What a bad day! Jake has a terrible day at school.
I try to open my milk. SPLASH!
After lunch, I struggle with the computer mouse.
SWERVE! SWIVEL! SHAKE!
The afternoon with Gramma doesn't start out much better.
Playing video games helps me relax. I try to hold the controller still...
SHAKE! JUGGLE! JIGGLE! JUMP!
I drop the controller and punch the pillow beside me.
But Gramma has other plans.
Gramma hugs me. "Let's make cookies!"
"Turn up the music, Jake. I love this song!"
I giggle as Gramma limps into a jig.
SHAKE! SASHAY! SHIMMY!
Sometimes his Essential Tremor overwhelms Jake. An afternoon with Gramma in "Shaky Quaky Jake" gives him a chance to regroup. The compassionate relationship between Jake and Gramma is heartwarming, and children learn a lot about how struggling with a disability can still lead to a better day... tomorrow.
TIMELESS TOPIC: Classic with the wisdom of a grandparent but with a fresh look at a little-known disability, this book touches on truly universal topics. Kindness, acceptance, inclusion, and imagination are front and center as the main character struggles to find his place in his classroom and, ultimately, life.
READ ALOUD: This picture book is perfect for read-aloud occasions, bedtime, or any moment a kid needs cheering up and being reminded that with perseverance and imagination, you can solve any problem, and thinking outside the box can be the answer if you are not afraid to step into the unknown and just do it!
SELF-RELIANCE: This book also emphasizes the value of remaining positive in facing life's various difficulties. You can be upset and still be a regular person; you can have a bad day with all the entailing emotions.
REASSURANCE: Perfect for kids who are nervous about their struggles with a disability and any child who has less-than-ideal moments in life. The best we can do is keep trying!
EDUCATIONAL INFO INCLUDED: The author's note tells a little about Essential Tremor. The back of the book includes a bonus list of how to RESPECT others.
Perfect for:
A read-aloud option for parents, teachers, and librarians looking at books about overcoming adversity and persistence in everyday life.Reassuring book for kids who experience anxiety or struggle to get through bad days.Fans of books that celebrate big feelings and triumphs in everyday life.
Kelly D. Roberts lives in S.E. Washington state with her Shorkie puppy, Freyja. You can find them making new friends in the park, hanging out with Kelly's grandson, reading, or playing board games. Kelly homeschooled her children, then finished her degree in Early Childhood Education, spending time as a preschool teacher with the Early Childhood Education Assistance Program before retiring and pursuing a career in children's literature. She feels strongly that every child deserves to be loved, included, and accepted just as they are. She has a precarious perch of books on her nightstand, desk, and kitchen counter! Read about her journey and find activities for this book on her website, The Shaky Quaky Reading and Writing Gramma, https: //kellydroberts.com/.
Jveria Gauhar is aspiring to be a Jane of All Trades. Eager to learn any new skill, she often jumps into projects feet first, with her head joining soon after. "Shaky Quaky Jake" is her debut illustrated book, which she has been extremely humbled and excited to share with the world. In addition to doodling, she is a black belt in Taekwondo. She is a professionally trained optometrist and has an eye for all things EYES! Jveria's most prized project, which has no end in sight, is being the mother to four creative kids and two uncreative cats! She is based in Louisville, Kentucky.
