Book Review: Kathryn the Grape’s Colorful Adventure

Kathryn the Grape Book
Book: Kathryn the Grape’s Colorful Adventure.
Author:  Kathryn Cloward & Ginny Hornby
Illustrated by Christine Winscott
Publishedin 2011 by Kandon Publishing/Kandon Unlimited Inc.

My Book Review

Join Kathryn the Grape as she travels on her colorful adventure to building self-esteem. This is the second book in a series written to help children explore what makes them special and learn about ways to express themselves in a positive way. The premise is one that many children can relate too. Feeling less than special during a family dinner, Kathryn questions whether her parents care about her. She is sent to her room, and while there feels “invisible” as she wrestles with her emotions. Kathryn’s vivid imagination sends her on a journey which is aided by a magical butterfly named Maggie who is her guide and friend. Along the way, Kathryn explores the skills, talents and personal attributes that make her special and the reasons why she DOES belong in her family.

As a Preschool Teacher I would be more than happy to have this book on my classroom shelf. Now as a SAHM of a two year old, I am using Kathryn the Grape’s Colorful Adventure to talk about emotions and ways to let those feelings out in positive expression. I have had many opportunities in the last week to read this book with my princess. Self-esteem can be encouraged and developed in young children too. I’ve talked to her about emotions, expressing her feelings in words, and about being special in a simplified way. I got her to point out the pictures in which Kathryn seems sad and happy. We have role played emotions and expressions too.

Recommendation

I would recommend Kathryn the Grape’s Colorful Adventure (Kathryn the Grape Series)  for children ages 6-9 because it is quite sophisticated. I would call it wordy, but not in a negative way. Word dense is probably a better description. There are many themes and concepts embedded in Kathryn the Grape’s story. Each message is accompanied with wonderful explanations and practical examples. I think that children will find this character relatable and can discover something about their own journey towards self-esteem.

Here are two of my favorite plot points:

1. It is okay and normal to have anger, sadness, and doubt. These are normal emotions but can cause confusion in children. They may feel like no one else understands them, and may need help finding positive ways to express their feelings. This is why I also liked that Maggie the Magical Butterfly was there to guide Kathryn through her emotional journey to self esteem.

2. Using the power of positive thoughts can change the outcome of a situation that seems negative. Kathryn went through a series of practical exercises to discover why she IS special. Her self esteem grew with each step of the journey.

The end of Kathryn’s journey results in learning and growth. The reader may come to realize that self-discovery is great, but being considerate of the people that share your life is important too. Part of growing up includes discovering that it is important to consider the feelings and opinions of your friends and family.

My final two cents? Positive self-esteem is linked with how we feel about ourselves, how we relate to the people in our lives, and successful encounters that build trust in ourselves and loved ones.


So why wait, read this book You can BUY the book
here

About the reviewer
A proud Canadian, world-view blogger, and Preschool Teacher on hiatus who has been posting original photography and anecdotes online since 2005. Blogging seriously since March 2011, writing became a way to find support and social connections after becoming a SAHM with post-partum depression. I blog at : Mimmie Humble Pie
Disclosure
I received a complimentary book to aid in my review. Opinions expressed are honest and in no way influenced by external sources.