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Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera

Written by: Candace Fleming
Illustrated by:  Eric Rohmann
Approximate read time: 15 minutes
Age group: 6 – 9
Rating: B +

Book Review: Honeybee: The Busy Life of Apis Mellifera

Honeybee is an amazingly educational story about the life of a female bee. To briefly cover what could be considered the only downside: it’s dry, which makes it less repeatable. The positives outweigh that though: it’s a structured story with a realistic plot line that builds up, and it explains in detail the process of honey-making and the valuable role of bees. Unlike much of children’s literature, it’s devoid of emotional content. Instead, the focus is on following the path of life, patiently and dutifully. There’s something very zen about this book. The illustrations perfectly match the content: informative, detailed, and pleasant. 

This book is great for adults too. Did your kids learn and enjoy this book as much as you did?

Excerpt:
“When Apis turns twelve days old, glands in her abdomen begin making flakes of white wax. It is time for her new job.
Flying?”

Other information:
Robert F. Sibert Medal
Orbis Pictus Honor Book
Texas Bluebonnnet Master List
AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books Finalist
Published by: Neal Porter Books
Number of pages: 40
Language: English

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I Don’t Want to Be a Frog

Children’s books

BOOK REVIEW: I Don’t Want to Be a Frog

Written by: Dev Petty
Illustrated by: Mike Boldt
Approximate read time: 6 minutes
Age group: 3 – 7
Rating: B +

A short and sweet story that’ll hit different if you have an inquisitive toddler. I Don’t Want to be a Frog is a hilarious children’s book featuring an exchange between a parent and child, in which the youngster is determined to be a different animal; something warm and cuddly, rather than wet and slimy. The parent patiently explains the logistics, but no dice. And then, an unexpected character enters the dialogue and seals the deal once and for all. It turns out that being a frog has big benefits! Overall, this is a pretty funny and light read. The variety of scenarios that drive the young frog are interesting, and it does have the quality of being re-readable.

Do your kiddos like to pretend to be animals? Is is always the same animal, or do they try out different kinds?

Excerpt:
“What’s wrong with being a frog anyway?”
“Too much bug eating”

Other information:
Published by: Doubleday Books for Young Readers
Number of pages: 32
Language: English

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Fred Gets Dressed

Book Review: Fred Gets Dressed

Written & illustrated by: Peter Brown
Approximate read time: 8 minutes
Age group: 3 – 6
Rating: A

There’s just something about this book. Fred Gets Dressed is a quirky, fun read that’ll have you in giggles from start to finish. We follow a little boy that is delighted to romp around the house in his birthday suit. He finds himself intrigued within his parents’ closet – he has two wardrobe options, and only one fits just right. His parents respond perfectly to their kiddo’s creative expression. The uplifting story is light and silly, while also cognizant of a much deeper meaning. It’s reflective for our modern values, and simply joyful. The illustrations are uniquely adorable and well-suited, no pun intended. 


Do your kiddos occasionally have free range to romp around in their desired state of dress?  

Excerpt:
“He romps around his bedroom and across the hall…and into Mom and Dad’s bedroom. Fred might never get dressed!”

Other information:
Published by: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Number of pages: 48
Language: English

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Book Review: “What Do You Do With an Idea?” by Kobi Yamada – Nurturing Creativity and Embracing Possibilities

Introduction: Welcome to my book review of “What Do You Do With an Idea?” by Kobi Yamada. This beautifully illustrated and thought-provoking picture book takes readers on a journey that celebrates the power of ideas, the courage to believe in oneself, and the transformative potential of embracing creativity. In this review, I will share my thoughts on this inspiring book and its impact on readers of all ages.

Summary: “What Do You Do With an Idea?” tells the story of a young child who encounters a curious and vibrant idea. At first, the idea appears small and unassuming, but it grows in significance and presence with each passing page. The child learns to face doubts, fears, and the judgment of others, ultimately embracing the idea as something extraordinary. Through the book’s engaging narrative and captivating illustrations, readers are encouraged to embrace their own ideas, nurturing them with love and care.

Review: Kobi Yamada’s “What Do You Do With an Idea?” is a powerful testament to the creative spirit that resides within each of us. The book beautifully captures the essence of what it means to have an idea and the journey of nurturing and developing it. The narrative unfolds with a gentle and introspective tone, allowing readers to reflect on their own experiences with ideas and the transformative potential they hold.

The strength of this book lies not only in its heartfelt storytelling but also in the exquisite illustrations by Mae Besom. The use of soft, muted colors alongside vibrant splashes of detail brings the idea and its journey to life. The illustrations effectively convey the emotions and complexities of the main character’s relationship with the idea, making it visually captivating and emotionally resonant.

“What Do You Do With an Idea?” not only celebrates the beauty of creativity but also addresses common fears and challenges that arise when pursuing an idea. The book encourages readers to embrace the uniqueness of their ideas and to persist in the face of doubt and adversity. It reminds us that ideas have the power to shape our lives and the world around us if we have the courage to believe in them.

This book transcends age boundaries, making it a meaningful read for both children and adults. Children will be inspired to cultivate their imagination and develop a sense of confidence in their ideas, while adults will find themselves reflecting on their own relationship with creativity and the importance of encouraging it in the lives of young minds.

In conclusion, “What Do You Do With an Idea?” is a profound and visually captivating book that celebrates the power of ideas and the courage to pursue them. Kobi Yamada’s evocative storytelling and Mae Besom’s enchanting illustrations come together to create a truly transformative reading experience. This book serves as a reminder that ideas, no matter how small or unconventional, have the potential to shape our lives and contribute to positive change. So, embrace your ideas, nurture them with care, and see where they can take you.