I want to state that I am not being paid to post this review. I contacted Emily Simmons and asked what her objective was for this book and below is her reply.
"The books are aimed at all children, either those being read to, or those who read. I think especially that elementary age children will enjoy it most. My siblings range in age from 1 to 22, and while they all enjoy the story the first time, the 3, 5, 8 & 10 year olds enjoy it repeatedly. These books are not aimed at non Christians, nor specifically at Christians, but rather all children. They also are not necessarily for publicly schooled children - I and my siblings have been homeschooled all of our lives, many who have bought and enjoy the book attend Christian schools, as well. The lesson of the first book is simply doing right, no matter what others around you may do - integrity. Thus the verse - "Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin." ~James 4:17.".
I have to say this book is bright and cheery looking. I am impressed that a 19 yr old could have already written 22 childrens books. The first time I read the book was when I just received it and as an adult I enjoyed it but was surprised at the length of it. Remember, I have taught young children, ages 2-6, for approximately 30+ yrs. The second time I read the book was to my three granddaughters and I will say my experience with them was quite different. I guess you might say I had my "nana" hat on and I saw the story from a completely different viewpoint; in fact there were parts I skipped because I didn't think they were age appropriate. The granddaughters I read it to were ages 6,4 and 3 and I will say I felt it was too mature for them. Let me tell you that they read from many types of books including classics; the 6 yr old is a great reader but I know the younger girls lost interest. Our family are conservative homeschoolers and their choices of literature encourage godly behaviors and choices. They do not watch t.v. and limit what videos they watch; in fact many of the videos have to do with homemaking and crafts. While the story was encouraging good choices, there are some attitudes in this book that my daughter did not think were appropriate for her young children to read about, i.e. rolling of the eyes etc. There are attitudes portrayed in the story that my daughter works very hard to avoid. There is a section on the last page filled with verses about eternal life and our Savior. This is a wonderful opportunity to share the gospel with those who may not have heard it before. My opinion is that while there are many good teaching points in this book, one would be wise to preview it first and see if it is appropriate for your family. My daughter did not feel it was appropriate for her children. If I were still teaching in a large daycare center, I would probably utilize this story and I felt it should be geared toward 8-10 yr olds. Again, I applaud Emily for cultivating her love of writing. This book may be perfect for your family, it is creative and engaging; it just wasn't for ours.
If you are interested in this book, please leave me a comment; if you are a follower let me know in another comment and I'll enter your name twice. In you would like to order this, you can find it at www.facebook.com/SpotThePuppy I will draw the winner on Friday.
Blessings, Noreen
Good review!!
ReplyDeleteA sweet book and PURRfect for any child. Generous offer!
ReplyDeleteWow ~ this sounds wonderful....I actually might purchase a few of these for my nieces and nephews....a 19 year old wrote it? WOW That is reason enough to buy it!! Your AWESOME...love you, beautiful woman!! Alice in Wonderland :>)
ReplyDeleteI like your honest review of this book. Just last week I entertained a young man of 4 in my office reception area while his Grandma had her hearing tested. Luckily, I had a vast collection of Thomas the Train pieces available (on hand for my own grands). During our conversation this sweet boy informed me that all books or movies are not 'appropriate' for him to read or watch. I thought that was so neat... having a child know that there are certain things out there that are not 'appropriate' for him. Obviously, this child is growing up in a home where his parents care about the influences that can affect his life, and are acting on what they feel is the better way to raise their child. In todays world it's difficult, and I have large respect for parents who make an effort to keep the 'inappropriate' stuff at bay... Kids grow up way too fast these days.. Putting an age appropriate on this book makes a lot of sense! My own grands read a lot of misc. books - If I win, I'll be sure and read it first to make sure they sre ready.
ReplyDeleteHow fun to get to review a book. I was here before and tried to comment...but was unable...oh well. I think I am a member but who knows...I triedt o sign in to that and it wanted my mobil phone....craziness (o:
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