PERHAPS A GIFT VOUCHER FOR MUM?: MOTHER'S DAY
Kristen Schroeder writes for children from her home in Minnesota, where she lives with her family. Freddy the Not-Teddy was inspired by her son's favourite stuffed toy, Freddy. Hilary Jean Tapper is a picture book illustrator, perpetually enchanted by the magic of watercolour and small folk. She has drawn small persons since she herself was a small person - and you'll find such naughty wee characters on everything she touches!
"“This is a heart-warming story that will appeal to all our young readers who have a favourite stuffed toy that is not a teddy, especially if they have had to make a decision about whether it “fits the brief” for an occasion like a Teddy Bears’ Picnic. Jonah’s solutions to both his own problem and that of Cassie will inspire them to be brave enough to be themselves despite peer pressure."" -- Barbara Baxton * Bottom Shelf * Parents “Freddy the Not-Teddy is a gentle and fun story that provides many opportunities to talk with young children about difference, belonging and being true to yourself.” * Picture Book Parents * “Freddy the Not-Teddy is certainly a book to use for discussions of acceptance and change.” * Blue Wolf Reviews * “Written with a second person point of view, the reader becomes part of the story. The child reader is sure to recognise herself – and it’s just as applicable to boys. This will be a great addition to all libraries whether they be home, school, or public library.” * Reading Time * Visually and textually uplifting, Freddy the Not-Teddy has a sweetness that will not sour with repeated readings. Children will fall in love with Freddy as well as the fabulous idea that there is a place in the world for even the quirkiest of characters * Buzz Words Magazine * Although the themes of individuality, friendship and inclusion are powerfully presented in this story, they do not overwhelm it. The plot is compelling with the tension building strongly as Jonah tries desperately to come up with a solution to his dilemma. The gentle colours and sympathetic illustrations enhance the experience of reading this book. It could be used as a basis for a class study on these issues. The very useful teacher notes and resources, available on the EK Books website, provide great ideas for activities covering many curriculum areas. * The School Library / Read NZ * “A sweet tale about friendship, being who you are and kindness. Perfect for any little one who has a deep attachment to a particular stuffed toy..” * @Oh Creative Day * “An absolutely adorable picture book. I dare you to get to put it down without saying ‘awwww at the end’ * One More Page podcast * The message of the story is powerful throughout and reminds children of the importance to be kind and to respond to others as they would want to be treated. Freddy the Not-Teddy is beautifully illustrated by Hilary Jean Tapper using a watercolour look that gives it quite a unique feel to the heart-warming story. * NZ Booklovers * HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Although the themes of individuality, friendship and inclusion are powerfully presented in this story, they do not overwhelm it. The plot is compelling with the tension building strongly as Jonah tries desperately to come up with a solution to his dilemma. The gentle colours and sympathetic illustrations enhance the experience of reading this book. It could be used as a basis for a class study on these issues. The very useful teacher notes and resources, available on the EK Books website, provide great ideas for activities covering many curriculum areas. * The School Library / Read NZ *"
