The two books are largely interchangeable, especially since there are so few references to mom or dad, but one spread in each book reverts to stereotype: Dad balances the two-wheeler, and mom helps with clothing and hair styles. These books are likely to go right over children’s heads and developmental levels (especially with the rather advanced vocabulary) their parents are the more likely audience, and for them, the books provide some coaching in what kids need to hear. Though the sentiments/life lessons here and in the companion title are heartfelt and important, there are much better ways to deliver them. Both address standing up for yourself and your values, laughing to ease troubles, being thankful, valuing friendship, persevering and dreaming big, being truthful, thinking through decisions, and being open to differences, among other topics. I hope you believe this is true.” A virtually identical book, Why a Daughter Needs a Dad, publishes simultaneously. Luminous and lovely, with colors to fill the soul.Īll the reasons why a daughter needs a mother.Įach spread features an adorable cartoon animal parent-child pair on the recto opposite a rhyming verse: “I’ll always support you in giving your all / in every endeavor, the big and the small, / and be there to catch you in case you should fall. With his willingness to experiment and the earnestness with which he applies each stroke of his brush, Raschka perfectly captures a child’s wonder and excitement in the world. Propelled by Jackson’s rhythmic read-aloud text, the abstract artwork reveals the changing inner and outer workings of the puddle, moving from dark to light and doubt to love. Expressionistic paintings, done in watercolor with gouache, play like music. The reach of a child toward that radiance makes all the humiliations of the day melt away to the puddle the reach is everything. A bell rings and children stop, dazzled by the sky, the puddle, and the rainbow reflected in each. But sudden sunshine dries up the shallow pools that are her siblings, and golden hues softly glow around and from the solitary puddle. Soon sneakers, a ball, and-to Puddle’s alarm-a poodle and its piddle disgrace the poor puddle. Blue-grays mingle to create a melancholy mood until a sea gull descends to play in her waters. A self-conscious puddle experiences growth, is used and fouled, and finds purpose as she interacts with her environment and reflects the world’s beauty while finding her own.Īs rain pools on the ground, a personified puddle worries she’s becoming a “pudge” compared to her siblings.

Puddle of Love by Dan Armstrong