Thursday, July 21, 2011

SELFLESS SIBLING LOVE

Bella becomes her little brother's hero when she figures out a
way to get back his stuffed animal, "Dogger".

DOGGER, by Shirley Hughes, is a favorite picture book of children everywhere.  It won the Kate Greenway Medal - the British version of America's Caldecott Medal - in 1977, as well as the all-time favorite, "Greenway of Greenways" in 2007.  This book is not to be missed! The ending of this beautiful story will probably bring a tear to your eye.  The example of kindness shown from a sister towards her little brother is heartwarming for parents, and might encourage your own children to show small acts of kindness towards each other.
    
When Dave loses his favorite friend - his stuffed animal "Dogger" - he is heartbroken. The family practically turns their house upside down looking for Dave's special toy, but to no avail. When Dogger turns up for sale at a neighborhood fair, everything seems all right—until someone else buys him before Dave can get the money!  Then Dave's older sister Bella does a remarkable thing:  she offers the teddy bear she has just won in a raffle in exchange for Dogger!

This book is a great summer read aloud. Kids are off school and can oftentimes get bored and irritated with their siblings.  What better story to share on a warm summer afternoon?  For ages 3-7.

Another "sibling book" that won the Kate Greenway Medal (in 2001):  I WILL NOT NEVER EVER EAT A TOMATO, by Lauren Child.