Ramon Fellini the Dog Detective by Guilherme Karsten (An introduction to the mystery genre, Eerdmans Books for Young Readers) [Giveaway & Review]

Definition: The mystery genre is a genre of fiction that follows a crime (like a murder or a disappearance) from the moment it is committed to the moment it is solved. 

ISBN: 9780802856364
$18.99 Hardcover
Eerdmans Young Readers Books

My thoughts:  A really cute book that introduces young children to the art of solving a mystery - in short who-dun-it! As with most if not all young children, our young boy main character (aside from the self-inserted detective) is quite trusting of what he is told by others. So when disaster strikes and his beloved gold fish crashes down the stairs and a feline appearing detective knocks at his door announcing he is there to solve the mystery, the search for the culprit begins. The night visitor identifies himself as the "Dog Detective."

Young boy can see with his own eyes that this is a CAT but is told the visitor, a detective, is a dog in disguise as a cat. So the deception begins.

This wily cat identifies himself as a dog and proceeds to solve the mystery.

I really liked the book and see it as entertainment; and, yes, also an introduction to the mystery genre for children. I do, though, also see it as a wonderful opportunity for parents to teach discernment to young children. Children need to trust but they also need to learn discernment.

About the book: A hilarious introduction to the mystery genre, starring a boy, his fish, and a whiskered detective in disguise.

A little boy’s aquarium has been attacked, and his poor fish is terrified! Secret word: Meow - Who could be behind this horrible crime? Never fear: Ramon Fellini is on the case! This brave dog has donned his cleverest cat costume in order to track down the culprit. How does Fellini know a cat is to blame? Why does he say strange things like “Does this house have any other fish?” No time for such questions—Fellini is about to reveal the truth! Unless the ace detective has a different agenda in mind…

With dramatic colors, ironic humor, and plenty of clues to discover in the art, this whodunit is a laugh-out-loud read for pet lovers. Children will love using their own sleuthing skills to solve the mystery and predict what Detective Ramon Fellini does next.

I am "borrowing" this delightful video from The Poet and Dragon Society's YouTube page. It is theirs and I have no ownership or rights to it. I simply thought it too delightful for my readers not to have the opportunity to see. Enjoy!

GIVEAWAY

Begins June 24

Ends July 23 @ Midnight EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize copy is provided and mailed directly to the winner by publisher, Eerdmans or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes. 

Eerdmans Young Readers books for Spring [Review & 1-book Giveaway USA]

The Writer by Davide Calì & illustrated by Monica Barengo  

My thoughts:  Such a cute little bulldog. Totally self-absorbed with his importance to the writer. The writer can't function without input from "dog." 

Then the needs of dog drive the writer to the out-of-doors and dog decides writer needs a "person." But the outcome of this decision is not necessarily to dog's liking.

Really cute illustrations done in earthy tones. Sparse text. Somewhat "droll." Has a "New Yorker" style humor to it. I like it and think anyone who has a dog (or perhaps a cat) will find it entertaining. 

A child's book? I'm not sure they would get the emphasis. Though I think they would enjoy the dog. Well, I think anyone who likes or loves dogs will love this book.

About the book: A dog has an important job to do, especially if his human is a writer. Without a dog by his side, the writer would forget to eat. He’d never get out of his pajamas, and he’d probably stare at the computer all day long. But even the best French bulldog can’t do everything. Maybe this perfect pair needs someone new in their lives… 

Illustrated in warm, earthy tones, this witty story reflects the ways dogs change our lives for the better. Our canine friends can make—and find—the best companions.

The Pack by Amanda Cley & illustrated by Cecilia Ferri

My thoughts:  Not your everyday, cutesy, children's book. This is a "counseling" type of book. One that a therapist, school counselor, or parent might use when they see a child begin to follow the "pack" for inclusiveness with their peers.

Being with the "in group" or "the gang" has advantages, but more often has disadvantages and undesirable connotations. 

I like the simplicity and directness of the book. The text is sparse and the pictures beautifully done though essentially colorless. The individual is still not in the pack though is definitely leaning in that direction.

I like the book. I think the book enlightening and yet it holds a bit of darkness. Adults should be careful in whose little hands they place the book. 

About the book: If you try to fit in with the pack, you’ll look the same as everyone else. You’ll be a part of the group, but you’ll lose parts of yourself. Eventually you won’t even recognize yourself anymore. Breaking free from the pack isn’t easy, but it is possible. If you find the courage to leave conformity behind, you can finally discover who you are. 

Resonant and haunting, The Pack imagines what happens when a human being wears wolf’s clothing. This poetic, powerful book will start unforgettable conversations about identity, peer pressure, and finding one’s own path.

A Perfect Spot by Isabelle Simler

My thoughts:   A lovely book about the journey of a ladybug as she seeks a perfect place to deposit her eggs. She encounters a variety of fearsome (to her) dangers at each seemingly lush spot which results in her frantically flying on to land somewhere else. 

Illustrated in beautiful detail, the story captures one's interest because of the little ladybug's pursuit and also because the reader can spend much time perusing the details and colors so beautifully executed. 

Only one item I felt was a little off for children. After a particularly harsh encounter in a tree, she tumbles down. The text reads, "And now she's left reeling and bitter inside, with her wings so terribly crinkled and creased." To me this embittered characteristic which ladybug experiences right before reaching the "perfect spot" addresses a bitterness of ageing (the story is indicative of the lifecycle of the ladybug) is not typical of young children's picture books. It can be read and not understood or it can be explained to youngsters as how some people respond to a harsh life and their circumstances.  The book is not ruined by any means, just a small bit that caught my eye. I would read it to a child or grandchild.

I think this is a lovely book and it is beautifully illustrated. I love how the author/illustrator uses details and colors. I previously reviewed books by Isabelle Simler and consider it a joy to do so. Find them by clicking here

About the book: A ladybug needs a safe place to lay her eggs, but where can she find an open spot? Katydids flutter in the leaves, stick insects hide in the branches, and thorn bugs pop out from every available stem. Even those bright pink flowers are orchid mantises ready to strike! Will any of these creatures be the right neighbors for the ladybug’s eggs? 

Illustrated with lush, vibrant details, A Perfect Spot is a fascinating introduction to the diverse world of arthropods. Acclaimed creator Isabelle Simler presents a bug’s eye view of camouflage, metamorphosis, and other natural wonders.

GIVEAWAY

1 copy of The Writer

Begins April 25

Ends May 19 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies of the books to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copy of The Writer is provided and shipped directly to the winner by Eerdmans Publishing. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.

I, Vivaldi by Janice Shefelman & illustrated by Tom Shefelman

My thoughts: I just read a delightful children’s book about composer Vivaldi. My children played some of his piano compositions as they advanced in their piano studies. I love this book and I found some of Vivaldi's music YouTube. (Published by Eerdmans Books for Young readers ISBN:9780802855862)

The story is well written and tells of young Vivaldi's physical limitations that prevented his ability to run and play like other boys. It also told of the influence his father's musical career had on young Vivaldi. 

Growing up in a musical family, Vivaldi's love for music, its composition and performance, and above all, its absorption into Vivaldi's life was shown throughout the book. His mother's insistence on his studying to be a priest, and how even though he complied, his music still became his primary focus.

I totally enjoyed this book and highly recommend it. (Turn your sound on for the short video clip.)

 

About the book: In this picture book inspired by the life of Antonio Vivaldi, the composer himself narrates how a creative, determined boy grew up to create masterpieces like “The Four Seasons.”

Despite his mother's vow for him to become a priest, young Vivaldi is only interested in music. He soon grows from a feisty, violin-obsessed boy into a stubborn young man who puts his musical training ahead of his studies for priesthood. Beautiful, ornate artwork portrays the spirit and splendor of Vivaldi's hometown of Venice. A historical note, musical score, and glossary will help readers more fully appreciate the composer’s Baroque context and his enduring genius. 

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

"189 Canaries", "I Can Help," & "Black & White" are superb fall releases from Eerdmans Young Readers Books

Eerdmans BYR

189 Canaries by Dieter Böge & illustrated by Elsa Klever

My thoughts: The tiny Canary has brought joy and comfort to many as they sing their tiny hearts out while captured in their cages and placed in homes of many. 

I wondered when I saw the book title just why such a specific number. As the story unfolded I understood.

Illustrated in dirty, dark colors the spot of brightness comes from the gaiety that is the cheerful bird - the Canary. The author tells the story of the single canary's journey along with that of 188 other canaries across the ocean to find a new home. The end pages give history and details of canaries, their cages, their journey, and also how used in mines to determine safe breathing air.

A good book.

About the book: In a cozy room in northern Germany, a yellow canary sings rolling melodies to the miners and carpenters of the Harz mountains. But today a bird dealer has come, and he will take the canary far, far away from everything he knows. The journey leads onto trains and steamships, across Europe and even the Atlantic. At last the canary arrives in a room in New York where he hears a strangely familiar song…

This beautiful, poignant book introduces readers to the little-known history of a beloved songbird. Lushly illustrated in rich colors, 189 Canaries is an unforgettable story about music, migration, and the search for home.

I Can Help by Reem Faruqi & illustrated by Mikela Prevost

My thoughts:  This is quite an interesting take on the elementary classroom and student-helping-student activity. It begins with a multi-ethnic/racial classroom and shows good and bad interactions between children.

This interaction doesn't seem to be based on ethnical or racial issues, but just on human behavior. The little girl just simply wants to be a helper. And Kyle, the little white boy who constantly needs help, needs someone. Finally, she is chosen by the teacher to help. Delighted, she and Kyle work well together.

Then on the playground her girl classmates (strangely, they seem caucasian - she is dark skinned) belittle her helpful activities and she feels shame. Then she stops helping Kyle much to her own distress.

A year passes, and then strangely she gets another chance, but not with Kyle.

A good story of getting along together, helping, and the effect of attitudes on one another.

About the book: When Ms. Underwood asks if anyone wants to help Kyle, Zahra always volunteers. She loves spending time with Kyle—he’s creative and generous, and he makes the funniest jokes at lunch. But when Zahra’s other classmates start teasing her for helping him, she starts making choices she regrets.

I Can Help is a gentle, sensitive portrayal of reaching out, facing peer pressure, and learning from past mistakes. With thoughtful storytelling and poignant illustrations, this book will open discussions about choosing kindness in the classroom and beyond.

Black and White by Debora Vogrig & illustrated by Pia Valentinis

My thoughts: This book of stark contrasts uses the absolute difference that is black and white to show that in life there are contrasts and differences.

Black is the night or darkness. White is the sunlight, day, or light. But they go on either enveloping each the other or complimenting and creating beauty in design. 

Across the day and the globe, the two persist in discovering their ability to work together to show the compliment design of that which is.

 
About the book: Black and White are so different—how can they ever get along? White wants to explore the world, but Black would rather stay under the bed. Black is playful and creative; White wants everything neat and tidy. But when Black and White work together, they can go on the most amazing adventures . . .

Perfect for teaching colors and opposites, Black and White is an imaginative exploration of the joys of diversity.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of each book to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Books provided by Eerdmans Publishing.

HELLO, EARTH! Poems to our Planet by Joyce Sidman & illustrated by Miren Asiain Lora from Eerdmans' Publishing

My thoughts:  What a beautiful book that has the writer or reader talking to Earth as though you were on a stroll or sharing a cup of tea together. Speaking of Earth's provision for its inhabitants, it's rich diversity of design, the care that creatures -  specifically man - need to take in living on the Earth, and a small peek into scientific information about Earth. At the end of the book, there are several pages of more educational text into specifics addressed in the book. This is especially nice for expanded learning.

A beautiful and varied book. 

Letters from Bear by Gauthier David, illustrated by Marie Caudry [Review & Giveaway]

Purchase it

My thoughts:  This sweet story visits the days when folks wrote letters by hand to dear friends. It also is reminiscent of taking a vacation and writing a daily post card or note to a loved one or friend as you journey along on your trip sharing the sights and experiences with them.



But it is not that which is prompting Bear to write these letters. His friend, Bird, has migrated as is his custom; and Bear, missing Bird dreadfully, decides that rather than hibernate, as is his custom, he will travel to be where Bird is.

As he travels he encounters dark woods that are scary, water where he is entangled in a fishing net, the crossfire of warriors, desert perils, and more. He tells a bit in each letter and keeps saying, "I'm coming."

The illustrations are softly drawn in muted tones of greens, blues, browns, yellows, rust (or orange). They tell the story in just enough detail that a child can experience the adventure and find bits and pieces of the story in the details.

 A lovely tale of friendship, evoking letter writing skills and perseverance. I highly recommend this gentle read.

About the book: Bear can’t imagine a whole winter without her friend, so when Bird migrates south, Bear decides to follow. She’s never left the forest before, but that won’t stop her from crossing oceans and mountains—and sending letters along the way. But a surprise is waiting for Bear on the beach…

Richly told in amusing letters and lush illustrations, this adventurous story invites readers to consider just how far they’d go for their friends.

GIVEAWAY

Begins April 30

Ends May 28 at 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eerdmans Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

The Life and Times of Martin Luther by Meike Roth-Beck & illustrated by Klaus Ensikat [Review & Giveaway USA/CANADA]

ISBN: 9780802854957
Hardcover: 44 pg - Age 7-12
Eerdmans Books for Young Readers

My thoughts:  Eerdmans Publishers has a knack for selecting children's or young readers' picture biographies that are interesting and reveal the individual's special characteristics, shortcomings, and achievements. In this picture biography of Martin Luther - The Life and Times of Martin Luther, the author and illustrator have both collaborated well to show the reader what the people, buildings, dress looked like. Also, the spiritual life of the 1500s is well addressed as Martin Luther is in pursuit of knowing what the Bible actually teaches and how it conflicted with that which was currently being taught by the Roman Catholic Church and its leaders.

Some of the 95 Theses which Luther nailed to the church door are discussed. This type of information is rare in a  book for ages 7 to 12. The text of the story about Luther and the times is a little heavy for a seven-year-old, but certainly not above that of a 6th grader. In fact, the book would be appealing to teens and adults and could perhaps be a pivot point that directs discussion and further research into the time of the Protestant Reformation. As the book points out, the period into which Luther was born was one when there was a thirst for knowledge. Universities were founded, technologies were invented, and the human body was studied. Luther was eight years old when Christopher Columbus sailed in 1492. Luther was privileged to receive an education and later became a monk. It was while a monk he began to think and question the use of paid indulgences for the forgiveness of sins, etc.

Luther nailed his 95 Theses to the door October 31, 1517 so Reformation Day is celebrated on October 31 and this year, 2017, marks the 500th anniversary of this event.  Link to book on Eerdmans

God is merciful. 

No one has to earn God's love. 

It is a gift.

About the book: A fascinating look at the ideas that founded the Protestant Church

Wittenberg, Germany, 1517: Martin Luther publishes 95 theses criticizing the practices of the Roman Catholic Church. With that one defiant act, a conflict begins—a conflict that will spark the Protestant Reformation and ultimately lead to the division of the Christian church.

This sophisticated book commemorates the 500th anniversary of the Protestant Reformation by examining the details of Martin Luther's life and his lasting legacy.

GIVEAWAY ~ 2 WINNERS

Begins October 2

Ends October 23 at 12:01 a.m. EST

Open to USA & CANADA addresses

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eerdmans Books for Young Readers to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and are freely given.

Father's Road by Ji-Yun Jang & illustrated by Tan Jun from Eerdmans Books for Young Readers (97808028)54728)

ISBN13: 9780802854728
Paperback - Eerdmans Publishing

My thoughts:  Introducing young children to history using stories about children their own age, is a good educational tool. The author should be careful to make certain his or her historic account is authentic and simply embellish the story with words and actions of the characters to make it suitable reading for youth.

The Trade Winds educational series publication Father's Road brings a story to the reader of what might have occurred during the period of time that was about 100 years prior to the birth of Christ. The story recounts the harshness of the journey that took over a year for the caravan to reach their destination. Not only was the terrain rugged and unforgiving, there were bandits and many dangers along the way.

Things that can be learned include the type of journey, the terrain, the terror of bandits, and the possibility of illness overtaking the traveler.

The pages in the back of the book give opportunity for the young reader to learn more about the period of history with a short history of the origin of The Silk Road, some key terms and concepts, the beginning of global exchange, merchandise from around the world, the geography of The Silk Road, and a timeline of events.

This is a children's picture book and is meant to entertain as well as educate. Hopefully, books like the Trade Winds Series will plant seeds of interest in the minds of young readers encouraging them to further explore history as the grow into adulthood.

I highly recommend.

About the book: Wong Chung is thrilled when he has the chance to join his father’s caravan and embark on a journey along the Silk Road. But with the harsh terrain, brutal sandstorms, and marauding bandits, the journey is not an easy one. With so many obstacles will they ever be able to reach the magnificent markets in Constantinople?
This book in the new Trade Winds series presents historical information about the most well-known trade route in a fun, accessible way.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eerdmans Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated.

When No One is Watching by Eileen Spinelli, David A. Johnson (Illustrator)

Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
ISBN: 978080253035
Hardcover $16.00

About the book: When no one is watching, it's easy to be brave -- to dance and sing, growl and cheer. But when everyone's watching, this book's shy young narrator finds it far easier to hide. With her best friend, Loretta, though, she doesn't feel shy, embarrassed, awkward, or odd -- not one bit. Together they're like two peas in a pod, whether anyone's watching or not.Any readers who have felt shy will certainly recognize themselves within the pages of this adorable book, which will encourage even the most timid of audiences with its celebration of the value of a good friend.

My thoughts: Eileen Spinelli captures what it is like to have pent up desires and ambitions but you're too shy to let them out. It is all about When No One is Watching that we dance with a broom, put on a brave show of strength, and leap with exuberance. Spinelli uses a few lines on each two page spread with a couple in rhyme. The effect is superb and makes for tremendously fun read aloud times.

As artist David A. Johnson skillfully drew this shy but exuberant little girl, he uses a combination of toned down and bright and vivid on the same page to show emotion and energetic activity. Very effectively done. And the little girl is simply adorable with her unruly curls caught back in a headband. What I love, is the seemingly never-ending length and tangle of the shoe strings. They just seem to grow and multiply. Real cute.

The overall take away from the book is that even though shy, we can have and can express our exuberant feelings and no one has to be watching. We can have, too, as this sweet and charming little girl does, a special friend that completely understands and they both can relate and visit the zoo or quietly read a book.

A charming book. Thanks Eerdmans for publishing it.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and I was not compensated for the review.

"One Big Family" by Marc Harshman, Sara Palacios (Illustrations)

About the book: A lovely celebration of family ties. When you have a big family, reunions can be loud and chaotic. But as this cheerful book demonstrates, they can also be tons of fun! From canoeing down the river to getting chased by bees to telling ghost stories around the campfire, the reunion is filled with adventures for the whole family, even the pets! But when the vacation comes to an end, will everyone be able to keep the memories they've shared? With sunny illustrations by Sara Palacios, Marc Harshman's winsome story evokes all the joys of summer vacation and family togetherness.

My thoughts: This is a warm tale of a family - extended family covering several generations and branches. It is easy to see from the illustrations that they all stem from the same DNA - hence the freckles, red hair, brown hair, and burnt seinna hair. Their faces are all quite similar. Yes, this is a family.

Not only are they linked by their DNA, they are linked by their joy of being together and doing stuff together - eating breakfast, swinging, swimming, picnicking. The story reminds me of a family reunion trip where they all come together from the four corners of their world and reunite as a family bringing opportunities for the young cousins and aunties and uncles to all get to know and fully embrace one another.

The non-rhyming prose (or verse) ends each stanza or thought with a key word in bold print. Opportunities galore for read-aloud sessions with youngsters joining in with the big bold word. I like that contrasts was used some as well... "When the sun stays hot and the water stays cold, little brother says let's swim."

This is a good book to read to youngsters preparing to go to a family reunion or already there with cousins, aunts, and uncles.


DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eeerdman's Publishing Co. to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated for the review.

Fur, Fins, and Feathers: Abraham Dee Bartlett and the Invention of the Modern Zoo by Cassandra Maxwell

Eerdmans Books for Young Readers

ISBN13: 9780802854322

A young reader's non-fiction biography of the man who helped to create the modern zoo, Abraham Dee Bartlett. It begins when he as a young boy was fascinated with animals and read all he could about them. He later pursued caring for them long before there were veterinarian doctors who took care of animals located in zoos. 

The illustrations are interesting and of mixed mediums. They clearly depict the era of the 1800's when Abraham Dee Bartlett lived. The expressions shown on Bartlett's face as a boy and young man are happy and pleasant. The animals are pictured as happy and cared for.

Bartlett was first to acknowledge and act on the fact that wild animals need an environment where they could roam, play, and hide that would be similar to where they lived in the wild. I liked that he discovered how giraffes were frightened when he happened to approach them on quiet slippers. He reasoned that because they were prey to lions who crept silently up on them, that his quiet approach brought out this fear.

An interesting book that is well done for the young reader to delve into the non-fiction world of reading.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eerdmans Books for Young Readers an imprint of Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co. to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated.

Little Big (written and illustrated by Jonathan Bentley)

About the book: This playful book captures just how tough life can be when you're little. With little legs, it's hard to win races. With little hands, you can't open the cookie jar. And when you have a little mouth, nobody listens to you. Sometimes it seems like all your problems would be solved if you were just a little bigger. But "sometimes, " little is exactly the right size. Featuring delightful artwork and a relatable message, Jonathan Bentley's book will resonate with readers both big and little."

My thoughts: The charm of this book is its strikingly engaging illustrations that are cute, bright, ferocious, humorous, and which succinctly tell the story of being little and being big. As little brother typically trying to do and be just like big brother, he discovers he simply can't be and do both at the same time. Sometimes little is better than big.

I love the way his stuffed animals play an integral part in the story. The illustrations are super good with the stark colors standing boldly against the white backgrounds.

Published by Eerdmans Books for Young Readers which is a Christian publishing house, the book is not focused on any Christian belief or concept. It could have just as easily been published by any secular main-line publisher. While there is no moral taught in the story, the concept of accepting ourselves for what we are (in this case it is being little as oppose to big), is certainly well developed.

A book that Chat with Vera can heartily recommend. Buy it as a gift. Get it for your own young child. Look for it in the library.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eerdmans Books to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

Thank You, God by J. Bradley Wigger and illustrated by Jago

ISBN: 978-0-8028-5424-7
Hardcover $16.00
Eerdman's Books for Young Readers

I thought it would be appropriate to review the Eerdmans Thank You God by Bradley Wigger on a Sunday. We should say "Thank you, God" everyday, but most especially on Sunday.

The artist presents the story in unusual, vibrant art using active multi-racial and multi-national people throughout. There is an exuberance and joy vibrating in the art.

The story by Bradley Wigger uses a loose form of poetic prose - sometimes a rhyme but mostly prose. The basics to be thankful for are covered: earth and sky, family and friend, home, food. Then thankfulness reaches beyond the usual children's-book thanks by being thankful for "new words I learned today," rain and puddles, "all that breathes--bees and beetles..."

The book concludes with......
Bless you, God,
for this day,
for life,
for your love holding us together. Amen

I consider this a book worthy of your child's bookshelf as well as a church, school, or public library.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Eerdman's Publishing in exchange for this review. No compensation was received for this review. Opinions expressed are solely my own.

Little Naomi, Little chick by Avirama Golan & illustrated by Raaya Karas

I feel so blessed to be a reviewer for Eerdmans Books for Young Readers and trust that I will be able to bring my Chat With Vera readers my opinion on many of the Eerdmans Books in the future. Today we are looking at Little Naomi, Little Chick.

The delightful illustrations done in pen and ink drawings and watercolors is engaging and will capture the attention of the young child. The use of strong and soft colors and whimsy are truly a joy to behold.

Our lead character is Naomi and Naomi is about to start school. Naomi seems to live on a farm - at least there are critters there and these critters include "Little Chick." Little Chick is obviously a favorite of Naomi's since she has a picture of Little Chick hanging on her bedroom wall. The story flows from the start of the day as Naomi awakens and readies for school. Then leaves for school and goes throughout the day at school. But Little Chick does none of this.

Each activity Naomi does, in detail, ends with the line..... "But not Little Chick." However, the illustrations show that Little Chick is active doing things with the other critters and seemingly happy doing so.

I see the story being used to show a young child that while they must leave their familiar toys, critters, and surroundings that there are things going on with what has been left behind. It shows the young child that the world does not necessarily revolve around what they (they young child) is busy doing at the moment.

A sweet picture story book and one I can recommend.

DISCLOSURE:  I received a complimentary copy from Eerdmans Books for Young Readers in exchange for a review. Opinions expressed are solely my own and I received no compensation for this review.