In Professor Stork’s #GrowYourCircle, readers are introduced to Mila, a young girl navigating the challenges of inclusivity and friendship in her classroom. When a new student from Jamaica arrives, Mila experiences the common hesitancy of reaching out, exacerbated by her forgetting the new girl’s name. This children’s graphic novel skillfully explores the theme of opening oneself up to new experiences and the richness it brings to life.

Mila, following her mother’s advice to “grow your circle,” finds the courage to approach the new girl, Lettie, leading to a blossoming friendship. This narrative serves as a charming introduction to the benefits of embracing cultural diversity and forming connections with people from different backgrounds. The inclusion of a character from another country adds a valuable dimension to the story, showcasing the exciting possibilities of intercultural friendships.

Professor Stork employs an enriching vocabulary throughout the novel, with a helpful glossary included for younger readers. The book also features interactive elements such as coloring pages, activities to encourage readers to expand their social circles, a mini-research project about Mila’s real-life heroes, and a recipe for Jamaican coco bread, making it an engaging read. The artwork has a unique style that stands apart from conventional graphic novel aesthetics, offering readers a refreshing and engaging visual experience and inviting them to explore and connect more intimately with the story’s visual narrative.

#GrowYourCircle is more than just a story about making a new friend; it’s a journey toward understanding the value of inclusivity and the joy of discovering new cultures and perspectives. The novel is a commendable effort to educate young readers about the importance of being open and friendly, highlighting that the rewards of such an approach are indeed profound.

Pages: 87 | ASIN : B09ZJ4DC3G