The Children’s Book Review | December 8, 2014
By Maria Stuckey-Leach; Illustrated by Ginger Nielson
Age Range: 3-7
Hardcover: 36 pages
Publisher: Self-Published (2014)
ISBN-13: 978-0990427001
What to expect: Dogs, Positive Thinking, Adventure
George Can! (And You Can Too) is an affirming picture book about the wonderful powers of positive thinking. It offers young readers a playful nudge toward an optimistic attitude by utilizing the mantra “I can! I will! I believe!”
George is one of four brand-new Labrador puppies ready to be adopted. He loves to play with his sisters, but sometimes he has a little trouble keeping up. When he feels discouraged, Mama teaches him to repeat the words: “I can! I will! I believe!” These words carry much meaning throughout the book, as George, the last puppy to find a family, feels empowered by the affirmation and heads out on an adventure with great determination to meet his new family.
Parents and caregivers that read this book aloud will enjoy the nice reminder of positive reinforcement; and the “Possible Questions” section at the end of the book promotes conversation between adults and children to help foster emotional intelligence, setting goals, and the importance of friendship.
Inspired by her own dog and Olympian Beverly Buffini’s book I Can, I Will, I Believe, Maria Stuckey-Leach has created a safe place for children to explore the topic of self-esteem by encasing the affirmation in an enjoyable story with endearing color illustrations created by talented artist Ginger Nielson. George Can! (And You Can Too) is a book of excitement, nurture, adventure and love, to be enjoyed by young children and dog lovers alike.
Add this book to your collection: George Can! (And You Can Too!)
About the Author
Maria’s book was inspired by love for family. She volunteers to help abused and neglected children who often have no one to champion them. She encourages them to believe in themselves through the use of affirmations. She feels that if children develop strong self-esteem at an early age, they can reach their full potential.
For more information and lots of free downloads and activities for encouraging, goal setting, and affirmations, visit: georgecanbooks.com