Mariposa, a colorful little butterfly, is sad as she flutters across the black and white world beneath her. She feels rejected and alone. She stops to rest on a cattail in Cochiti Lake, and a brave and curious trout swims near. He asks her where she got her colors. The butterfly tells him she must go and ask her wise abuelita. Her grandmother explains that the colors are a special gift and that it is not where they come from but what she does with them that truly matters.
This lovely story teaches about kindness and generosity-about loneliness and fitting in-and about becoming courageous in spite of fear. The illustrations are exquisitely rendered by noted muralist Nanibah Chacon.
Mariposa, Where Did You Get Your Colors? is a beautiful book for all ages.
A lovely story evolves in Mariposa, Where Did You Get Your Colors?, which clearly and simply outlines butterfly Mariposa's challenge and her solution to the problem of feeling different and at odds with her black-and-white world. It imparts deeper messages about overcoming alienation, cultivating giving, and handling the good and bad aspects of being generous.
Illustrator Nanibah Chacon, a noted muralist, does a superb job of capturing the nuances of a colorful butterfly that flits through her world in the picture book. Her simple, lovely drawings are perfect for a story that focuses on a little butterfly who stands out from the black and white world she flies through. This alienates her from others, and she doesn't feel a part of the world.
When an astute trout asks about the origins of her colors, her wise grandmother states that they are a gift. How, then, can Mariposa use this gift wisely?
Parental read-aloud assistance is recommended for the discussions which should follow this evocative story. Any who work with children will find this an absorbing, revealing, and thought-provoking story that holds a bigger message within a simple tale.
Deep in the lush jungle of the Argentine lives eleven-year-old Carlota, her father Daniel, and a host of animals that are very friendly to the little girl. There are the parrots, the deer and, best of all, the strange little Patagonian hares. Although those little animals don’t really look like a rabbit or any other animal on earth, the peculiar little creatures become dear friends to the isolated Carlota. The jungle is loved by the little girl as it is “a park, playground, and zoo all wrapped up in one.” Join in the exciting adventure of Carlota and her father as they face one of the great dangers of the wild Misiones, Argentina jungle—the menacing tigre (jaguar). Although awesome to behold in its natural environment, tigre is the most fearsome big cat of South America. Read how Carlota’s father travels to town to purchase a birthday gift for his daughter and upon returning falls into extreme danger. The gorgeous colorful pages reveal how Carlota, with the help of her Patagonian hares, saves the girl’s father. This is a story for precocious young readers, along with upper elementary students. It is sure to also be enjoyed by adults. It will become a favorite to be read over and over again with great delight.
The Jungle seems like a scary place to live, but Carlota is taught so many life lessons by her father, and animal friends. This is a beautiful story about the value of friendships with those (ie. people or animals) that differ from you.
Carlotta found value in all her jungle friends, even when her Dad wasn't so sure about the Patagonian Hare, but the little Hare proved his/her value in the Dad's rescue, when Dad fell into a huge hole, and the dangerous Jaguar that was hunting him.
Lesson for all is don't judge anyone by their size, as all beings have talents, skills, and most of all, Value to society at large. Be like Carlota, and show kindness. You shall be rewarded.
Carlota's Jungle Friends is delightful and whimsical story with a valuable lesson. This book paints young Carlota as the hero who saves her father with an unconventional weapon: a child's wisdom to see the best in others. With vibrant illustrations and a unique cast of characters, this is an excellent book for young readers who are ready to begin expanding their vocabularies. Carlota's Jungle Friends is written in accessible language and would be a great fit for emerging readers who are interested in reading books that feel more like a chapter book than a kid's book.
As a teacher, I definitely recommend this a a read-aloud for K-3rd classes to discuss moral or theme in a story or as a lead for a writing lesson on setting and character development. I loved it!
Don’t let your child miss this exciting and colorful picture book by noted Western author, James J. Griffin. Meet the young Deputy Sheriff who solves the mystery of the missing Muffin. Deputy Pete is at the blacksmith’s shop having new horseshoes put on Charcoal, his big black horse. Pete’s dog, Pepper, is with him. Pete thanks the blacksmith and rides into town, where he sees a little girl crying. Jenny is sad because her cat, Muffin, has disappeared. Deputy Pete and his pets help Jenny look for her lost cat. They encounter many strange animals in their search, including an armadillo, a horned toad, a Texas tortoise, a garter snake, and even three Texas spotted whiptail lizards. There is an exciting surprise when they find Muffin.
The story introduces early readers to a law enforcement officer, to unusual animals, and to basic vocabulary related to the Western genre. It is an excellent and beautifully illustrated book for picture walks.
This sweet tale of a cat gone missing appeals to all ages, but this one in particular is well-crafted for elementary and middle school readers and all English Language Learners. Drift back in time to life in the Old West, as the blacksmith puts new shoes on Deputy Pete's horse, Charcoal.
As Deputy Pete helps a little girl find her lost cat, Muffin, we ride along on the search, learning how sniffer dogs operate, the many unexpected creatures one finds on a farm, trying to predict cat behavior on a hot day. Ethical and compassionate choices are assumed: we will pay for that watermelon, and we DO put that overturned tortoise back on its feet BEFORE moving on down the road!
When Muffin is finally found, her lovely surprise is a happy ending for all animal lovers. Great read-aloud, lovely bedtime story!
As Deputy Pete helps a little girl find her lost cat, Muffin, we ride along on the search, learning how sniffer dogs operate, the many unexpected creatures one finds on a farm, trying to predict cat behavior on a hot day. Ethical and compassionate choices are assumed: we will pay for that watermelon, and we DO put that overturned tortoise back on its feet BEFORE moving on down the road!
When Muffin is finally found, her lovely surprise is a happy ending for all animal lovers. Great read-aloud, lovely bedtime story!
Winchester, Texas is home to the handsome Deputy Pete, who patrols its streets with purpose and effectiveness. But he may have met his match over the mystery that unfolds in the middle-grade Western read Deputy Pete and the Purloined Pickles Puzzle.
James J. Griffin's background in producing Western novels for all ages continues to prove a plus here, creating a story that nicely blends a mystery with a rural Texas environment.
Deputy Pete tackles a big problem that Sheriff Sam Slade has been unable to handle. Even more importantly, who would steal all the cucumbers and pickles in town? More than the perp and the deputy are in a pickle by the time the options are considered and the rationale behind pickle picking is presented.
Humor and fun blend with problem-solving approaches as the deputy puts on his thinking cowboy hat and rides out to confront pickle perp possibilities. The dialogue between Pete, his parents, and others is often fun, offering plays on 'p' words that kids will relish: "But it is funny, son," his father commented, "you just keep on pondering over pilfered pickles." "Mr. Porter," said Pete's mother, "I'm trying to get our son to relax, and you're encouraging him to worry about pickles."
As the savvy deputy works with three young sleuths, Libby, Ben, and Jose, to solve this puzzle, readers will delight in conversations that capture whimsical problem-solving approaches to his job.
James J. Griffin's ability to incorporate the folksy, homespun atmosphere of a good Western with a child's eye to solving a small town puzzle creates a compelling story that will delight kids interested in law enforcement conundrums.
It's a fine read that will keep young folk guessing to the end, and it blends the atmosphere and approach of a Western with a mystery that introduces kids to the potential range and strengths of the Western novel format.
As a mother, I was looking for stories I could tell my little 3 year old Princess, since I’m a busy 8-5 worker. I found some recommendations from Amazon, then I dug a bit deeper on the Internet and came across Gail Heath’s Kindle books… I found this book, “Inside Me, Sometimes.” It is very thoughtful and amazing and took less than 7 minutes for me to read through. It was just like a flip-book and I was excited about the message each page of the Octopus tries to pass across.
I carefully walked through it with my daughter and I got her reading those “I am” and “Sometimes”. She loved the part the Octopus feels lonely and dances with its shadow. At a point, she wished she had a little brother to take for a walk like the Octopus. And as we read she asked me funny questions, like do “Octopus climb buildings, do Octopus hide in a Snail Shell, Can they see like me…,” We had great talks and she was so excited … I’m so happy I came across this book. Thank you Gail Heath for giving us a lovely memory.
A whimsical octopus portrays contrasting emotions and then invites young readers to see those feelings in themselves. It is a great book for acknowledging, in a non-threatening way, that each person has countless emotions that are not always consistent. The book appeals to readers of all ages. (Pre-K through 2) The book has both English and Spanish text.
Un pulpo juguetón muestra emociones contrastantes y luego invita a los jóvenes lectores a ver esas emociones en sí mismos. Es un grand libro para reconocer, de una manera no amenazante, que cada persona tiene innumables emociones que no siempre son consistentes. El Libro atrae a lectores de todas las edades. (Pre-K a 2) El libro tiene texto en inglés y español.
Regardless of your ethnicity and cultural background, you are able to relate to this book. We all occupy different spaces on the emotional range
each and every day...brave, sad, scared, happy, caring, etc. Inside Me, Sometimes helps readers to see the commonality we all share.
The book, “ Inside Me, Sometimes,” written by Gail Heath, surprises me the most with it’s honesty. The author has a generous and considerate spirit that is easily displayed in the book, as the main character admits that one day he feels like sharing, and sometimes he feels like running home with everything in tow. It’s awesome that he admits that he still wants to be comforted by his mother at times, though he is old enough to leave home, and admits to feeling tall enough to sit on a skyscraper.
I found this book to be perfect in educating small children on the many different feelings that someone so young could go through. The octopus is the perfect character for children in the preschool/kindergarten age group. What better place to learn about things that occur in a small child's life, than a day at the beach? With vibrant colors, and plenty emotions, this book is sure to be a perfect read to introduce to children who are experiencing changes at home, and having to cope with real feelings.
El libro "Inside Me, Sometimes", escrito por Gail Heath, me sorprende más con su honestidad. El autor tiene un espíritu generoso y considerado que se muestra fácilmente en el libro, ya que el personaje principal admite que un día tiene ganas de compartir y, a veces, tiene ganas de correr a casa con todo a cuestas. Es increíble que él confiesa que todavía quiere ser consolado por su madre a veces, aunque es lo suficientemente mayor como para dejar su hogar, y admite sentirse lo suficientemente alto como para sentarse en un rascacielos.
Encontré este libro perfecto para educar a los niños pequeños sobre los muchos sentimientos diferentes que alguien tan joven podría atravesar. El pulpo es el personaje perfecto para los niños en el grupo de edad preescolar / kindergarten. ¿Qué mejor lugar para aprender sobre cosas que ocurren en la vida de un niño pequeño, que un día en la playa? Con colores vibrantes y muchas emociones, este libro seguramente será una lectura perfecta para presentarles a los niños que están experimentando cambios en el hogar y tener que lidiar con sentimientos reales. Hay un libro disponible en inglés y español.
Pony Ride is another book to add to the bedtime story book shelf. Pony Ride is an enchanting book told in flavorful rhymes. Heath’s background as a Language Arts teacher shows as Pony Ride teaches as well as entertains. While reading you will find so many different aspects of going off with to further engage conversations with your child on, such as what is a Trail Boss? What does a Trail Boss do? How many animals does the boy and his pony encounter? Or you can discuss what sounds each animal makes.
Pony Ride will have children entranced thanks to the books bright illustrations. Grab the book and go along as you and your child ride along through the countryside encountering different animals and scenes in Pony Ride learning about country western life.Pony Ride is another book to add to the bedtime story book shelf. Pony Ride is an enchanting book told in flavorful rhymes. Heath’s background as a Language Arts teacher shows as Pony Ride teaches as well as entertains. While reading you will find so many different aspects of going off with to further engage conversations with your child on, such as what is a Trail Boss? What does a Trail Boss do? How many animals does the boy and his pony encounter? Or you can discuss what sounds each animal makes.
Pony Ride will have children entranced thanks to the books bright illustrations. Grab the book and go along as you and your child ride along through the countryside encountering different animals and scenes in Pony Ride learning about country western life.
"My Dog Fred" is a fun read! My niece and nephew liked it. It was the right length for them, the words were easy for them to read, the rhymes were enjoyable, and they were entertained by the illustrations. The story follows a family and their pet dog, Fred, who has a problem, and the family doesn't really know how to deal with it. However, by the end of it all, they figure it out and the notion of compassion triumphs.
Stories such as this are very important for a child to read--it reinforces the message of compassion. In particular, in this day and age, where values are constantly challenged by the overarching societal attitude. The best method to combat the constant challenges is to allow your child to absorb information with a positive message. "My Dog Fred"... two thumbs up!
Marriage is seldom the subject of a children's picture book, so the first surprise to Our Daughter is Getting Married lies in its perspective as a mother picks up the phone to hear the news that her daughter has met somebody special and is planning her wedding day.
Lovely color illustrations follow wedding plans and a mother's enthusiasm as the couple plan their big day, from sparkling wedding rings and cake choices to the involvement of friends and
family and possible dresses, flowers, and decorations.
Young picture book readers receive a rollicking rhyme reviewing these exciting developments as a mother celebrates the details of her daughter's wedding with approval and wonder.But this is no ordinary marriage, and no ordinary celebration. What makes it different isn't only the participants: it's the level of acceptance of two supportive families and the excitement of commitment between two individuals in love, both females, who make a public statement about their intention to officially meld their lives and families in a different way.
Coming in the wake of new discussions about LBGT lives, rights, and Orlando's tragedy, Our Daughter is Getting Married makes a powerful, supportive statement about love and addresses its message not to adults well versed in social and political discussion; but to the hearts and minds of the young picture book reader - the next generation that desperately needs a message of supporting families and "people in love together" and the types of partnerships that sustain unity over separation.
Very, very highly recommended, Our Daughter is Getting Married offers a much-needed anecdote to a world too often immersed in divisiveness and pain.
Tackling marriage equality in a children's picture book is a daunting task, yet author Gail Heath has managed it with grace and sensitivity. Telling this lovely story in rhyme, illustrating the most fun aspects of weddings and family rituals, allows a child to view this social reality without judgment or prejudice, and invites further age-appropriate family discourse. Helpful and appropriate for elementary libraries and counselors, as well. .
Our Daughter is Getting Married" follows parents while they support their daughter as she plans her wedding day. The subject matter gives children the opportunity to share their own experiences with siblings, parents, and other family members and friends. The gentle, accepting way same-sex marriage is introduced provides a natural, comfortable forum to let discussions develop throughout the elements of the story.
Heath has gracefully taken what is often an emotionally tense situation and given readers a wonderfully new perspective which models parental love and family acceptance and support in what could otherwise be high conflict. In today's world of stress and disharmony, "Our Daughter is Getting Married" is a welcome story of the many faces of love!