sabesaw's review
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
5.0
This was a really cute story. Honestly not much to say about it. It was a quick children's book. Art style isn't my favorite, but I loved all the drawings of John's dance. All in all a cute children's book that anyone could enjoy
calistareads's review
2.0
Have you ever done something that most other people haven't done and don't know anything about it really so if they see it, at first, they are nervous because they don't understand. That's what this story is about.
Every week one student shares a talent with the class. John's talent is ballet. He is so nervous.
The best part of this story is watching John dance. At first he is nervous and not smiling. As he gets into the dance, his joy blossoms and we see the smile on his face. I love that moment. It's so good.
This book was very simple, not much story. It feels a little bland to me. I found this on the Mock Caldecott list and I was not impressed with the artwork. It's not bad, but it doesn't stand out either. Also, there wasn't enough time or story to let us connect with John, so I have little connection with him and I don't get emotionally invested. After writing this I'm going from a 3 to a 2 star. It's simply Okay.
Every week one student shares a talent with the class. John's talent is ballet. He is so nervous.
The best part of this story is watching John dance. At first he is nervous and not smiling. As he gets into the dance, his joy blossoms and we see the smile on his face. I love that moment. It's so good.
This book was very simple, not much story. It feels a little bland to me. I found this on the Mock Caldecott list and I was not impressed with the artwork. It's not bad, but it doesn't stand out either. Also, there wasn't enough time or story to let us connect with John, so I have little connection with him and I don't get emotionally invested. After writing this I'm going from a 3 to a 2 star. It's simply Okay.
itclouie's review
5.0
This story was wonderful and beautifully illustrated!
John is nervous once it is his turn to share his special talent, but his friends support him endlessly! This is a story about love and acceptance and facing your fears!
John is nervous once it is his turn to share his special talent, but his friends support him endlessly! This is a story about love and acceptance and facing your fears!
library_kb's review
emotional
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
This is a perfect book to share with classes before a Talent Show or other student sharing time to remind students of the bravery it takes to share in front of people and also how the audience should respond. It is not a long read, which is perfect. The illustrations are beautifully done--with the dancing illustrations especially full of movement and life. Highly recommend!
maxthefish's review
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
pib003's review
4.0
This felt very true-to-life. I might cut out some of the pages at the beginning for a storytime.
heisereads's review
4.0
The ending didn't quite flow right for me (felt like it needed to either leave it just Illustrated or add one more line), but I appreciate the intent of the story. Pair with When Langston Dances & Teo's Tutu.