Milton Public Library

Be a bridge

eng

technical information on music

not applicable

not applicable

fiction

Be a bridge

electronic resource

In this upbeat picture book, acclaimed authors Irene Latham and Charles Waters bring key themes from their earlier collaborations (Can I Touch Your Hair? and Dictionary for a Better World) to a young audience. Rhyming verse describes different ways in which readers can "be a bridge," from welcoming a new student and listening respectfully when someone else is talking to standing up to a bully and comforting a classmate who is upset. Nabila Adani's cheerful illustrations depict a diverse group of students, including young versions of Charles and Irene. Scan a Page Plus QR code at the end of the book to download a Bridge Builder Pledge. An ideal book to share with students in the fall to set the tone for the whole school year! "Every moment of your day is an opportunity to connect with someone else . . . to build a bridge! Follow a beautifully diverse classroom of young children through their day at school and see how they connect to others in different ways. It can mean giving a friend some space, inviting them to play, or standing up to others on their behalf. At the end of the day, we see that we are not the only bridges and together we can make a difference. This books feels whole and complete, as though the author and illustrator devotedly worked together to create the perfect book for preschool and early elementary school students. This picture book combines detailed illustrations of a classroom of students with rhythmic verses about how these students can become bridges of connection. Each page is a new idea that is simplistic but thought-provoking for young students, and the illustrations effectively convey what the verse suggests. The illustrator incorporates much diversity in their art. This would make a great book to start the school year, to help create rules for the classroom, or to start discussions about connecting to others. Includes great suggestions for fun activities to go with this book, as well as a list of additional resources. Reviewer Rating: 5"-Children's Literature "Beginning with a Rumi quote-"Love is the bridge between you and everything"-previous collaborators Latham and Waters reteam for this rhyming exploration of how children can learn to be a "bridge," building key connections through kindness. Brief, unevenly scanning quatrains describe various ways to exhibit kindness, connection, and respect throughout the school day: "When someone new walks in,/ be the first to say hello./ Your smile could be the sunshine/ that helps a friendship grow." Other actions include inviting kids to play, calling out classmates for unkind acts, empathizing, and listening. And after school is dismissed, the story continues visually, via Adani's kid-centered digital artwork, which shows the variously inclusive students and teachers creating a bridge-themed community art project. An authors' note, "bridge builder" activities, and a pledge conclude. Ages 4-9. (Aug.)" -Publishers Weekly "An exuberant ode to the virtues of kindness and inclusion. Latham and Waters take readers through a day in the lives of a diverse group of students who cross a literal bridge to school-and a metaphorical one toward a world of compassion and respect. Upbeat, rhyming text urges readers to persevere, connect with others, stand up to bullies, and be respectful, complemented by digital, watercolorlike illustrations depicting kids being welcoming to their fellow students in art class, in gym, at lunchtime, and at storytime. The theme of rainbows and bridges can be found throughout. Brimming with colorful details, each page is a visual delight that reminds teachers, librarians, and caregivers of the need to model kindness and compassion to little learners. The backmatter includes a 'Bridge Builder Pledge' with statements such as 'I will be the one to reach out and say hello,' and 'I will keep an open mind.' Uplifting and accessible, this one pairs well with The Day You Begin (2018) by Jacqueline Woodso

juvenile

not applicable