Tuesday, April 23, 2019

"Giraffe Asks For Help" - a bookwrap










You are never too young or too old to ask for help.





Unwrapping  







Giraffe Asks For Help

Authored by Nyasha Chikowore
Illustrated by Janet McDonnell


* Age Range:  4 - 8
* Grade Level:  1 - 3
* Hardcover:  32 pages
* Publisher:  Magination Press; 1 edition 
* Pub. Date:  April 2, 2j09
* Language:  English




Editorial Reviews 




“Gary Giraffe learns to ask for help even when he feels the task is something he should be able to do alone…explains how important it is that children acquire the skill of asking for help and how parents can help accomplish this.” —Kirkus Reviews

“This book is highly accessible, entertaining and teachable (complete with a guide at the end for parents/caregivers to unpack the lessons of the story). Giraffe Asks For Help would make a wonderful addition to any child’s or parent’s bookshelf.” —BookTrib

“This picture book emphasizes asking for help from a friend or family member. It also has the themes of perseverance, problem solving, friendship and teamwork. I highly recommend this book for elementary school and public libraries.” —Oregon Coast Youth Book Preview Center





Unwrapping some great illustrations for you to 
enjoy























Unwrapping the story






This charming story is about a small giraffe named Gary who just had his sixth birthday.  What does that mean to him?  Well he now can reach way up high into the acacia trees and eat the succulent leaves from the top.  He can't wait to show everyone how grown up he is. 

Gary's dad accompanies him to this milestone event. 

"Let's go, Gary.  The early giraffe gets the good leaves!" 

On the way through the neighbourhood he is met with birthday wishes from his animal friends and receives a special greeting from his best friend in the whole world, Tye Tickbird.  

When they finally reach a tall acacia tree the moment of truth is waiting.  Gary tries his best to reach up and nibble the leaves near the top but is disappointed to discover he is still not tall enough to succeed in that endeavour.   He is so disappointed and humiliated at his shortcomings.  He tries out several methods to achieve success but fails.  Oh my! He is broken-hearted.  His friends can do it why can't he?  Tye, sensing his friend's dilemma and frustration, suggests that perhaps Gary should ask for help.  Will Gary take his concerned friend's advice and humbly ask his friends to help him out? 

This is a valuable life lesson to learn at an early age... it's just fine to ask for help from those around you.  Others are more than happy to give a helping hand. None of Gary's family or friends belittled him or made him feel embarassed and I like that aspect of the story a lot.  The illustrations are colourful, full of emotion and fun.  


This is another book in the series from the American Psychological Association with accommodating suggestions for adults at the end of the book.  I recommend "Giraffe Asks For Help."




Storywraps Rating - 5 HUGS!!!!!








Meet the author










Nyasha Chikowore is a former licensed clinical professional counselor who provided classroom and school-wide prevention activities related to mental health, with an emphasis on de-stigmatizing asking for any type of help. She is currently working on her doctorate in clinical psychology.










About the illustrator





Janet McDonnell is an illustrator and author living in the calm outskirts of the windy city with her husband and their black and white dog, Buster. Her whimsical illustrations combine traditional media and digital magic. In addition to illustrating books, magazines, and puzzles, Janet has both taught and written for children from preschool to high school ages. Her clients include Magination Press, Highlights, Zondervan, and Pearson.

Janet is also on the advisory board of Play for Peace, an organization bringing together children, youth and organizations from communities in conflict, using cooperative play to create laughter, compassion and peace.​





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