One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
Written by Jay Miletsky
Illustrated by Luis Peres
Ages 3-9 | 24 Pages
Publisher: New Paige Press | ISBN-13: 978-0578496382
Publisher’s Synopsis: Join a spunky collection of paintbrushes as they set out to create a grand masterpiece.
When some of the brushes don’t cooperate, is it because they are misbehaving…or is there another reason entirely? In this story, young readers are introduced to some of the behavioral differences in their autistic peers.
Without ever mentioning any particular challenge or disability by name, this story helps children recognize and understand what autism is, and impress upon them the importance of showing kindness to those who are different, wrapped into a fun story with lighthearted, engaging characters.
They worked through the day, then stopped and admired,
the wisdom their now-painted canvas inspired:
their painting was perfect, It all meshed just fine,
with its colorful circles, and angry green line.
It was a true masterpiece, not one thing was wrong,
including the hum of their single-note song.
Available here.
One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay
Written by Jay Miletsky
Illustrated by Luis Peres
Ages 3-9 | 24 Pages
Publisher: New Paige Press | ISBN-13: 978-0578496382
Publisher’s Synopsis: The brushes are back! Join Reese, Estelle and the rest of the gang in the art studio in another adventure as they learn the value of kindness and understanding.
When Clay comes to visit from the other side of the art studio, the brushes are excited to welcome their friend. But when a few of the brushes start acting differently, Clay needs to be reminded that it’s important to be accepting:
“Some brushes are different, so we like to remind,
it’s kind to be caring, so take care to be kind.”
Will Clay leave the brushes in frustration, or will he learn to mold his thinking as he comes to understand and accept that brushes have different abilities and challenges? Without ever mentioning autism or any particular disability, The Molding of Clay helps introduce children to the behavioral differences of their autistic peers, creating an opportunity for discussion. It helps teachers and parents impress upon them the importance of understanding, acceptance and kindness, through a fun, lighthearted story with quirky and colorful characters.
Available here.
ABOUT THE FOUNDATION
The REED Foundation for Autism is committed to providing individuals with autism the opportunity to learn, live, work and thrive at every stage of their lives. For more information, please visit https://www.reedfoundationforautism.org.
REVIEW
The Masterpiece and The Molding of Clay uses an analogy to represent friends that may have autism. It shares how to treat those with autism as friends. This book could be used to teach kids how to still incorporate everyone through play, friendships, in the classroom or even creating their own masterpieces. These books have great value and I could see it used in homes, classrooms, church groups and more. I am not sure if kids would understand the analogy right away, however, I think after reading the book and discussing the book with kids that they would understand the analogy and see how to apply it in their lives. I would highly recommend also having a discussion with kids after reading these books. These books would help kids realize that everyone has a part in this world and differences can be made into strengths. The illustrations are bright and colorful. The story moves along easily and kids would enjoy reading/listening to these stories. The stories were well written and I liked the way that inclusion was presented as something fun and seeing that friendship includes everyone. These books have a definite value for all children to read and learn from. I would recommend checking out The Masterpiece and The Molding of Clay.
GIVEAWAY
Enter for a chance to win a ‘One Big Canvas’ book series prize pack!
One (1) grand prize winner receives:
- A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
- A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay
- A $50 Amazon gift card
- A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
- A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay
The giveaway begins April 23, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT, and ends May 23, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT. :
This blog post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and the REED Foundation for Autism. Please note that I received free copies of these books to review, however, I shared my honest opinion.
Because I have creative kids that love to read.
ReplyDeleteMy grand kids would love to have them they sound like sun.
ReplyDeleteI think my granddaughter would love this, she is such a book worm
ReplyDelete