Picture Book Review: The Incredibly Busy Mind of Bowen Bartholomew Crisp

Bowen's brain doesn't work the same as everyone else's. It's busy and it asks so many questions. Sometimes he feels bad when people ask him questions because he can't give them answer. But then he learns everyone's different.

A good book to talk about the way people think differently - to ask questions and to be curious.  I liked how this book spanned Bowen's life from childhood to grown-up. Everyone struggles to fit in and I like how Bowen turned his difference in thinking into a strength.

Cover Thoughts: Cute

Source: Book sent for review

Library Recommendation: A great book for your Growing Up picture book collection 

Picture Book Wednesday: Books about Emotions

 

I'm talking about Emotions and Mindfulness today. Lately at the library, we've been working on a big project. We have our picture books separated into categories. But we're working on diving those categories even further. 

For example: we have a Growing Up section. But now all the books on Potty Training, Emotions, and Death & Grief will be together (along with a few other categories). It's been a long process, but we're getting there.

This alphabet book is all about growth and knowing that things take work, but that work will pay off. While the text is longer than most alphabet books, the sentiment is fantastic. The illustrations are bright and cheerful with diverse characters. There are pages at the end of the book for adults that further the growth mindset. 

Emma desperately wants to be a part of Carly's Cartwheel Club. It takes her weeks of trying, but she finally makes it. But once she's a part of the club, Emma discovers she doesn't like all the rules. Emma's determination and discovery that Carly is a bully will have readers cheering when she forms her own inclusive club. This is a great book to start discussions about bullying, frenemies, and true friendship. 

* sent for review

Lucy worries a lot - about everything. Even things that could never happen. Lucy wants to take part in play her school is putting on, even though she's worried about it. Luckily, her teacher asks her an important question, "Can you be courageous?" And the answer is yes. This is a good book to talk about worrying, anxiety, and being brace despite worrying.

* sent for review

Tomorrow is always rushing toward the next thing, not taking any time to see what's in front of her. But when a boy constantly is in her way, Tomorrow begins to slow down and take a look around. This book is a nice reminder to slow down and explore the possibilities. 

* sent for review

Pedro is moving in a few days and he is sad and anxious. Together with his mother and his friend, he explores different areas of mindfulness.  While there is a story here, there are plenty of tools to help guide children through their own process and find the technique that works best for them.