If there is one activity I have enjoyed most with Hudson since his birth, I’d have to pick reading. From his first few days on this earth as a newborn listening to the words in those fresh, unopened books….to the tears, bite marks, and stains on our durable board books of late
Last month, Orange Hat Publishing reached out to me about some books they have…one story, in particular, they thought resonated with my posts and what our family is all about – love and light! After reading these books, I knew I had to share them with you all.
I love supporting amazing people, and the Gnat & Corky series of books should be added to your list. Scroll down to read about my thoughts on each of the books they sent! *Note: while I was given these books for free, I was asked to provide my honest opinion to you all and was more than willing to do so!
Addison the Light Catcher
I write a lot about joy, love and light in human beings. Being a Christian, I do believe that’s the love of God shining through us (jars of clay anyone?)….but when Hudson came into our lives, his light was different – it was brighter, more brilliant than any light I had seen before.
And that’s exactly what this book is about…Addison is the big sister to a little guy with Down syndrome, Asher. The author personified the light coming from her brother….and describes how Addison felt compelled to help guard and share this beautiful gift. This story reminds me SO MUCH of Emily and Hudson – I couldn’t help but think of my girl as one of Hudson’s many light protectors.
The illustrations are beautiful. The light looks like a little sundrop with a kind smile. There is another image of Asher tugging on Addison’s dress as they gaze up at the light in the sky, and I melted onto the floor.
This would be an amazing gift for any sibling of a person with Down syndrome or another ability. I also believe that when Hudson is older and wants to understand more about Down syndrome, describing his extra chromosome as a unique and special light will help him understand his diagnosis is a gift and a blessing to all. My family will treasure this book for years to come!
Will It
This book makes me want to take on the world!! The pages go through various scenarios and ask ‘what’s the worst that could happen?’ – and it is NEVER as bad as you think it could be. For instance, what if you challenged the Governator himself to a duel? The worst case scenario probably wouldn’t be that bad.
Sprinkled throughout….motivating phrases: GET GOING, TRY IT, BE BRAVE.
They are reminders that our fears are never as big as we think they are. We can even use them as mantras….repeat to yourself when you are afraid to try something….get going, be brave, try it. If we have perspective and stop worrying about the worst case scenario, we will probably surprise ourselves!
‘Will It’ reminds us that life is short and we are capable of so much more than we realize – a lesson EVERY child needs to learn.
Ken the Keeper
My children are animal lovers. Dogs, cats, gerbils, fish, birds, any living creature. This book is based on a real-life Ken the Keeper – who started the Happy Animals Club when he was 9 years old. His goal is to take care of all the rescue animals with quality care and help them find good homes.
I love that this story is written in a way that a child can identify with this story as his/her own. My hope is that children feel empowered to take their own passions and give
As a mommy to a toddler, I also love animal books; describing the color, size, and sounds a particular animal makes helps Hudson learn and develop. The illustrations in this book are whimsical and friendly. Especially that little mouse who needs some help – too darn cute.
I hope my children find inspiration in this book….that the things they love and/or love to do can turn into something bigger. Dream big kiddos…the world is ready for you!
Thank you for taking the time to read my reviews. Please consider purchasing any or all of these books from the Gnat & Corky series from Orange Hat Publishing. Happy reading 🙂
Hollyce
One Comment
Courtney
God bless you and yours.
Xo
Corky