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BOOK REVIEW #3 -MANY WAYS TO SHARE A HUG

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BOOK REVIEW #3 -MANY WAYS TO SHARE A HUG

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My very last chosen book is titled Many Ways to Share a Hug but sadly there is no writer name for me to give credit for because this book is copy written by the Australian Childhood Foundation which makes this book first located in Australia. But at least this book provides the name of the illustrator and her name is Jess Racklyeft

My first impression of this book is it’s so abrupt because it has 5 pages only but it is loaded with so much knowledge. With this, it makes the illustration to be less appealing as they only use cloud-like figures in various colors pasted here and there. On the very last page of this page, there is a physical sensory activity that the children can try out which is how to make your hug. I believe that the theme is very obvious which is a hug.

I reckon that this is more suitable for children that are above 7 years old because they will understand it better as the writer use quite lengthy sentences. If it's children below 7 years old, I would recommend it to be read out and clarified by an adult because there is not much illustration going on so the best way to tackle their interest is by reading in humorous voice tones and make different facial expressions.
As for the contains, I like that they are being very straightforward in delivering their ideas as they first explained what is hugs and the way it works for our well-being. Not only that, they specifically touched our awful situation as we have been hit by the pandemic of Coronavirus which makes it impossible to freely hug people. They strictly emphasize that there are many ways to share hugs but they make it as a guideline for the children to take care of themselves in this pandemic as can be read from this excerpt “Here are some official ways to share hugs right now: * By staying at home * By sharing kind words”

All in all, this is a very compact book loaded with information and need guidance from the adults in term of understanding it.

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My second chosen book is inscribed by 3 authors which is Susana López, Selene Zárate, and Martha Yocupicio. Luckily this book provides the name of the great illustrator and her name is Eva Lobatón. This copy of the book was published by Red Mexicana De Virologia which is located in Mexico and was published back in 2018.

This book started with the teachers saying that Paul is not coming to school today because he had a measles attack and needs to be quarantined for 2 weeks at least. As the story goes by, it tells the readers that measles is a virus as it can make anyone sick if it is encountered within the body. This story is very well written in my opinion as the children will be able to pertain easily because it not only focuses on measles but also on other viruses and microbes as well. Most importantly, this book featured vaccination as one of the great ways to thwart these diseases. Seeing this, the main theme in this book is understanding the microbes and how to prevent them from permeating the body.

I truly appreciate this book because the storyline is easy to understand even for children between the age of 5 years to 7 years if they can read by themselves. This is because there are several illustrations used in this book and it narrates the story along with few descriptions. The language used here is also very bright and simple sentences. This book is very suitable for the children because they can compare it very well to our current situation and can apply it to other situations as well.

This book is telling the readers how the viruses spread through their daily activities, how they can stave off them, and how our bodies operate to combat them. As the story goes by, it also tells the readers several medications that can be used to treat these diseases and there is no need to be panicked because it is in our control. Here, I love it so much because it teaches the children to have self-control and faith in the medical area.

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Firstly, my chosen book is inscribed by Sara LeBien but sadly there is no name of the illustrator provided in the book. This copy of the book was published by Immune Deficiency Foundation that is located at West, Chesapeake Avenue. And no, this book is not accessible in another language aside from English.

This book is aimed to deliver the exact information about the human immune system to children and adults who read it. Not only that, this book wants the readers and hearers to understand every simple scientific word that the doctors always use when they pay for a visit such as T-cell and B-cell. With cute and cheerful illustrations, they manage to attract children to reach for it and soon get to learn all the new useful words. While keeping the story very light and simple, they manage to maintain the main ideas as in the theme of making sure the children understand the immune that protect their body, especially during this pandemic.

Significantly, even though that this book is easy to understand but I personally would recommend it to be read and explained by adults. This is because toward the end, they're quite a few nursery rhymes and few more stories that narrate the diseases and infections so I believe that if it’s is explained by the adults, children will be able to understand it better.

As I read this book, I truly appreciate that the author choose to write the pronunciation of the scientific themes but Sara is brilliant to adjust it according to children’s understanding level. For example, antibodies (an-ti-bodies) and phagocytes (Phag-o-cyte). I believe that this book both suitable for children that range from 2 years to 8 years old because each information that the author writes will indirectly have 2 kind of parts which is first the explanation that includes the pronunciation and second part is where the illustrator create scenes in a fun and delightful way that perfectly accompanied the explanation.

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Additional Resource #2 for Syed and Qistina's book - An Unusual Situation, by Shyana Fisher

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Additional Resource #2 for Syed and Qistina's book - An Unusual Situation, by Shyana Fisher

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Title of the article:
IDMH Creates Children's Book Teaching Coping with Trauma

The article is written by Shyana Fisher on the collaboration involved publishing the book as well as the purpose behind it.

The collaboration of publishing the book is done by three organizations: Institute of Disaster Mental Health (IDMH), New Paltz Fine (the publisher) and Performing Arts students. It is set out to change when they proposed a children's book about dealing with pandemic stress. The article mentioned that what many facets of media have failed to address in the pandemic is to help children come to terms with grief and loss caused by the pandemic.

This article shed light into my understanding that the book is not simply what it is about. The article mentioned that the storyline of  the book is not exclusive only to COVID-19 pandemic but it is suitable to all general disaster situations globally. I enjoyed reading the story and this article warms my heart in the faith of humanity.

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The nation has spent a lot of time trying to explain the pandemic to adults. What many facets of media have failed to do, however, is help children come to terms with the grief and loss caused by the pandemic. That is what the Institute of Disaster Mental Health (IDMH) and New Paltz Fine and Performing Arts students set out to change when they proposed a children's book about dealing with pandemic stress.

The book, titled An Unusual Situation, centers around a hawk named Milo who has to deal with a stressful time and how his family copes with the experience. It is written to encourage kids to ask for emotional support from adults, instead of turning to unhealthy coping mechanisms. The 26 page story was written by Cassandre Surinon, and illustrated by David Folk. Max Zurlini was responsible for the design.

Although the children's book is purely digital at the moment, there are plans to print the book and distribute it to groups such as Girl Scouts of America, American Red Cross, and All Hands and Hearts. According to Andrew O'Meara, graduate student assistant for the IDMH, the project began over a year ago after working with UNICEF USA on a video series starring actor, director and children's TV host LeVar Burton. The series is called "Name it to Tame it" which strives to help children cope with the pandemic.

Burton helps children to reference the COVID-19 pandemic, validate the possible experiences and feelings they're having as a result of it, practice brief childrens' meditations and practice naming what they're feeling and saying them out loud. Teaching young children to accept their feelings, share them with loved ones and make choices that will help them feel better is also the main goal of An Unusual Situation, making it a fitting collaboration.

"The book stemmed out of a want to create a written resource for children as many resources up until that point were directed towards parents, caregivers, teachers and other adults on how to support children, but not directed towards the children themselves," O'Meara said.

Images in the book are colorful and bright, giving kids something enjoyable to look at even while dealing with stressful and unprecedented times. Something that O'Meara also emphasized was the idea that the mental health effects of the pandemic will be seen long after it becomes a thing of the past.

The storyline is not exclusive to COVID-19, but open to all general disaster situations globally.

"An Unusual Situation was purposefully written in a way that is not specifically about COVID-19 so that children and their families can project themselves onto the characters when they are going through an unusual situation," explained O'Meara."Be that a natural disaster, social unrest, or even personal and family struggles, we wanted this story to showcase how regardless of the specifics, Milo's reactions to the situation he is experiencing are real and are worth discussing with those who care for him."

In addition to an English version, the team has also translated the story into Spanish and will be distributing it to the Puerto Rico Department of Education as well as the Boys and Girls Club of Puerto Rico to help students and children outside of the United States as well. They will be provided to physical Boys and Girls Club locations throughout the province and given to families that are having trouble coping.

The book is also free to download online in English, Spanish and French, removing accessibility barriers of cost and language.

The reason this pandemic might be hitting hard for children and adults alike is there seems to be no end date to look forward to, according to O'Meara. "Often parents can find it difficult to explain stressful things to their children, especially if parents don't fully understand the situation themselves, so we wanted this book to be a way for children and parents to come together and talk about how stressful situations, like the pandemic, are affecting them," he said.

The story has strong themes on display, but portrayed in a way that kids and adults alike can learn from. The importance of communication, the impact of vicarious trauma, the value of time spent with loved ones and the harms of children not being communicated with are all themes that the book subtely yet powerfully highlights.

The IDMH is also looking into the possibility of creating more books or media featuring Milo. For more information on An Unusual Situation or to download a copy, visit newpaltz.edu/idmh.

"As for the COVID-19 pandemic specifically, the mental health impact may certainly last well into the foreseeable future, even after returning to a 'new normal,'" said O'Meara. "This may be especially so with children, who have been severely impacted with the closure of schools, thus meaning that resources directed specifically to children such as An Unusual Situation can really help them to cope with situations like these."

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IDMH Creates Children's Book Teaching Coping with Trauma - The New Paltz Oracle

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The nation has spent a lot of time trying to explain the pandemic to adults. What many facets of media have failed to do, however, is help children come to terms with the grief and loss caused by the pandemic.

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Additional Resource for Danial Iskandar - There's No Monster Outside: It's a virus

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Additional Resource for Danial Iskandar - There's No Monster Outside: It's a virus

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)

Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)

This video of narration of There's No Monster Outside: It's a virus can help you to get a clearer view about the story and how to review it. It is also narrated by one of the authors of the book, Beverly J. Irby. Personally, we enjoyed her way of narrating this story because her voice is very soothing, it felt like a mother reading bedtime story to her child. Furthemore, since this is a narration video, parents and teachers can learn which intonation and tone to use when reading this to children.

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Log into Facebook to start sharing and connecting with your friends, family, and people you know.

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Additional Resource for Alya Huda - The Story of the Oysters and the Butterfly

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Additional Resource for Alya Huda - The Story of the Oysters and the Butterfly

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)

Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)

This video of narration of The Story of the Oysters and the Butterfly can help you to get a clearer view about the story and how to review it. Mrs. T's pronunciation is very clear so we think this video can help children to learn to read with correct pronunciation. Also, since it is narrated, it is helpful to know the tone of the story so that parents will know how to set up the mood and read the story with the correct intonation.

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The Story of the Oyster and the Butterfly: The Corona Virus and Me - Ana Gomez 2020

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Additional Resource #1 for one of Yao's books titled Even Heroes Feel Sad: Fighting Coronavirus Together by Kate Allen Fox

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Additional Resource #1 for one of Yao's books titled Even Heroes Feel Sad: Fighting Coronavirus Together by Kate Allen Fox

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Title of the article:
Sacramento author with CDC background writes coronavirus children's book

This article is written by Leticia Ordaz. This article includes background of the author of which Ordaz refers as a "Sacramento author" and reasons why Fox wrote the book.

According to Ordaz, the author, Fox brought a unique perspective to the pandemic. Fox is a graduate of Kennedy High School in Sacramento and spent eight years working for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Fox said that her new book would help kids understand the virus and also their range of emotions. As Yao has described in the summary of the book, Fox wants to make kids consider themselves as heroes in this pandemic and that it is alright for them to have negative feelings in this pandemic.

Fox said as a mom of two young children, she is seeing the toll COVID-19 is taking on little kids because they do not know when they can go back to school and reunite with their friends. It is also stated in the article that Fox initially wrote the book for a contest, but she did not win. Fox said that she still feels proud as the biggest reward of writing the story is by helping families during the pandemic.

This article makes me understand better of her purpose writing the story and it makes me appreciate her effort into doing it.

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Children are struggling to understand that the coronavirus isn't going away anytime soon. There's a new book by a Sacramento author to help families get through this difficult time. The writer is bringing a unique perspective to the pandemic. Kate Allen Fox is a graduate of Kennedy High School in Sacramento and spent eight years working for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. She said her new book is helping kids understand the virus and also their range of emotions. The nonfiction picture book, titled "Even Heroes Feel Sad: Fighting Coronavirus Together," is now online for families to download for free. Fox said as a mom of two young children, she is seeing the toll COVID-19 is taking on little ones because they don't know when they can go back to school and sports. She wants them to understand the health impact, that it's OK to feel sad and that there is hope to reunite with their friends. The Sacramento author says she's not a scientist but her job at the CDC headquarters was to break down complicated science for government officials."Between my CDC background and my writing background, it's really something I felt I had a unique perspective to bring to help kids both understand what is going on and also make them feel better about it," she said. "I'm also a mom, I have a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old."My 4-year-old, he has to understand why he can't do things and he has some complex emotions around that. In the book I wanted to bring in both the science and the emotional angle that allowing kids to feel what they feel in this time and not having to pretend that everything is OK." The free e-book is available for families to download at katefoxwrites.com. Click on the section called books. Fox initially wrote the book for a contest. She didn't win, but she said the biggest reward is helping families during the pandemic. The book has already been downloaded hundreds of times.

Children are struggling to understand that the coronavirus isn't going away anytime soon.

There's a new book by a Sacramento author to help families get through this difficult time.

The writer is bringing a unique perspective to the pandemic. Kate Allen Fox is a graduate of Kennedy High School in Sacramento and spent eight years working for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

She said her new book is helping kids understand the virus and also their range of emotions.

The nonfiction picture book, titled "Even Heroes Feel Sad: Fighting Coronavirus Together," is now online for families to download for free.

Fox said as a mom of two young children, she is seeing the toll COVID-19 is taking on little ones because they don't know when they can go back to school and sports.

She wants them to understand the health impact, that it's OK to feel sad and that there is hope to reunite with their friends.

The Sacramento author says she's not a scientist but her job at the CDC headquarters was to break down complicated science for government officials.

"Between my CDC background and my writing background, it's really something I felt I had a unique perspective to bring to help kids both understand what is going on and also make them feel better about it," she said. "I'm also a mom, I have a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old.

"My 4-year-old, he has to understand why he can't do things and he has some complex emotions around that. In the book I wanted to bring in both the science and the emotional angle that allowing kids to feel what they feel in this time and not having to pretend that everything is OK."

The free e-book is available for families to download at katefoxwrites.com. Click on the section called books.

Fox initially wrote the book for a contest. She didn't win, but she said the biggest reward is helping families during the pandemic. The book has already been downloaded hundreds of times.

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Sacramento author with CDC background writes coronavirus children's book

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Children are struggling to understand that the coronavirus isn't going away anytime soon. There's a new book by a Sacramento author to help families get through this difficult time. The writer is bringing a unique perspective to the pandemic.

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Additional Resource: What is Social Distancing, by Lindsey Coker Luckey

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Additional Resource: What is Social Distancing, by Lindsey Coker Luckey

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https://www.spokesman.com/stories/2020/sep/06/these-new-books-are-here-to-teach-your-kids-about-/

The article above was written by Debra Kamin to introduce readers to a list of books that are educational for children to read.

Although Kamin's review of the book "What is Social Distancing" by Luckey is not substantive, her experience in reading the stories to her twin daughters are very informational as I could see how these Covid-19 pandemic story books could help children to learn about the pandemic. She also quoted that Pavan Madan by saying how it is important to provide easily understandable information about Covid-19 to children in this extensive informative world. Therefore, this article makes me appreciate all the efforts author did to write books regarding the pandemic for children.

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My twin daughters are 4, and they used to hate wearing their masks. So to help, I introduced them to a girl named Lucy. Lucy is a character in a children's book who, like many real-life kids today, is scared and confused by the changes COVID-19 has wrought.

Most of all, she needs a little help to understand why it's important to cover her nose and mouth when she goes outside. So her mom sews her a special mask and explains that, just like other masked superheroes, Lucy is doing important work to help the world.

"Lucy's Mask" by Lisa Sirkis Thompson is one of a slew of new children's books that has hit the market since March. Just as children's television has shifted gears to meet the challenge of this moment - "Sesame Street," "Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood" and a special Nickelodeon town hall have all devoted airtime to helping young viewers comprehend COVID-19 - many children's authors and illustrators have also found time, under quarantine, to produce stories about not just wearing masks, but also social distancing, learning to manage germs and even simply understanding the scope of a pandemic.

As a mom, I've used children's books to help my kids understand everything from moving houses to starting school to learning how to transition from their cribs to their big-girl beds. Whether the topic is potty training or pandemics, the power of literature for kids is the same: Stories, when told well, become filters through which children can better understand the big, wide world.

I ordered "Lucy's Mask" online this summer after a particularly tough afternoon when one of my daughters flat-out refused to leave the house if it meant she had to put anything on her face. It was one of those parenting wins I like to savor: Lucy got the idea about mask-wearing across in a way my own pleading and negotiating simply can't.

Like all good children's books, the story is told in layers: There are the characters and the plot, but there's also the message broken down into pint-size bits that hit at just the right level for little ears and brains.

Books are particularly effective at this time, said Pavan Madan, a child and adolescent psychiatrist with California-based Community Psychiatry, because they serve as a still point of focus in a world of information overload.

"There is an overwhelming amount of information out there surrounding COVID, even for adults, and it's important that children are provided information in an accessible way they can easily understand ... delivered in a way that feels normal, like 'storytime,' " he said via email.

"Children should be allowed to have the space to ask questions, clarify things and process their feelings."

Some of the new coronavirus-themed children's books feature familiar characters and slick, professional illustrations. Others are self-published affairs. Here's a sampling.

"The Day the Lines Changed" by Kelley Donner: A sweet, colorful book that never once uses the word "pandemic," "The Day the Lines Changed" follows a little green line who wakes up one day to find that, inexplicably, everything about the world has changed. But as long as the lines look out for one another, there will be plenty of hope.

"Ron and Rona Fight the Corona" by Ron Starinsky, Elana Rosenberg and Amit Mizrahi: A trio of Tel Aviv-based authors worked alongside pediatrician Moran Shefler Gal to create this charming, rhyming picture book that follows two siblings, aptly named Ron and Rona, whose lives are flipped when their father contracts COVID-19. Ron is scared and has questions, but Rona, his wise older sister, offers him direct answers on what the disease is and simple tools he can use to protect himself.

"A Little Spot Stays Home" by Diane Alber: Many a child has bonded with Spot, the bright yellow, stick-legged sphere dreamed up by author and illustrator Diane Alber. The Little Spot series of books have grappled with kindness, anxiety, confidence and inner peace, and in a handful of new editions, he now faces down social distancing and the coronavirus, as well. ("A Little Spot Learns Online" and "A Little Spot Wears a Mask" also are available.)

"What Is Social Distancing?" by Lindsey Coker Luckey: A children's book with the added bonus of activity pages in the back, "What Is Social Distancing" is a straightforward guide to helping elementary-age students unravel the complicated idea of staying apart.

With colorful illustrations that help explain how germs pass between people and why staying at home is important, the book reminds kids that we might be apart, but we're not alone.

"Paula and the Pandemic" by Dorothea Laurence: It's difficult to wait for playgrounds to reopen, schools to feel normal and us to no longer worry about having to social distance when we visit friends or relatives. But how do we teach children to practice patience? In "Paula and the Pandemic," the secret is a sunflower seed - plant it in the ground and let it grow, knowing something big and beautiful is just around the corner if we can just hold on.

"Masked Ninja" by Mary Nhin: With the subtitle of "A Children's Book About Kindness and Preventing the Spread of Racism and Viruses," "Masked Ninja" is a book that taps right into the zeitgeist of 2020. The masked ninja teaches his fellow ninja friends tactics such as covering your mouth when you cough, washing your hands for at least 20 seconds and, crucially, never blaming specific ninjas - or specific ethnic groups - for causing COVID-19 in the first place.

"Rona Stole My Fun!" by Chandra Clements: Author Chandra Clements collaborated on this book with her 4-year-old daughter, Tara Rose, who created the adorable illustrations. Tara also stars as a central character, playing hide-and-seek (aka staying home) to keep her loved ones, especially Grandma and Grandpa, safe.

"The Social Distance King" by Eric DeSio: Children love to put on crowns and pretend to be royalty. So when it comes to taking precautionary measures to prevent the transmission of the coronavirus, "The Social Distance King" offers a royally good solution: Stay in your own castle and be king or queen of social distancing. With cute rhymes and colorful pictures, this book is catchy and fun.

"If You Can't Bear Hug, Air Hug" by Katie Sedmak: Filled with catchy rhymes, "If You Can't Bear Hug, Air Hug" is a positive, comforting take on how kids can share love and affection even in a time of social distancing. Ideal for preschool-age children, this book uses cuddly bears to bring its message down to toddler level, and it does so in the sweetest way.

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These new books are here to teach your kids about social distancing, masks and COVID-19

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My twin daughters are 4, and they used to hate wearing their masks. So to help, I introduced them to a girl named Lucy. Lucy is a character in a children's book who, like many real-life kids today, is scared and confused by the changes COVID-19 has wrought.

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The author of the source is Ellie Fichtelman. The source shows some books from the author and the background of the author. The resource contributes to my knowledge of the author. The resource aids me in understanding the book better by learn more about the author’s background and thoughts. Also, it helps me appreciating the book because I could see a series of books and the writing style and painting style from it.

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The second book in a series of adventures of Maurice, a book who resides on an elementary school library shelf!

If you love books then you'll love Maurice, an adventurous library book with an endearing personality who shares childrens' hopes, worries and challenges. In this second adventure, Maurice is borrowed, goes on vacation and is left behind. Does he ever make it back home?

Ages 4 - 8

Available in hardcover, paperback and on any device via the Kindle app (including smartphones, tablets and Cloud Reader)

Purchase orders accepted for public schools and libraries

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The second book in a series of adventures of Maurice, a book who resides on an elementary school library shelf! If you love books then you'll love Maurice, an adventurous library book with an endearing personality who shares childrens' hopes, worries and challenges. In this second adventure, Maurice is borrowed, goes on vacation and is left behind.

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The author of the book is Eleanor Turino and the illustrator of the book is F. Gonmuki. The book was published in 2020. The publishing house of the book is Maxamill. The book tells a story that a bunch of children play in the library but they don’t want to wear masks. And a book named Maurice comes up to inform the children the importance of wearing a mask. The theme of the book is to inform the children about the importance of wearing mask and social distancing and etc. I think the book is good. The book could help the children to learn about these rules to stay healthy. And instead of a parent teaching the children it is actually is a book. This kind of teacher could make children be more interested in the book. There seems no prominent problems or inaccuracies in the book. The book is very useful for children during the pandemic. Because it tells the children to wear on a mask and to keep social distance, and to wash their hands very often these kinds of tips and rules. It could help the children learn more knowledge about how to protect ourselves during the pandemic.

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Additional Resource: Covid-19 Helpers, by Beth Bacon

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Additional Resource: Covid-19 Helpers, by Beth Bacon

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https://www.publishersweekly.com/pw/by-topic/childrens/childrens-book-news/article/83371-covid-19-helpers-e-book-wins-global-health-award.html

The article written by Alex Green introduced us to the author and illustrator. The writer of the article also included some insight of the author when writing the book. The book was written to praise "young readers for their role in fighting the coronavirus by staying home" (Covid-19 Helpers, Green). This was further justified by the author itself when she said that she feel proud of people staying at home all over the world.

This article has allowed me to see the book in a different perspective. Initially, I thought the book was written to teach kids about the virus and how to protect themselves, but now I realize it is more about praise and appreciation of people who do their part during the pandemic.

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As the new coronavirus moved through communities in March, children's author Beth Bacon, who has written The Worst Book Ever along with a number of other humorous books for reluctant readers, watched others spring into action. Some practiced medicine. Others taught. Bacon's husband worked long hours as an employee at their local food bank. But how to help as an author seemed a more difficult question for Bacon to answer, until her old MFA classmate posted news of the Emory Global Health Institute's Covid-19 Children's E-book Competition.

Bacon enlisted her friend, illustrator Kary Lee, and together they leaped at the opportunity. On May 8, they won the competition for their e-book Covid-19 Helpers,which praises young readers for their role in fighting the coronavirus by staying home while teaching them why it is so important to be doing so. Along with publication of the book on EGHI's website, Bacon and Lee will also split a $10,000 prize.

The message in Covid-19 Helpers is one that an overwhelming majority of Americans support. An AP-NORC poll released Wednesday showed that 83% of people were concerned about state reopening plans causing an increase in infections.

"I wrote what I was feeling," Bacon said. "I felt proud of everyone who was staying home. I thought, 'We're all in this together.' I have a friend in France who is quarantining there. Everyone around the world is doing it. That's a beautiful thing."

Turning that idea into a fully illustrated book in two weeks was no small endeavor. Bacon joked that the turnaround time reflected the background of the EGHI staffers who created the competition. "They're doctors," she said. "I'm not sure they really understand how long it takes to write a children's book."

She was able to do it because of the speed with which the text came together along with Lee's quick completion of the art. Lee, who had closed on purchasing a house on the day her state's shutdown began, managed to do two rounds of thumbnail reviews with Bacon and finish the art, all on time.

Years of experience in producing her own e-books prepared Bacon to turn the proofs into a completed digital edition. "I knew InDesign and I knew typography," she said. "So it didn't take a lot of time."

The effort has helped Bacon prepare for the forthcoming release of her new title I Hate Reading: How to Read When You'd Rather Not (HarperCollins, June), which helps reluctant readers explore ways to enjoy books. Bacon has designed a single-sheet PDF with images from the book, which readers will be able to print out for her readings and-with one cut on the page-turn into a small book of their own. Together, they will then come up with the theme and ideas for the book during the reading and attendees will leave with their own handmade book.

As for Covid-19 Helpers, creating the book has helped Bacon answer the question she had two months ago about the role of children's authors in a time of crisis. "Storytelling is essential," she said. "It gives us perspective."

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'Covid-19 Helpers' E-Book Wins Global Health Award

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As the new coronavirus moved through communities in March, children's author Beth Bacon, who has written The Worst Book Ever along with a number of other humorous books for reluctant readers, watched others spring into action. Some practiced medicine. Others taught. Bacon's husband worked long hours as an employee at their local food bank.

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Additional Resource: When Virona the Corona came to Town, by Hailey Glynn

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Additional Resource: When Virona the Corona came to Town, by Hailey Glynn

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https://www.wkbw.com/news/local-news/buffalo-first-grade-teacher-wrote-a-book-to-help-kids-cope-with-covid

The article above was written by Mike Randall with introduction and reference to what the author, Hailey Glynn, felt and said about her book.

In the article, Hailey mentioned that she could not imagine how the children felt when their normal routine life was disrupted by Covid-19. Hence, she wrote her book in order to address "the big and little feelings kids have had" during this pandemic.

Through this article, I could see that the author wanted to focus more on the mental health aspect in children. This had allowed me to realize that the book focus more on the emotional and psychological parts in a children, hence making me appreciate the author more for her effort as depression in children are not uncommon these days.

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BUFFALO, NY (WKBW-TV) - Hailey Glynn has been a first grade teacher for four years and just recently became a children's author. She wrote and illustrated a timely tale called When Virona the Corona Came to Town.

Hailey wrote the story with her young students in mind saying "I can't even imagine how they must be feeling being ripped away from their routine, their friends, everything that is normal and consistent."

The book follows main character MaryEllen as she works through the challenges of the pandemic. Hailey says "It deals with big and little feelings kids have had during this time."

The book has received more than nine-hundred favorable reviews on Amazon and Hailey gave a copy to each of her students. She says the kids and their parents loved it.

When Virona the Corona Came to Town is available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble websites and locally at the Dog Ears Bookstore.

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Buffalo first grade teacher wrote a book to help young kids cope with COVID

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BUFFALO, NY (WKBW-TV) - Hailey Glynn has been a first grade teacher for four years and just recently became a children's author. She wrote and illustrated a timely tale called When Virona the Corona Came to Town.

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Additional Resources: What is Social Distancing? by Lindsey Coker Luckey (Reviewed by Chew Shun Lin)

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Additional Resources: What is Social Distancing? by Lindsey Coker Luckey (Reviewed by Chew Shun Lin)

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In an article posted by Herb Scribner in the DeseretNews website on the 7th of October 2020, they have listed a few children’s book that aids children to learn and understand about social distancing. Lindsey Coker Luckey’s What is Social Distancing? is one of the books that are listed in the article. The importance of teaching kids about social distancing and health guidelines in general is heavily highlighted. Though they do not mention about the author’s background, this article will help struggling parents to find books that are easy on the kids, to help them learn about social distancing and the health guidelines that they should adhere to at all times during the pandemic.

I hope that this additional resource will help Shun Lin appreciate the book more as it is one of the books that really helps children to easily understand what social distancing means.

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The novel coronavirus continues to impact the United States, and getting children to understand the virus remains a huge issue.

"There is an overwhelming amount of information out there surrounding covid, even for adults, and it's important that children are provided information in an accessible way they can easily understand ... delivered in a way that feels normal, like 'story time,'" Pavan Madan, a child and adolescent psychiatrist with California-based Community Psychiatry, told The Washington Post. "Children should be allowed to have the space to ask questions, clarify things and process their feelings."

The Washington Post rounded up a slew of book options that can teach your children about the novel coronavirus, social distancing, face masks and other measures.

Here's the full list:

"The Day the Lines Changed," by Kelley Donner

"Ron and Rona Fight the Corona," by Ron Starinsky, Elana Rosenberg and Amit Mizrahi

"A Little SPOT Stays Home," by Diane Alber

"What is Social Distancing?" by Lindsey Coker Luckey

"Paula and the Pandemic," by Dorothea Laurence

"Masked Ninja," by Mary Nhin

"Rona Stole My Fun!" by Chandra Clements

"The Social Distance King," by Eric DeSio

"If You Can't Bear Hug, Air Hug," by Katie Sedmak

Head over to The Washington Post to review more details about the entire list.

PBS Kids recently released a video short - called "Arthur: Wearing a Mask" - that looks to teach children about wearing masks.

"Francine and Muffy talk about how to stay safe and support their friends and family by wearing a mask during these difficult times," the YouTube description reads.

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Here's a list of new books that will teach your child about social distancing and COVID-19

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The novel coronavirus continues to impact the United States, and getting children to understand the virus remains a huge issue. "There is an overwhelming amount of information out there surrounding covid, even for adults, and it's important that children are provided information in an accessible way they can easily understand ...

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The additional source is by the website Kelpies about the author also as illustrator of the book. The resource tells a background of the author. The resource is insightful in understanding the book better with the background of the author. The resource contributes to the knowledge of the author of the book.

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FREE UK delivery on all orders!

Claire Keay is an artist and illustrator based in Essex in England. Claire has illustrated four previous children's books, including three Picture Kelpies: Thistle Street, Thistle Sands and The Magic Word. She also illustrates greeting cards and sells her paintings worldwide.

Arrange a Visit

Would you like to arrange a visit with Claire Keay to your school, library, bookshop or festival? Email marketing@florisbooks.co.uk and we can help you get that set up. If you need help with funding, check to see if Claire Keay is on Scottish Book Trust's Live Literature register.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Reject Read More

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Claire Keay is an artist and illustrator based in Essex in England. Claire has illustrated four previous children's books, including three Picture Kelpies: Thistle Street, Thistle Sands and The Magic Word. She also illustrates greeting cards and sells her paintings worldwide.

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Additional Resources: The Great Realization by Tomos Roberts and Nomoco (Reviewed by Nur Aqeelah binti Mazlan)

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Additional Resources: The Great Realization by Tomos Roberts and Nomoco (Reviewed by Nur Aqeelah binti Mazlan)

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An article published by Better Reading on September 16th, 2020, talks briefly about Tomos Roberts’s children’s book, The Great Realization which is illustrated by Nomoco. In the review, the website also talks a little bit about the background of the author, Tomos Roberts and the illustrator, Nomoco. This review article, in my opinion, has helped me to better understand the book and how inspiring and life changing it is, not only for children but also for adults. The book gives hope amidst this pandemic and triggers people to contemplate about the unhealthy life that they have been living in, thus giving them a sort of motivation to break away from the old bad habits.

Hopefully this article will aid Nur Aqeelah to better understand the book.

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The post-pandemic bedtime tale that has captured the hearts of millions.

First performed in response to the Coronavirus pandemic, Tomos Roberts' inspiring poem, with its message of hope and resilience, has been viewed over 60 million times and translated into over 20 languages worldwide.

From simple acts of kindness to the creativity within us all, The Great Realisation is a celebration of the many things that have brought us together at a time of crisis. It captures, with magical resonance, the thoughts, and feelings of millions worldwide as we adapt to a new way of life, cast aside old habits, and reflect on what truly matters to us. It is a story for all readers, young or old, who dare to dream of a fairer, kinder, more loving world.

On April 29 th, Tomos Roberts released a video on YouTube called 'The Great Realisation' and has since been viewed worldwide. An inspiring story in a time of uncertainty and confusion, and now turned into a beautifully illustrated children's book!

The absolutely stunning artwork comes from renowned artist, Nomoco, and she knocks it out of the park. The contrast between the bold colours and the watercolour makes this stand out in the bookstore. And with the dusk jacket off, the extravagant watercolour nature landscape is so vibrant and dynamic that it really shines through. A perfect combination of charming storytelling and magnificent illustrations.

The story itself captures the current feelings and emotions of today's world and is relatable for both adults and kids. What really stands out is the wonderful way that Tomos is able to tell this in a way that kids can really grasp and understand. Paired with the YouTube video, this can definitely be a hit with any kid.

The Great Realisation is one of those books that can be read a hundred times and still be enjoyed by everyone. With absolutely gorgeous art from the talented Nomoco and the delightful storytelling of Tomos Roberts, this book will keep everyone entertained with its inspiring messages of hope in a time of change. Check out the YouTube video

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A story to inspire: Read our review of The Great Realisation by Tomos Roberts and Nomoco | Better Reading

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The post-pandemic bedtime tale that has captured the hearts of millions. First performed in response to the Coronavirus pandemic, Tomos Roberts' inspiring poem, with its message of hope and resilience, has been viewed over 60 million times and translated into over 20 languages worldwide.

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The author and the illustrator of the book is Claire Keay. The book was published in 2020. The country the book was published in is England. The story is about Mia’s dad explains to her about the coronavirus and why people can’t go out and Mia’s mother has to work outside because she has a important role to fight the virus. The theme of the book is to present a real condition that children are in during the pandemic and help children realize that it is normal. I think it is perfect. The book is very close to children’s daily life and that would make them feel comfortable and relatable. The author uses very simple words and images conveys a message to the children that it is fine that everything almost close and people may need to work outside the house instead of accompanying you. But it is all right. All these things are normal and things will become better soon. There is no prominent problem in the book. And it is very useful for children during the pandemic. It could help the children understand things better and don’t feel too lonely and sad. It is good for children’s feelings.

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Mia at Home - a story about coronavirus for preschool children

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Additional Resource for Nur Aqeelah - The Great Realisation

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Additional Resource for Nur Aqeelah - The Great Realisation

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https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/books/the-story-behind-the-great-realisation-a-post-pandemic-bedtime-story-that-has-captured-the-hearts-of-millions/2020/05/13/a886cf20-93b6-11ea-82b4-c8db161ff6e5_story.html

Dear Aqeelah, I hope the link above may serve you well in reviewing the poem "The Great Realisation".

The article above was written by Nora Krug, who provided a brief introduction to the work by Tom Roberts. There are also a list of Q&A regarding the work which was answered by the author himself. Such as his inspiration, why certain lines are written in a certain way etc.

I think this will give a more  deeper insight to the poem through psychoanalysis or deconstructionist approach.

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Additional Resource for Chew Shun Lin's book: When Virona the Corona came to town by Hailey Glynn

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Additional Resource for Chew Shun Lin's book: When Virona the Corona came to town by Hailey Glynn

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This resource talks about the main contents in the book and the goal behind creating the book. The author’s reason behind this book its to enlighten children about this hard time while making it child-friendly in order for them to understand better and not be too overwhelmed with the intensity of the pandemic. Thus, through these insights, I am able to appreciate the book even more than before.

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Readers follow the main character, MaryEllen, through a story that details experiences during the Coronavirus pandemic. The goal of this story is to shed light on a time of uncertainty and fear in a child-friendly way. My hopes are to help children understand this unprecedented time while learning to cope with difficult feelings. Additionally, I hope to spread appreciation for the heroes of this time and portray the power of a positive mindset. This story:

* Explains what happened during the pandemic

* Talks about how it may have made people feel

* Explains key terms such as "social distancing"

* Highlights heroes during the time such as medical workers, grocery store employees, first responders, delivery service workers, and teachers

* Ends on a positive note with powerful advice to children living through difficult times

Why purchase this book?:

* Give children a character to relate to during this time

* Help struggling children find a positive mindset

* Explain this unprecedented time to your current OR future children, grandchildren, students

* Keepsake in a baby bin/box

* Give children something from this time they can look back on & use to explain this time they lived through to their future children

* Pregnant, adopting, or plan on having children in the future? Questions will arise about this time in history and this story is a wonderful way to gently teach children about the pandemic

This book includes:

* A rhythmic story with colorful, hand painted illustrations

* A "This Book Belongs to" page

* Fill in the blank page for age/activities/ quarantined with during the pandemic

* A note from the author

* A "WASH YOUR HANDS!" poster in the back of the book

﻿Thank you for taking the time to read about this book! If you purchase, I want you to know my goal is 100% customer satisfaction. I spent endless hours perfecting this story for young minds and I hope it is everything you expect and more! ♥ Hailey Glynn

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When Virona the Corona Came to Town|Paperback

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Readers follow the main character, MaryEllen, through a story that details experiences during the Coronavirus pandemic. The goal of this story is to shed light on a time of uncertainty and fear in a child-friendly way. My hopes are to help children understand this unprecedented time while...

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Additional Resource for Eva Cloudia's book: When We Stayed Home by Tara Fass and Judith A. Proffer

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Additional Resource for Eva Cloudia's book: When We Stayed Home by Tara Fass and Judith A. Proffer

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Harper’s review on the book is about how the book is very suitable for kids. This is because, the book is written in the child’s point of view which can be more relatable to children. Hence, children will be interested to follow what the child in the book does. Through this book review, I am able to understand the importance of point of view in children’s book and how it is able to convince children better.

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When We Stayed Home | Children's Book Review | Harpers Bookshelf

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Additional Resource for Eva - Good Morning Zoom

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Additional Resource for Eva - Good Morning Zoom

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https://chicago.suntimes.com/2020/8/12/21364182/good-morning-zoom-pandemic-parody-goodnight-moon-lindsay-rechler

Dear Eva, I hope the link provided above may serve you well in understanding your text deeper.

The article in the link was written by Associated Press, an independent, not-for-profit news cooperative. The resource talks about how the book is a bedtime story for young kids. The author also inserted a few of her inspiration and purpose for writing the book.

Perhaps, the additional information from the authors own perspective might provide you with more appreciation towards the book itself.

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A popular online spoof of the children's favorite "Goodnight Moon," reworked for the age of the coronavirus and widespread working from home, will be coming out In Octoberl.

"Good Morning Zoom," written by Lindsay Rechler and illustrated by June Park, is scheduled for Oct. 6, according to publisher Penguin Random House's Philomel Books imprint.

Currently self-published, "Good Morning Zoom" ($14.99) takes Margaret Wise Brown's beloved bedtime story for young kids and turns it into a narrative about Zoom, bread baking, home schooling and other familiar parts of life during the pandemic.

Rechler is a banking executive and mother of two who lives in Manhattan. Park is a graphic designer and illustrator who lives in Brooklyn.

According to the publisher, the net author proceeds will be donated to coronavirus relief charities.

"COVID-19 is a difficult topic, especially for young children," Rechler said. "I wanted to tell my children a relatable story - a story that would help them become familiar with their new everyday lives and, within that story, touch upon what was happening in the outside world. I thought a lot about the contrast between quarantining safely inside versus what was happening outside my window."

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Pandemic parody of 'Goodnight Moon' children's book is coming in October

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A popular online spoof of the children's favorite "Goodnight Moon," reworked for the age of the coronavirus and widespread working from home, will be coming out In Octoberl. "Good Morning Zoom," written by Lindsay Rechler and illustrated by June Park, is scheduled for Oct. 6, according to publisher Penguin Random House's Philomel Books imprint.

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The author of the resource is Carolyn Yoder. The resource is an interview with the illustrator of the book. It contributes to my knowledge of the illustrator. The resource aids me in understanding the book better because I know more about the illustrator of the book. Her ideas could help me to interpret the book in another level.

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WILL WRITE FOR COOKIES

INSIGHT - INFORMATION - INSPIRATION

FOR WRITERS

TODAY'S GUEST

LAURIE SMOLLETT KUTSCERA

Will Write for Cookies is one of my favorite blog series...I hope it's one of yours, too! I love it because I get to connect with some of the best kidlit authors and illustrators. I'm able to peek inside their journey to publication. And best of all, I can share it with all of you!

Today's guest is someone I meet in kidlit challenges and contests...on social media...actually, author/illustrator Laurie Smollett Kutscera is everywhere! And everywhere I meet her she is kind and generous and lots of fun. She's offering a copy of her newest MG novel as a giveaway, so don't forget to leave a comment at the end. And now, I can't wait for us to find out more about her!
WELCOME, Laurie! It's so lovely to have you here. Thank you for stopping by. ME: Who were your favorite authors/illustrators when you were a child? Laurie: Thanks so much for having me, Vivian! It's a pleasure to be here with you. When I was young, getting lost in books was a way to escape a complicated family situation. One would think I would have gravitated to more upbeat books like The Cat In The Hat, by Dr. Suess, but I was drawn to Hans Christian Anderson. His stories resonated with me most, many touching on real situations and challenges growing up in a not always friendly world. I still cry when I think of the Little Match Girl and why no one saved her.many touching on real situations and challenges growing up in a not always friendly world. I still cry when I think of the Little Match Girl and why no one saved her. As for illustrators, Nancy Ekholm Burkert was my absolute favorite. She did the most gorgeous illustrations for Snow White, for which she won a Caldecott. Her attention to detail was remarkable- especially enjoyable through a child's eyes. I loved getting lost in her delicate pottery, tableware and costumes. The environments she created were so vivid, you could step right in and join one of the dwarfs for a cup of tea! Her books have always inspired me - many of which still sit on my living room shelf today. ME: What do you know now that you wish you knew when you first started writing? Laurie: Gosh, I hate to look back on all the floundering I did before I discovered the online writing community. I wish I had known there were such marvelous support groups available, and that essential information and guidance on crafting stories was right at my fingertips! Julie Hedlund's 12×12 Picture Book Challenge, Kidlit 411, Children's Book Academy, 50 Precious Words Contest. I eventually found you all, but ooohhh so much time was lost on a "hamster wheel." ME: Where do you like to write - inside, outside, special room, laptop, pen and paper. Laurie: I might jot things down in a notebook, but I much prefer my laptop. Early on, writing papers for school was a huge challenge for me. I couldn't stand working around the scribbles and crossed out sentences. It was like maneuvering through a traffic jam! It may sound silly, but once I began writing in Word, I was amazed at how I was able to get my thoughts down almost as quickly as they came to me. Also, the ability to play with sentence structure is so much more efficient in Word. I need quiet when I write. Usually my studio is the best place to work, or, if my husband isn't home, marching around in his "honey-do work boots) - I'll take over the living room for a few hours. ME: Laurie: My muse has a sense of humor, (don't they all?) She manages to strike at the most inconvenient moments. When I'm falling asleep, driving my car, in the shower or elbow deep making pie crust! Why is that??? I try to keep a pad of paper with me- often jumping out of bed to jot ideas down as they come. If I don't, by the morning, they're lost. I don't have a schedule-when an idea strikes I'll sit down and work through as many details as I can. Then I'll plan the time to write. I'm usually best between 10 am and 2 pm (like the hands on a wheel, lol.) That's when I seem to be most focused to write. It's funny, I can work on an illustration until 3 in the morning! I guess it's a different part of the brain. ME:Why do you write for children? Laurie: I love connecting with kids and tapping in to their imaginations - creating other worlds that a child can relate to and get lost in. One where they are left with another perspective to think about, or where I can make them laugh at their own "secret" behaviors, like picking their nose. Yes, I did! I wrote a story about boogers! ME: Also, if you have any thoughts or advice for aspiring writers, please share. When do you write - early morning, late in the day, middle of the night, on schedule, as the muse strikes? Find a critique group that will help you fine tune your work. I am blessed have found a wonderful group where we all learn from each other. ME: How about anything else you want to talk about that parents, educators, writers, librarians might want to hear? Laurie: We all need a little magic right now. MISADVENTURES OF A MAGICIAN'S SON, takes middle grade readers on an adventure with Alex Finn, and at the same time delves into an array of card manipulations and tricks he and his father shared. I'm planning to host a magic contest, where teachers and educators can reach out to parents, who can post videos of their kids performing their best magic trick. (Date and Details to come.) I'm also available for virtual school visits where I can share with students how I personally approached writing and illustrating the book.
Laurie: Advice for aspiring writers-
Keep working on your craft. Don't let those negative thoughts floating in your head consume you. Talk to them if you must, then put them in a box and lock it. Tell them you'll address them later, but right now, you're busy writing!
ME: And now something sweet from Laurie's kitchen: Laurie: I've been making these cookies for ever. Still one of my favorites 😉
Also, speaking of critique groups, I recently collaborated with one of my amazing critique partners, Kate Allen Fox on a Covid-19 picture e-book. Even Heroes Feel Sad: Fighting Coronavirus Together which provides information for children, while also acknowledging the feelings they may have during this pandemic. Kate worked for the CDC (Center for Disease Control) for eight years-so great attention was paid to ensuring its scientific accuracy, while also creating an enjoyable and comforting read for kids ages 6-9. Little back story here, I had one week to illustrate and design the entire project! Kate and I are thrilled to share this labor of love with everyone. A free downloadable e-book along with a read-aloud on YouTube can be found at: https://www.lskillustration.com/even-heroes-feel-sad-fighting-coronavirus-together/

Mocha Drops with Mocha Frosting

2-1 oz squares of unsweetened chocolate

1-1/2 cups all purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1-6 oz package of semisweet chocolate pieces

Melt shortening and unsweetened chocolate together in microwave or saucepan. Cool 10 minutes. Stir in brown sugar. Beat in egg, vanilla and buttermilk.

Sift dry ingredients together and add to chocolate mixture. Stir in nuts and chocolate pieces. Drop from teaspoo onto greased baking sheet. Bake at 375 for 8-10 minutes. Remove from pan and cool. Frost with mocha frosting and top with walnut half. Makes 3-1/2 dozen cookies.

Mocha Frosting: Cream 1/4 cup of sweet butter, 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, 2 teaspoons of instant espresso powder, and a dash of salt. Beat in 2-1/2 cups of confectioners sugar, 1-1/2 teaspoons of vanilla, and enough milk or cream for spreading consistency.
WOW! What a jam-packed post...plus we are all able to download that free ebook and read-aloud: EVEN HEROES FEEL SAD: FIGHTING CORONAVIRUS TOGETHER. And I loved what you said about needed a little magic right now. I've been rewatching the Harry Potter movies in the evening with my big bowl of popcorn. But now that your book arrived from my local indie, I can't wait to get lost in The Misadventures of a Magician's Son!
( Quick hint- if you're in a rush because and have to get back to writing, you can always buy canned frosting and add the instant espresso and call it a day!)
And don't forget to leave a comment at the end to be entered in the giveaway to win a copy of MISADVENTURES OF A MAGICIAN'S SON. If you share on social media, you earn more tickets for the giveaway hat...so please share the post.
For more info about Laurie and her fabulous mddle grade book that just launched:

Thank you all for stopping by...I hope everyone is staying safe and well. All is good here There are so many free webinars and other online offerings for writers, illustrators, teachers, parents, and kids. What a joy to see this awesome kidlit goodness...and it's a thrill to be part of such a generous community.

Next week I have a Zoom author visit with the 4th graders who attend the local elementary school...they will be missing the previously scheduled May in person author visit...and won't get to see it when we reschedule for next school year because this is a K-4th grade facility and they are going on to another school. I decided to offer a free Zoom just for them...I'm excited to chat about the path to publication and read Making Their Voices Heard: The Inspiring Friendship of Ella Fitzgerald and Marilyn Monroe.
Don't forget to download the free ebook and read-aloud: EVEN HEROES FEEL SAD: FIGHTING CORONAVIRUS TOGETHER from Laurie and Kate: https://www.lskillustration.com/even-heroes-feel-sad-fighting-coronavirus-together/
More good news which many of you probably already saw...my next picture book bio was just announced on PW.

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Laurie Smollett Kutscera: Will Write for Cookies Plus Giveaway

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WILL WRITE FOR COOKIES INSIGHT - INFORMATION - INSPIRATION FOR WRITERS TODAY'S GUEST LAURIE SMOLLETT KUTSCERA Will Write for Cookies is one of my favorite blog series...I hope it's one of yours, too! I love it because I get to connect with some of the best kidlit authors and illustrators.

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Review on Even Heroes Feel Sad: Fighting Coronavirus Together

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Review on Even Heroes Feel Sad: Fighting Coronavirus Together

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The author of the book is Kate Allen Fox and the illustrator is Laurie Smollet Kutscera. The book was published in 2020. And the publishing house is Clearfork/Blue Whale Press. The book was published in USA. The book explains to the children what is coronavirus, what is going on in the world and pacifies children’s emotions by stating that we are all heroes and heroes could feel sad. The theme of the book is that people and heroes are allowed to have negative emotions and that’s absolutely fine. I think this is a great book. It has an excellent entry point is that people’s negative emotions during the pandemic. It is good for children’s development to tell them it’s not wrong to have these kinds of emotions, it is very normal and healthy. Also, the illustration of the book is also perfect. The blue color makes people relax and feel calm. In addition, calling all people heroes makes children have more confidence in fighting the coronavirus. It is great that the author could point out the people who are still working hard to the children. The inaccuracies might also be that the author tend to not describe coronavirus that horrible but it does have a very much bigger damage to us, no matter old or young. It serves the purpose for children during the pandemic very well.

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The author of the resource is Brandon Millman. The resource mainly focuses on the authors of the book. The resource is insightful in making me understanding the authors better and knowing the stories behind the book. Also, it helps me understand better the aim of the book is that to answer the questions which children really have in a clear and straightforward way.

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For adults, navigating the ever-changing developments of the coronavirus outbreak can sometimes be challenging at best. It can be even more difficult for children to process even the basics.

That is what inspired two Montgomery County, Maryland, women to author a new book, " I Have a Question About Coronavirus."

The book is free to download and inside are simple illustrations, with answers to questions kids may be frequently asking parents and other caregivers.

Co-authors Meredith Polsky and Arlen Gaines have written other books that deal with similarly difficult topics, such as cancer, death and divorce.

Initially geared toward children with autism spectrum disorder and other special needs, the new coronavirus edition is designed for all children.

"We started to think about how we were going to approach this with our own children," said Polsky.

"That led us to use our already established template that helps families deal with really difficult topics, and just got to work quickly."

Both Polsky and Gaines are licensed clinical social workers and Polsky also works in special education.

"We do use our expertise with supporting children and families in difficult families... times of loss, and change and transition," Gaines said.

"It's how we can help during this time of uncertain feelings."

The pair said while using metaphors to explain what is going on in the world can work for some children, others need more plain language to help better understand the situation.

"This book is straightforward, with clear language and answered the questions that kids really have," said Polsky.

Gaines added it is OK for parents and others to not have all the answers.

"We are dealing with uncertainty and it can be hard when we can't answer certain questions. There are suggestions and tips, so that the scope can be broadened, to help them think about things and tactics that have helped them through similarly difficult conversations in the past," Gaines said.

One important aspect of the process, according to the two, is for adults to take care of themselves, so they can be at their best to take care of their children.

"Self-care should be a major focus for parents as much as possible," said Gaines.

"It will mean in the end, they can be more effective at helping others get through this difficult time."
Like WTOP on Facebook and follow @WTOP on Twitter to engage in conversation about this article and others. Get breaking news and daily headlines delivered to your email inbox by signing up here.
© 2020 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

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Children's coronavirus questions addressed in new book | WTOP

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For adults, navigating the ever-changing developments of the coronavirus outbreak can sometimes be challenging at best. It can be even more difficult for children to process even the basics. That is what inspired two Montgomery County, Maryland, women to author a new book, " I Have a Question About Coronavirus."

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Review on I Have a Question About Coronavirus: Clear Answers for All Kids

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Review on I Have a Question About Coronavirus: Clear Answers for All Kids

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The authors of the book are Arlen Grad Gaines and Meredith Englander Polsky. The book was published in 2020 and the publishing house is SymbolStix. And the country it was published in is USA. The book was also published in Greek and Spanish except for English. The book answers the questions from children about coronavirus in both stories and pictures. It also includes the advices for parents and caregivers. The theme of the book is to help children to know about coronavirus. I think the book is excellent. Because first of all, the book answers the children’s questions in two ways. The children could read the story and then look at the pictures and retell the stories. It is good for both knowledge and vision for children. Also, the book contains the suggestions for parents and caregivers. The adults could also learn from the book along with the children. This also benefits both the adults and the children. The book is also very clear. The information on each page in not too much either less for children to absorb. However, there are some inaccuracies in the book. For example, the damage that coronavirus causes to children is also a great problem. It is not as easy as the description in the book Overall, the book is useful for the purpose for children during the pandemic.

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Kolo’s unique return to school

‘A story for children navigating the guidelines of COVID-19 and back to school’

The above article was written by  Elizabeth Kleisath on 11th February 2021. This article provides me much information about the author of Kolo’s unique return.  I was amazed when got to know that it was written by an undergraduate student of Biomedical Science. This was Sara's first book, and I learned that she was inspired to write it after noticing that her younger siblings and many of their friends were nervous and confused about returning to school, so she decided to assist them by writing this story, which has inspired me to write as well.

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When Sara Ibrahim was at home over the summer of 2020, she recognized that her younger siblings and many of their friends were anxious and confused about going back to school, especially as the guidelines were changing often.

As a fourth-year biomedical sciences student, Ibrahim realized that she had the skills and knowledge to alleviate some of their stress about what school might be like during the COIVD-19 pandemic.

"It was then that I decided to write a short, illustrated story book and activities at the end of the book, to have the readers engaged and also informed on the rules of physical distancing and staying sanitized," Ibrahim says. "I decided to write a story book in hopes of helping the children in my community. I wanted to communicate a little about the virus in a kid-friendly way for the younger generations, so that they can learn and have their questions answered."

Ibrahim's goal is to someday become a medical doctor. She has always wanted to help others and contribute positively to her community, and hopes that her chosen career path will let her make a difference for others. In the meantime, during the pandemic, she realized that she had the ability to make a difference, even while still a student, by writing this book.

"I wrote the book in a way so it is not age restricted and people of all ages can read and solve the puzzles," Ibrahim says. "I'm hoping this book is a source of information to be used by children, parents and teachers, while also reaching audiences like siblings, aunts and uncles, who can read and discuss the book with children will have a greater impact."

The story itself, titled Kolo's Unique Return to School, follows the main character Kolo as he learns from his parents about the changes that are happening at his school, and then through his first day back, when he adjusts to the new safety requirements, but still finds ways to have fun with his friends. The book outlines guidelines and safety practices in a way that is understandable for children and includes activities at the end to solidify the safety practices described.

In order to ensure that the information included in the book was accurate and did not unintentionally spread misinformation, Ibrahim worked alongside Professor Heidi Engelhardt from the Department of Biology, and used the resources provided by the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and the Government of Canada.

"Sara was in one of my winter 2020 courses. I feel particularly close to that cohort since we all 'pivoted' to online together," Engelhardt says. "When she emailed me in July, pitching her idea about this book, I was really excited about it and impressed that she had the energy to take it on. My role was minimal - looking at a few drafts, and getting her tapped into the local writing community, beginning with a connection I had through the Science Communication courses. The outcome, Kolo, is all Sara's vision."

When she first started this project, Ibrahim thought that writing and illustrating the book would be the hardest part. In the time since the story was written, however, she has faced many challenges. First, her illustrative partner backed out part way through, leaving much of the illustration work to Ibrahim. Then, her publication plans got derailed due to access and resources for self-publishing a printed book, so she settled on an online version. This approach had its own challenges though, as she had to teach herself to code in order to share the book.

"The feeling of finally having this book out is so wonderful," Ibrahim says. "I hope that children can read the book and be better prepared, or have had a reminder on some of the safety precautions before going back to school now that schools are opening up again."

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A story for children navigating the guidelines of COVID-19 and back to school | Waterloo News

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When Sara Ibrahim was at home over the summer of 2020, she recognized that her younger siblings and many of their friends were anxious and confused about going back to school, especially as the guidelines were changing often.

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Kolo’s unique return to school by  Sara Ibrahim

Kolo’s unique return to school is written by a fourth-year biomedical sciences student Sara Ibrahim which was published and illustrated by herself in 2020. The story took place in Canada and was only written in English. Sarah shared the educational story with a large group of educators, parents, and children. In addition to being free to download, it is also available online; The story and activities can be printed or downloaded as a PDF file. Furthermore, this story revolves around the protagonist Kolo, who learns about the changes at his school from his parents and adjusts to the new safety requirements, yet still finds ways to have fun with his friends. This book lays out guidelines and safety practices in an easy-to-understand manner for children, with activities at the end to help them remember what they've learned. The story's main theme is raising awareness about Covid-19. I enjoyed the story because every aspect of the book is designed with children in mind.  Sara crafted her artistic abilities to create the story's images. In short, the main purpose of this book is to  help children understand the rules of social distancing and staying sanitized and also as well as to provide them with accurate and useful information on how to navigate the pandemic physically and mentally.

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Right Now I am fine by Dr. Daniella

https://www.kellysclassroomonline.com/2020/08/mindfulness-for-children.html

Kelly from Kelly's Classroom wrote the above article, which contains useful information about the importance of mindfulness. I like how she introduced mindfulness and its benefits to the readers by encouraging them to read this story. For example :

What is mindfulness?  Why is it important?  How do we do that?

Right Now, I Am Fine by Dr. Daniela Owen answers these questions.

I also learned something new about how practicing mindfulness can benefit children's mental health. Furthermore, we can purchase a physical copy of this book from Amazon worldwide, and we can also watch the full version of the book on YouTube. I've included the following links for your convenience:

https://www.amazon.com/Right-Now-I-Am-Fine/dp/1953177026 ( AMAZON )

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qfs0OTzGFFw ( YOUTUBE )

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There is a lot of talk these days about mindfulness. It's the latest craze in health and wellness. We see memes about it on social media, books about it in stores and libraries, videos about it on YouTube, etc. We often told to be more mindful and to help our students and children become more mindful. But what does that mean? What is mindfulness? Why is it important? How do we do that? by Dr. Daniela Owen answers these questions and more. Keep reading to learn Right Now, I Am Fine.

Author's Summary

Dr. Daniela Owen, Ph.D., an assistant professor of clinical psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, has published her first book specifically to help children deal with the complications of stress and anxiety from the COVID Epidemic. This book is a mindfully written self-help guide to aid children in dealing with stress and anxiety, by uncovering their emotions and following a simple calming routine. Dr. Daniela Owen, Ph.D. is a clinical child psychologist in the San Francisco Bay Area. She works primarily with children, adolescents, and their families and specializes in using evidence-based treatments to help with managing anxiety, worry, anger, and low mood. Through her children's books, Daniela brings to life concepts and strategies that can be helpful for children everywhere.

🍎 Title: Right Now, I Am Fine
🍎 Author: Dr. Daniela Owen
🍎 Illustrator: Gülce Baycik
🍎 Publisher: Puppy Dogs & Ice Cream Inc

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the art of being able to pay attention and stay focused on the present without worrying about what happened in the past or what will happen in the future. It is a state of mind. When we are mindful we able to calmly acknowledge and accept our feelings, thoughts, and surroundings without having to pass judgment on them. In its simplest definition, mindfulness is about noticing what is happening right now.

Why is being mindful important for us (and our students)?

Practicing mindfulness can provide benefits to our mental and physical health. When we teach mindfulness strategies to our students, we can help them reduce stress, build their confidence, and help them cope with new and challenging scenarios. Specifically, mindfulness helps us by:

decreasing anxiety

decreasing depression

decreasing moodiness and irritability

reducing outbursts and disruptive behavior

improving mood and happiness

improving self-esteem and self-confidence

improving emotional stability

improving focus, learning ability, and memory

increasing the ability to manage their problems

How do we help our students become more mindful?

Unfortunately, mindfulness is not something we can purchase in the store. It is not something we can learn one day and have complete mastery the next. It is definitely not a one-and-done activity. Mindfulness is a skill that needs to be taught and practiced regularly.

One simple strategy to get our students thinking about mindfulness and ways to become more mindful is to engage them with book talks. For example, Right Now, I Am Fine by Dr. Daniela Owen is a new book that just came out this summer. This would be a terrific book for introducing mindfulness. It helps children recognize how they may be feeling in response to stressful events, lets them know it's OK to have those feelings, and teaches them an easy breathing, self-soothing technique.

First, picture-walk through the story. Discuss what the students see in the pictures and help them make predictions.

Second, read and discuss the story with the students. Allow them to talk about times in which they felt nervous or anxious.

Third, practice the breathing technique that is described in the book. Talk about how everyone felt before they tried the breathing technique and how they felt afterward. Practice this breathing at various points throughout the day and the remainder of the week.

To learn more about Right Now, I Am Fine, watch this video by Dr. Daniela Owen

Have you tried integrating mindfulness into your daily routines? How has it worked for you? What are some mindfulness techniques you have used that were successful? Share your ideas in the comments below!

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Right Now, I Am Fine by Dr. Daniela Owen

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There is a lot of talk these days about mindfulness. It's the latest craze in health and wellness. We see memes about it on social media, books about it in stores and libraries, videos about it on YouTube, etc. We often told to be more mindful and to help our students and children become more mindful.

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Right  Now I am fine By Dr Daniella

This amazing book is from San Francisco, written by clinical psychologist Dr. Daniella Owen and illustrated by Hannah Hart. It was published in English by River + Pearls Inc in 2020. ‘Right Now I am Fine’ is a coping colouring book that talks about the ways we can deal with stress and anxiety especially during this pandemic. Besides, it  explains what we can do to keep our mind and body calm during this hard time. The major theme of this story is Self-care. It demonstrates calming routines such as breathing practices, self hugging, drawing, reading which ensures that children do not feel alone. I believe this book is very important among kids because the younger we start talking about mental health, the easier it will be. This book emphasises the importance of remembering that "we are fine, right now." Moreover, the illustrations were simple, but they were detailed and colourful. I love everything about this book. It contains a wonderful message which teaches the children what is going on in the world and how to overcome it in a positive way which is particularly relevant now, but useful at all times. All in all, it’s a self-guide book on how to control emotions and motivate ourselves during this pandemic.

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The Great Doggy Holiday By Sebastian Gonzalez

‘The Great Doggy Holiday’ is written by a six- year- old first grader named Sebastian Gonzalez. This book was published in the year 2020 by MG Communication Press in Hawaii. Besides, this colourful book was only written in English.

The author of this story used his real-life events, memories, pets, and feelings in his writing. The protagonist of the story, Blue Gonzalez is Sebastian’s  pet; He used first-person narrative and made the readers feel how a dog can feel about the current pandemic situation. Even though he is not capable of understanding the current situation, Blue truly knows that something is not right and notices every single change.

The major theme of the story is  hope and being grateful. It teaches children to cherish every moment they are living instead of complaining and gives them hope that this too shall pass. It also teaches kids to love and treat animals well.

In my opinion, this story is unique because it makes the readers travel in the doggy’s shoes. Kids can learn how a four-year-old Labrador mix  expresses his feelings and how strange he finds the new normal. For example, He noticed that only adults are allowed to go out and they are wearing a strange cover that looks funny to him (mask). Children can also realize that dogs can be a loyal companion and a good friend to us.

In conclusion,  there are no major errors in the story, but one thing that doesn’t make sense is the doggy is  missing his great holiday at the same time he also doesn’t want the current situation to end.

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Hotel Flamingo Life in Lockdown is written and illustrated by Alex Milway. The book is a part of a book series collection. It is published by Piccadily Press in 2020.

Besides, this book follows Anna and her animal friends who try their best to keep Hotel Flamingo afloat despite not being able to have new guests in a pandemic. At first, they were worried they might go bankrupt because of the lack of guests. But eventually, they managed to find a way to open a food delivery service.

Moreover, the theme of the book is about the lockdown aspect of Covid-19. The citizens of Animal Boulevard were advised to practice social distancing, regularly cleanse their hands as well as wear face masks in public.

In my opinion, I believe that this book is more suitable for older children as it is quite a lengthy chaptered book. Plus, it uses difficult words like "dishevelled", "boulevard" and "travesty." As a result, the younger ones would not understand most of the words. Also, this book does not mention in detail or provide any demonstrations about any health regulations in accordance with the World Health Organization like washing hands for a minute. One of the lessons in this books is we should adapt to the new changes in our lives. No matter how unexpected they are. For instance, Hotel Flamingo went from serving guests to providing accommodation for the homeless animals. This shows how they managed to turn lemons into lemonade.

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Book Review: The Story of the Oyster and the Butterfly: The Corona Virus and Me

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Book Review: The Story of the Oyster and the Butterfly: The Corona Virus and Me

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Secondly, the next storybook is written by Ana M Gomez and designed by Sergio Aguirre. It was published in 2020. In addition to that, this storybook is also published in 20 languages such as Afrikaans, Creole and German. Due to the fact that the author's mission is to nurture health and wellness on a worldwide scale.

Furthermore, this book is one part activity book and one part storybook. This is done in order to make the children more engaged and interact more with the lessons in the book. It talks about how children can use their 'superpowers' during a pandemic. In this context, superpowers are referred to children's ability to express their emotions about Covid-19.

The theme of the book is expressing emotions in a healthy way during a pandemic. It is important to remember that children are experiencing all these big new changes and feelings during unprecedented times. Oftentimes, they have trouble expressing their emotions. This book will be useful for children as it will guide them on ways they can regulate their emotions in regards to Covid-19. For instance, they can use the power of breathing or do the butterfly dance.

On the other hand, I think this book is a wonderful book for children who are overwhelmed with the pandemic. Eventhough this book is targeted towards children, but I feel like the contents in this book are suitable for people of all ages. For instance, the author mentions how a caterpillar has to spend time with itself in a silk cocoon in order to transform into a butterfly. In other words, we are growing our wings in our hard times. One of my favourite quotes in this book is when the author mentions that "Ignoring feelings does not help us. Remember, feelings are messengers and the more we listen and talk about them the better we will feel in the long run!" It is crucial to remember that we should respect our feelings as our emotions are a part of us. Also, every part of us is precious.

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The first storybook I have chosen is titled I Love You written by Michael Ross and illustrated by Bruno Iradukunda. This book is published in 2020 by a publishing house called LFa International Inc. Nabu Org. It has been published in two languages which are Kinyarwanda and English.

Furthermore, this book is about how a young girl named Kwizera handled the emotional repercussions of not being able to visit her grandparents due to the pandemic. In addition to that, the theme of the book is familial love. For a child, not being able to be physically affectionate with their loved ones is pure torture which is why their parents need to explain the current situation to them. For example, her mother gently explains that there is a virus spreading and as old people are vulnerable to the disease, they cannot visit the grandpararents.

I think that this is a very heartwarming story that talks about the emotional effects of Covid-19. Oftentimes, it is the children who get neglected as they do not know what is going on and suddenly they cannot hug grandpa or kiss grandma. Due to that fact, this book is useful for the children during a pandemic as it comforts their emotional distress. One of my favourite quotes in this storybook is when the mother tell her daughter that love is an all-powerful source. It can penetrate thick walls, steep mountains and even the deepest valleys. Love is unstoppable and not even a glass window separating Kwizera and her grandparents can break that connection. This was a lovely reminder that love reaches all parts of the world, regardless of distance.

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Book Review: When Virona the Corona came to Town, by Hailey Glynn

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Book Review: When Virona the Corona came to Town, by Hailey Glynn

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When Virona the Corona came to Town was written and illustrated by Hailey Glynn in the 18th May 2020.  The book was self-published in the United States and is currently only available in English.

The book narrates in the third person perspective of MaryEllen’s life when Virona the Corona came to the town she lived. The book explicate what Virona did to the world, such as closing restaurants and schools, and inciting fear in everyone. The narrator continues to make use of MaryEllen’s life to teach and expose children on what to do to keep themselves safe during the pandemic, such as wearing a mask, washing hands and staying at home. The book also talks about front-liners doing their job behind the scene and the importance of appreciating family and friends. The theme of this book is self-care during pandemic, like how MaryEllen learns to be safe and happy when she is stuck at home.

In my opinion, this book covers everything a child has to know about the Covid-19 pandemic. It has the basic facts of Covid-19, the methods to prevent one from being infected, the front-liners, and how to maintain good mental health during the pandemic. The poem-like narrative makes it more beautiful and easily read to children. However, I think that the personification of Covid-19 as “Virona” (Glynn 1) without explanation about the original reference will make it difficult for young children to read and understand it by themselves. Children may also find it hard to relate Virona to this Covid-19 virus as it is very abstract.

The is no inaccuracy in information, but there is an error in the story where MaryEllen went out to kick Virona when she saw a rainbow. This scene is contradictory to the story as the people are supposed to stay at home and not go out. The book could be improved if the children are given the information about who or what Virona represents during the Covid-19 pandemic. The book is useful and had managed to serve its purpose in educating children about pandemic, however guidance from teachers and parents are required to help younger children to further understand the contents.

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When Virona The Corona Came To Town | Read Aloud | Simply Storytime

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Book Review: What is Social Distancing, by Lindsey Coker Luckey

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Book Review: What is Social Distancing, by Lindsey Coker Luckey

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The book, What is Social Distancing, by Lindsey Coker Luckey was published in 31st March 2020. Unlike most books, this book is independently published by the author in the United States. The illustration of the book was illustrated by Nav. Currently, the book is only in English.

What is Social Distancing narrates the conversation between Logan and Carleigh about the “pandemic” (Luckey 4) and social distancing. The conversation continues to explain why children could not go to school during the pandemic and what methods to keep them safe from the virus. The theme of this book is the importance of social distancing and self-hygiene during pandemic.

In my opinion, the book is not suitable for younger children as it has difficult language, such as long dialogues, and complicated concepts. However, the dialogues used in the story is relatable and realistic if read to or by the intended audience. For example, Carleigh’s complaints about the pandemic reflects many children’s desire and struggles. The book also explains the importance of keeping our healthcare worker safe and methods to keep ourselves safe from the virus.

There is a lack of information in the book regarding the methods to keep us safe from Covid-19, which is the absence of information regarding mask wearing. The lack of introduction about Logan and Carleigh could also bring misunderstanding, as they could be hypocritical friends who did not follow the method to keep themselves safe or siblings within the same household. There is also a lack of dialogue tags, making it harder to read. Although the book serves it purpose to teach children about social distancing, it is not suitable or useful for younger children due to its language and grammar mistakes.

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Book Review: Covid-19 Helpers, by Beth Bacon

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Book Review: Covid-19 Helpers, by Beth Bacon

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The book, Covid-19 Helpers, was written by Beth Bacon. It was published in 3rd November 2020 under the publication house name, Blair. The country where the story was published was in the United States. The book was illustrated by Kary Lee. So far, Covid-19 Helpers are not published in other languages except English.

Covid-19 Helpers tells a story in the third person narrator of what happened during the spring of 2020, when the Covid-19 becomes serious, and how adults and kids can help in preventing the spread of the “brand new disease” (Bacon 7). The theme of the book could be the help and responsibilities of different people in society during the pandemic.

In my opinion, I think the book provides a good amount of details and exposure in the works or occupations done behind the scene during the pandemic. However, the story only focuses mostly on the front-liners, such as healthcare workers, leaders, researchers and so on. The good side of this is that they included easily overlooked occupations, like truck drivers, farmers, and garbage collector, which could help promote appreciation in children towards everyone around them no matter rich or poor. On the other hand, the book did not illustrate the struggles of people who could not survive or lost their jobs during the pandemic, hence making it one less learning experience for children to be empathetic.

There are no apparent inaccuracy of information or error in the book, however there are lack of illustration and demonstration for methods to “avoid getting Covid-19” (19). The book does serves it purpose to teach children about the basic facts of the virus during the pandemic. However, it is not very useful when it comes to teaching children how to protect themselves from the virus.

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Additional Resources for Wang Can - A Message from Corona by Charity Tedder

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Additional Resources for Wang Can - A Message from Corona by Charity Tedder

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The article was reviewed by Fiona Mitchell. The article was about how authors’ works communicate with the children to understand about Covid-19. We agree with the article as Mitchell said that it may confuse the children and encourage children to blame and shame. The article helped us to understand the book better as it gets quite confusing when the author asks the students to spot the wrongdoings of the people illustrated.

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Communicating with children about COVID-19

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Not all books currently on the market will suit or appeal to all children, so having a variety of resources available to explain this difficult time to children is important. Some children will assimilate messaging better if it is presented within a story, while others will find that the fiction clouds their understanding.

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Additional Resources for Liu Ruiqi - Keeping the City Going by Brian Floca

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Additional Resources for Liu Ruiqi - Keeping the City Going by Brian Floca

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The review was written by the kirkusreviews. They explained the purpose of the book. Apparently, Floca made the book from a different perspective to show the children that the people who are outside are the essential workers during Covid-19. Floca made us understand that the book is from a narration of an observant child who observes things that are happening outside of their house. The reviewer helped us to understand the book style of writing from a different perspective; an observant child.

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An award-winning New York City author/illustrator thanks all the risk-taking essential workers.

In the first days, weeks, and months of the Covid-19 pandemic, life on city streets changed from busy congestion to an eerie quiet. Two children, looking concerned, gaze out from their apartment-house window at a strangely empty scene. Almost the only souls about are delivering food on bikes, hauling flats in supermarkets, or driving buses, trains, and taxis. Sanitation workers, letter carriers, and utility workers continue their work on and under the streets. Firefighters, police officers, and hospital workers are busy. Diverse apartment-house dwellers play their appreciative part, though. Every evening at 7:00 they erupt into a cacophony: noisily cheering, banging pots, and blowing musical instruments. "We are here together." The narration is in the voice of a very observant child who has not lost their sense of humor, voicing some doubts about a nonessential online purchase. A community spirit shines in the use of we. Floca's signature illustrations offer meticulously detailed renditions of city buildings and a wide assortment of urban vehicles. Everyone is properly masked. The evening cheers have stopped, but the gratitude has not. The story was first developed as a YouTube video, and here the sound effects are missing, but they can be easily and enthusiastically added by young readers. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10-by-18-inch double-page spreads viewed at 64.9% of actual size.)

Essential reading about essential workers that is informative, reassuring, and positive. (author's note) (Picture book. 4-8)

Did you like this book?

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An award-winning New York City author/illustrator thanks all the risk-taking essential workers. In the first days, weeks, and months of the Covid-19 pandemic, life on city streets changed from busy congestion to an eerie quiet. Two children, looking concerned, gaze out from their apartment-house window at a strangely empty scene.

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Additional Resources for Nas - The Magic Cure by Anna Ralph

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Additional Resources for Nas - The Magic Cure by Anna Ralph

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Based on our reading of the review by Lauren Roberts, we understood that the story is written to make Covid-19 less scary for the children. However, we disagree on how it is written as it does not really serve its purposes of educating the children about the disease. There are some parts that adults would get if this was an adult book but as for educating the children, we don’t agree on how the writing should be. If the author were to write a book on educating children about the virus, it should be clear and easy for the children to understand although we understand that maybe the author wanted children who have read the story to ask more about the hidden meaning of the book. However, the review cleared us from the style of writing of the author.

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Professor Anna Ralph is the director of Global and Tropical Health at Menzies School of Health Research and a practising infectious diseases specialist at Royal Darwin Hospital.

The Magic Cure tells the story of two human siblings, an elf, a wizard and the search for a cure for a mystery illness

It's the first children's book Professor Ralph has written

She has, however, written about 80 articles for medical journals

She's also a parent to six-year-old Vita.

When the COVID-19 pandemic reached Australian shores, Professor Ralph said she started taking more work phone calls at home, which meant her daughter was hearing about coronavirus.

As the world went into lockdown, words such as "social distancing" entered Vita's vocabulary, playgrounds closed, playdates were cancelled and their Easter camping trip was postponed.

Shortly after the pandemic began, Vita turned to Professor Ralph and asked: "Mum, are you worried about coronavirus? Should I be worried?"

Professor Ralph told her daughter not to worry, but that during the pandemic everyone should take extra care to wash their hands regularly and avoid contact with other people.

She also reminded Vita that many doctors - including her mum - were working hard to help people who were sick and to find a vaccine.

Read our full coverage of the coronavirus pandemic

The Magic Cure

Following that conversation with Vita, and after speaking with other parents at school, Professor Ralph realised there was very little information about COVID-19 aimed at children.

So, she decided to write a book.

The Magic Cure tells the story of two siblings, as well as Bromley the elf and Mavros the wizard, and their search for a cure to a mystery illness which is making elves unwell.

Together, they come up with a plan to stop disease spreading, but the elves complain and the group needs to convince them that going into their own individual bubbles is the best way to keep all the elves safe.

"What I didn't want to do is be morally preachy - but to empower kids," Professor Ralph said.

"The whole world has never been through something like this before."

While she'd never written a children's book, the Darwin doctor has written about 80 articles for medical journals and said there was some overlap with the style.

"As a medical researcher, I've spent my life writing," Professor Ralph said.

"You have to be very concise, you've got to really cut down your writing."

Your questions on coronavirus answered:
Making COVID-19 a bit less 'scary'

Bridget Myerscough, the book's illustrator, is Vita's babysitter.

Ms Myerscough was meant to be in Melbourne studying visual arts at Monash University this year - but the COVID-19 pandemic uprooted that plan.

"I was only at uni for a week and a half before I had to come back to Darwin," she said.

Ms Myerscough is now finishing her degree online, and says the silver lining to returning home is being able to take on new projects, such as illustrating The Magic Cure.

"For younger children, [COVID-19] can be very big and very scary and overwhelming," she said.

"I wanted to make the changes not seem so scary, reassure kids that it will be OK."

Ms Myerscough's dad worked as a GP in Darwin, and said many of his patients had asked for resources to help reassure young kids about coronavirus.

'Really good feedback'

The images and story are aimed at a slightly younger audience than Vita, and Professor Ralph said while her daughter wasn't as enamoured with The Magic Cure as she might have hoped, the book still had the six-year-old's tick of approval.

"It didn't have her on the edge of her seat the way Harry Potter does," Professor Ralph laughed.

Coronavirus questions answered

Breaking down the latest news and research to understand how the world is living through an epidemic, this is the ABC's Coronacast podcast.

Read more

"I just wanted to get the book out there - I've had a lot of really good feedback so far."

Professor Ralph said The Magic Cure was self-published in order to produce it as quickly as possible, given the quickly evolving nature of the coronavirus pandemic.

When the book was being written in early April, Australia was a very difference place.

For most of March, Australia's count of confirmed coronavirus cases doubled every 3-4 days. However, it has since taken a turn and slowed significantly, although experts warn the trend may not be sustained.

"We've actually moved on, even from the time we've written this book," Professor Ralph said.

"Australia-wide we've had fewer cases, we're in a really privileged position."

Professor Ralph urged parents to keep following Australian health advice.

The Magic Cure is available free online.

Find out more What you need to know about coronavirus:

Space to play or pause, M to mute, left and right arrows to seek, up and down arrows for volume.

The Virus

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'Mum, are you worried about coronavirus?': Professor pens book to help kids understand

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Professor Anna Ralph is the director of Global and Tropical Health at Menzies School of Health Research and a practising infectious diseases specialist at Royal Darwin Hospital.

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Additional Resources for Eva - Good Morning Zoom a Parody by Lindsay Rechler 

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Additional Resources for Eva - Good Morning Zoom a Parody by Lindsay Rechler 

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The review is written by Stephanie Tournas. It helped us to understand the book better as it is humorous. The story is written in a rhyming form but we have to disagree with Tournas as it is never too late to educate children with the new challenges that the world has to offer. The review does not help us to contribute to understanding the story much as she was just recapting the events that happened in the story.

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Additional Resources: If You Can't Bear Hug, Air Hug

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Additional Resources: If You Can't Bear Hug, Air Hug

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The review by themommaspot opened our eyes because it helped us to see that if we really love our loved ones, we would follow the instructions during a pandemic. If we practice the new norms, it means that we can protect our loved ones from getting the disease. We agree with the reviewer that Katie portrayed numerous ways to show love.

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by Katie Sedmak

Join fuzzy bears, flapping owls, and more adorable animal friends as they prove that distance can't overcome love and friendship!

"If You Can't Bear Hug, Air Hug" is an uplifting book of rhymes for children that explores the creative ways animals might show affection while socially distancing and delivers a reassuring message of love and resilience.

Our Home Gives This Book

Rating: 5 out of 5.

What an amazing book, especially during the times we are facing now. It's hard to explain to a child why they aren't able to hug their family, this book shows them alternatives. Social distancing has got to be hard for a little mind to grasp, all they know is that they are missing people they used to see often and when they do see them they aren't allowed to hug or sit on a lap. To me I think this probably makes them feel unloved, even though it's exactly the opposite. They love you so much that they aren't willing to maybe get you sick. Katie did a fantastic job describing ask the different ways you can show love. She is also the person behind the gorgeous illustrations. Overall, we loved this book.

The Author & Illustrator

Katie Sedmak is a writer and illustrator based in Atlanta, Georgia, where she lives with her husband and her cat, Critter.

Since earning her degree from Savannah College of Art and Design, Katie has been working as an advertising art director. Not long ago, she decided to finally make her childhood dream of writing and illustrating children's books a reality. She began working on two picture books. "If You Can't Bear Hug, Air Hug" is her first to be published.

As a writer, Katie is particularly drawn to stories and book concepts that help children navigate their emotional lives and inspire them to be their best. As an illustrator, she especially loves illustrating animals! (Can you tell?)

Huge thank you to Katie for gifting me this book so I could share this review with you. Now is the absolutely perfect time to get your copy, just click on the book below!

For everyone that stopped by, I appreciate the love and support. I wouldn't be here without you all! Have a wonderful day!

I'm a 41yr old SAHM. I've got a wonderful husband and an adorable toddler. I'm a huge advocate for hands on learning and reading. I'll be sharing books from our home library as well as some cool learning toys we've come across! Thanks for coming by! View all posts by One Blessed Momma

Published

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If You Can't Bear Hug, Air Hug by Katie Sedmak Join fuzzy bears, flapping owls, and more adorable animal friends as they prove that distance can't overcome love and friendship! "If You Can't Bear Hug, Air Hug" is an uplifting book of rhymes for children that explores the creative ways animals might show affection while...

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The review is written by readerfox. The review helped us to understand that not all heroes wear capes. In this pandemic, everyone can be a superhero by just wearing a mask to prevent the disease from spreading. The reviewer’s wish is relatable as we are currently living in a world full of selfish people; to relate it to the pandemic, it would be the anti-vaccines and anti-masks.

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We're both really saying, "I care about you."

Marla Lesage's We Wear Masks is probably one of the most important books you could read to your children right now. Of course, this is the kind of book that probably won't be relevant far in future. But right now, with the current way the world is, it sends an incredibly important message that unfortunately a large number of adults still don't seem to understand.

Masks in General

The great thing about this book is that it highlights the usefulness of all masks, not just the ones that protect others from contracting COVID. Masks protect us in the hospital, on a ranch, in space, and underwater. And the truth is that a little bit of discomfort is worth the lives that could be saved and protected from wearing one. Not only do you learn new things from reading this book, but it sends such an incredibly important message.

Beautiful

The illustrations are also phenomenal. They're honestly perfect for engaging children in reading. But they are also just excellent pieces of art in general. And honestly, I just absolutely adore the look of this book. It is page to page with absolutely brilliant art, from beneath the ocean to high in outer space.

A Wish

I wish we lived in a world where people weren't selfish. I wish that this wasn't a controversial topic of discussion. And I wish that everyone had the critical thinking skills to recognize the truth about the usefulness of masks. Unfortunately, we don't. And so books like this one exist to help educate the world. Hopefully, our children will be a smarter generation than the one currently running things.

I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

🦊🦊🦊🦊🦊

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We Wear Masks [Marla Lesage] - Reader Fox

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We're both really saying, "I care about you." Marla Lesage's We Wear Masks is probably one of the most important books you could read to your children right now. Of course, this is the kind of book that probably won't be relevant far in future. But right now, with the current way the world is,...

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Additional Resources: Now Wash Your Hands!

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Additional Resources: Now Wash Your Hands!

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The review is written by Carol Carter. The review from Carter made us understand that Carr’s trademark in illustrating is by using vibrant colours and the book was suitable for the Nursery and Year 1. This review from her helped us to understand the use of rhymes and songs in the story as it could be targeted for the children in the Nursery or Year 1.

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Additional Resources: The World Made A Rainbow

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Additional Resources: The World Made A Rainbow

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The review is written by thebookactivist. The review left by the thebookactivist is about they see the book as an encouragement to get through the pandemic. We have to agree with her that when we read the book we felt more encouraged to live through it and it is written in an empathetic tone. Hence, this review has helped us to understand the story better.

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First published in September 2020 by Bloomsbury, with a proportion of proceeds for every sale going to Save the Children, The World Made a Rainbow is a delightful and moving story sharing a message of hope for young children and families - that is relevant for any day you might be feeling blue. Bestselling author Michelle Robinson was desperate to find a way to help small children navigate their way through the complex emotions caused by the lockdown. With charming illustrations from new talent Emily Hamilton, The World Made a Rainbow is the ideal picture book to share with all the family, giving them just the lift and spark of hope needed at this time.

I will happily admit, that as we live through another lockdown, and as life feels a bit like a never-ending hamster wheel, this story was just the encouragement I needed when I read it. Empathy and understanding pours from every page, as a little girl and her mum decide to make a rainbow to help everyone feel better about being stuck at home. Soon her Dad and her brother are helping too, bringing the family together as they create a symbol of hope for all and recall the happy times they have shared. Told with a rhyming narrative and bright and colourful illustrations, the story cleverly highlights all the things we might miss most whilst having to stay at home- family, friends, school days, going outside on adventures. And it reminds us that all those things are still there and will be there when this time comes to an end, and we will be able to make new memories, together.

Gemma Sherrington, Executive Director of Fundraising and Marketing at Save the
Children said: "The money raised from the sale of this heartwarming book will go towards supporting Save the Children's programmes to help every child reach their full potential and to make sure they stay safe, healthy and learning."

To explore the themes in the book with young children, you can use the activity pack to help with opportunities to think about the things that make you happy and colour your own rainbow.

As we approach #BookGivingDay 2021, I can't think of a better book to gift a child (and their family) at this time - or any day when life isn't quite where you want it to be.
With thanks to Bloomsbury for sharing this title with me. Find out more at www.bloomsbury.com

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New review: The World Made a Rainbow by Michelle Robinson illustrated by Emily Hamilton

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First published in September 2020 by Bloomsbury, with a proportion of proceeds for every sale going to Save the Children, The World Made a Rainbow is a delightful and moving story sharing a message of hope for young children and families - that is relevant for any day you might be feeling blue.

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Additional Resources from friends (Amirul Amin Bin Abdul Latip- 203404)	

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Additional Resources from friends (Amirul Amin Bin Abdul Latip- 203404)	

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We were struggling to find the last book for our book review until Amin shared us a link https://sites.newpaltz.edu/news/2021/02/an-unusual-situation-childrens-book/ that was posted on the SUNY New Paltz blogpost. The blogpost contained the pdf file for “An Unusual Situation” which is children’s book written by Cassandre Surinon. This resource helped us in finding the last book needed for us to complete the assignment.

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)
Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)
https://www.kidshealth.org.nz/resources-help-explain-coronavirus-covid-19-children

This is another great website to find Covid-19 children’s storybooks. It also contains the PDF version of the books as well as the information about the author and the book itself. It is published by the KidsHealth organization. This website is helpful in finding the different types of Covid-19 children storybooks as there are plenty of options to choose from.

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)
Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)
https://www.slj.com/?detailStory=12-books-to-get-parents-through-covid19-and-beyond

This website provides many different children's books that cover topics related to Covid-19 as well as other issues. The website contains the list of authors and all the necessary information about the book. The author of this site is Julia Reffner and is published by the School Library Journal. This website is great to find stories about Covid-19 that are meant for children reading

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Additional Resources       The Coronasaurus Rex by Jade Willington

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Additional Resources       The Coronasaurus Rex by Jade Willington

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)
Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)
https://www.nottinghampost.com/news/local-news/mansfield-teachers-coronasaurus-rex-book-4082341

This article written by Andrew Topping for the Nottinghamshire live website for The Coronasaurus Rex provides the backstory on the conception of the book by the author Jade Millington. This article is very helpful in understanding the background of the book better as we see where the author gets the inspiration for the Coronasaurus Rex.

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Additional Resources   Chris' Mask Nightmare by DACC Education Club Members  

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Additional Resources   Chris' Mask Nightmare by DACC Education Club Members  

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)
Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)
https://dacc.nmsu.edu/in-the-media/2021/03/18/dacc-education-students-write-childrens-book-on-pandemic/

The university official blog post provides the background behind the conception of the story with statements from the student’s professor as well as the link to access the story. This blog post helped in understanding the context of the book and the intentions of the authors in writing this story.

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Additional Resources People Who Help by Phoebe Coghland

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Additional Resources People Who Help by Phoebe Coghland

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)
Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t64J9St5mSQ&ab_channel=Storyberries

The narration video of the poem helps us to have a clearer look of the poem because at first we were a bit reluctant to choose this poem as our one of our book choices. The poem narration makes the poem become more fun and entertaining to listen to for everyone of all ages

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Book Review #5                The Coronasaurus Rex by Jade Willington

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Book Review #5                The Coronasaurus Rex by Jade Willington

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)
Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)

The Coronasaurus Rex is a children’s illustrated story book written by Jade Millington. The Book was independently published by the author on the 21st June 2020 and was made available for free on her Instagram globally. The book was first published in Mansfield, England as it was where the author originated and it is only available in English. The book was co-illustrated by Jade herself and her friend Gary Armstrong. The Coronasaurus Rex illustrates the story of Billy who is currently under lockdown trying to understand what is happening with the world, Billy thinks that a dinosaur, a Coronasaurus Rex is the one wreaking havoc around the world and plans to stop him. Billy’s mum is able to explain to him about the situation and tells him what they must do to ensure their own and others' safety. The theme of the book is children’s confusion and innocence over the Coronavirus pandemic as Billy was not aware of the full situation that resulted in him imagining dinosaurs as the cause of him being stuck at home. This book is a fun and interesting way to get children properly informed on the pandemic as it promotes the proper ways to keep themselves and others safe such as washing their hands and maintaining social distance. The illustrations of the Coronasaurus Rex would help children understand better the true dangers of the “tiny bug” and would give them a sense of hope. The book would be a good educational tool for children struggling to keep up with everything happening.

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Book Review #4             Chris' Mask Nightmare by DACC Education Club Members  

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Book Review #4             Chris' Mask Nightmare by DACC Education Club Members  

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)
Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)

Chris Mask Nightmare was written and illustrated by the students in the education department at Doña Ana Community College and was published by the school on March 18th 2021. It was published in the United States and is only available in English. The story follows  Chris who is afraid to wear his mask to school but then he conquers his fears when he sees other children are also wearing it while also making new friends after a brief explanation about germs and imagination. The theme of the book is creativity, Chris uses his creativity to turn something dull and scary into something cool and fun. Furthermore, his creativity inspired his classmates as well. The overall message of the book was to encourage children into wearing masks during this pandemic time. However in the climax, Chris made some customization to his mask which in real life may cause some real harm as it would destroy the medical purpose of the face mask. The standard three-ply mask is very delicate and to make some changes to it such as painting and adding other parts to the mask like Chris did would render it unfit for the children to use. Chris already saw that the normal mask was not so scary when he saw other kids wearing it thus the need to customize it was unnecessary. The story's strong encouragement for children to wear masks is hampered by the errors of customizing the mask.

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Book Review #3 Coronavirus Heroes: Life During a Pandemic by Joanna Lin, Hikmah Okoya, Emma Hahesy, Basmattie Dookie

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Book Review #3 Coronavirus Heroes: Life During a Pandemic by Joanna Lin, Hikmah Okoya, Emma Hahesy, Basmattie Dookie

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)
Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)

Coronavirus Heroes: Life During a Pandemic is a children’s illustration book written by Joanna Lin, Hikmah Okoya, Emma Hahesy and Basmattie Dookie. It was also illustrated by Lin and Okoya. It was published on 9th April 2021 by Bear Bud Books, Maine, United States. The PDF version of the book is available on Bowdoin College official website but in English language only. The book is a story about a girl named Charlie who is struggling to adapt with the new norms due to a pandemic. One day she had a breakdown and expresses her frustration towards online classes, not being able to go out and meet her friends to her mother, the latter explains to her that the current situation is dangerous to go outside. When she asks her mother why her friend’s father, who is a nurse, can go out, the latter explains to her that it is because he is one of the heroes who is risking himself to help the society during this tough time. Then, her mother told her that even Charlie herself is a hero as she stays at home to avoid the risk of getting infected by the virus. At the end of the story, her mother suggests to her how to express her feelings through the correct channel. The theme of the book is to teach children on how to adapt with the new COVID-19 norms. In our opinion, the book serves its purpose during this pandemic time because it displays every childrens’ struggle during this time with online classes and missing their friends. The book also explains why some people are allowed to go out because of their job. Also, we like how the book is inclusive for children who have a single parent because Charlie’s father is nowhere to be seen in this story. The illustrations of the book are also pleasant to look at because there are a lot of fun colours used in the illustrations.

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Book Review #2           People Who Help by Phoebe Coghland 

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Book Review #2           People Who Help by Phoebe Coghland 

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)
Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)

People Who Help is a children’s illustration book published by Storyberries.com, a website in Australia in 2020. The book was written by Phoebe Coghlan and illustrated by Alina Tkachenko. The PDF file is available on the website but in English only. It is a poem about the frontliners that are working hard to keep society safe and secure during this time of pandemic. The frontliners that are mentioned in the poem are nurses, teachers, police and many more. Coghlan wrote about each job role of said occupations throughout the book. For instance, she described the nurses’ job is to take medical tests on a patient and teachers’ job is to give the students knowledge about the world. However, the last stanza of the poem is an advice to the children on how to help during this difficult time; give your friend a smile and tell them “I love you”!. The theme of the poem is to appreciate the hard-working frontliners who act as our knights during this COVID-19 situation. In our opinion, this book served its purpose during this pandemic because it introduces the children to people who are working in order to keep them safe from the disease and make this pandemic situation less nerve-wrecking. This book will also help children to learn about occupations which is important for them to know since they are a part of the society. Also, we enjoyed the illustrations in the book as they clearly depicted each frontliners and how they do their jobs.

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Book Review #1                   An Unusual Situation by Cassandre Surinon

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Book Review #1                   An Unusual Situation by Cassandre Surinon

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Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407)
Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466)

An Unusual Situation is a children's illustration book published by SUNY New Paltz, New York, USA in 2020. The book was written by Cassandre Surinon, illustrated by David Folk and designed by Max Zurlini. The PDF file is available on New Paltz website with two versions in English and Spanish. The book is about a parrot named Milo who is struggling to cope with a lockdown at his home with his parents and sister. He is having problems with understanding his emotions such as sudden anger, sadness and anxiousness. At first, he did not want to reach out to his parents because he does not want to burden them because they too are acting unusual. After talking to his sister, she suggests that he talk to their parents about his unusual feelings and then their parents listen to him and help him to feel better by spending more time together to play board games. The theme of the book is about the impact of lockdown towards children’s mental health.  In our opinion, this book is very helpful because we are mostly exposed to news about adults struggling in this COVID-19 situation, not children. This book will aid children and their parents on how to manage issues related to mental health as the book suggests for the children to speak up their feelings to their parents so their parents can help them to maintain their mental well-being. Also, we like the characters based on animals because at the same time, the children can learn about animals too.

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The Day my Kids Stayed Home: Exploring Covid-19 and the Corona Virus to your Kids.

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The Day my Kids Stayed Home: Exploring Covid-19 and the Corona Virus to your Kids.

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The Day my Kids Stayed Home is thoughtfully written by Adam M. Wallace and amazingly illustrated by Adam Riong. It is published by Indy Pub on March 23rd 2020. This story is written from the perspective of a pet dog, Luna. Luna is living happily with her sister, Maul and her kids. She loves going to morning walks and dropping off her kids to school. But one day, she sees the kids are still in pajamas and she realizes that everyone is staying at home and people started to panic buying. Maul starts explaining to Luna about the spread of a new virus called as Covid-19. Luna had a hard time coping with the new changes and norms. Her kids attended the online classes. She gets worried that she might not go to morning walks again. But, Maul explains that the virus cannot spread on its own and depends on our people. If people do not follow the precautions, then they will most likely get affected by the virus. In the end, Maul gives some hope; saying that the doctors will find the vaccines and things will get back to normal again.

The theme of responsibility is widespread in this book. As sensible citizens, we must stay at home to prevent the spread of covid. We should follow the rules and precautions set by our government and should not selfish by going out, other people might get affected by our silly actions. I would say out of the three books that I have chosen this is the best book. Since the author conveys everything about Covid-19, how it spreads, what are we supposed to do and what are the effects. For me, this book contains depth information and this is very useful for kids to learn about.

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The Day My Kids Stayed Home by Adam M. Wallace

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The Love behind the Masks is written by Lizy Toth and it is illustrated by her husband, Chris Toth. It is published by Lizianny on July 21st 2020 and it is originally from the United States. This book is primarily printed in English and translated to Spanish. This story is written from the point of view of Lizy’s son. He narrates this story, starting with how he used to be a happy kid but when he starts seeing people with masks on, he gets sad and confused. He talks with his twin brother about how much he misses going out and playing with their friends. In the end, the narrator realizes that people are wearing the masks because they care and there is love behind the masks. The theme caring is prevalent in this book. The author emphasizes teaching and encouraging kids to wear masks out of love, not fear. People are wearing masks not only to protect themselves but their families and the people around them. In my opinion, this book is ideal for every kid because most of them are feared of wearing a mask and they do not realize the importance of wearing masks. It creates awareness among kids and therefore, I think this book is useful for parents or teachers to use this book as a way to speak with children about the significance of masks with reminders to wash hands and keep social distance.

This book received many positive feedbacks which helped me to write this review. Layla.P said that this story is a quality book for children and it contains right information. As a retire teacher she suggested this book is quite informative for young students. Magdalena also said that this book is a must for back to school. Additionally, it helps them to remember why we should wear a mask and it is not scary thing, but it is a sign of caring. These reviews helped me to appreciate this book better and give ideas for writing this review.

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A Unique Start from 6 Feet Apart: A Book about Returning to the Classroom during a Pandemic.

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A Unique Start from 6 Feet Apart: A Book about Returning to the Classroom during a Pandemic.

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A Unique Start from 6 Feet Apart is written by Emily Oquendo and beautifully illustrated by Hina Mahmood. It is published independently in New York on August 9 2020. A Unique Start from 6 Feet apart is about telling kids how the pandemic changed the classroom. It addresses the changes and procedures that should be taken in classroom. The procedures that were illustrated in this book are washing hands, social distancing, wearing masks, hand sanitizing, wearing hand gloves and personal supplies. The main message of this book is to create awareness to prevent the spread of the virus. From my standpoint, I think this book is a great tool for parents and teachers to explain about this pandemic and how it affected the classroom. The author makes it more fun by adding rhymes and colorful pictures. It is a fun way to learn about why it is important to be safe in school.

However, I found some errors in this book which could mislead the kids. For instance, there are some illustrations of kids with no masks. Even though, this book is about raising awareness of precautions but kids in illustration are not always wearing masks. Other than that, personally I think this is way too wordy to be considered as kid’s book. Kids might get bored and too much word is less fun for them. Last but not the least, this book is really useful for the little ones to learn more about the changes they have to go through during this pandemic. At the end of this book, there are websites with resources and follow up activities for the kids after reading the book.

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https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/16704_8tnej284VI67iLuLgU01NsOl68R?usp=sharing

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The third book, The Stay Home Superheroes by Sophie Marsh. Illustrated by Catherine Battle. Published in United Kingdom, 2020 under Sophie’s Story.

The book is about how William is dealing with pandemic. The story depicted the pandemic as ‘Big Problem’. The world that William knew before is suddenly changing due to the appearance of the ‘Big Problem'. His mother told that he shouldn’t be worried because a lot amazing people are fighting through this ‘Big Problem' and that he can too by staying at home. He thought that just staying home is boring, but his mother insisted it’s more impactful than he think, because not just him but everyone else is staying too.

The story is very simple and easily understand for a children to read. The illustration are nice and cute, quite the attention getter for the children. The story is a great way to tell kids how staying at home can be much more meaningful and that their actions can save the life of others. The book also show how you can be creative with how you fill your day as you are dealing with the pandemic.
https://issuu.com/sophie_marsh/docs/stay_home_superheroes

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The Stay Home Superheroes is an empowering story, created to help children all over the world to understand the pandemic and the important role they can play. The story is available for free, but if you have enjoyed the story and are in a position to do so, please do make a donation.

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The second book, Online School by Meredith Polsky. Published in United States, 2020 under www.meredithpolsky.com.

The book is about a boy who is getting used to schooling should be in midst of pandemic. The school was closed because of pandemic and now has to learn through online learning. It’s a new experience for the boy, as everything is different from regular school. Even so, they boy was able cope and get used to it as how gets used to regular school. The book is in a way a good guidance and understanding for not just the children but also adults and parents to understand how online school is during pandemic.

Also, shout out to Syed Amirul Arif Al-Idrus bin Syed Putra Al-Idrus (202407) & Danish NurQistina binti Mohd Latif (204466) for giving me a link to this book, as I was looking for another book to review. This is the link that leads to the site, ://www.brightbytext.org/blog/2393/Short-Picture-Stories-To-Help-Kids-Understand-Their-World-During-COVID-19. The story was under the same blog, same author.

You may also visit this link as the author has also other story that are useful in teaching children others that can learn about the pandemic. www.meredithpolsky.com

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Book Review 1 (The Wicked Virus and The Powerful Children)

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Book Review 1 (The Wicked Virus and The Powerful Children)

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The first book, Wicked Virus and The Powerful Children by Daniel Cavalcanti Campos. Also illustrated by Daniel Cavalcanti Campos. Published in Brazil, 2020. The book was originally in Portuguese but it is also available in English, Spanish, Libras (Brazil Sign Language) and audio version in Portuguese for the blind.

The book is about the three character, Beto, Bia and Bie,l and how they fought against the wicked virus. The neighborhood was suddenly visited an evil wicked virus that made everyone coughing and sneezing. The trio was to retreat to their home discuss for a plan to beat the wicked virus. Beto created a barrier that let people stay home, Bia found power in cleanliness and Biel found his power with joy through art and drawing. Together, they help the world deal with wicked virus.

The story is a great guide way for teaching children on the three major things during a pandemic. First, the importance of staying home as it will help reduce the total numbers of sick people and also lessens the potential of getting sick. Second, the importance of cleanliness as simple good wash routine would help fending off the virus from one’s body. Third, as everyone is spending most of their time at home, doing something like art and drawing would help with filling up those empty moment with something fun. And one of the best way to do it is through art.

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The wicked virus and the powerful children

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The book was written by Lauren Rankel and illustrated by Elizabeth Barksdale. Published by Wix.com in 2020 in the United States.

The book details the adventure of Finn and his dog in the span of a day. On each encounter, he is initially spooked by the people he knew wearing mask that covered half their faces, but with every interaction, he starts to remember their faces without the mask, and reminds himself that they are still themselves. Sitting by the harbor and seeing a seal, he proceeds to tell his grandmother of his adventures.

This book aims to help eradicate the fear children may have with masks. Providing comfort from knowing that the people wearing masks are doing their best to protect the community from the virus. As the grandma reminds Finn that by wearing a mask, he is being a helper to his community. Helping protect the people from contracting the virus.

Every person that he interacts with on his walk as essentially front-liners, grocery workers, a post-man, a mayor and a doctor. All the people serving their community through the hardship that is the pandemic. The book reminds children that underneath the masks, they are still the people they know.

The seal he sees at the harbor is a sign of regression as he says that his grandmother used to tell him of the seals she saw there when she was younger. Hinting that the harbor is getting healthier as there is less boats and ships disrupting the water, and so opening it back up to the appearance of fascinating sea animals.

In the end, Finn is no longer scared of wearing a mask, because if he did, he would be a helper to his community, protecting people from getting sick. The book reminds children that they should be proud for wearing a mask.

Throughout the pandemic, there has been a countless number of people that refuses to take action against the virus, claiming that they need to “breath fresh air” or are exempt from wearing one. This book presses on the importance of wearing a mask, how one is helping their community simply by wearing a mask, encouraging children to wear masks. Protecting themselves and others around them.

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A free ebook to help comfort the fear of masks during the time of COVID 19. We can all be helpers!

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Book Review 2- Brad Bray Conquers the Coronavirus

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Book Review 2- Brad Bray Conquers the Coronavirus

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The book was written by Ashley Maxie-Moreman and illustrated by Joanah Whitely. Published by and as a part of the Adventures of Brad Bray LLC in 2020 in the United States.

The book begins with a description of the coronavirus, describing how it affects people from getting coughs to not being able to breath. Then, it details Brad Bray’s plan to fight against the spread of the virus. From washing hands to avoiding contact with vulnerable individuals, the book reminds children that by taking these steps, they are taking part in the fight against the virus.

Furthermore, the book tells children that they could be heroes like the front-liners who have been keeping people healthy and with food. This notion of heroism is a good tool in persuading children to take responsibility in facing the virus.

It reminds children that if they are feeling down, they could always talk to their parents or find something to do. This is important as children needs to know that they could always be vulnerable and communicate with their parents concerning their emotions. Thus assuring that they are in the best state of mind and body.

Lastly, Brad shows his list of plans in facing the virus, and below it is a page where readers can write down their own plans throughout the pandemic. This activity section is remarkably important as to keep the readers engaged and interested. To encourage children to start thinking of what they can contribute in becoming a “hero”.

This book is important as it encourages children to engage in activities that they are keen on. Informing children of their importance in facing the pandemic, and how they can take responsibility in keeping themselves and the people around them safe.

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Book Review 1- How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER!

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Book Review 1- How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER!

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The book was written and illustrated by Dr Robert F. DeFinis. It was published by DeFinis himself in April 2020 in the United States.

The book includes step-by-step instructions on how we can avoid from getting the novel Corona-virus. From washing our hands to maintaining social distance, most of the recommendations from the CDC are included in the book. Telling kids to keep strong through these trying times, to push through because there will be better days.

In my opinion, the book is indeed very suitable for children. It is short, compact and insightful, relaying the message in a rhyming scheme that aids in memorizing the steps that need to be taken to “defeat the corona monster”. With simple questions and encouraging words, the book draws children in, engaging with them in order to better engrain the idea in their minds.

It also reminds children to appreciate the front-liners that have been on the forefront of the fight against the virus. Reminding children to value the time they get to enjoy playing outside. Telling them that all the fun they get to have can be prolonged if they were to take the steps suggested. This “reward offering” can be more encouraging in persuading children to practice the steps.

The ending reminds children that even if the virus returns, they could always defeat it as a team. This shows children that their cooperation is valued and important in defeating the virus. As we know, children are best behaved when they feel valued and appreciated. Thus strengthening the message that is offered throughout the book.

This book is significant in this pandemic as it provide children the necessary action they can take in helping their community stand against the virus, telling children that unity against the pandemic will help them overcome it. Everyone plays an important part in ensuring the safety and health of themselves and the people around them.

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Official Video Book: How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER!

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Muhammad Thaqif Firdaus bin Ayob 200787

1. How to Defeat the Icky, Filthy, Creepy, Slimy CORONA MONSTER! by Dr. Robert F. DeFinis
2. Brad Bray Conquers the Coronavirus by Ashley Maxie-Moreman
3. We Can All Be Helpers by Lauren Rankel

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This page is a Q&A interview with the author of the book, Mary Nhin. In the Q&A , Mary Nhin answered question her thought of children and in her opinion what the important life skills are for a child’s growing years. She also shared with us her most memorable project and the reason in addition to her idea behind her book. Through this Q&A, I think I now more about the author’s thought while creating the book and help me to look at the book from a different angle.

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Story/Interview of personality helping people with disabilities

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Meet the personalities who are setting a wonderful example by helping people with disabilities through their excellent work

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Additional Resources 2: June Almeida, Virus Detective. 

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Additional Resources 2: June Almeida, Virus Detective. 

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This page is a book review of June Almeida, Virus Detective! which gives a closer look to this book. It discussed the motivation of writing this book and its connection between current covid-19 situation. Additionally, it provide us with a deep study on the author herself. Her background and life experience. Moreover, it give us a introduction to June Almeida who is the main character in this book, which can help us understand the book better and easier

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Why are they called "coronaviruses"? Is SARS-CoV2 the first? Read June Almeida, Virus Detective! for these answers and more. Author Suzanne Slade provides insight into the passion and challenges scientists face, while illustrator Elisa Paganelli provides a seat at the transmission electron microscope!

June Almeida, Virus Detective! The Woman Who Discovered the First Human Coronavirus is a beautifully illustrated, non-fiction picture book chronicles the scientist, June Almeida, and her scientific process of identifying and naming viruses, specifically the group of "crowned" coronaviruses.

June Almeida, Virus Detective! The Woman Who Discovered the First Human Coronavirus. By Suzanne Slade Illustrated by Elisa Paganelli Published by Sleeping Bear Press (April 2021), Ages 4-8.

"I wanted to give young readers more confidence in the (pandemic) world we live in by educating them about an important, influential, but unknown woman scientist - June Almeida." Suzanne told me. Like all of us, Suzanne felt unsettled by the COVID pandemic Spring 2020. She searched for answers. A National Geographic article about June Almeida provided answers and inspiration.

Learning that coronaviruses were discovered 30 years ago by a "forgotten woman scientist", Suzanne knew she had to bring June's story to the world. Suzanne Slade put her other book projects on hold. Sleeping Bear Press brought Elisa Paganelli on board and this amazing, inspiring picture book biography was born. I am so thankful they did. June Almeida, Virus Detective! perfectly captures how a dedicated, passionate scientist brings forth new understanding to the larger body of scientific knowledge.

Author Suzanne Slade weaves together June's interests in nature and photography and passion for solving medical mysteries. On the surface, June Almeida, Virus Detective! is a chronological walk through the life of the scientist who first discovered and photographed coronaviruses. Yet, the book is much more than that. Through June's story, readers learn about the process of science: passion, creativity, collaboration, discovery, rejection, and building scientific knowledge. In pandemic COVID times, understanding the process of science is more important than ever. Suzanne Slade expertly guides us through the scientific process while educating us about a key "hidden figure" in microbiology.

Passion and Creativity Drives Science

Scientists are people of passion, devoting a lifetime to study what seems to the outside world as an obscure subject. What drives the passion? Often, it is a personal experience. A life-changing event. Susan Slade does a fabulous job uncovering the personal event and passion that drove June Almeida's discoveries. Fueled by her 6-year-old, little brother's death from diphtheria, June's passion for biology grows. Her family's financial troubles led her to take a job as a hospital lab technician screening patient's samples. Her prowess at this first job set her on an incredible path in science.

June Almeida, Virus Detective! illustrates (literally and figuratively), how creative pursuits in a scientist's life benefit their research. Microscopes, light and electron, revolutionized microbiology and remain an essential tool for understanding the invisible side of our world. I love that June's passion for photography and pursuit to capture the ideal micrograph is highlighted as fundamental in her career success. Though underappreciated, the creative side pursuits and hobbies of scientists often propels science forward. Hobbies give a restful reprieve, an expanded skill-set, and different perspective to research. These "side" pursuits subtly enrich science, as June's microscopy illustrates.

Collaboration is Key

Collaboration, networking, and recognition also are key drivers of science. June Almeida was the first to discover and name the group of Coronaviruses due to their "crown" of spikes. A structure and image we all are very familiar with now. Yet these were only a few images of the many micrographs of viral diversity June made. Her knowledge and collection led her to develop a naming system based on viral shape still used today. June also pioneered many techniques still used today. So many have built on the firm foundation she built.

June's expertise and collaborations in the 1960's led to the discovery of coronaviruses. In turn, the SARS-CoV2 pandemic spurred the largest global collaborative research ever done. Sharing data, techniques, treatment, and knowledge speeds our understanding of how to treat and prevent disease from this new viral pathogen. Many scientists and medical personnel sharing their individual research information benefit us all.

An essential part of science is feedback from other scientists. While difficult at times, rejection of papers and ideas is just part of the job. June Almeida, Virus Detective! includes these challenges.

Discovery, Rejection, and Adding to Our Understanding

The thrill of discovery and the disappointment of rejection are common refrains in science. Discovering a new organism, developing a technique, or designing a key experiment - all are key to the process of science. Scientists do this work individually or in small groups. Yet science is not an individual process. Science is building a shared understanding of the world. Having other scientists examine your work and ideas before a paper is published is essential to catching mistakes and unintended biases. Rejection is a common step in this process. Rejection is normal and to be expected at many stages of science. It's not something that I understood deeply until going through the process myself. Suzanne Slade does her young readers quite a service by including rejection and then acceptance as part of both June's journey and the process of science. Scientific knowledge builds over time. What is first considered odd, incorrect, or even anathema with more supporting data can become a standard chapter in textbooks! It is perseverance after rejection and bringing more details to light that is essential in science. June's persistence in finding multiple disease-causing coronaviruses leads to acceptance by her scientific peers.

Illustrating the Process

Finally, I love that in June Almeida, readers are stepped through the process of how June produced the negatively stained transmission electron micrographs of viruses. Negative staining is essential for microbiology, especially virology. It shows fine details that can't be seen otherwise. The description and illustration of negative staining in the book transported me back to the many microscopy labs where I've sat preparing samples. Illustrator Elisa Paganelli clearly did her research to convey this process extremely well. It is certainly magical to put a paper-thin metal wafer smaller than the width of your pinkie fingernail in the transmission electron microscope and see what emerges on the glowing screen. June Almeida, Virus Detective! captures that magic and the importance of what then shows on the microscope's screen.

June Almeida, Virus Detective! is an amazing contribution to the thankfully, growing collection of kids non-fiction biographies featuring women in science. The best gift for young readers is beautifully written stories of the diversity of scientists who drive science forward. As a young girl excited by the microscopic world, I would have devoured this book. Would I have been more confident that indeed I deserve a place in science? Most certainly! June Almeida, Virus Detective! has certainly joined my list of top microbiology kids books. I hope it inspires many kids and we continue to see more books of "hidden figures" of science. For me, I'm looking forward to more women science biographies by Suzanne Slade including A Computer Called Katherine, Astronaut Annie, Out of School and Into Nature: the Anna Comstock Story. I hope you'll do the same.

Let me know what you think about this book or other microbially-themed books in the comments below. For more microbially-themed kids and adult books see the MostlyMicrobes Book Review page.

The publisher provided me with a copy of the book reviewed above. However, the views expressed are my own. Links to Amazon are affiliate links, which support my reading habit and this blog.

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Book Review: June Almeida, Virus Detective!

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June Almeida, Virus Detective! The Woman Who Discovered the First Human Coronavirus is a beautifully illustrated, non-fiction picture book chronicles the scientist, June Almeida, and her scientific process of identifying and naming viruses, specifically the group of "crowned" coronaviruses.

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Additional Resources #3: Pangea Manifesto

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Additional Resources #3: Pangea Manifesto

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Pangea Publishing is a community of changemakers who believe all people have the ability to learn and grow to their full potential. As their mission is to empower individuals and communities to fulfil their own purpose and potential by fostering cultures of literacy. Pangea Publishing target is a children that lives in rural area that its educational resources is hard to find. Thus why The Unwelcome Strangers were published in many languages such as Acholi, Luganda, Francais, Rutooro, English, Ng’Akarimojong, Amharic, Swahili, Rukiga, Kakwa and Runyakole.

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Our mission is to empower individuals and communities to fulfill their own purpose and potential by fostering cultures of literacy. We are a community of changemakers who believe all people have the ability to learn and grow to their full potential.

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Additional Resources #2: The Playing Field: The start every child deserves.

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Additional Resources #2: The Playing Field: The start every child deserves.

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The Playing Field is an association with its mission to give high quality early education programs to reach out many families from varied socio-economic backgrounds. It is aimed to breaking the barriers faced by low-income families in accessing high-quality early care education for children. According to their website, high-quality early education matters because in the first three years of life, a child develops the mental models from which she will operate for life:

How he sees himself. (Am I worthy?)

How she relates to others. (Can others be trusted?)

How he will manage feelings and regulate stress.

How she will be motivated to grow, learn, and succeed.

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OUR MISSION

The Playing Field is dedicated to breaking the barriers faced by low-income families in accessing high-quality early care and education.

Cost - For families who rely on child care subsidies, most high-quality programs are far out of reach. The parent portion of the payment would simply be too high. We assure no family is turned away because of an inability to pay.

Transportation - Through a partnership with Early Head Start, our midtown location offers transportation within the city limits of Madison.

High Rates of Suspension and Expulsion - Two hundred and fifty preschool-aged children are suspended or expelled every day with boys of color being disproportionately impacted. We provide inclusive environments with highly skilled teachers who can support children in learning new skills.

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Our Mission to Madison - The Playing Field | Madison, WI

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Segregation exists in our child care centers. High quality early education programs are out of reach for many families. Even with subsidized child care, the rates at many centers are simply too high for struggling families. Children most in need of quality early education are not able to access it.

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Additional Resources #1: A tale of two pandemics: A nonfiction comic about historical racial health disparities

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Additional Resources #1: A tale of two pandemics: A nonfiction comic about historical racial health disparities

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Josh Neufeld is a comic journalist and is the writer/ artist of The New York Times bestseller “A.D.: New Orleans after the Deluge”. In “A Tale of Two Pandemics: Historical Insights on Persistent Racial Disparities,” Neufeld had used a form of comics journalism to highlight on the historical insights of Yellow Jack and its similarities about baseless theories or accurately now can be consider as misinformation in the social media about this pandemic, Covid-19.

This resources is very insightful and helped me to understand better about the messages of the comic that is delivered by Neufeld. The resources contributes to other knowledge about the topic raises after visiting the sources and article related to the comic.

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Researchers at Johns Hopkins University delved into racial health disparities during the 1918 influenza pandemic -- and what history can teach us about how to approach the current pandemic.

About this piece:

In a "A Tale of Two Pandemics: Historical Insights on Persistent Racial Disparities," Josh Neufeld uses the form of comics journalism to highlight a recent research article published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. The comic draws on the research article itself, along with additional sources - including interviews with co-authors Lakshmi Krishnan, S. Michelle Ogunwole and Lisa A. Cooper. The three medical doctors are the main characters of the comic, which explains racial health disparities and the spread of misinformation during the coronavirus pandemic and the 1918 influenza pandemic. The doctors' speech-bubble quotes come directly from their interviews with Neufeld. The text in rectangular boxes comprises Neufeld's own narrative - except in cases when he uses quotation marks to denote a direct quotation.

In cases where Neufeld quotes directly from the doctors' research article, he depicts the authors speaking in unison - akin to a Greek chorus. "I let their voices guide the narrative," Neufeld says. "I'm so grateful that they spoke to me about their article!"

The social media posts featured in the comic are quoted verbatim from actual posts, and many of the drawings are based on news photos - such as Associated Press photographer Bebeto Matthews' images of people waiting in line for face masks and food in New York last April. For more on Josh Neufeld's comics journalism process, please see our companion Q&A.

This piece is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivatives 4.0 International License, which means you're welcome to republish it, provided you credit and link back to the original source. For educators, editors and anyone else who would like to republish it in print, we are providing access to a high-resolution PDF here: Download a high-resolution PDF.

Sources and related resources:

"Historical Insights on Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), the 1918 Influenza Pandemic, and Racial Disparities: Illuminating a Path Forward." Lakshmi Krishnan, S. Michelle Ogunwole and Lisa A. Cooper. Annals of Internal Medicine, Sept. 15, 2020.

"The Color of Coronavirus: Covid-19 Deaths by Race and Ethnicity in the U.S." APM Research Lab, last updated Nov. 12, 2020.

"Memory and Medicine: A Historian's Perspective on Commemorating Marion J. Sims." Susan M. Reverby. Perspectives on History, Sept. 17, 2017.

"The Myth of Black Immunity: Racialized Disease During the COVID-19 Pandemic." Chelsey Carter and Ezelle Sanford III. Black Perspectives, April 3, 2020.

"Canaries in the Coal Mine, COVID-19 Misinformation and Black Communities." Brandi Collins-Dexter. Discussion Paper from the Harvard Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy, 2020.

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A tale of two pandemics: a nonfiction comic about racial health disparities

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Researchers at Johns Hopkins University delved into racial health disparities during the 1918 influenza pandemic -- and what history can teach us about how to approach the current pandemic. In a "A Tale of Two Pandemics: Historical Insights on Persistent Racial Disparities," Josh Neufeld uses the form of comics journalism to highlight a recent research article published in the Annals of Internal Medicine .

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The Unwelcome Stranger was written by Drew Edwards in 2020 by Pangea Publishing, USA. This book was illustrated by Nandi L. Fernandez and edited by Nawatene Diana. This book was also published in 11 difference languages such as Acholi, Luganda, Francais, Rutooro, English, Ng’Akarimojong, Amharic, Swahili, Rukiga, Kakwa and Runyakole.

The story settings on the rural part of Africa, where Faith, the main character of the story sees adults are rushing in towns to buy things. When she came home, she sees her parents are also busy preparing food and water supplies as if they are awaiting a visitor. When Faith meets her grandfather, he explained to her that they are indeed are preparing for a visitor, an unwelcome stranger named Covid-19. After being informed by her grandfather about Covid-19, the children plays a big role in keeping distances, and making invention to wash hands regularly without having to use their hands to touch anything.

The theme of the book is about the information of Covid-19 and the importance of being prepare. As the grandfather said, we must not deal the unwelcome stranger with fear but with reason, panic with patience and uncertainty with education. It teaches us to calm down and focuses on social distancing, wearing facemask and washing hands regularly in order to avoid being congested with Covid-19. As this Covid-19 weapon is by causing chaos amongst human, grandfather reminded the children not be fearful. Grandfather plays a big role in this book as an adult because he teaches the children to be responsible in the middle of this pandemic.

There is no inaccuracies of information or errors in the books. The character of grandfather, who follows WHO news tells us that he is getting information from the right resources. This books is useful for children as it teaches them about Covid-19 and how the children could be a responsible person too by following the rule of social distancing, and washing hands regularly.

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Around the world, families and communities face a great deal of uncertainty amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Pangea Publishing wrote this story to provide important public health information through a narrative that empowers parents to discuss this subject with their children. Included with the book are project-based learning activities families can complete with children while they are home from school.

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Around the world, families and communities face a great deal of uncertainty amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Pangea Publishing wrote this story to provide important public health information through a narrative that empowers parents to discuss this subject with their children. Included with the book are project-based learning activities families can complete with children while they are home from school.

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Book Review #2: Why Can't I Go to School?

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Book Review #2: Why Can't I Go to School?

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Why Can’t I Go to School was written and illustrated by Abbi Kruse in collaboration with Playing Field. It was published on the 23th of April, 2020 in USA. The publishing house for this book is ChallengingBehavior.org. The book was not written in any other languages except Spain and English.

The theme of the book is about a child struggling with confusion of why she cannot go to school. Later she found out that the reason why was because of Covid-19. Going to school will makes her teachers and her friends fall sick. In order to protect everyone, she cannot go to school until everyone is healthy and until the virus is gone.

This book is teaching the children that are now staying at home about Covid-19, also explained why they need to stay at home and cannot go to school. It is a book to give reassurance to children that are in confusion of the sudden lockdown happened around the world. This book do not have any inaccuracies of information or errors as it explained briefly about the reason of the sudden lockdown to the children. This book is useful and serve the purpose for children during this pandemic breakout.

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Book Review #1: A Tale of Two Pandemic: Historical Insight on Persistent Racial Disparities

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Book Review #1: A Tale of Two Pandemic: Historical Insight on Persistent Racial Disparities

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The story A Tale of Two Pandemics was written and illustrated by Josh Neufeld, who is a comic journalist that was a New York Times bestsellers writer/ artist. This book was written and published in November 16, 2020 by the publishing house Harvard Kennedy School’s Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics & Public Policy. Harvard Kennedy School is in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States. This comic was not published in any other languages except English.

A Tale of Two Pandemics focuses on the historical insight on persistent racial disparities. The story started with the illustrating of Idris Elba doing live on March 17, 2020 about him being diagnosed with Covid-19 and begging the Black people to stop thinking that they’re immune to the disease. Then the stories shifted to times where Yellow Jack pandemic breakout around America. Through baseless theories, Dr Benjamin Rush claimed that Black people are immune to congestion of Yellow Jack because of their melanin or Black people having thicker skin.

Meanwhile, in today’s day, Dr Cooper believed that health systems have perpetuated such inequities. The structure such as racist doctors, lack of access to qualified medical provider and wealth inequalities have set up to disadvantage of people having lack of trust by African American. Just like the Yellow Jack, Black people’s death due to the pandemic are just the same as white people. As today, the most perfect platform of misinformation is the social media. Social media have its effects on people who are most vulnerable such as the not educated people, and the people who do not have access to people with greater information.

The theme of the book focused on the misinformation about the disease.

I think racial disparities are only created by human. Covid-19 disease is a natural disaster that did not picked its victim based on colour, rather choose the victim within its victim. Therefore, there is no internalized racism about this disease.

There is also no inaccuracies of information or errors in the book.

This book is useful and also serves the purpose for children for them to understand about the consequences of misinformation. It also teaches the children to understand why using the social media wisely and under the care of a responsible parents is very important.

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Additional Resource 1: Keeping the City Going

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Additional Resource 1: Keeping the City Going

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This page contains a Q&A with Brain Floca, spotlight on Keeping the City Going, Brain’s book trailer and his interviews. In this page ,we can know how Keeping the City Going is relating to Brain’s other vehicle books and how he illustrates his books in addition to his advice. In the Q&A, Brain also talks about his motivation of writing Keeping the City Going. It will help me to understand the book better.

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Q&A with Brian Floca

Q: We all know that the inspiration for your new book, Keeping the City Going, came from the Covid-19 Pandemic, but can you tell us a little bit about the moment you realized you just needed to write this story?

That's a moment I stumbled into, to be honest. Last spring, early in the pandemic and when things in New York were starting to look particularly bad-one kept hearing the word "epicenter"-I began making small drawings of things I saw in my neighborhood in Brooklyn that seemed to speak to the situation. I certainly didn't have a book in mind; I suppose I was just looking for an activity to help me process events. Some drawings were of things I'd never seen before-discarded masks and gloves on the sidewalks, for instance. Others were of things that might earlier have seemed almost too ordinary to notice, but that in a new context assumed new meaning. One sketch was of a UPS truck still out and making the rounds. It was not just a delivery truck anymore, but a welcome reminder that despite the uncertainty hanging over us all, essential work was still being done and the city was still functioning. That led to drawings of more vehicles. Once I had a small stack of trucks and cars and garbage trucks, it occurred to me I might also have the beginnings of something accessible to young people, something that could serve as a sort of framing device or point of entry for them for conversations about the pandemic. I suppose I figured that if the drawings were helping me process the pandemic, they might be able to help some kids process it, too.

Q: In Keeping the City Going, you thank all of the essential workers who are out on the streets every day, helping our communities continue to run. Do you have any messages for the teachers and librarians who have worked tirelessly for their students and patrons during this difficult time?

I can only say I can't imagine what it's been like for teachers and librarians to have to go into work this year when it might or might not feel safe, or conversely to have to try to stay connected with all the kids they care about solely through cameras and screens. (I'm grateful, truly, for Zoom and FaceTime and all the technology that's helped us bridge distances this past year, but we've all obviously felt the limits of those technologies, too.) It's been a bad year of no good choices. We are all in teachers' and librarians' debt, and I wish them all a happy and safe return to schools and libraries as soon as possible.

Q: Many of your picture books feature vehicles, and Keeping the City Going is no exception; readers will find trucks, cars, fire engines, subways, buses, and more in its the pages. But the subject is, of course, very different from stories of flying to the moon or traveling on the first transcontinental railroad. How do you see this book relating to your other vehicle books?

I am, yes, always happy to draw a vehicle. I like cars and trains and ships as objects, I like the sense of motion implied in their forms, and I like the wheels and gears and general "thinginess" of them. I also like thinking about the people who operate them, and how their work is done. It's always satisfying to watch someone doing a job well. I like to think, too, about where vehicles allow us to go, and what they allow us to do, for ourselves or for others. For me, at least, there are aspects of all those things in each of the vehicle books I've made, and then all those elements really came together for me last spring, in a meaningful and immediate way, as I watched the mail carriers and the food delivery trucks and the firefighters and everyone else in my neighborhood carry on their work. Despite it feeling like the world was turning upside down, there were still people doing their jobs and keeping the wheels turning, literally and figuratively.

Q: When illustrating your books, do you ever find yourself struggling to come up with a design or redoing your sketches over and over again because they aren't coming out as you imagined? What advice to you have for budding child artists who are struggling with these same problems?

Is there any other way to do it? Just kidding-I know there's not, at least not for me. Every drawing is made in a state of play (on good days) or tension (on bad days) between my intentions and the unexpected things that happen along the way-the stray mark here, the bleeding watercolor there, the wonky perspective, the bicycle that ends up looking impossible to pedal. So, yes, the prospect of struggle is always present, and maybe the best thing one can do is to build up an understanding that there will indeed be frustrating days, but that if you keep working you'll learn your own set of tricks for making the best of them and get through them. Through practice you'll find your own ways of working, you'll learn how to recognize when you really do need to correct or retry a drawing, you'll learn to recognize what you can live with, and you'll learn how to recognize happy accidents, too.

HC: 9781534493773

EB: 9781534493780

Grades P-3

Spotlight on Keeping the City Going

Caldecott Award-winner Brian Floca gives a heartfelt thank you to the essential workers who keep their cities going during COVID-19 quarantine in this tenderly illustrated picture book.

We are here at home now, watching the world through our windows. Outside we see the city we know, but not as we've seen it before. The once hustling and bustling streets are empty. Well, almost empty. Around the city there are still people, some, out and about. These are the people keeping us safe. Keeping us healthy. Keeping our mail and our food delivered. Keeping our grocery stores stocked. Keeping the whole city going. Brian Floca speaks for us all in this stirring homage to all the essential workers who keep the essentials operating so the rest of us can do our part by sheltering in place during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"With his signature affection for architecture and keen sense of urban space, Caldecott Medalist Floca pays tribute to the frontline workers helping to make New York City run during the pandemic"-Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Essential reading about essential workers that is informative, reassuring, and positive."-Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"With lyrical text and exquisite, detailed illustrations...A moving tribute that remembers essential workers and community in a time of loss."-Booklist, starred review

HC: 9781416994152

Grades P-5

HC: 9781534440302

Grades P and up

HC: 9781416924364

Grades P-3

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The Book Pantry : Brian Floca : Presented by Simon & Schuster Education & Library Group

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Q&A with Brian Floca Q: We all know that the inspiration for your new book, Keeping the City Going, came from the Covid-19 Pandemic, but can you tell us a little bit about the moment you realized you just needed to write this story? That's a moment I stumbled into, to be honest.

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LIU RUIQI 204922

Keeping the City Going is a children’s book about covid-19 written by Brain Floca who is an American writer and illustrator of children's books. The illustrator of the book Brain Floca himself. The book is published in 2021 by Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books in United States. It is only published in English so far.

In this book, Brian Floca gives a heartfelt thank you to the essential workers who keep their cities going during COVID-19 quarantine in this tenderly illustrated picture book. It is a story that A closer look at the frontline workers for their continuous service despite putting themselves at risks to the virus in order to keep the rest of the people safe.

The main themes of the book are dedication and gratitude.

In my opinion, this book would be a good choice for children during the pandemic. The book takes look at the pandemic from a completely different angle where barely people think of. It reminds children of that even during the pandemic, there are still many people out there working so hard to keep the city going just for our well-being, which will teach children to be grateful and dedicated in addition to understanding the pandemic and every thing that happens in 2020 and 2021.

There is no inaccuracies of information or errors in the book. All in all, it is beautiful and really informative book for children to have a better understanding of the current situation during the pandemic.

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Book review 2: June Almeida, Virus Detective!

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Book review 2: June Almeida, Virus Detective!

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LIU RUIQI 204922

June Almeida, Virus Detective! is a children’s book about covid 19 written by Suzanne Buckingham Slade who is a children’s book author and a mechanical engineer who works on rockets. The illustrator of the book is Elisa Paganelli. The book is published in 2021 Sleeping Bear Press in United States. It is only pulished in English so far.

The book tells the life story about June Almeida, who discovered the first human coronavirus. An excellent student, she was especially interested in biology and won the top science prize at her school. After she left school, She was hired by a local hospital to work in its lab, using a microscope to magnify and examine cells. When June was 34 years old, she discovered the first human coronavirus. Her groundbreaking work continues to help researchers today in the fight against illnesses caused by viruses, including COVID-19.

The main themes of the book are the determination and devotion to one’s passion.

In my point of view, this book would be a pretty good choice for kids to read. Slade's text is rather simplistic, straightforward, and informational, which make it easier for children to understand the content of the book. The illustrations are very nice, and the author was able to interview Almeida's daughter, which enriches the story with personal details. Children can be inspired by this woman’s remarkable achievement.

There is no inaccuracies of information or errors in the book. It provides children with a lot of information origin and cause of covide-19 which is useful for them during the pandemic.

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June Almeida: Virus Detective - Read Aloud

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Book Review 1: Masked Ninja by Mary Nhin

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Book Review 1: Masked Ninja by Mary Nhin

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Liu Ruiqi (204922)

Masked Ninja is Written by Mary Nhin, who is a mindset coach and a children. It was published in 2020 by Grow Grit Press LLC in United States. The illustrator of the book is Jelena Stupar. It is only published in English so far.

Through a child's eyes, the world may seem chaotic with coronavirus (COVID19), masks, and social distancing. Masked Ninja explains what's going on in our current pandemic and shows us actionable steps we can take to prevent the spread of viruses and racism.

The main theme of the book is epidemic prevention and the importance of being kind.

In my opinion, this is a very interesting and also useful book for children. It is a fun and informative book about the current pandemic. It provided valuable facts about germs and how to control it in a interesting and acceptable way. In this way, children would not get confused by all the different and anxious words they hear daily about getting sick from viruses. It teaches kids that wearing a mask is to help them and others from spreading the virus.

There is no inaccuracies of information or errors in the book. Instead, the information provided in the book is rather accurate and help. Additionally, This book serves the purpose for children during the pandemic. It can help children to understand what to to protect themselves and others during the pandemic.

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Masked Ninja Read Aloud -  (COVID-19 / coronavirus read aloud)

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Additional Resource: Good Morning Zoom a Parody by Lindsay Rechler

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Additional Resource: Good Morning Zoom a Parody by Lindsay Rechler

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An article entitled “New parody book, ‘Good Morning Zoom,’ helps kids understand the COVID-19 pandemic”, is written by Mary Cadden in the USA Today website, and it was published on oct 15, 2020. This article talks about the inspiration behind the children’s parody book and how it pursues to help children understand about the Covid-19 pandemic, the new normal (new style of living), and appreciate the essential workers who are working tirelessly to fight off the pandemic. From my point of perspective, this article from USA Today helps readers to understand the true purpose of the book and the pure inspiration behind it; that is to help children cope during the quarantine days, away from their normal everyday routine and interactions with family and friends. Not only that, the article, also talks a little bit about the author of the book. Turns out that Lindsay Rechler is a mom and works as a managing director of an investment bank. She acquired the inspiration to write the book to help her children become more familiar with their new life during the pandemic.

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The world looks a little different with COVID-19, and so does a classic children's tale thanks to a new parody book, "Good Morning Zoom," written by mom Lindsay Rechler and illustrated by June Park.

Based off Margaret Wise Brown's "Goodnight Moon," the parody replaces iconic subjects as the red balloon, a cow jumping over the moon and a quiet old lady whispering hush, with pillow forts, an iPad and an entire classroom on Zoom.

"Good morning room. Good morning Zoom. Good morning friends you hope to see soon. Good morning light. And a world not quite right," the book reads.

According to a press release, the idea came to Rechler, a managing director of an investment bank, early one morning in April as a the way to address the newfound isolation her family faced from interacting with the world through technology. She sought to talk to her children about the pandemic in a relatable and comforting way.
More: More: Hoda Kotb's second quote book, 'This Just Speaks to Me,' gives solace in the time of COVID-19 Little Free Library fights racism by diversifying its book-sharing boxes: 'Everyone should see themselves'
"COVID-19 is a difficult topic, especially for young children," says Lindsay Rechler in a statement to USA TODAY. "I wanted to tell my children a relatable story - a story that would help them become familiar with their new everyday lives and within that story, touch upon what was happening in the outside world."

"I thought a lot about the contrast between quarantining safely inside versus what was happening outside my window. It was important for me to acknowledge all our essential workers for allowing us to safely stay home."

Rechler originally self-published "Good Morning Zoom" on Amazon in the spring with proceeds being donated to charity. Viking Children's Books and Philomel Books, both imprints of Penguin, acquired the fights to the book and announced a first printing of 100,000. All of the net proceeds from this printing will be donated to COVID-19 relief charities.

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New parody book, 'Good Morning Zoom,' helps kids understand the COVID-19 pandemic

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The world looks a little different with COVID-19, and so does a classic children's tale thanks to a new parody book, "Good Morning Zoom," written by mom Lindsay Rechler and illustrated by June Park.

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Chang Hongyao
1. Right Now, I am Fine By Dr. Daniela Owen and Hannan Hart
2. Even Heros Feel Sad: Fighting Coronavirus Together By Kate Allen Fox and Laurie Smollett Kutscera
3. I Have a Question about Coronavirus: Clear Answers for all Kids By Arlen Grad Gaines and Meredith Englander Polsky

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Liu Ruiqi (204922)

1. Masked Ninja by Mary Nhin

2. June Almeida, Virus Detective! by  Suzanne Buckingham Slade

3. Keeping the City Going by Brian Floca

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Nur Aisyah bt Shahrom (203171)

1) A Tale of Two Pandemic by Josh Neufeld
2) Why Can't I Go To School by  Abbi Kruse & The Playing Field
3) The Unwelcome Strangers: Covid-19 by Drew Edwards

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Additional Resource #3 - There's No Monster Outside: It's a Virus by (a group of authors)

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Additional Resource #3 - There's No Monster Outside: It's a Virus by (a group of authors)

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A Note from the Editorial Review Board: Dual Language Research and Practice Journal (DLRPJ)

This journal made on the book There's No Monster Outside: It's a Virus by the group of authors themselves - Rafael Lara-Alecio, Beverly J. Irby, Fuhui Tong, Nahed Abdelrahman and Roya Pashmforoosh. The journal enlightens about the purpose of writing the story, their concern towards children in the pandemic and to express their hope as authors - for people all over the world to get access to the book and to translate the book to other languages to as much countries as possible. They want the access to the book to be free, especially to those who find it hard to access the internet. I find it inspiring for people like these authors to have something to offer to the world with their talents, care, concern and 'hospitality' of words from afar. In the journal, it is mentioned, "Humankind has always been able to overcome all the vicissitudes" as a means to propose that we can always overcome anything that falls on our shoulders, as long as we are together, and that we care for one another. To children especially, as the new generation, have to be taken care well and safely and to always enlighten them about things and to educate them in the right manner.

[ PDF Journal - file:///C:/Users/USER/Downloads/28-Article%20Text-157-1-10-20200726.pdf ]

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Additional Resource #2 - Windows by Patrick Guest and Jonathan Bentley

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Additional Resource #2 - Windows by Patrick Guest and Jonathan Bentley

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The children's book author who moved out, twice, to protect his family - Carolyn Webb

The article titled as above contains a handful of information especially about the background of the author, Mr. Guest as to how and why he wrote the book. Upon reading the article, I feel even more cling onto the story, the book, Windows, because this meant to be for his kids. Mr. Guest is a physiotherapist who cannot help but to touch his patients during treatment sessions. Thus, upon realizing that, he starts to be extra careful with his family by living away from home to avoid spreading the virus accidentally to his family. He has a son named Noah, 14, who has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy - a severe, progressive muscle weakness disorder. Hence, Mr. Guest, as an honorable dad, made up his mind to avoid touching his family and Noah, especially. Also, another one thing I learned through the article is that, he first meant to be the narrator to the story himself, but then he shifted the point of view to the boy - as he realized that the grandparents and the grandchildren are having it "tough" in the pandemic. The story is very close to Mr. Guest and as a reader, I believe we can all relate to our own situations through the same story.

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He knew he would have to move out of the family home, for the second time this year.

The author Patrick Guest with wife Lisa and their children, Reuben, 13, Noah, 14, and Grace, 11. Patrick has just released a new children's book, Windows, about being stuck at home due coronavirus. Simon Schluter

Mr Guest, of Mornington, and his wife Lisa, have a son, Noah, 14, who has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy - a severe, progressive muscle weakness disorder.

Noah is mostly confined to bed and has 50 per cent lung capacity.

Mr Guest's job as a physiotherapist puts him in touch with a wide range of people, from police officers to supermarket workers and he knew it could be fatal if he passed COVID-19 on to Noah.

And so, when the first COVID-19 wave hit in late March, Mr Guest left his wife, Lisa, 49, and children Noah, Reuben, 13, and Grace, 11, and moved to a friend's vacant house 18 kilometres away in Seaford.

During his six-week exile, he visited the family home every day - talking, playing games and reading stories through Noah's bedroom window.

But there was no touching, which Mr Guest found "incredibly tough".

His physio job is one of the few where touch is still allowed. "I've had people breaking into tears because it's the first time they've been touched in months," he said.

In early May, with community transmissions on the decline, Mr Guest moved back home and resumed family life.

Windows is an uplifting story of how humanity has pulled together during the Coronavirus pandemic.

But on Tuesday, with COVID-19 cases soaring again, Mr Guest will again move out, for an indefinite period.

"There was novelty, the first time around," Mr Guest said. "This time, I think it's been replaced by dread and despair."

But he is trying to cultivate hope. "There's no vaccine for despair, except for hope," he said.

Mr Guest is also a children's author and in his new book, Windows, child characters stuck at home are consoled by seeing, out of their windows, funny-shaped clouds, neighbours playing music and grandparents dancing.

A scene from Patrick Guest and Illustrator Jonathan Bentley's book 'Windows'. Hardie Grant Children's Publishing

One scene looks forward to the joyous day when they can hug their friends and relatives again.

The book was published in digital form on Monday by Hardie Grant Children's Publishing - to coincide with the pandemic - an unprecedented six weeks after Mr Guest and illustrator Jonathan Bentley signed the contract.

Most picture books take at least a year to develop. The print version is due out in October.

At first, Mr Guest made the focus of the story a father like himself, starting with the verse: ''Out the window, I can see/ a new world looking back at me''.

Window to the world: a child gazes out from a house in the book 'Windows'. Hardie Grant Children's Publishing

But he realised that children in lockdown, and their elderly grandparents were ''really doing it tough'', so he made the book about them.

He wants the book to be ''a beacon of hope'', but also celebrate children's resilience.

He said his daughter Grace can spend 10 minutes describing a puppy she's seen.

Noah and Reuben (virtually) climbed Mount Everest on a computer game.

''They were animated and excited. It was great,'' Mr Guest said. ''They're finding ways to get through this, the kids, that we can all learn from.''

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The children's book author who moved out, twice, to protect his family

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He knew he would have to move out of the family home, for the second time this year. Mr Guest, of Mornington, and his wife Lisa, have a son, Noah, 14, who has Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy - a severe, progressive muscle weakness disorder. Noah is mostly confined to bed and has 50 per cent lung capacity.

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Additional Resource #1 - When the World is Sick written by Dr. Keila Rodriguez

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Additional Resource #1 - When the World is Sick written by Dr. Keila Rodriguez

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Texas doctor writes educational children's book on COVID-19 - CNN Newource

An article regarding the book has made by CNN Newsource. This article is about the interview with the author of the book, Dr. Keila. This article shed light in me as to the purpose of Dr. Keila writing this book, or rather, her prime inspiration in writing the book. According to the article, in the interview, Dr. Keila mentioned that she heard her 2-year-old daughter said she does not like the coronavirus because she could not go see her grandma. Hence, she finds herself needed to do something to educate her daughter about the virus. Dr. Keila said, "Children may be struggling emotionally with the pandemic." This article not only helped me understanding the purpose of her writing the book but it even made me inspired to do something in the line of educating the world whenever and wherever it's needed.

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Texas doctor writes educational children's book on COVID-19

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A Texas doctor is trying to help children cope through a new normal with her book focused on a little girl's journey through what the coronavirus is, and how it has changed her world. It started with an observation from a small pair of eyes.

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Additional Resource: When We Stayed Home by LMFT Tara Fass and Judith A. Proffer

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Additional Resource: When We Stayed Home by LMFT Tara Fass and Judith A. Proffer

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An article which is published on November 8th, 2020, by Melanie Braga in a website named Momma Braga touches about the book’s – When We Stayed Home – synopsis, an honest review of the book and a little extra information about the authors; LMFT Tara Fass and Judith A. Proffer. In my opinion, the article has helped me to understand the purpose of the book better, which is to teach a child and his or her family to talk about their emotions during the lockdown amidst the pandemic. The author section has also helped me to understand their purpose of writing the book for children and I have come to realize that even little kids are struggling emotionally because of the sudden change in their everyday life. Not only that, the additional section, introducing both LMFT Tara Fass and Judith A. Proffer has helped me to get to know more about their backgrounds as well as their other professions apart from being writers.

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" When We Stayed Home is a children's story that encompasses all that the world has been going through this pandemic. It provides a platform and a positive environment for children to speak about their feelings." - Momma Braga

Synopsis

When Covid-19 traveled the globe, we were prompted to stay home, wash our hands frequently, socially distance and wear masks to remain safe and help the helpers. For children who don't yet grasp the concept of time and haven't weathered enough life to understand the art of endurance, it's been a particularly complicated and sometimes trying time. When We StayedHome looks at one young boy's pandemic journey and through colorful illustrations and heartfelt prose we see how he has used his trusty imagination and childlike creativity to navigate the trials of staying home day after day, becoming a super-helper in the process while missing family, friends, school and the "normal" life he once knew.

From decorating adorable toilet paper-shaped sugar cookies, building forts, painting and doing puzzles to frequent screen dates and dance parties with family and friends, young children will relate to his joys and sadnesses and how they too found connection and even serene moments of happiness while isolating. The book will comfort, entertain, and stir conversation about feelings and experiences the youngest stay-at-homers have experienced during these improbable times. Written by Tara Fass, LMFT and Judith A. Proffer, the book was inspired by Proffer's five year-old nephew, who continued to find big moments of mirth in home, nature, adventures and activities while at times tearfully longing for the virus to go far, far away. Licensed Family and Marriage Therapist Fass has worked with families during the pandemic to navigate its bumpy road with tools, optimism and hope.

#MelAndNikkiReview

When We Stayed Home gives us whimsical illustrations and relatable prose, When We Stayed Home helps young children navigate all of their great big feelings and cheer themselves on during the upheaval of pandemic, honoring their role as the "super-helpers" they are by washing their hands, wearing masks, social distancing and staying home. Along with the family dog as his trusty sidekick, When We Stayed Home's super-helper builds virus-free forts, decorates silly toilet paper-shaped cookies, enjoys screen visits and dance parties with family and friends, and relies on his resourceful creativity and imagination to weather the virus storm.

For this #MelAndNikkiReview, we give it 5 stars out of 5. A real story that allows children to express their feelings and to know that they have not been alone. A sensitive topic for many as these times have not been easy for many families but this story brings out the positive and allows families to talk about it in a healthy way.

If you would like to purchase a copy, click here. It is recommended for children ages three to eight.

About the Authors

Judith A. Proffer founded Southern California based and award-winning Huqua Press in 2010 as an independent publishing house to nurture talent and creativity. Previously Proffer spent twenty-five years in newspaper publishing, including nearly two decades with the alternative press ( LA Weekly, OC WEEKLY, VILLAGE VOICE MEDIA) where she was Associate Publisher and Publisher, followed by co-ownership of the Sun Community Newspaper chain in the San Fernando Valley. Huqua Press publishes a diverse catalogue that includes culinary, juvenile, fiction and popular culture titles. Proffer seeks authors and works that uplift, inspire, inform and engage.

Featured titles include Caroline by Brandi Carlie, Dog & Butterfly by Ann and Nancy Wilson (Heart), The Wit and Wisdom of Gracie by Patti Davis, Our House by Graham Nash, The Lotus Kitchen by Gwen Kenneally and Places by Thaao Penghlis. She is the editor of I Hope You Dance, The Power of Spirit and Song (and co-produced the I Hope You Dance documentary), and is also the Vice-Chair of Meteor 17, overseeing literary and charitable efforts for the media company.

Proffer was honored by the Los Angeles Business Journal and the San Fernando Valley Business Journal as one of the leading "Women Who Make A Difference" in the Southern California Community. Additionally, she was honored by Friends of The Family for her many charitable endeavors. In 2010 she teamed with Hollywood caterer Gwen Kenneally to create Magpie Mini Pie Gourmet Pies, a pop-up bakery with proceeds from the artisanal pies going to charity. The pies remain part of the event menu for Gwen's Back to the Kitchen Catering Company. Proffer has taught writing workshops to children, adults and incarcerated at-risk youths. She is launching The Word Garden in 2021, a non-profit writing resource for non-writers. She'll host monthly writing workshops, offer templates and writing tools on The Word Garden website and will provide writing workshops for at-risk students in underserved communities.

Tara Fass, LMFT has treated the walking wounded of Los Angeles for twenty years as a therapist/mediator and co-parent educator through her clinical work and private counseling. She was a Huffington Post contributor for six years and blogs for "It's Over Easy," an online divorce support resource. When We Stayed Home is her second book.

"The work I am doing during covid through telemedicine is an attempt to sharpen inner listening, to accurately name and express pain, and thereby better regulate emotions. The impact of Covid and quarantine on families and children today is something we'll be discussing for decades to come, attempting to make sense of it all. It's essential to talk about the 'tough stuff,' about real feelings. If we're having awkward conversations, chances are we're acting out less that which is not understood. By not shutting down what feels unspeakable we get out of our own way sooner and are the better for it."

Until next time...Happy Parenting!

-Momma Braga

*Please note that this book was provided by Book Publicity Services in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are our own and we do not make commission on any book sales.

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When We Stayed Home | Book Review | Momma Braga

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" When We Stayed Home is a children's story that encompasses all that the world has been going through this pandemic. It provides a platform and a positive environment for children to speak about their feelings."

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Book Review #3 - There's No Monster Outside: It's a Virus

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Book Review #3 - There's No Monster Outside: It's a Virus

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This book is written by a group of authors - Beverly J.Irby, Rafael Lara-Alecio, Nahed Abdelrahman, Fuhui Tong and Pam Schiller. The book is published in 2020 under Center for Research and Development in Dual Language and Literacy Acquisition, Department of Educational Psychology, College of Education and Human Development, Texas A&M University, United States. The illustrator of this book is Debbie Weekly. This book has been translated into nine(9) other languages other than English - Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, Spanish, Bengali, Hindi, German, Swahili and Korean.

This 14-page book is about a boy who starts to hear news about the existence of COVID-19 virus from TV, the news channel. He then starts to wonder if COVID-19 is a monster. He starts to look around his house, his room, for the 'monster' and he does not find any signs of it. He sleeps away his fear. On the next day , his mother tells him that COVID-19 is a virus and is not a monster, but to not be afraid of the virus because doctors and scientists are working hard day and night to create a vaccine that will keep us away from the virus. The boy is relieved and is not afraid anymore.

The themes of this book are fear, kids' fear, kids' imagination towards things they do not understand at first, and family as a comfort.

I think this book is useful for kids who are not sure of why we have to stay home, why we have to quarantine ourselves from the outside, why there is an outbreak of news about the virus, what is a virus, et cetera. This book will help them understand about the pandemic better and get them sleep away their fears of COVID-19. Some kids get scared easily and sometimes they need to know and to learn the truth with the precise information for them to stop being afraid. I find that we cannot mistakenly think that 'Oh they are just little kids, they do not need to know about this', when they only want to know the truth to calm themselves and nothing else. Hence why I think this book is suitable for them.

No inaccuracies or errors, there are even reminders for kids and everyone by the end of the book, where the narrator tells us to wash our hands many times each day, to wear masks and to practice social distancing.

This book serves the purpose for children during the pandemic. They get enlightened about COVID-19, reminders of what to do and what not to do during the pandemic including to not be afraid of the virus and to always be thoughtful in all we do.

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Center for Research & Development in Dual Language & Literacy Acquisition

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Wash your hands / Wash your hands

Wear your mask / Wear your mask

Keep your hands from your face / Keep your hands from your face

Wash your hands / Wash your hands

Wear your mask / Wear your mask

Virus, virus go away / So my friends can come and play

I look in the air / I look on the ground

I look for my friends / and then I turn around

I stamp my feet / I wave my hands

I blink my eyes / I march with the band

I stamp my feet / I wave my hands

I blink my eyes / I march with the band

I look for the virus down on the floor

Maybe I will find it behind the door

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There's No Monster Outside: It's a Virus - Center for Research & Development in Dual Language & Literacy Acquisition

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Wash your hands / Wash your hands Wear your mask / Wear your mask Keep your hands from your face / Keep your hands from your face Wash your hands / Wash your hands Wear your mask / Wear your mask Virus, virus go away / So my friends can

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Windows is written by Patrick Guest, who is a physiotherapist and a children books' author. This book is published in 2020 by Hardie Grant Publishing 2020 in Australia. The illustrator of this book/video is Jonathan Bentley. The book is also not translated into other languages except for English.

Windows is a heartwarming story that carries a melancholic and hopeful tone to kids. Given its title, the story comes from the point of view of a little boy, who is the narrator of the story. He starts to feel bored and stuffy in his room, he then begins to look outside from his window. From his window, he sees and discovers many interesting things. He observes the clouds moving, the shapes of the clouds, he stares at his friends from other windows, he notices a postman saying 'hi' from a tree, and he notices that there are no crowds anymore. He then proceeds to kind-of-look at something dangerous that the narrator is not sure of, he addresses it as "Is it a ghost?", which I believe he refers to as the virus, but he does not know. He pulls the curtain at first, then he looks out again - and he and other friends from other windows see their grandpas waving from below, saying that they'd love to hug their grandchildren but they want to wait until the lovely, happy day, when they finally can.

The themes of this story are loneliness that kids feel when they are at home for a long time, togetherness in the sense that they are together in this pandemic, but they are just in different homes, and the theme of humanity, the faith in humanity.

I think the story manages to carry a deeper meaning than the ones we see in other books. This book, or animation, does not mention the word "COVID-19" at all but the narrator puts in some relatable situations to depict it as the pandemic. I find it very interesting that it tells about how everyone else is doing something fun from "their windows" for their families, or for themselves. Sometimes, we feel stuck at home, we feel lost in direction, significantly after being so caught up in responsibilities and commitments, but then looking at others, doing something for themselves - be it to kill time, doing something to enjoy for themselves, or be it them hustling in something, I personally find it very calming and helpful in redirecting my focus and attention.

There is no inaccuracies or errors in this animation.

All in all, it is a good story for kids, that is for sure. However, I doubt that the story is easy to understand for kids. As a reader, I am not trying to underestimate the limit of kids' understandings, but I believe they would need extra guidance in helping them understand the meaning of the story - that the story is related to the pandemic, the story means to stay safe within our safe zone - our home, and that if we think we are bored and struggling at home, everyone else is too, but they are all doing something for their family and for the nation as a whole.

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Windows, by Patrick Guest and Jonathan Bentley

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Book Review #1 - When the World is Sick by Dr. Keila Rodriguez

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Book Review #1 - When the World is Sick by Dr. Keila Rodriguez

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When the World is Sick is written by Dr. Keila Rodriguez, who is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics. This book is written is 2020 and is independently published in United States. The illustrator of this book is Mike Motz and this book is not translated into other languages other than English.

This book tells about the perspective of a child of what she thinks of coronavirus. She has lived through the pandemic for quite some time and she has adjusted well to the so-called 'new norm' that we refer to today. She later imagines the things she would say when she meets coronavirus in person. She continues to imagine asking the coronavirus to wash his hands, not to touch his face after washing his hands, not to hug or shake hands with friends when he sees them outside and to appreciate living at home daily longer than they could before.

The theme of this book is adapting to the new norm of the pandemic COVID-19 and to be kind to everyone, including the virus itself - as she sort of treating the virus like a friend of hers, to clean himself properly and to not touch others so we're all safe and sound.

I liked listening to the talking-out-loud version of this book by the very author herself. I liked it as it tells from the perspective of a child as I did not think before, of how kids actually think of the idea of the coronavirus, of being in the pandemic. Although, yes, the book is written by an adult but the ideas represented from the book can best be believed to be ideas that most kids have.

There are no errors found in terms of fact and exemplary evidence of how one should live at home during the pandemic. However, as the story unfolds that she later imagines speaking to coronavirus in person, this scene in particular, which followed by the illustration of the virus having arms and legs but do not look like humans, in my opinion, could make the kids confused as they might be asking their parents, 'Oh, coronavirus is a person?', or 'Oh, we can talk to coronavirus?' ,etc, as they read the book, especially for the younger kids who do not know the ideal explanation of the virus itself.

I find the book is useful to kids because the narration of the book is filled with conversations that she talks with herself. The narration mostly begins with a question and then followed by the answer. This can be useful to kids as kids may read it as having a conversation with themselves alone, or with the narrator in the story, or with their parents. The lines are clear, hence it can be understood easily especially to kids.

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Additional Resource for Wang Can's book: A Message from Corona by Charity Tedder

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Additional Resource for Wang Can's book: A Message from Corona by Charity Tedder

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Megan Carr’s articles enlightens about the Charity Tedder, the author’s motive behind creating her book. Charity wanted to make the understanding of the pandemic children friendly by incorporating pictures and using simpler words that would be less intimidating for children to read. I find this article eye-opening as I am able to see the thought process behind the making of this book and how it will be able to help children as well as support for the NHS.

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A dental student and children's book illustrator have joined forces to help little ones find the Covid-19 pandemic a little less scary.

Dentistry student Charity Tedder, a 26-year-old from Cobham, and Leighton Noyes, a 48-year-old illustrator from Strood, have created a children's book about the coronavirus.

A Message From Corona has been written by Charity and Leighton to help children understand the Covid-19 pandemic

A Message From Corona is a free book which explains how the virus has travelled around the world, and why hand-washing, social distancing and lockdown are so vital.

The book has been created so it can be read to children as young as three or four and self-read by ages seven and above. In return Charity and Leighton are asking for donations in support of the NHS.

Charity, who is studying to become a dentist at the University of Plymouth, said: "I've always wanted to do something in the medical field.

"My mum, Lesley, was a nurse and my dad, Richard Tedder, is a virologist professor, at the forefront of research into the coronavirus.

"I decided I wanted to become a dentist as it was a perfect balance between building relationships with patients and being hands on in the field."

Due to government guidelines, Charity's university, like many others, shut to reduce the spread of the coronavirus.

Charity Tedder, 26, from Cobham, decided to write A Message From Corona to help children understand the current pandemic

The student realised information being released about the pandemic was for adult understanding, and - with lots of time on her hands - it was time a simpler explanation was made for children.

Charity is now in her fifth and final year at university. She said: "I've worked with children during my dentistry training, so I've learnt the best ways of helping them understand and remain calm during difficult moments.

"By using pictures and certain wording, children find things less scary, and that's how I wanted to make kids feel during this uncertain time.

"I was speaking about the idea to my mum - she was the one that kind of got the ball rolling.

"For my brother's birthday we had a picture commissioned for him by Leighton. I got in touch and asked how he'd feel about illustrating the book. He thought it was a really good idea."

A Message From Corona, by Charity and Leighton, is available free of charge, but any donations made will go towards charities battling the coronavirus

It took Charity a few days to write up a transcript, and the e-book was originally up after 10 days. After responding to feedback, the final version was finished at the beginning of April.

Leighton said: "It was a privilege to take part in this project and help children understand what is going on at the moment.

"It took about a week to finish all the illustrations. It was exhausting, but also a lot of fun, especially because it was helping children and charities.

"I was up until four in the morning most nights, making sure everything was perfect. I must of had about 15 hours of sleep that week!"

With the words and pictures checked by Charity's dad, Leighton created rough pictures, which were checked before creating the final pieces with pens, ink and water colour.

Leighton Noyes from Strood, illustrated A Message From Corona

Leighton has been a children's book illustrator for the past 20 years. He said: "Being a children's illustrator is the best. It was such a responsibility to make this book perfect and easy for children to understand.

"Ever since I was a little boy I've wanted to be an illustrator. I'm happy with any work, but being able to illustrate A Message From Corona was wonderful."

The e-book has been passed on to Gravesham MP Adam Holloway and shared with Public Health England, the World Health Organisation, the UK Science Media Centre, The Royal College of Pathologists, The Royal College of Physicians, Plymouth University and Well Connected SW.

Funds raised will be put towards fighting the Covid-19 crisis, to support the NHS and key workers, and to support charities helping those most vulnerable in this time of need.

Charity and Leighton originally set the GoFundMe page target to £1,000, but in 48 hours of its release, A Message From Corona raised £2,000.

The target is now £3,000 and will be split between NHS Charities Together, National Emergencies Trust and Medicins Sans Frontiers, an international humanitarian medical non-governmental organisation.

Leighton Noyes, 48, from Strood, has been an illustrator for 20 years

If you would like to read A Message From Corona and leave a donation, click here.

To see more of Leighton's work, click here.
Read more: All the latest news from Medway Read more: All the latest news from Gravesend For the latest coronavirus news and advice, click here.

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Children's book explains pandemic while raising money for the NHS

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A dental student and children's book illustrator have joined forces to help little ones find the Covid-19 pandemic a little less scary. Dentistry student Charity Tedder, a 26-year-old from Cobham, and Leighton Noyes, a 48-year-old illustrator from Strood, have created a children's book about the coronavirus.

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Book Review: Good Morning Zoom a Parody by Lindsay Rechler

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Book Review: Good Morning Zoom a Parody by Lindsay Rechler

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Good Morning Zoom a Parody written by Lindsay Rechler is published on October 6th, 2020, by Philomel Books in the United States of America. This book is illustrated by June Park and there are no other translations of this book in other languages besides English.

Good Morning Zoom is a parody of Goodnight Moon, a children’s classic poetry book. It is about a boy and his family who are living their everyday life in a new way. Their everyday social communications – like work and school – happens online through Zoom. They even use Zoom to communicate with his grandparents. Because of the pandemic, the boy and his parents stay inside their home, and they use delivery services to attain their groceries. Every day, the boy says ‘good morning’ to the same routine, his friends through Zoom, the outside world, the sunlight, his pillow fort, and the same old board game on the table as well as saying his gratitude towards the hardworking doctors and nurses.

In my opinion the main theme of this book is about the new social life and new normal during the Covid-19 pandemic. This is because throughout the book, the practices of a new life are shown by the boy and his parents – mainly in the aspects of communication during work and school hours through Zoom. The rhyme and rhythm of the story as well as the simple choice of words makes it melodious and easy to read. Hence, it will really pique little children’s interests for the story. Not only that, I also think that this book is a brilliant way of teaching a kid new ways on how to communicate with people using technology and the internet during the pandemic. With this new knowledge, children at home who are struggling because they miss human interactions will be able to cope with the sudden lack of it.

In addition, there are no inaccuracies of information or errors in the book as it reflects the reality of how people interact and live life during the Covid-19 pandemic. My final thoughts about this book is that it is useful for children to let them know that they are not alone in this tough journey. Human interactions – with family or friends – are just one tap and/or click away.

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GOOD MORNING ZOOM - Read Along With Judy (Good Night Moon Parody)

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Book Review: Paula and the Pandemic by Dorothea Laurence

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Book Review: Paula and the Pandemic by Dorothea Laurence

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Paula and the Pandemic is written by Dorothea Laurence, and she independently published the book on March 30th, 2020, in the United States of America. Furthermore, not only did she write the book, she also illustrated it herself. So far, Paula and the Pandemic is only published in English and there are no other translations of it in other languages.

This book is about a little girl named Paula who is having a hard time coping with the pandemic and staying at home away from her best friend Ben as well as from her every day activities. To help her cope and not feeling blue, her mother invites Paula to plant a Sunflower seed and watch it grow into a flower. The process of planting and tending to the Sunflower seed has the purpose of teaching Paula the value of patience during the pandemic. That is, to patiently wait until the world gets better from Covid-19 to resume their normal day-to-day activities.

From my point of perspective, the theme of this book is about the fruitful process of being patient. When one practices the value of patience, many good things will come to that person, and such example can be seen through Paula’s success in growing her little Sunflower seed into a beautiful blooming flower. Furthermore, this book not only teaches and explain to children about the Covid-19 pandemic, it also teaches them to be patient in the process of waiting for the world to get better and that they are not alone in their struggles to cope. Also, apart from the very beautiful illustration of the book, the use of language and sentence structures are also simple enough for children to read as well as understand.

In addition, there are no inaccuracies of information or errors in the book. Hence, this book is indeed helpful for struggling parents to teach their children about Covid-19 and how important it is to stay home and be patient.

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Book Review: When We Stayed Home by LMFT Tara Fass and Judith A. Proffer

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Book Review: When We Stayed Home by LMFT Tara Fass and Judith A. Proffer

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When We Stayed Home is a children’s book written by LMFT Tara Fass and Judith A. Proffer. The book is published on September 22nd, 2020, by Huqua Press in the United States of America and is illustrated by Yoko Matsuoka. However, this book has not been translated into other languages apart from English.

When We Stayed Home is about a little boy who tells the readers about his experience staying at home during the Covid-19 pandemic with his trusty canine best friend. They live their everyday lives inside their home, and they practice the new normal, calling themselves super-helpers by taking care of their hygiene, such as washing their hands and wearing masks as well as staying at home. The little boy and his trusty companion do lots of things together such as decorating cookies, reading books, building forts, having screen times with family and friends, and using their imaginations to go on adventures. The book also talks about the emotion that children tend to feel when under lockdown, mainly sadness about not being able to do the things that they usually do before the pandemic started.

Hence, the theme of this book in my opinion, is about the importance of practicing the new normal and how to cope during lockdown. For me, the book is very interesting and easy to read for children. The rhyme and rhythm of the narration captures children’s interest to read the book. Personally, I think that this book will really teach them how to take care of their hygiene during this pandemic and why it is crucial to do so. The book will also help them to understand why it is important to stay at home and that staying at home is not that bad at all. Plus, this book also shows them that feeling sad during the pandemic is a normal thing to experience. Thus, teaches them to express their feelings more openly toward their parents. Lastly, the illustration of the book is very colorful and cute which will add more fun to a child’s reading experience.

Upon examining the content of the book, I find that there are no inaccuracies of information or errors about the new normal or about the pandemic. This book indeed is helpful for little children to understand how important it is to stay at home and take care of their hygiene – practicing the new normal. By doing so, they are helping to curb the virus from spreading. It teaches them that a small act such as washing their hands contribute to a bigger help than they can imagine.

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READ ALOUD WITH MISS D|| WHEN WE STAYED HOME||

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Additional Resource: Billie and the Brilliant Bubble: Social Distancing for Children by Tara Travieso

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Additional Resource: Billie and the Brilliant Bubble: Social Distancing for Children by Tara Travieso

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Thirshamytra Ragu Rajan (203170)

Muhammad Aizie Hafizam Bin Wahab (202118)

This website provides an in-depth review of Tara Traviesco's book Billie and the Brilliant Bubble: Social Distancing for Children. We believe that the reviews written by the author of this website are highly beneficial to readers before deciding to purchase the book.

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Billie and the Brilliant Bubble: Social Distancing for Children

The problems that the world has faced since the turn of the year will live long in the memory of everybody that experienced this period. Adults will never forget the year that they had to stay indoors for months, and worked from home while kids will not forget it because it's a year that schools closed abruptly. For any reason that you will remember it, this year will surely go on to live in the history books of humans. Lockdowns were put in place as a way to curb the spread of the virus that ravaged the world, and although this is easy to understand for an adult, children might find it hard to get. Parents have searched for the right words to use to explain what it means to maintain a distance from your peers, so that their children will understand.

Many parents have cried out that their children are finding it hard to understand the things that they tell their children. Well, it's not the fault of the children as they grew up being as free as birds, and they had the freedom to play at anytime, but that freedom has gone. Now, you have to restrict your children from making contact with other people, and you need to do this in the right way. Well, it's not every parent that is finding it hard to explain the situation of things to their kids, this means that you should follow the same path try took to achieve what you want. Tara Travieso is one of the parents that has the perfect explanation for kids on the events happening on the planet. She went a step further by putting the method she used into writing because she believes that other parents can take a leaf from her.

This mother of two wrote the book "Billie and the Brilliant Bubble: Social Distancing for Children" which is a 24-page book that explains social distancing to your children. Tara wrote this book because she discovered that some adults found explaining social distancing difficult to adequately, and how children should handle the situation. With this book from Tara, you can simply read the meaning of social distancing to your children in a way that they will understand easily, and that will not scare them. Kids can get scared easily, and this is one of the things that have made parents to pass through a hard time trying to explain the situation of the earth.

Tara Travieso wrote her book in a way that will make the children imagine themselves in protective bubbles that will break when they get close to others. Children love bubbles, so this is a sure way that can help you explain to your little children why they should maintain social distancing. You will be happy that you bought this write-up by Tara Travieso as the skills she employed will surely work for you. This write-up is recommended for people that have children in their homes, and for people that don't have the right words to describe what is going on.

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Billie and the Brilliant Bubble: Social Distancing for Children | Review Compared

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The problems that the world has faced since the turn of the year will live long in the memory of everybody that experienced this period. Adults will never forget the year that they had to stay indoors for months, and worked from home while kids will not forget it because it's a year that schools clo ...

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Book Review: Billie and the Brilliant Bubble: Social Distancing for Children by Tara Travieso

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Book Review: Billie and the Brilliant Bubble: Social Distancing for Children by Tara Travieso

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Thirshamytra Ragu Rajan (203170)

Muhammad Aizie Hafizam Bin Wahab (202118)

Billie and the Brilliant Bubble: Social Distancing for Children is a book produced by Tara Travieso. With the assistance of an illustrator named Bazma Ahmad, this book was successfully published on 23 June 2020 and garnered widespread attention. This book was written during the COVID-19 virus outbreak to assist children in understanding social distancing.

The story follows Billie, a little girl, and her imaginary bubble. Billie enjoys her bubble and is adamant about keeping it. She meets new friends, Carly and Cameron, and explains how her bubble keeps her safe and clean while allowing her to enjoy all of her daily activities. Billie explains that the bubble will help her keep a safe distance from other people when she is outside. She also explained the importance of the bubble and how it protects her and others from disease. By the end of the book, every child wants their own bubble, which will keep them secure and clean while still allowing them to have fun.

This book is ideal for children, in our opinion, because it explains social distancing in an approachable and enjoyable way. As we watched the video of the book being read aloud, we realized there were no inaccuracies or errors in the text. Indeed, even though the book was initially written for children, we are intrigued and thoroughly enjoy watching the video. The book is clearly geared toward children, as the content and how the author discusses social distancing are extremely simple for children to comprehend and learn.

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Kids Books Read Aloud: Billie and the Brilliant Bubble by Tara Travieso  social distancing for kids

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Additional Resource: Germs vs Soap by Didi Dragon

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Additional Resource: Germs vs Soap by Didi Dragon

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Thirshamytra Ragu Rajan (203170)

Muhammad Aizie Hafizam Bin Wahab (202118)

The author of this blog recounts her struggle to get one of the children she babysat to wash his hands every time he entered the house. She is overjoyed to have discovered a book titled Germs vs. Soap, as it provides an enjoyable way to teach that child why he should wash his hands with soap. Additionally, the website also includes a brief synopsis of the book.

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Weekly Trip to the Library

Despite telling children to wash their hands over and over again since the pandemic started I'm still having trouble getting one of the kids I babysit to wash his hands every time he enters the home. I have to hover over him because he often turns on the water and doesn't use soap until I nag him. That's why I'm thrilled to have found Germs vs. Soap as a fun way to explain to the little guy why he needs to wash his hands with soap.

Germs vs. Soap shows children the secret world of germs and how much germs absolutely, positively do NOT like soap. In fact, these germs will do anything to trick kids into not washing their hands with soap because it's the one thing standing between them and their beloved energy cupcakes. And all they want is to gobble up all the energy cupcakes humans have to offer and then spread to eat some more. But only if soap doesn't get in the way. Otherwise, it's all down the drain for them.

Children need to learn proper hand hygiene, but it does matter how you tell them. Did you jumpstart their imagination? A quirky book like Germs vs. Soap sticks with kids. The story becomes real, right there in the palm of their hands, the moment they step in front of the sink and pump some soap. Germs, beware!
You can purchase your own copy of Germs vs. Soap by clicking the links in this article.

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Despite telling children to wash their hands over and over again since the pandemic started I'm still having trouble getting one of the kids I babysit to wash his hands every time he enters the home. I have to hover over him because he often turns on the water and doesn't use soap until I nag him.

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Book Review: Germs vs Soap by Didi Dragon

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Book Review: Germs vs Soap by Didi Dragon

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Thirshamytra Ragu Rajan (203170)

Muhammad Aizie Hafizam Bin Wahab (202118)

It is difficult to persuade children to wash their hands. Because their hands do not appear to be unclean, handwashing can look to children to be tiresome, uninteresting, and even worthless! Germs vs. Soap, a book by Didi Dragon and illustrated by Hannah Robinett, will teach children about the necessity of handwashing. The book, which was successfully published on June 29, 2020, is undoubtedly an informative and fascinating book for children to read.

Germs vs. Soap teaches children about germs and how germs can stick to human hands. Germs greatly despise soap. Indeed, these germs will go to any length to convince children not to wash their hands with soap, as it is the only thing standing between them and their beloved energy cupcakes (energy that is in the human body). All they want to do is consume all the energy cupcakes humans have to offer. However, only if soap does not interfere with their evil plan. Otherwise, it's all for naught.

This book fascinates us because it is scientifically accurate while also being wildly imaginative. This book explains in simple terms how germs can infect our hands and demonstrates how to properly wash one's hands in an easy-to-follow step. With its playful and silly illustrations, educational graphics and told using humorous and hilarious text, this book is genuinely ideal and perfect for children to read and learn. In short, we believe that the book Germs vs Soap by Didi Dragon is beneficial at the moment, particularly in light of the outbreak of COVID-19. It is pretty obvious that this book can definitely educate children about why it is critical to wash their hands properly and how to properly wash their hands.

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Additional Resource: How Can I Help During COVID-19? by Emily Dolbear

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Additional Resource: How Can I Help During COVID-19? by Emily Dolbear

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Thirshamytra Ragu Rajan (203170)

Muhammad Aizie Hafizam Bin Wahab (202118)

Melissa Anders contributed an article to Emily Dolbear's book How Can I Help During COVID-19? on the School Library Journal website (slj.com). For us, the article was incredibly beneficial because she not only wrote about a book by Emily Dolbear but also discussed various children’s books that are also related to COVID-19.

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The coronavirus pandemic has turned kids' worlds upside down-schools shut down, their parents are now working from home, and they can't go to playgrounds, play with their friends, or visit family. Children's book publishers recognized a deep need to help kids through this difficult time and jumped into action with educational and reassuring books about the COVID-19 pandemic.

"That ability to have easy to understand facts and also process and cope with the world was the goal of our series," said Kathryn Camisa, marketing director at The Child's World, which pivoted quickly to publish a COVID-19 series by August.

Many publishers echoed Camisa, noting their goal to offer information and explanations in an age-appropriate, accessible way. Their goal is not to sugarcoat anything; instead, they have given kids accurate, actionable information so they don't feel helpless.

"What I think is helpful is empowering the kids to make them feel like they can actually make a difference," said Kelly Barrales-Saylor, editorial director at Sourcebooks eXplore. "Even if it's as simple as washing their hands and covering their mouths...they have the ability to do something about [the pandemic]."

Multiple publishers mentioned Fred Rogers's famous advice to children to "look for the helpers" in times of distress. Many of the COVID-19 books feature helpers and heroes of the pandemic, such as nurses, grocery clerks, and other frontline workers. They provide a sense of hope and appreciation amid a frightening, often uncertain time.

Cherry Lake Publishing Group

The Ann Arbor, Michigan-based company is comprised of five imprints that publish 280 books a year, including series nonfiction, hi-lo series for struggling readers, children's books, and graphic novels. One of the five, Sleeping Bear Press, publishes children's books for the trade market and has actively responded to the pandemic.

"We try to do books that will matter to kids," said Marketing Director Julia Hlavac. "They've dealt with so much upheaval this year; we're trying to give them ways to maintain a sort of normalcy."

In January 2021, the company will release Together We Can: Pandemic, an eight-title series geared for grades 2-5. The 24-page books, authored by Shannon Stocker, address the changes that COVID-19 has brought to children's lives and offer actionable suggestions to help kids through this difficult time. Each title addresses a different aspect of dealing with the pandemic while teaching essential SEL skills like empathy and connection.

One of the most difficult facets of the pandemic for children is tackled inSocial Distancing, ISBN 9781534180123. The book explains how social distancing helps prevent the spread of the coronavirus and why it is important to maintain right now. The title also provides creative ideas for kids to be social while staying physically distant, such as hosting virtual hangouts or riding bikes with friends on opposite sides of the street.

Coping with Changes, ISBN 9781534180079, gives children the tools to mentally and emotionally deal with the pandemic and other stressful times. It recommends taking deep breaths, practicing meditation (with a link to a guided meditation program), doing yoga, and spending time in nature.

Learning at Home, ISBN 9781534180109, suggests ways students can help themselves, their teachers, and their parents adapt to their new learning environments, whether that's 100 percent online or some other setup. The book stresses the importance of setting a daily schedule and offers ideas for learning outside of school, such as taking a virtual tour of a museum online.

Together We Can: Pandemic may be purchased as a series or by individual title. The other books in the series are Doing Your Part, ISBN 9781534180086; Staying Connected, ISBN 9781534180093; Celebrating Virtually, ISBN 9781534180116; Finding the Helpers, ISBN 9781534180147; and Staying Healthy, ISBN 9781534180130.

Releasing in March 2021 is a picture book biography about the female scientist who discovered the coronavirus in 1966. June Almeida, Virus Detective!: The Woman Who Discovered the First Human Coronavirus, by award-winning science author Suzanne Slade, illustrated by Elisa Paganelli, ISBN 9781534111325, is targeted to children ages 6 to 10. The title explores Almeida's life and career, including her passion for science and determination to work in an almost all-male field. Almeida's groundbreaking work continues to inform contemporary virologists' work today, including combating COVID-19.

"The thought behind this book is that there were a lot of misconceptions when the pandemic started about where the virus came from," Hlavac said. "This book addresses the fact that Coronavirus has been a known virus for many years, and it has many different forms."

ABDO Publishing Company

ABDO is a family-run company founded in 1985 that publishes educational books for the school and public library market. The Edina, Minnesota-based firm typically releases 700 to 800 titles per year. In response to the pandemic, ABDO offered free access to all of its e-books to ensure access for children whose schooling moved online. ABDO also created two series to make the pandemic comprehensible to younger kids and middle graders.

The Coronavirus, August 2020, ISBN 9781098205492, is a six-title series for readers in grades pre-K-2. The titles teach children about all aspects of the virus, including distance learning, staying connected and safe, and STEM topics related to COVID-19. For instance, STEM and COVID-19, by ABDO Managing Editor Grace Hansen, ISBN 9781098205553, explains how STEM skills can help address issues related to the pandemic, such as medical workers using a robot to limit their contact with contagious patients.

"(The series) is important for kids," said Hansen. "Their lives might have totally changed in one day and that was probably a little confusing, so we wanted to bring the ABDO Kids coronavirus series to libraries."

Core Library Guide to COVID-19, August 2020, ISBN 9781532194023, is a six-title series for grades 4-8. The books support Common Core standards and prompt critical thinking. Titles include The Economic Impact of COVID-19, by Emily Hudd, ISBN 9781532194030, which examines the pandemic's effect on jobs and how businesses are changing the way they provide goods and services; and World Leaders During COVID-19, by Douglas Hustad, ISBN 9781532194085, which compares how the United States, Germany, France, and New Zealand have handled the crisis.

Sourcebooks

Sourcebooks is North America's largest woman-owned trade book publisher. The Naperville, Illinois-based company launched 33 years ago and has grown to publish 400 titles annually under 11 imprints, including adult nonfiction, fiction, and a variety of children's titles.

The publisher's first response to the pandemic was an addition to one of its series.Baby Medical School: Vaccines, by Cara Florance and Jon Florance, April 2020, ISBN 9781492694007, explains the amazing things that happen in your body when you get a vaccine and how it works to keep you and others safe. The book is one of three titles in the Baby Medical School series.

Heroes Wear Masks: Elmo's Super Adventure, by Sesame Workshop, September 2020, ISBN 9781728236599, is the latest picture book from Sourcebooks's Scribble series with the renowned children's education brand. In inimitable Elmo style, the book aims to ease kids' anxiety about going back to school while wearing masks and what to expect when they get there.

Epidemiologist Neal Goldstein-who wanted to write a children's book about the pandemic with his wife, Joanna Suder, a public health attorney-approached Editorial Director Kelly Barrales-Saylor in the spring. Barrales-Saylor paired them with author Chris Ferrie, who has written and illustrated dozens of titles for Sourcebooks's Baby University series. While targeted to kids up to 3 years old, Ferrie's simple, accessible content appeals even to adult readers.

Goldstein, Suder, and Ferrie produced two 24-page Baby University board books in just a few months. Their first, Pandemics for Babies, October 2020, ISBN 9781728234168, introduces the topics of contagion, disease transmission, virus testing, quarantine, and social distancing. The illustrations use simple, ball-shaped faces to show how a disease can spread and turn into a pandemic. The trio's second title, Germ Theory for Babies, ISBN 9781728234076, will be released in February 2021. It explains how people can get germs directly from other people, surfaces, and animals.

The Child's World

The Child's World, a 52-year-old family-owned publisher based in North Mankato, Minnesota, offers educational nonfiction series and fiction titles for children in grades K-8. The company publishes 200 books a year, covering early literacy, high interest nonfiction, narrative nonfiction, and STEM curriculum titles. Given the company's focus, it was a "no-brainer" to shift gears and publish a series on the pandemic, according to Kathryn Camisa, marketing director.

Pandemics and COVID-19, a six-title set published in August, is the company's best-selling series this fall. The series is written at a third-grade reading level. Each title includes back matter with "think about it" questions and hands-on activities. A companion website offers free supplemental educational content that is accessible to everyone, regardless of whether they purchased the books.

What If I'm Worried about COVID-19? by Emily Dolbear, ISBN 9781503853188, addresses social and emotional needs, fears, and anxieties around COVID-19. It offers ways for children to be mindful and stay calm through deep breathing, yoga, and meditation. Another section helps kids better understand their feelings and communicate them to their families and teachers. The book also offers kids engaging activities, such as starting a journal and writing down three things they're grateful for each day. Who Are the COVID-19 Helpers? by Sara Latta, ISBN 9781503853157, covers a wide range of essential workers, from farm workers, factory workers, and restaurant staff to nurses, doctors, and disease detectives-those who study how people get sick and how viruses travel.

Like all the books in the series,Helpers includes a "good news" section that shares uplifting stories, such as how people in many U.S. cities went outside at 7 p.m. each evening to show their appreciation for essential workers with a round of applause. What Is a Pandemic?, by Kara L. Laughlin, ISBN 9781503853164, talks more broadly about historical pandemics and how vaccines are created. It features large, colorful fact boxes, including one on Joseph Salk, who developed the first successful polio vaccine. One "think about it" section asks kids to imagine they're a doctor, then write three things they could do to prevent a pandemic when a new virus emerges. Hands-on activities also help kids see concepts in action, including one that directs them to replicate virus spread by rubbing flour on their hands and seeing how it spreads during their everyday tasks.

The series's other titles areWhat Is COVID-19? by Sara Latta, ISBN 9781503852761; How Can I Help During COVID-19? by Dolbear, ISBN 9781503852778; and How Has COVID-19 Changed Our World? by Laughlin, ISBN 9781503853171.

Blair Publishing

Blair is a nonprofit publisher based in Durham, North Carolina. Formerly known as Carolina Wren Press, Blair highlights the voices of emerging and underrepresented writers, including people of color, LBGTQ people, differently abled writers, women, and people from the American south, particularly Appalachia. Blair releases about a dozen titles a year, including one or two children's books.

In August, children's book author Beth Bacon approached Blair with a unique proposal. A few months earlier, Bacon had written a children's book,COVID-19 Helpers, with illustrator Kary Lee. Entered in a competition for the best children's COVID-19 e-book, which was organized by Emory University's Global Health Institute, the book won the top prize out of 260 submissions. The e-book was available through Emory, but Bacon wanted a physical edition too. It was an easy decision for Blair Publisher Lynn York, who thought COVID-19 Helpers struck just the right note for children, to take on the book.

"It's really hard to get the tone right," said York. "You want to inform children, you want to treat them with respect, but you also don't want to scare them," York said. "You want to make sure they have accurate information that's actionable...there's this feeling of helplessness, so actionable is important."

Written for children ages 5-11,COVID-19 Helpers, November 2020, ISBN 9781949467604, sends the message that children play an important role in fighting the pandemic, too, by staying home and practicing social distancing. The book explains the virus and talks about the various helpers, including garbage collectors, grocery workers, researchers, and health care workers, all of whom have a frontline role during the pandemic.

ReferencePoint Press

Founded in 2006, ReferencePoint Press publishes nonfiction books focusing on current events and core curriculum topics, along with some general and high interest titles, for grades 6-12. In 2019, t

he San Diego-based publisher launched its BrightPoint Press imprint to produce nonfiction for reluctant teen readers. When the pandemic hit, Publisher Dan Leone knew ReferencePoint had to do something about the rampant misinformation and confusion concerning COVID-19.

The COVID-19 Pandemic: The World Turned Upside Down, by Hal Marcovitz, August 2020, ISBN 9781678200183, covers the early stages of the pandemic, including its origins in China and how it spread globally. The book's main focus is the U.S. response to the virus: lockdowns, school closures, the impact on hospitals, health care, and the economy. The final chapter considers what the future will look like after the pandemic. The 80-page photo-illustrated book targets grades 6-12.

Understanding the COVID-19 Pandemic, February 2021, is a five-title ReferencePoint series for middle and high school readers. The series explores various aspects of the pandemic, including the origins of the novel coronavirus, the illness and outcomes it produces, and the race to develop a vaccine. With solid facts, plus personal accounts from people on the front lines of the crisis, each 64-page book in the series provides clarity and context to help readers understand the pandemic.

Titles in the series include:Health, Illness, and Death in the Time of COVID-19, by Bradley Steffens, ISBN 9781678200343; The Origins and Spread of COVID-19, by John Allen, ISBN 9781678200381; The Search for a COVID-19 Vaccine, by Craig E. Blohm, ISBN 9781678200404; Heroes of the COVID-19 Pandemic, by Barbara Sheen, ISBN 9781678200367; and COVID-19 and the Challenges of the New Normal, by Marcia S. Gresko, ISBN 9781678200329.

The COVID-19 Pandemic is another five-title series publishing in February 2021. This BrightPoint hi-lo YA nonfiction series explores how COVID-19 affected the world in 2020, from how it spread to the measures being taken to stop the virus. Unique to this series, Past Pandemics and COVID-19, by Walt K. Moon, ISBN 9781678200640, views the current pandemic in historical context by comparing it to the bubonic plague of the 14th century and the 1918 influenza pandemic.

Orca Book Publishers

Based in Victoria, British Columbia, Orca Book Publishers was established in 1984. The independently owned publisher releases 90 children's books per year, including board books, picture books, middle grade titles, young adult fiction, and hi-lo fiction. In response to the pandemic, Orca created the Digital Class Set + License, which allows educators to share one of its e-books with an entire class for three years.

In early April, author Eric Walters came to Orca with an idea for a middle grade fiction novel about the coronavirus. Orca released the e-book in just 43 days, followed shortly by the paperback. Walters's book,Don't Stand So Close to Me, September 2020, ISBN 9781459827875, is for readers ages 9-12. It tells the story of a group of eighth grade students planning a school dance. When the pandemic breaks out, the students must not only rethink their plans for the dance but also adjust to a new reality. Walters, a former teacher, incorporated into his book feedback from students, whose input kept the book true to teenage life.

Orca also published We Wear Masks, by Marla Lesage, November 2020, ISBN 9781459828797. Written for children ages 3-5, the picture book came about after Lesage took her kids to a petting zoo while wearing face masks. Her children realized face coverings have additional benefits-like masking bad animal smells!-and are actually used by many people for work. The rhyming book talks about scuba divers, pilots, scientists, graffiti artists, and many others who wear masks to do their jobs.

Lerner Publishing Group

Minneapolis, Minnesota-based Lerner specializes in nonfiction series for schools and libraries and also publishes picture books and single title nonfiction. The company releases 500 to 600 books a year for grades pre-K-12. About 80 percent of the titles are nonfiction.

Recognizing the need for COVID-19 resources, Lerner moved quickly to release a four-book series in August 2020. The hi-lo series COVID-19, written at a third grade reading level for students in grades 5-8, helps readers understand the pandemic and its effects. One title, Social Distancing, by Heather DiLorenzo Williams, ISBN 9781728428017, discusses the stay-at-home orders, wearing masks, social distancing, staying connected, adjusting to virtual learning, and keeping active.

A second title,A Lasting Impact, also by DiLorenzo Williams, ISBN 9781728427997, examines the lockdowns that occurred throughout the world and how they affected everything from the economy to the environment. The book includes infographics, including one that shows U.S. unemployment spiking amid the shutdown. Other titles in the series include: Essential Workers, Essential Heroes, by DiLorenzo Williams, ISBN 9781728427980; and The Science of the Coronavirus, by Renae Gilles, ISBN 9781728428000.

Stay Healthy with Sesame Street: Understanding Coronavirus, by Mary Lindeen, January 2021, ISBN 9781728427621, employs a friendly question-and-answer format to make the pandemic accessible to children in grades pre-K-2. This engaging book uses the series's beloved characters to teach kids about topics such as what happens if you get COVID-19 and how to use belly breathing to calm yourself.

"The main objective here is to provide comfort and reassurance about what's going on because it feels so uncertain," Lois Wallentine, Lerner's school & library marketing director, said of the Sesame Street book.

A single title, The COVID-19 Pandemic: A Coronavirus Timeline, by Matt Doeden, January 2021, ISBN 9781728427706, starts with the harrowing story of a real person who had COVID-19 but got better after receiving a platelet transfusion from a recovered coronavirus patient. The book then jumps back to the beginning of the pandemic and charts its spread worldwide. This 'biography' of the pandemic is intended for grades 4-8.

Conclusion

It's clear that children's book publishers feel a keen responsibility to do whatever they can to address kids' needs surrounding the pandemic. Whether that's tackling their confusion with accurate information or alleviating their anxiety with actionable suggestions, the unifying thread that runs through these titles is giving children clear, age-appropriate materials to help them process and cope with COVID-19.

As ReferencePoint's Dan Leone said, "For once, I think all of us publishers did not have to debate what we're going to publish this spring."

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Coping With COVID-19: Publishers Join the Ranks of Helpers

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The coronavirus pandemic has turned kids' worlds upside down-schools shut down, their parents are now working from home, and they can't go to playgrounds, play with their friends, or visit family. Children's book publishers recognized a deep need to help kids through this difficult time and jumped into action with educational and reassuring books about the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Book Review: How Can I Help During COVID-19? by Emily Dolbear

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Book Review: How Can I Help During COVID-19? by Emily Dolbear

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Thirshamytra Ragu Rajan (203170)

Muhammad Aizie Hafizam Bin Wahab (202118)

COVID-19 has radically altered the world we have known for only just a few months. With so much about the disease and the virus that causes it still unknown, this is a frightening and overwhelming time. Emily Dolbear authored a book titled How Can I Help During Covid-19? and was initially published in August 2020. For now, the book is only available in English. It is an excellent children's book because it provides children with an up-to-date, age-appropriate overview of the pandemic and its effects.

Children may have a variety of inquiries about COVID-19. This book addresses a number of those questions, from a discussion of pandemics in general to a reflection on how the virus altered our world. This book provides an overview of how the coronavirus that causes COVID-19 spreads, as well as prevention tips for how children can help slow the spread of the virus. This book also includes informative captions, interesting factual sidebars, recommended activities, a phonetic glossary, additional research, author information, and an index. Undoubtedly, this book gives children enough complete details on everything they need to know about COVID-19 and ways to help each other.

To our mind, this book allows all readers, particularly children, to reflect on the pandemic and its effects. This book discusses everything from the COVID-19 virus's definition to how children can assist themselves and others in this challenging situation. Additional features such as a phonetic glossary, an index, and other research sources can undoubtedly provide the reader with a wealth of new information. Clearly, this book is appropriate for children's reading as it contains all the necessary details on the COVID-19 virus and is written in a way and language that is easily understood by children.

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How Can I Help During Covid-19? | Children's Book Read Aloud

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Additional Resource: A Kid's Guide to Coronavirus by Rebecca Growe and Julia Martin Burch

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Additional Resource: A Kid's Guide to Coronavirus by Rebecca Growe and Julia Martin Burch

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Thirshamytra Ragu Rajan (203170)

Muhammad Aizie Hafizam Bin Wahab (202118)

Rebecca Growe, the book's author, reads aloud A Kid's Guide to Coronavirus in this video. The video is especially helpful for children because the author uses gentle and straightforward language to explain the virus, how it spreads, and how kids can help each other live the new norms today.

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Magination Press Story Time - Rebecca Growe Reads A Kid's Guide to Coronavirus

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Book Review: A Kid's Guide to Coronavirus by Rebecca Growe and Julia Martin Burch

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Book Review: A Kid's Guide to Coronavirus by Rebecca Growe and Julia Martin Burch

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Thirshamytra Ragu Rajan (203170)

Muhammad Aizie Hafizam Bin Wahab (202118)

The presence of Covid 19 has tremendously changed the day-to-day life of every human being in all corners of the world.  As it took months for humans to understand the do’s and don’ts to stay safe and to endure this pandemic together. Children in every household are still clueless as to why their parents, siblings, relatives and even their neighbours are panicking. Rebecca Growe’s A Kid’s Guide to Coronavirus, published in May 2020, came in pretty handy to explain about the virus to the children.

This book had drawings, colours and less words that enabled the children to be attracted to it at a glance. Next, the words used were simple and understandable by all child readers. The author introduced Coronavirus by stating the symptoms first so that the readers don’t get confused by the name and be clueless of how one would know they are infected with the sickness.

The author first introduces the sickness and its symptoms, then talks about how it spreads from one human to another and finally the author also explains on how we can control the spread or how we can end this pandemic. By this, the children not only get a clear picture of why people are afraid of this ‘sickness’ but they also understand their responsibilities in avoiding themselves from being affected by the deadly virus.