Blog Archives
Happy Thoughts: Going to the Beach
This sweet little children’s book follows Emma, a young girl with autism, as she heads to the beach with her friends Harper and Jerry. The day is full of excitement, sandcastles, and learning moments. Emma communicates using special waterproof cards her mom made, and through her friends’ kindness and understanding, the story shows how love and patience make adventures fun and safe for everyone.
I really liked how real the story felt. It didn’t sugarcoat things but still stayed gentle and positive. The way Emma’s excitement sometimes turns into overwhelm was so true to life, and the way her friends helped her made me smile. The writing is simple, but it fits perfectly for kids. I felt a lot of warmth from it, like a big sunny hug.
What really stuck with me was the message about friendship. Harper and Jerry never judged Emma, and that’s such an important thing for kids to see. The story didn’t feel preachy, just kind. The vibrant, cartoon-style illustrations depict heartwarming scenes of diverse characters. The illustrations are colorful and happy, matching that summer beach vibe. The writing has this rhythm that makes it feel like a conversation with a child, curious, honest, and full of energy.
I’d definitely recommend Happy Thoughts Going to the Beach by Lisa Jacovsky for kids around preschool or early elementary age. It’s perfect for storytime, especially for families or classrooms that want to talk about autism and inclusion in a positive way. It’s the kind of picture book that teaches empathy without even trying too hard. A good one to curl up with before a trip to the beach or anytime you just need a smile.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0FHL3Q61L
See Yourself in Cybersecurity
Our world is changing at a fast pace. Computers run every facet of our lives. It makes sense, then, that the up-and-coming careers all involve technology and how to live with and use it safely. Cybersecurity is an important buzzword in the technology community and one to which high school and college students are being introduced on a daily basis. Over the coming years, cybersecurity will become increasingly vital, and our world will need all hands on deck as we rocket forward into the age of computers. Author Zinet Kemal knows this all too well.
See Yourself in Cybersecurity, by written by Zinet Kemal and illustrated by C.J. Love, is a fantastic nonfiction book geared toward middle and high school students who may be considering a career in cybersecurity. Kemal is an award-winning author and a professional in the field of cybersecurity. Her contribution to middle and high school students is immense. Throughout this book, Kemal specifically defines each and every aspect of a career in cybersecurity, from forensics to the sales engineer. She leaves no stone unturned and no term undefined. Readers will find the glossary terms included on each page to be especially helpful as they explore this exciting career.
I am always looking for engaging material for my students, and See Yourself in Cybersecurity, by written by Zinet Kemal and illustrated by C.J. Love, more than fits the bill. I heartily recommend Kemal’s book for its thorough treatment of the topic, the straightforward and easy-to-follow explanations, and the vibrant illustrations that further serve to draw in readers. This is a solid book to include in any middle or high school library.
Pages: 38 | ASIN : B0C65XH788
LITERARY TITAN 