This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Free Book Program, which is open to all readers and is completely free. The author will provide you with a free copy of their book in exchange for an honest review. You and the author will discuss what sites you will post your review to and what kind of copy of the book you would like to receive (eBook, PDF, Word, paperback, etc.). To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Review Exchange Program, which is open to all authors and is completely free. Simply put, you agree to provide an honest review an author's book in exchange for the author doing the same for you. What sites your reviews are posted on (B&N, Amazon, etc.) and whether you send digital (eBook, PDF, Word, etc.) or hard copies of your books to each other for review is up to you. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email, and be sure to describe your book or include a link to your Readers' Favorite review page or Amazon page.
This author participates in the Readers' Favorite Book Donation Program, which was created to help nonprofit and charitable organizations (schools, libraries, convalescent homes, soldier donation programs, etc.) by providing them with free books and to help authors garner more exposure for their work. This author is willing to donate free copies of their book in exchange for reviews (if circumstances allow) and the knowledge that their book is being read and enjoyed. To begin, click the purple email icon to send this author a private email. Be sure to tell the author who you are, what organization you are with, how many books you need, how they will be used, and the number of reviews, if any, you would be able to provide.
Reviewed by Diana Lopez for Readers' Favorite
For some children, it can be difficult to approach others and make new friends. This may be due to nerves or because they are going through a difficult situation. That is why children need to learn to be empathetic and kind to each other. Pickles the Mermaid: Rainy's Journey by Laura Strachan is the story of Rainy, a young mermaid who was bullied by others when she was little. This eventually led her to treat her peers unkindly and develop a bad attitude. However, on one occasion, Pickles the mermaid was kind to her and invited her to play with the others. But Rainy, feeling nervous, swam away. After reflecting on her emotions, she decides she wants to become a good friend. She doesn't know how to achieve this, but she will strive to find out.
Laura Strachan presents a situation that many children will identify with. I really liked her simple writing style and use of short sentences, because it makes the book easy for children to read. The lesson about friendship and understanding is clear. I liked that Rainy had a deep background. She didn't want to be mean; she just needed a little opportunity to correct her behavior. This is significant because internal conflicts are part of life for both children and adults. I loved the way the author explains these nuances of behavior. In addition, the story teaches important values such as learning to listen, putting yourself in someone else's shoes, and being kind. Michelle Simpson's brightly colored illustrations show characters that are unique and expressive. Pickles the Mermaid: Rainy's Journey demonstrates how a small act of kindness can completely transform a person.
