The only time my mind settles lately is when I am reading to my first graders. Reading to them books like Niko Draws a Feeling, even over the grainy video of a Google Meets, are my very favorite moments of my work week. You can hear a pin drop, and sometimes, when I look up from my second laptop to see dozens of faces pressed up close to their own devices to see better, I smile.
Reading children’s literature and then sharing it with the students is cheaper than therapy. Expect more reviews to come.
Niko Loved to Make Pictures
Niko loves to make pictures. He takes inspiration from his environment in a unique way. He does not draw what he sees; h draws what he feels. Niko draws the hard work of the robin building a nest, the ring-a-linging of the icecream truck trundling down the street, and the sun peeking out from behind a cloud.
There is only one problem. As talented as Niko is, and as hard as he works at his drawings, no one sees his vision.
Not even adults understand Niko’s abstract art. Not even his parents!
Until one day, Niko met Iris…
When Niko Was Inspired, it Felt Like a Window Opening in His Brain
Niko Draws a Feeling is a book about the creative process and feeling misunderstood. It shows the power of being present, paying attention, and being true to yourself. The artwork by Simone Shin is perfection. I read many picture books before I settle on my books for the week, and this is one that had Mikey leaning over my shoulder and calling it adorable. The sixteen-year-old loved it as much as the six-year-olds. I thought that was reason enough to share it online.
Details for Parents and Educators
ATOS / Reading Level: 2.6
Interest Level: Lower Grades (LG K-3)
AR Points: 0.5
Word Count: 672
Fiction/Nonfiction Fiction
Topic – Subtopic: Arts-Drawing; Recommended Reading-Junior Library Guild Selection;
I miss story time the most as a retired teacher. I thought with my grand daughter being 18 that those days were over for good, but recently learned there is a new grandbaby coming in June. I was out buying board books today! This one is going on the list.
Yay! Congratulations on the new grandbaby! There are also a ton of activities with Niko Draws a Feeling. Of course, you won’t need activities for a newborn, but as we all know, time goes fast.
I just packed up boxes of picture and board books a few weeks ago. A box for my my nephew, a small box to pack away, a lot of boxes to donate. As someone who didn’t keep my babies’ home from the hospital outfits (and so many other things people find shocking), I was surprised at how hard it was to pass those along. This one sounds so sweet.
Thank you for sharing your insights on great books! I order books for a school library and will definitely include your suggestions. It’s wonderful to hear how much joy you are finding in these interesting moments.