Book Review - Spud The Couch Potato by Sean Jackson

I suppose it speaks volumes, that as I'm typing this review, I can look out my window and see that it's an absolutely beautiful day and yet not a single child is playing outside. And that seems to be the norm most days around here. I'd like to think that they're all inside reading or off visiting a friend but I suspect that what's really going on is very similar to what's happening in this story.

Our young subject, Spud, would much rather stay inside glued to his TV than be outside doing something with his friends or with anyone for that matter. Through a series of clever rhymes and humorous illustrations we see the many fun and interesting things that Spud would prefer not to be doing. Until the day his television stops working.

As a teacher, I know this story will hit home with both children and parents. Times have changed and how families fill their free time has too. But this story serves as a gentle and funny reminder that there is much more to life than staring at a screen. The story is short, but loaded with meaning. A must for any family or classroom library.

Buy Spud The Couch Potato on Amazon.

This title was graciously passed along to me through NetGalley.com

Book Review - Pig And Small by Alex Latimer

I recently joined NetGalley.com and was lucky enough to be given the opportunity to review this book almost immediately. Pig And Small by Alex Latimer is due for release in August 2014.



Pig And Small is a classic story about friendship. While trying to prove how little they have in common, Pig and Bug happily discover how much alike they really are. Children will laugh at their attempts to ride a bike together and they will smile when they discover that the two friends are finally able to find activities that they can take part in together. The illustrations are eye catching and the text is simple and engaging. I can see teachers adding this title to their list of books to used during friendship themes or as an ice breaker during the opening weeks of school. I plan to add it to my lesson plans when it becomes available.

The story is simple enough for pre-schoolers and presents a theme advanced enough for those already in kindergarten. Younger children will be able to discuss the characters and re-tell what happened with relative ease. Older students can use any of several story points as writing prompts. I would definitely recommend this title to fellow teachers.

Buy Pig And Small on Amazon.