Bryan R Johnson (1) (1977–)

A short but sweet collection showcasing the life and times of several youngsters striving to be the change they wish to see in the world...they just don't know it yet. From well-intentioned money-making schemes gone wrong to artistic challenges grown larger than life, and a little bit of everything in between, these kiddos remind us that taking the easy way out has its own set of consequences, and that the big picture really and truly is bigger than us all. While imparting their messages to show more us, they also learn the power of many versus one to solve a problem, to be selfless with their time to reap the best rewards, and to never back down from a challenge because without those willing to fight the good fight, nothing would ever change.


**copy received for review show less

This upper-elementary/middle-grade novel offers inspiration for kids on what it means to inspire others. Through seven chapters, you are introduced to various students and scenarios at Flint Hill Elementary School. Each chapter involves students solving a problem, inspiring others, or giving back. Through school projects, the students learn how to work together and inspire others to work together not only in their school but in their community.

Even though the setting is the same, Flint Hill show more Elementary, each chapter stands alone with its own situation and characters with the final chapter bringing everyone together for a final project. I think kids will identify with the characters and appreciate the struggles the characters faced in these daunting situations. This book shows readers that kids can accomplish a lot with a plan and are just as valuable in a community as the adults.

This book would be great for a family to read and be inspired to start a volunteer project or for a classroom or all-school read for inspiration to help others. Kids can go to the Code 7 website and enter their own Code Word and be challenged to start their own project. show less

"Readers will enjoy these stories involving a diverse group of likable children who find
themselves in funny (and most likely, familiar) situations. Educators and parents will
appreciate the life lessons of caring, having a strong work ethic, and embracing teamwork
that are so important during a child’s formative years. A supplemental website provides a
downloadable discussion guide and activity book that can be used to further enhance
character education curricula.VERDICT: Even if the book is show more purchased as a stand-alone title
without using the website, it will be a suitable addition to any school library that is looking
for short but fast-paced stories that reinforce pro-social behavior." - School Library Journal show less

Independent Reading Level: 4-7 Grade
Awards: The Independent Author Network Book of the Year Awards (Finalist – Fiction: Children's/Juvenile – 2020)
Readers' Favorite Book Awards (Winner – Silver, Fiction-Audiobook – 2020)