our words can make or break a child's day. Our words can have an impact on a child's educational journey. This book has had a profound impact when I've shared it. I almost dread having to read the page when Iggy's teacher displays her dislike towards him. But that's truly when the message of the book starts. I'm so happy I found Iggy for my bookshelf.

Book Review: I Like Myself!

 

Author: Karen Beaumont

Illustrated by David Catrow

Interest Level: Ages 3-8

About This Book: This curly haired African-American moppet really likes herself. No matter what she does, wherever she goes, or what others think of her, she likes herself because, as she says, "I'm ME!" Catrow's watercolor, ink, and pencil illustrations bring even more humor to the funny verse. The brightly colored art and rhymes are reminiscent of Dr. Seuss's work with their quirky absurdity, especially the full spread of the child and her highly unusual bicycle. Even with "…stinky toes/or horns protruding from my nose," her dog loves her unconditionally. She is so full of joy that readers will love her, too–even when she has purple polka-dotted lips. Titles such as Jamie Lee Curtis's I'm Gonna Like Me and Kathi Appelt's Incredible Me! have a similar theme, but the main characters are Caucasian. A great addition. -School Library Journal

Inside, outside, upside down,

from head to toe and all around,

I like it all! It all is me!

And me is all I want to be.

And I don't care in any way

what someone else may think or say.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: This book is a WINNER with kids. They ooooh, awww, and GIGGLE over the illustrations. I'm oooohing, awwing, and giggling right along with them. Other book reviews have commented that the illustrations are Dr. Seuss-ish. I adore the spunky, joyful, smiley little girl in this book. The kids bounce with anticipation with the approach of every turned page. The inside jacket of the book says, "At once silly and serious, this exuberant ode to self-esteem is sassy, soulful-and straight from the heart." SO TRUE! Oh, and you will also love her darling little dog - her self-esteem side kick. Need another book that is chock-full of lessons on self-esteem? Then I Like Myself is destined for your shelf.

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Book Review: I Believe in Me - A Book of Affirmations

written and illustrated by Connie Bowen

Interest Level: All Ages

About This Book: Whimsical animals, characters, and angels illustrate, in full color, twenty-seven affirmations that will inspire you, the child you love, and the child within all of us.

I am wonderfully creative.

I make friends easily.

I am forgiving.

I believe in me.

I am filled with greatness.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Oh goodness, I really love this book of affirmations. You'll understand why....keep reading. Imagine helping a child bring out their authenticity. We all come into this world with a core set of unique skills, abilities, curiosities and talents. Kids who feel authentic have an optimistic attitude, a feeling that their life is precious. In the mornings, I watch kids coming down the hallways to their classrooms. Some have that tired look, others are gabbing and smiling with friends, and then I see a few sad looking faces walking down the hallway. I imagine the thoughts they might be having or what happened the evening before or even that morning. Their thoughts most likely are negative and self-defeating. Those are the very students that need help discovering their authenticity and hidden strengths. Affirmations are very healing.

I always try and keep an extra copy of I Believe in Me on my shelf. With parent permission, I like to give this book to kids who need to be built up. Our children are looking towards us as their models. Bring out their inner beauty through I Believe in Me. You will be happy it is in the company of your other self-esteem books on your shelf.

PS. The author provided a blank affirmation page for children in the back of the book. Have them write down their own affirmation. It's powerful. I also like to introduce the concept of emotional strength when I read I Believe in Me. Have them draw their emotional strength. So awesome when they connect to this idea.


A Link To This Book And Others You Might Find Helpful:

Book Review: Only One You

Author: Linda Kranz
Interest Level: All Ages

If you make a wrong turn, circle back.

If something gets in your way, move around it.

About This Book: There’s only one you in this great big world. Make it a better place.
Adri’s mama and papa share some of the wisdom they have gained through the years with their eager son. Their words, simple and powerful, are meant to comfort and guide him as he goes about exploring the world. This exquisitely illustrated book explodes with color and honest insights. Kranz’s uniquely painted "rockfish," set against vibrant blue seas, make an unforgettable and truly special impression. Only One You will inspire parents and children of all ages as they swim through life.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: Because kids need to be built up, encouraged, and uplifted. This is a little book with a big heart. I even feel uplifted after I read it. I read this with a very soft and gentle voice and the kids become like little sponges. Only One You goes straight to the soul. Imagine if this was read daily to a child. Wow. Positive affirmations are so important. Only One You is also good to use with a child who has been doing a lot of negative self-talk. When I hear a child put themselves down, I imagine they must being putting themselves down a 100 times more on the inside. Raise self-esteem by getting this book on your shelf.

Blueberry Girl

OMG! I cannot wait to get my hands on this book!

Book Review: Someday

Author: Eileen Spinelli

illustrated by Rosie Winstead

Interest Level: Ages 5-10

About This Book: Children will savor each page of this delightful book that alternates between Someday and the present. Goldie dreams of a busy future as an archaeologist, an animal scientist, an Olympic gymnast, and more. On the alternate pages she enjoys being a kid and hones the skills that she will need to achieve those goals–digging, counting, cartwheels–all those things that look like playing. Winstead's stylish art is a perfect fit for the whimsical text. The adorable little girl is all spindly limbs, buck-teeth, and flyaway hair, even in her dreams of adulthood. Observant readers will have fun comparing and contrasting the background elements in the someday/right now pairs of pages as they read this empowering book again and again.

Why It's On My Bookshelf: I love this book. The cover really grabbed me as I walked through my local bookstore. I read the first page and was sold:

Someday I am going to be a great artist. I will wear a blue smock. I will carry my paints to the beach to paint the sea. A very rich person will offer to buy my painting for two million dollars. But I will smile. And I will say: "I'm sorry, this painting is not for sale. It is a gift for my art teacher." Someday...

Okay, don't you love that?? Kids LOVE this book and it is uplifting and fun to read to them. If you want to encourage children to dream with unending imagination, find a spot for it on your bookshelf! Students had a lot of fun talking about their Somedays.