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"If you’re going to doubt something, doubt your limits..."
Calling all dreamers and seekers of self-fulfillment. Author JayceC Jones and Illustrator Russ Hughes spin a tale about the power of following your heart and being true to yourself.
About the Book
Title: Rupert Author: KayeC Jones | Illustrator: Russ Hughes | Publication Date: 2016 | Publisher: cozybearstudio.com | Pages: 51 | Recommended Ages: 7 and up
What Kids Will Like Story Written in four-line rhymes, children meet likable young pig Rupert, who refuses to conform with his stuffy family's tradition of joining their banking dynasty. Kids will enjoy laughing at his silly, inflexible parents and root for Rupert. Rupert leaves home to find a bell in his heart that will chime for him. During his search, he tries everything from milking cows on land to swabbing decks at sea. Illustrations Hughes' stunning pen and ink drawings on every page are like mini works of art in themselves. His bold, cartoon-like images fill the screen with color and excitement. And since this is a story about art (oops, a small spoiler!), illustrations also serve to inspire young artists.
What Parents, Educators Will Like
Role model
Hard-working and kind, Rupert is a perfect role model for kids. As he follows his heart and travels the world, he throws himself into learning new skills and always tries his best. He never gives up on finding his true calling in life, despite his struggle to discover it. Digital Format The digital book I reviewed has an easy-to-follow fixed layout. Text is crisply displayed and artfully framed (No, really! Text displays as framed artwork) in colors that blend perfectly with images on each page. Age- Appropriate Vocabulary Although I favor sprinkling challenge words in children's books, Rupert's vocabulary is often better suited for older children. Some passages, such as the wink-wink nod to the blue period of a famous artist with a beard, will be over the heads of primary graders. However, as an adult reader and former career coach, I applaud the book’s theme of seeking a purposeful life and finding the passion ...that has to be in your blood. I can also see Rupert written in the guise of a children's story for adults --- like a motivational fable for grown-ups seeking personal fulfillment or searching for their life path.
Recommendation
I love this tale's theme and its whimsical drawings presented with joyful exuberance. While youngest children, the book's intended audience, will enjoy its drawings and simple adventures, I find Rupert better suited to upper-middle graders, and even teens or Millennials, as a sweet inspirational tale about about pursuing happiness on a life quest.
Disclosure: I was given a free digital book in exchange for an honest review.
Connect with KayeC Jones and Russ Hughes
Husband and wife Indie team KayeC and Russ think the other is more talented. They both draw and write, but they work best together, bonking heads and scribbling on paper. Working on children’s books is what they want to do for the rest of their lives. The thought of bringing smiles to children and adults alike brings them smiles.
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Cat MichaelsBlogging about books, writing, family life, travel and more good stuff. Meet Cat
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