Rodowell Sky

Miracles Come to Life

Children - Grade K-3rd
28 Pages
Reviewed on 03/07/2023
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Author Biography

Willie Thomas is an American author born on May 2, 1984 in Birmingham, AL. He currently resides in North Carolina. Storytelling and writing books have always been his passion and goal. By the time he reaches the century mark, he would like to have well over a hundred different books out, each with its own unique voice and tale. Felix and Eagle Imagine and Rodowell: Miracles Come to Life are the first of these books. Follow Willie Thomas on his journey as he makes what he has imagined come to life.

Website: www.whtbooks.com

    Book Review

Reviewed by Alex Ndirangu for Readers' Favorite

High in the early morning sky, Rodowell soars beside birds and planes, all while performing swirls. Along her descent, she swings on a branch and lands between two sidewalk cracks where an unused can of beans can be seen. As Rodowell picks up the can, she notices a boy in a wheelchair. He introduces himself as Elijah. He is rolling himself to the park for some fun and board games. Rodowell had fun this morning but she sure wouldn't mind having more, especially with her new friend. In the park, Elijah shows Rodowell his artwork of balloons and clowns. Then they both hear his stomach growl. Rodowell rests the can of beans on his lap and waits to see him smile. But Elijah looks sad, for he does not have a can opener, nor does she. Rodowell soars to the skies and promises to come back with one. But they are yet to discover that no one in the city has a can opener. To make one, they must combine their strengths and be the best at what they do. Grab a copy of Rodowell Sky: Miracles Come to Life by Willie Thomas to find out more.

A superhero is an excellent choice for the main character, as kids love characters with unique abilities. In this story, it's apparent that Rodowell is a superhero. On the first page, Rodowell is depicted in full glory as she flies above skyscrapers toward the east, where the sun's orange rays have just started filling the sky. The adventure is even more exciting when you get into the story. Willie Thomas's unique way of poetically describing things shines through on every page. Great effort has also been put into describing the main character's feelings through words and illustrations. As a result, we can relate to their experiences, primarily through their moments of connection and those occasional times when uncertainty and disappointment take over. The story is well thought out, and the writing and character development are well done. It also has a pinch of fast-paced action, and the anticipation is always high for what is about to unfold. I believe you will love every minute of it, as I did. Parents with kids who enjoy superhero adventures should check out Rodowell Sky: Miracles Come to Life.

Shrabastee Chakraborty

Rodowell Sky has a unique ability in that she can fly very high. She uses this superpower to keep an eye on the world below. One day while flying, she spots a boy sitting in a wheelchair. She immediately goes down to meet him. Elijah and Rodowell become friends and visit the park together. When Elijah feels hungry, she hands him the unused can of beans she retrieved during her flight. However, it is of no use as they do not have a can-opener. Rodowell decides to ask around for one. Will she acquire it and enjoy a meal with her new friend? To find out, read Rodowell Sky: Miracles Come to Life, a children’s picture book by Willie Thomas.

Thomas told his story using both words and imagery. The vivid, brightly colored illustrations were superb, boasting an intricate interplay of light and shadow. They added extra charm to the story and would certainly attract young readers. The text rhymed, making the book perfect for reading aloud. The plot followed a simple and easy-to-understand arc. I loved the way that the story highlighted Rodowell’s considerate personality. She was always ready to use her powers to assist her friends. Through Rodowell, Thomas showed how important it is to admire and appreciate the talents of our friends. The book also underscored how teamwork could improve our problem-solving skills. A resourceful Rodowell did wonders by utilizing Elijah’s talents and powers. Rodowell Sky by Willie Thomas is a perfect read for children aged 4 to 8 years.

Mimie Odigwe

Rodowell Sky is a simple yet powerful children's story written and illustrated by Willie Thomas. The eponymous Rodowell Sky has wings and can fly. While flying through the city, she meets a boy, Elijah, who makes use of a wheelchair, and they become friends. Because he is hungry, Rodowell Sky gives him her unopened can of beans, but they have a problem; they don't have a can opener! Unable to find one, Rodowell believes in miracles, and together they make one come to life.

Rodowell Sky is better read by children in Kindergarten up until Grade 3. I read Willie Thomas' story aloud with a child and it was a fun experience. The illustrations will keep children's attention and support them in developing reading habits. The rhymes were lovely when read aloud but the repetition of some words may hamper the understanding of early readers. I had to explain that picking up things, such as food on the road was not ideal behavior, and should not be emulated. With many moral lessons in its pages, Willie Thomas offers other wonderful examples of giving, teamwork, miracles, friendships, and being kind to others, irrespective of disabilities or differences.