Lauren Simone Blogs

I love this book so much! Kudos to the illustrator who brought the author's words to life. An excellent job is done by the author who is an elementary school teacher and knows first hand what children are bullied for. Although the book is about overcoming bullying, children will learn about embracing differences, writing poetry, garner new vocabulary words, and learn how to affirm themselves daily (I am strong, I am brave). I was impressed with the book cover and it only kept getting better The dedication was nicely written and formatted. The characters are very inclusive and diverse not...

This is a cute story for little children to learn rhyme and rhythm and explore their imaginations. Where do unicorns go on vacation is nicely illustrated with bright and vivid colors and diverse characters. I love the different backgrounds displayed by cities/suburbs, deserts/plains, parks/carnivals, and seasons (summer/winter). These backgrounds can be great teaching tools to build vocabulary and discuss the same and different. I recommend this book for children birth to six.

Tre Hadrick; Cameron Wilson Cheesesteaks and Clippers (Paperback) Cheesesteaks and Clippers is an engaging look at important life experiences learned during a trip to an adored local barbershop. Narrated by Ernesto, a young boy in need of a trim, the hilarious story, and appealing illustrations portray the affection and camaraderie between different cohorts in the African American community.   The book begins with a riveting dedication to the author’s son, his childhood barber, and all the barbers making men and boys alike look so handsome and well-groomed. The story takes place in Champions Barbershop, of course, located on Main Street,...

Written by K. Reshay, Dregs and the blank bully addresses the subject of bullying. Olivia Lauren wrote that she liked that it addressed this necessary subject matter because it occurs frequently and appears in all grades. She said, "One thing I liked about this book was that it informed kids that parents and teachers are available to talk to about bullying." She recommended that the author do full spread illustrations as the picture book became less engaging when there were only text provided. This book is recommended for 5-7 year olds and gets 4 stars.

I really liked this book. I love the main character, her teacher, and her parents. I liked her friends. I like the emotions evoked by the different characters. I loved the lesson about being a good friend and subtly teaching that you shouldn't be a bully (tease, demand, make fun of others). I would have liked to see a resolution at the end of the story in the form of character development on the part of Gabbi. The message was If you are mean, you won't have friends. But the message could have been positively spun as, If you become...