Susan Verde

A highly energetic boy narrates the story of his busy life in this picture-book from American author Susan Verde and Australian illustrator Andrew Joyner. Each two-page spread contains only a few words or sentences - "Slow down? / Sure, I can take a moment to recharge / But when I'm ready and powered up again / WATCH ME GO!" - while the accompanying artwork depicts the boy, who is always on the move...

Apparently inspired by Verde's son, who is also full of energy, Unstoppable Me is meant, show more according to the author's brief afterword, to destigmatize hyperactive children who can't sit still, and who require lots of activity and motion as part of their day. The narrative is meant to cast that boundless energy in a positive light, and it does just that, while the cute, colorful illustrations depict the boy and a diverse range of family and friends engaged in various pursuits. Given how often this kind of child gets into trouble in our educational system, how hyperactivity is seen as problematic (even pathologized at times), I appreciate the positive approach highlighted here. Recommended to hyperactive children, and to the adults in their lives. show less

Helping oneself can benefit others.

A brown-skinned, long-haired child comes to an important realization: “The better I feel inside, the more I can be there for others.” With compassion and a commitment toward doing what’s right, the youngster says, we can change the world. We can be a safety net for others, we can collectively demand justice, we can have gentle conversations to work out differences, and we can welcome others into the community. Combining creative talents, we can show more celebrate together; connecting with others opens up wonderful possibilities. Verde’s contemplative text sets a tone at once musing and affirming, while Reynolds’ cartoon illustrations visualize the concepts in practical ways, grounding readers in colorful and emotive images. In one noteworthy scene, the protagonist sits across a grassy ledge from a pale-skinned, red-haired child, both looking serious but understanding as they talk, the glowing sun and a distant ocean behind them. These characters are physically separated but clearly share a connection. An author’s note urges readers to try a group yoga exercise, while an accompanying image depicts young people leaning on one another in tree pose—a concrete example of how we are all stronger together. The cast is diverse.

A genuine call to action paired with sincere reflection. (Picture book. 3-6)

-Kirkus Review show less

Can be read as I first thought it was intended, as an inspiration to those children who are exposed to too much negativity. But meant for kids who are always getting in trouble for being high-energy.

I agree with the author - these children should be celebrated, not dosed with Ritalin or whatever. Any IEP created to help with focus also needs to respect that it's the kids with the energy that will grow up to probably do the most good for our world, if only we give them the right support.

Inspired by the childhood experiences of fashion model Georgie Badiel, who spent her summers fetching water from a well some distance from her grandmother's village in Burkina Faso, author Susan Verde and illustrator Peter H. Reynolds have crafted a tale of Princess Gie Gie, who dreams of a day when cool, clean water is readily available nearer to her home. Wishing alone cannot help her, however, and every day she makes the long trek with her mother to fetch their family's water supply...

An show more engaging and thought-provoking look at the issue of water scarcity, which affects one in five people globally, The Water Princess is also a visual treat, featuring absolutely gorgeous artwork that captures both the beauty and harshness of Princess Gie Gie's African home. The rich brown and sepia tones of daytime contrast nicely with the deep purplish/blue of night, while Gie Gie herself is ably captured through every change of mood and expression. Recommended to anyone looking for children's stories addressing issues of poverty and resource scarcity, as well as to those looking for beautifully illustrated picture-books. show less