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Coco’s Courage: Meeting The Dentist

Little Coco has just started kindergarten and is delighted to meet new friends and embark on new adventures. However, Coco harbors a secret: she loves candy. Discovering candy in various places, she sneaks it without her parents’ knowledge. This leads to a severe toothache, forcing Coco to confront the truth and make her first trip to the dentist. With the support, guidance, and prayers of her parents, Coco finds the courage within herself to face this new challenge.

Coco’s Courage: Meeting the Dentist, by Dr. Shon Shree Lewis, serves as a gentle introduction to dentistry for children. The illustrations by Viona Betzy and C. Lola are vibrant and brimming with the joys of childhood. The narrative unfolds at a gentle pace, and I appreciated how Coco’s parents help her face her fears, improve herself, and grow as a person throughout the story. The book also provides a reassuring explanation of the dentist’s procedures, making it an excellent tool for introducing the concept of dental visits in a non-threatening manner. The depiction of the dentist’s office, complete with an aquarium and friendly staff, helps demystify the environment for young readers. This visual aid is particularly useful in making the dentist’s office appear less intimidating and more welcoming.

While it’s important to teach children about honesty and the consequences of stealing, I feel the religious undertones may not resonate with all readers. The emphasis on praying and relying on God for courage, though comforting, might not be as relatable for a more secular audience. That being said, the story’s core message of finding courage and being honest remains universally relevant.

Coco’s Courage: Meeting the Dentist remains a cheerful and valuable book for children, emphasizing moral values and the importance of facing fears. Its core message of courage and support and its effective introduction to dental visits for young children make this the ideal book to read together at home or in the classroom. This heartwarming story about finding inner courage with parental support is perfect for children learning about dentists for the first time.

Pages: 27 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BJ7M6RW7

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Harvey’s Special Mission

Harvey’s Special Mission by Robyn Burns introduces us to Harvey, a spirited puppy from a litter of seven who embarks on an extraordinary journey. The story begins with Harvey and his siblings enjoying their playful days together until a pivotal moment arrives. A compassionate woman named Mommy Claire, grappling with a heart condition, seeks a puppy to train as her service dog. Harvey, chosen for this role, navigates the bittersweet transition from his family to a life of significant responsibility.

This children’s book serves as an educational tool, illuminating the crucial role of service dogs in assisting their human companions. It effectively communicates the message that service dogs are not just pets but highly trained helpers performing vital tasks. The narrative is particularly suitable for young readers, subtly educating them on the importance of these animals in a manner that is both engaging and informative. Robyn Burns skillfully weaves the story around Harvey’s training and his visit to a school with Mommy Claire, where they teach students about proper behavior around service dogs.

The inclusion of seven key rules for interacting with service dogs is a highlight, offering practical guidance in an accessible way. One rule, emphasizing the invisibility of some disabilities and the importance of kindness and non-judgment, resonates deeply. This message extends beyond the young audience, serving as a reminder to all ages about the diversity of disabilities and the respect owed to individuals and their service animals. The illustrations by Olha Stor complement the narrative beautifully, presenting charming and heartwarming visuals that will appeal to children and adults alike. The artistic portrayal of Harvey and his siblings adds a delightful layer to the story, making the book a visual as well as a literary treat. An intriguing aspect of this book is its autobiographical element; the character Harvey is inspired by Burns’ own service dog. This personal connection adds authenticity and depth to the story, making it a valuable addition to any children’s library, school curriculum, or public library collection. It’s an educational resource that not only entertains but also informs about disabilities and the role of service dogs.

Harvey’s Special Mission is a commendable first entry in what promises to be an enlightening series about Harvey’s adventures as a service dog. It is a highly recommended read, offering a blend of education, empathy, and enjoyment, making it an excellent choice for children and adults alike.

Page 26 | ASIN : B0CPCCK6FS

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