Ivy's Icicle: Book Three--Forgiving Others (Thinking of Others Books)

This series of heartwarming picture books (#1 Tessa's Treasures; #2 Wyatt's Wagon; #3 Ivy's Icicle) will entertain young children as they learn about the joy of thinking of others. Each book teaches a principle through a compelling story while expressive illustrations fill each page with color and emotion.

Kindergarten-Grade 4-When Dustin plays with his new basketball in the house, he breaks Ivy's beautiful new doll, a Christmas gift from their grandmother. She cannot forgive her brother, and, just like the icicles forming outside on her house, her heart becomes an icicle within her. The text subtly draws the parallel, and shows the adults gently guiding Ivy to her eventual understanding that holding a grudge is self-destructive. The illustrations in oil are luminous and beautifully done, greatly enhancing the text. The lesson is understated. A quote from the Bible is appended and notes by the author lend a religious tone to the book, but the story stands on its own and can spark discussion without those references. There is also a nicely sketched special relationship between Ivy and her grandmother, as the oft-repeated grandmotherly phrase "My, how Ivy has grown" acquires new meaning by the end. An excellent list of discussion questions is appended. This is a solid choice for libraries wishing to enlarge their ethical and moral selections.
Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA
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