Tag Archives: Pandas

Elem. – How This Book Got Red

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Greanias, Margaret Chiu. How This Book Got Red. Illustrated by Melissa Iwai. Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, 2023. 978-1-728-26565-0. $18.99. Unpaged. Grades PreK-2.

Gee (a giant panda) and Red (a red panda) are excited when they discover a book about pandas. Unfortunately, Red is devastated to find that there is not a single mention of red pandas in the entire book. Red decides to take matters into her own hands by writing a book about red pandas. This proves to be harder than she imagined; however, and only after a great deal of encouragement does she find the conviction to finish her story.

THOUGHTS: The subtle message that this book delivers – that sometimes in order to be seen, one must speak out and share his/her story – is extremely profound. It will speak to any minority that may feel under-represented in literature and popular culture. A wonderful, thought-provoking story, this would be a great discussion starter for young audiences.

Picture Book          

Elem. – Ellie Makes a Friend

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Mike, Wu. Ellie Makes a Friend. Disney Hyperion, 2020. 978-1-368-01000-9. $16.99. Grades K-2.

There is a commotion at the zoo! A new animal has joined, and it is a painter just like Ellie! Only instead of an elephant, the new animal is a Panda who came all the way from China. Ellie wonders if there is room for two painters at the zoo. Ellie decides to learn all about her new possible friend. Soon, the two are sharing stories, ideas, and painting together. They find harmony in the ways they are different, and delight in learning more about each other. Sharing can be the best way to learn about someone else and a great way to make a new friend.

THOUGHTS: A delightful book on friendship and sharing. This book is a nice beginner book for readers to look at the country of China, as it contains some brief discussion topics and ideas.

Picture Book          Rachel Burkhouse, Otto-Eldred SD