Birgitta Sif

Fantastic story about a girl who loves to dance, but is hesitant to share that with the world. I especially liked the emphasis on the idea that she loved dancing, rather than if she were good at it. In the end her joy is infectious and inspires everyone around her.

I enjoyed this story about a "strange" child who finds someone to be strange with. Very detailed and fun illustrations - often with lots of interesting things to note in the backgrounds. Rewards re-reading and closely looking at with "do you see the..." play.

The message is clear, our feet can take us wherever we want to go.

Readers of all ages will identify with Little (and Big!) Panda as the day transpires and the adventures wind down. It encourages exploration, following of dreams, and the use imagination to turn the ordinary unto the extraordinary. Watching as Little Panda gets his feet into his colorful socks (non-matching of course) and tops it off with YELLOW moon boots. Seeing him traverse mountains, bridges, and a splishy-splashy ocean, show more only to finally be tickled by the clouds. The illustrations at every turn of the page will inspire and delight. The color palette used is muted in tone but it works well with the starkly white background utilized in some scenes while blending nicely in the full page spreads.

Overall, a wonderful read about the adventures our feet can take us on if only we've the desire, courage, and imagination to follow.


**review copy received in exchange for my honest review...full post can be seen on my site** show less

Oliver is a book that will speak to the hearts of all ages. Birgitta Sif paints the picture of a boy who prefers his stuffed animals and books over people. He feels different. One day, while chasing down a run-away tennis ball he unexpectedly discovers something that changes his world, a friend. This book is engaging. The rich, warm language paired with the lovely illustrations brings the reader into Oliver’s world and invite us to come along with him on his adventures. Sif helps to build show more community by reminding us that it’s okay to be different and that there is someone for everyone. show less