Elem. – Learning Core Values (Series NF)

Amoroso, Cynthia. Learning Core Values. The Child’s World, 2023. $21.95 each, $263.40 for set of 12. Grades PreK-2.

Courage. 978-1-503-85845-9.
Forgiveness. 978-1-503-85846-6.
Friendliness.
978-1-503-85847-3.
Generosity. 978-1-503-85848-0.
Honestly. 978-1-503-85849-7.
Loyalty. 978-1-503-85850-3.
Patience. 978-1-503-85851-0.
Patriotism. 978-1-503-85852-7.
Respect. 978-1-503-85853-4.
Responsibility. 978-1-503-85854-1.
Thankfulness. 978-1-503-85855-8.
Tolerance. 978-1-503-85856-5.

The world we live in today is not the same it was years ago. Our current world can be tough for anyone to live in, especially for children. Unfortunately, children see many negative things in the world, including rudeness, anger, and prejudice through a variety of sources. The series Learning Core Values is important for all, especially children, to help offset the negative behaviors seen. The reviewer read the titles Forgiveness and Honesty. Forgiveness is when a person who has been hurt makes the choice to stop being angry at another person and accept the mistakes that have been made. Using real life examples, Forgiveness uses examples at home and school where a person may feel hurt or upset and how we can use forgiveness to move forward. This book also describes how forgiveness may be difficult for all. Honesty simply means telling the truth. Being honest may not be easy, but it is the right thing to do. As with Forgiveness, Honesty uses real life examples at home and school about how we can be honest with others and yourself.

THOUGHTS: I found this series to be one that young readers may be able to relate to. Utilizing a variety of real world examples showcases the character trait in a way that many can connect to. Real photographs, easy-to-read text, and additional information in the back matter makes this series a must have!

158.2-323.6 Interpersonal Relationships, Citizenship

Elem. – I Will! A Book of Promises

Medina Juana. I Will! A Book of Promises. Versify, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2021. 978-0-358-55559-9. Unpaged. $14.99. PreK-1.

In this uplifting, beautifully illustrated book, readers will make promises to make the world a better place through a variety of actions, such as being kind, helping others, and taking care of nature. Bright, bold illustrations feature racially and physically diverse characters, and the short, simple text makes this an incredibly accessible, straightforward guide for young readers who want to build a better world for themselves and others.

THOUGHTS: This would be a great book to share with preschool and Kindergarten students who are just beginning to interact with each other and the world. It would help spark important discussions about how they can show compassion towards themselves and others. It would also make an excellent gift for high school and college graduates, serving as a gentle reminder to be compassionate citizens as they go forward.

Picture Book          Julie Ritter, PSLA Member