By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: August 29, 2012
Story by Amy Novesky; illustrated by Hanako Wakiyama; foreword by Ellen Pritchard Dodge, MEd, CCC-SLP
Reading level: Ages 2-7
Hardcover: 32 pages
Publisher: Plushy Feely Corp., creators of Kimochis®; October 10, 2011
What to expect: Animals, Emotions, Bravery, Swimming
A delightfully illustrated and inspiring picture book that is perfect for children afraid of trying new things.
Bug, a thoughtful but extremely cautious critter, is afraid to swim (and fly, for that matter). On a day that is perfect for a swim, “that is, if you like to swim,” Bug reluctantly joins his friends for a dip in the pool. Author Amy Novesky takes readers on Bug’s journey of facing his fears, spreading his wings and flying. The text simply and eloquently highlights that being brave only comes from being afraid—bravery is trying anyway.
““It’s okay to be afraid,” sang Lovey Dove. “Only then can you be brave.””
Through adorably animated facial expressions, Hanako Wakiyama’s bright and happy pastel illustrations rendered in oil gently display Bug’s range of emotions, evoking compassion and understanding from young readers. As part of the Kimochis® line—a range of toys and books that work on “building confidence and character in kids, one feeling at a time”—there is a 13 inch plush toy Bug that compliments the book (or the other way around) by offering a tactile experience and encouraging further exploration and discussion of feelings. The 13 inch Bug is sold separately and comes complete with three feelings tucked away in his front pouch: happy, brave and left out.
The plush Bug and picture book combination make for a brilliant educational tool for any parent, teacher or caregiver trying their best to raise emotionally intelligent children. Of course, the book alone can be admired for its warm-hearted charm, too!
Add this book to your collection: Kimochis® Bug Makes a Splash!
Related items: Kimochis® Bug Box Set and Kimochis® Mixed Feelings Pouch -Loved, Jealous, Grateful, Scared and Shy
For more information, visit: www.kimochis.com
Nina Rappaport Rowan, Producer of the Academy Award Winning Short film “Bunny” & Executive Director of “Despicable Me”, discusses how she was inspired by the Columbine Incident to help end school violence and teach kids to become better emotional communicators through the creation of Kimochis®… The Toys With Feelings Inside.