KalpartCritiques

Children search for the treasured golden rule, but the rhyming stanzas teach children about how to treat each other as written in the golden rule. The book is appropriate for fourth grade readers but younger children will enjoy the illustrations that accompany the text.

What better month is there to introduce "Magic" anything than October? October is here but that is not the "magic" we speak of in this delightfully, rhyming story of a rude little girl. In a world where rudeness is so commonplace, this is a very picturesque way of attempting to change that.

Sherrill is very good at presenting important issues through rhyming storytelling. The only two problems I found with this story is (a) the unrealistic part of it; (b) the "magic word" needed to read "magic words". In teaching important lessons, it is also important to teach "it takes time". This tale is aimed toward toddlers and very early elementary age.... An age where there is very little patience. I feel we must be very forthright in the way we present important lessons. This also allows us the opportunity to teach young children patience.

The cover slightly relates to the story but not without a lot of imagination. However, it is very colorful and eye catching. Little girls would be very drawn to the cover picture. The illustrations are colorful and well done throughout the story by Kalpart.

Sherrill's books are needed on every library shelf where toddlers or elementary children visit - whether it be at home or school. (They would be appreciated in pediatricians offices as well!)

My review of this book gives it a solid Four Stars rating.

I was generously sent this book for an honest review, of which I have given.

What a wonderful book! I love the way the message of "The Golden Rule" is conveyed. The rhyming format is light and very appealing and the illustrations are absolutely perfect for the text. Even after I closed the book, I found some of the rhymes rolling around inside my head and I would think this would be a great read-aloud book for young children. Highly Recommended and Definitely 5 Stars!

Elisabeth Keys wasn't very nice. She teased, argued, made fun of other kids and pushed her way in line. She didn't like anyone. When it came time to invite friends to her birthday party she received no phone calls or replies in the mail.. This made Elisabeth very sad. Elisabeth realizes that the way she treated the other kids at school may not have been a good thing to do. When she starts doing random acts of kindness the kids eventually give her a chance.

Cannon has done an excellent job of showing Elisabeth's bad manners and what can happen if you don't treat people with respect. Young readers will be able to openly discuss with their parents and teachers what happens and how it makes them feel when they don't have any friends. Brightly colored digital illustrations help bring the characters to life.

Book Title: "The Magic Word”
Author: Sherrill S. Cannon
Published By: Strategic Book Company
Age Recommended: 3+
Reviewed By: Kitty Bullard
Raven Rating: 5

Review: This is a beautifully written book about manners, saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ and making sure to be nice to others. The illustrations are magical and make the story come to life. Sherrill S. Cannon is a master of weaving words into a sing-song, poetry-like, read that will keep children enthralled and insure they remember the lessons learned and carry them with them always. I definitely think parents should invest in this great little book.

Elizabeth discovers she has no friends when no one wants to come to her birthday party. Elizabeth does not understand why she has no friends until she talks to her mom. Mom suggests Elizabeth learn to be more considerate of her classmates and teacher, and to learn to use the magic words “thank you” and “please.”

The Magic Word gently teaches children two important life skills: how to make friends and manners. Ms. Cannon writes in rhyme that is simply and easy to follow. Kids will love learning how to treat others kindly while reading this story. It is also a good read-aloud-story, perfect for pre-school and kindergarten classes. The illustrator has given the child characters wonderful expressions that are easy to understand. They are drawn in soft pastels. This short, 25-page book, delivers on every level. Written in one of the most difficult manners, poetry, the story is pleasant, the message clear and the illustrations fantastic.½