First Time Books(R) (86 books)
REVIEWED BY J.M. NORTHUPCute Story of Individuality & Friendship
This was a fun book to read with my grandson. It was beautifully illustrated, had a loving message, and kept my boy engaged while also entertaining me. It was filled with hope, and the message of looking for joy in life was welcomed.
For me, the concept of what made the visiting bear, Tommy, “special” was a bit lost. I am not sure if that was intentional, and I am not sure why. I don’t think there is anything wrong with explaining a medical condition to children openly and honestly, so it would have been a better message if that were clearer. Also, less confusing. I didn’t really get why the child’s difference was hemmed and hawed over instead of addressed more matter-of-factly since it is nothing to be ashamed of.
I loved the message that joy knows no boundaries. The idea that someone with various challenges in life can still be such a kind and happy person is a great illustration for kids, especially when trying to show that being different isn’t a bad thing. I felt that was so well done, and it was true, which made it perfect!
I recommend this book, but I think caretakers will want to have conversations with their littles. This story offers a lot, but it left a bit of wanting in regards to what being “special” is defined as. They way it is being pointed out doesn’t really fit the title. I felt that sort of made the book a bit convoluted for me, so I could see how that might make the lesson confusing for kids. Definitely a place for discussion.
For me, the concept of what made the visiting bear, Tommy, “special” was a bit lost. I am not sure if that was intentional, and I am not sure why. I don’t think there is anything wrong with explaining a medical condition to children openly and honestly, so it would have been a better message if that were clearer. Also, less confusing. I didn’t really get why the child’s difference was hemmed and hawed over instead of addressed more matter-of-factly since it is nothing to be ashamed of.
I loved the message that joy knows no boundaries. The idea that someone with various challenges in life can still be such a kind and happy person is a great illustration for kids, especially when trying to show that being different isn’t a bad thing. I felt that was so well done, and it was true, which made it perfect!
I recommend this book, but I think caretakers will want to have conversations with their littles. This story offers a lot, but it left a bit of wanting in regards to what being “special” is defined as. They way it is being pointed out doesn’t really fit the title. I felt that sort of made the book a bit convoluted for me, so I could see how that might make the lesson confusing for kids. Definitely a place for discussion.
REVIEWED BY J.M. NORTHUPA Good Reminder of Being Thankful
As often done, I read this book with my grandson. It made for a lovely memory as we were able to enjoy the autumn illustrations, sill antics of Papa & the cubs, and discuss the events in the book together. More so, it moved my heart to learn about who my grandson was in how he reacted to the story; how he would tell the characters when they were misbehaving or encourage them to make better choices.
I loved this book for many reasons. First, I thought it was great because it showed even adults make mistakes and get carried away. Second, it is realistic in how we often lose sight of what is important, especially when our competitive natures take over. Finally, I loved that this book showed it was never too late to find appreciation.
I thought the lesson in this book was good for all ages. It reminded all readers to remember to be kind, focus on gracious behavior, and to appreciate what counts. It also made me want pumpkin pie something fierce!
I loved this book for many reasons. First, I thought it was great because it showed even adults make mistakes and get carried away. Second, it is realistic in how we often lose sight of what is important, especially when our competitive natures take over. Finally, I loved that this book showed it was never too late to find appreciation.
I thought the lesson in this book was good for all ages. It reminded all readers to remember to be kind, focus on gracious behavior, and to appreciate what counts. It also made me want pumpkin pie something fierce!
REVIEWED BY J.M. NORTHUPEncouraging & Positive
I read this with my grandson following a mistake he recently made. It was sheer coincidence, but it was serendipitous in how it reenforced the lesson he learned. It made the whole reading experience more meaningful, and the book more valuable.
Just like Brother, the mistake was small. For my grandson, he confessed immediately, but in Brother’s case, we got to see what happened when you didn’t. It encouraged honesty and showed that, even you are scared and adults are unhappy, things will work out. It illustrated how we all need to take responsibility for our actions, and that consequences are not as bad as our imaginations. Like Brother learned, the people who love us are there to help us, even when we mess up.
I think this is a great book to help kids understand these concepts. Relating it to the recent situation for my grandson not only made the book more relatable for him, but it helped him to understand what Brother was experiencing. That really brought the story to life and allowed us to have really great conversations together!
Just like Brother, the mistake was small. For my grandson, he confessed immediately, but in Brother’s case, we got to see what happened when you didn’t. It encouraged honesty and showed that, even you are scared and adults are unhappy, things will work out. It illustrated how we all need to take responsibility for our actions, and that consequences are not as bad as our imaginations. Like Brother learned, the people who love us are there to help us, even when we mess up.
I think this is a great book to help kids understand these concepts. Relating it to the recent situation for my grandson not only made the book more relatable for him, but it helped him to understand what Brother was experiencing. That really brought the story to life and allowed us to have really great conversations together!
REVIEWED BY J.M. NORTHUPGreat Lesson Taught In Fun Way
This is a great book. It’s fun to read, entertaining, educational, and opens communication. It shows a realistic view of attitudes toward manners with great explanations what they are, why they are needed, and exceptions to rules.
I read this with my 6 yo grandson. I loved how engaged he was from cover to cover. I was impressed how he related to the story and connected moments with people or events in his own life. It made me realize how well he paid attention and just how valuable this medium is for teaching.
I’m a Berenstain Bears fan, so I definitely recommend this book (and series). The fact it helped create great memories with my daughters and now grands just endears the books to me more. So well done for all ages!!
I read this with my 6 yo grandson. I loved how engaged he was from cover to cover. I was impressed how he related to the story and connected moments with people or events in his own life. It made me realize how well he paid attention and just how valuable this medium is for teaching.
I’m a Berenstain Bears fan, so I definitely recommend this book (and series). The fact it helped create great memories with my daughters and now grands just endears the books to me more. So well done for all ages!!
J.M. NORTHUP 