Chanticleer Book Reviews

Tag: Children’s Self-Respect & Determination Books

  • THE PROBLEM With SCIENCE FAIRS, CICADAS, And SEWERS: Lorelei the Lorelei Book 2 by Kristen J. Anderson, Illustrated by Audrey Suau – Children’s Friendship Books, Picture Books, Children’s Self-Respect & Determination Books

     

    Lorelei, the charismatic and outspoken seven-year-old, leaps at the chance to save her school’s science fair from disaster in Lorelei the Lorelei: The Problem with Science Fairs, Cicadas, and Sewers, second book in Kristen J Anderson’s Lorelei the Lorelei series.

    Beyond excited for the science fair, Lorelei prepares a project with a mission. She hopes to change people’s perception about cicadas, which most consider a gross nuisance of a bug. On the day of the science fair, during a trip to the restroom, Lorelei encounters a plumbing catastrophe.

    With the help of her family and friends, Lorelei put a plan in motion to protect the school fair, while learning valuable lessons about sportsmanship, classroom behavior, and empathy. She may be silly and likeable, but some of her quirks can get her into trouble too!

    Even when she gets into trouble, Lorelei is always and unapologetically herself.

    Readers see Lorelei express her emotions, usually with loud and sudden enthusiasm. In the lead up to the science fair, Lorelei feels excitement, nervousness, disappointment, and even a moment of frustration towards her class rival. The supportive adults in Lorelei’s life, from her grandma and grandpa “Bumpa” to her teachers and school administrators, help to steer Lorelei in the right directions whenever she responds inappropriately to a situation.

    As Lorelei says herself, she is only a kid and learns about emotions and social skills every day.

    Lorelei the Lorelei: The Problem with Science Fairs, Cicadas, and Sewers is a story that will get kids excited about science projects and will make older readers nostalgic for exciting days at school, whether a science fair, a special assembly, or even a short field trip.

    Excellent for beginner chapter book readers, Kristen J Anderson’s Lorelei the Lorelei series is a must-read for young inquisitive minds.

     

  • HIGH HOPES BIG DREAMS by Yolanda S. Pascal – Picture Books, Childrens Self-Respect & Determination Books, Childrens Self-Help Books

     

    High Hopes Big Dreams by Yolanda S. Pascal is a colorful picture book that brings to life the adventures of a little dreamer whose commitment to fulfilling a goal is fraught with challenges.

    At the heart of the story is George, a young boy who has always dreamed of constructing his perfect house made of connecting blocks, but constant disruptions prove challenging to the project, causing him much aggravation. If it is not one of his siblings destroying the structure, it is Rex, the family dog, pulling it down.

    Nevertheless, George always manages to rebuild his home exactly the way he has always imagined it, regardless of how many obstacles he runs into. And to his parents’ amazement, one day he announces he has successfully completed the project! Despite his parents’ curiosity, George is not yet ready to share the result of his hard work. But his smile tells them he is over-the-moon happy with his house.

    Through George’s frustrations, little “readers” will be captured by the power of his resilience, dedication, and creativity. Pascal immerses children in her character’s realistic dilemma to demonstrate a willingness to be flexible when faced with an unexpected hurdle. Whether read to kids before bed, during story time, or as part of a school story time, this picture book is sure to delight those busy minds as they think about the hurdles they face when trying to complete their own projects.

    High Hopes Big Dreams by Yolanda S. Pascal is a wonderful avenue for discussions about objectives, diversions, and self-confidence with children.

    This endearing story imparts several lessons to its young readers. Engaging, realistic situations and characters makes the story relatable, and the repeated refrain of “just as he always wanted it to be” emphasizes the main idea of pursuing your dreams even when obstacles are thrown in your way.

    Vibrant, well-drawn illustrations by Zainab Asif Rahi lend warmth and vibrancy to George’s world. From the very first image on the book’s cover, George’s family welcomes readers into their “home” with an alluring promise of excitement and makes the struggle to complete his project even more compelling. For teachers and families who hope to instill the value of resilience and living a goal oriented life, the image George’s family presents is one of being united in their support for George and his project, despite the challenges to come.

    This book is a wonderful reminder that every child has the ability to dream and that, with the right parental encouragement and a willingness to be flexible, those dreams can come true.

    Yolanda S. Pascal’s High Hopes Big Dreams is for anyone looking for a charming story that children will easily connect with. It blends an important life lesson, stunning artwork, and an inventive, lively narrative voice in this modern tale of overcoming adversity.