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The Turquoise Butterfly
Each year, young Victoria makes her way to her grandmother Sylvia’s home, a tradition that has come to anchor her childhood. To Victoria, Sylvia stands as a model of poise and quiet courage, qualities the girl longs for as she wrestles with her own fears. Anxiety tightens around her like a cage, yet she finds a measure of freedom in mirroring her grandmother’s steadiness, as if Sylvia’s wisdom might lend her a temporary shield. As Victoria grows, new situations test her resolve; still, with her grandmother close, she begins to imagine a future where the relentless din of self-doubt finally softens.
The Turquoise Butterfly, written by Dale V. Atkins, occupies a thoughtful space best suited for older children who are already grappling with early adolescent challenges. Its tone and subject matter echo the spirit of Judy Blume’s work, drawing attention to the emotional terrain young readers often navigate.
Several ideas weave through the narrative. One centers on the belief that wisdom accumulates with time. Victoria, caught in the swirling currents of early adolescence, looks to Sylvia for steadiness. The older woman offers guidance freely, distilling years of lived experience into gentle, pointed lessons, gifts Victoria accepts with genuine gratitude.
Another prominent theme explores the rising tide of anxiety among younger generations. Atkins suggests that while worry may be unavoidable, it can be managed with perspective and practiced calm. Through Sylvia, Victoria learns exactly that. Her grandmother’s grounded, pragmatic nature reflects an approach shaped by age and experience, an approach the story encourages older generations to share with the young. Sylvia does so with grace, and the impact is unmistakable.
The Turquoise Butterfly presents a warm portrait of intergenerational connection and quiet support. Soft, expressive illustrations reinforce the book’s central messages, while Grandma Sylvia’s composed presence leaves as lasting an imprint on readers as it does on Victoria herself.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0FPHJWKGD
Proud to Be Me
Buzz is more than just a busy bee; he is the best friend any animal could wish to have. He sees the good in all his friends and not only respects their differences but he also celebrates them. His positive attitude and ability to show all his friends their good qualities make him well-liked in the jungle.
Proud To Be Me by Kim Farrell is a fantastic picture book that teaches children how being different is not something to be ashamed of. Each person looks different; no two people are alike. Buzz teaches readers that they have value and are special no matter what they look like. Being different is what makes everyone interesting. Everyone has different skill sets that they bring to the world, which are essential. Not being able to do the same things as others does not lessen your value or importance to the world, especially to your friends. Children today are so caught up with comparing themselves to others, and especially in the online world, seeing that they are important just as they are is crucial.
The artwork of Ada Konewki clearly imparts the message of self-doubt and fear of being different. You can see from the animals how concerned they are, and children will relate. As the animals see their value, they become happier and more animated, showing children that just being themselves is enough.
Proud To Be is a well-written and heartwarming children’s book that teaches young readers about self-esteem and self-acceptance. Having confidence is hard, and having friends to help you along the way is critical. Buzz is the friend we all need in life, showing us just how amazing and beautiful we are, just the way we are today.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0BZF8L1S6
LITERARY TITAN 