Be a Bridge
by Irene Latham (Author) Nabila Adani (Illustrator)
In this upbeat picture book, acclaimed authors Irene Latham and Charles Waters bring key themes from their earlier collaborations (Can I Touch Your Hair? and Dictionary for a Better World) to a young audience.
Rhyming verse describes different ways in which readers can "be a bridge," from welcoming a new student and listening respectfully when someone else is talking to standing up to a bully and comforting a classmate who is upset. Nabila Adani's cheerful illustrations depict a diverse group of students, including young versions of Charles and Irene. Scan a Page Plus QR code at the end of the book to download a Bridge Builder Pledge.
An ideal book to share with students in the fall to set the tone for the whole school year!
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Publishers Weekly
Beginning with a Rumi quote--"Love is the bridge between you and everything"--previous collaborators Latham and Waters reteam for this rhyming exploration of how children can learn to be a "bridge," building key connections through kindness. Brief, unevenly scanning quatrains describe various ways to exhibit kindness, connection, and respect throughout the school day: "When someone new walks in, / be the first to say hello./ Your smile could be the sunshine/ that helps a friendship grow." Other actions include inviting kids to play, calling out classmates for unkind acts, empathizing, and listening. And after school is dismissed, the story continues visually, via Adani's kid-centered digital artwork, which shows the variously inclusive students and teachers creating a bridge-themed community art project. An authors' note, "bridge builder" activities, and a pledge conclude. Ages 4-9. (Aug.)
Copyright 2022 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.Review quotes
"[A] great book to start the school year, to help create rules for the classroom, or to start discussions about connecting to others."—Children's Literature
— (10/10/2022 12:00:00 AM)JUV039220 - Juvenile Fiction | Social Themes | Values & Virtues
JUV074000 - Juvenile Fiction | Diversity & Multicultural
Picture books
Stories in rhyme
Kindness
Respect
