Ribbon Rescue (edition 2002)

Age: Primary
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: The main character of this book, Jillian, is actually a real person. However, there is no indication that the story line is a true story. There are aspects of reality with people running late, Jillian helping them out, and Jillian not being accepted because she's not properly dressed. This makes it relatable to readers.
Media: Gouache and water color

This story has a lot of repetition which may appeal to young children in particular. The story is also appealing because the girl's generous acts are rewarded by the bride and groom, making the story have a strong "feel good" quality. The narrator does not say too much about the girl's (Jillian) heritage or the importance of her ribbon dress, however. The reader would have to consult a different source to know more about the dress style or Mohawks.

This would be a fun, interactive read-aloud for a library story time. The librarian could make up some signs that say "I'm late, I'm lost" and hold them up at certain points. Even if children don't read, the signs could be the cue to chime in: I'm late, I'm lost. Parents, of course, would help them as well. The librarian could also make up a Jillian doll on a felt board with the ribbons, and take one off with each incident to count down from the first ribbon to the last. The book could be part of a theme on helping others.

Nice book about being helpful. Great for helping kids recognize being selfless. ( )