The Camping Trip & Khalil and Mr. Hagerty and the Backyard Treasures [Review & Giveaway - USA/CANADA]

The Camping Trip by Jennifer K. Mann

ISBN: 9781536207361
Ages 3-7 ~ Hardcover
Candlewick Press

My thoughts: This is a precious book about two young girls on a camping trip. One is hostess (with her mother) and the other has never camped out before.

The reactions to everything encountered are adorable and so appropriate to city kids going camping for the first time. There is much to be learned in this enjoyable book and much realization of the adaptable nature of kids and the fun to be had in experiencing activities outside our normal scope.

I recommend this gem of a book.

About the book: Ernestine is beyond excited to go camping. She follows the packing list carefully (new sleeping bag! new flashlight! special trail mix made with Dad!) so she knows she is ready when the weekend arrives. But she quickly realizes that nothing could have prepared her for how hard it is to set up a tent, never mind fall asleep in it, or that swimming in a lake means that there will be fish — eep! Will Ernestine be able to enjoy the wilderness, or will it prove to be a bit too far out of her comfort zone? In an energetic illustrated story about a first sleepover under the stars, acclaimed author-illustrator Jennifer K. Mann reminds us that opening your mind to new experiences, no matter how challenging, can lead to great memories (and a newfound taste for s’mores).

Khalil and Mr. Hagerty and the Backyard Treasures by Tricia Springstubb and illustrated by Elaheh Taherian

ISBN: 9781536203066
Ages 5-8 ~ Hardcover
Candlewick Press

My thoughts: This is a sweet generational story of a young child and an older person. They live in the same building and share a backyard. Mr. Hagerty gardens. Khalil plays and digs for treasure. Mr. Hagerty is disappointed his garden produces such insignificant vegetables and Khalil is disappointed that he finds no treasure.

They develop a friendship and soon find a way to ease each other's disappointment. Also, while not verbally indicated as such, young Kahlil eases Mr. Hagerty through his forgetfulness of vocabulary. Perhaps, early dementia. Sweet.

A subtle yet sweet message of caring.  

About the book: Khalil lives in the upstairs apartment with his family, which is big and busy and noisy. Downstairs lives Mr. Hagerty, who is quiet. Khalil and Mr. Hagerty don’t appear to have a lot in common, but hot summer days have a way of bringing people together. As Khalil looks for buried treasure in the yard, Mr. Hagerty tends to his garden. Both help each other navigate language — whether it be learning new words or remembering those seemingly forgotten. Before long, an unlikely friendship is born, full of treasure, thoughtfulness, and chocolate cake. Through well-cultivated details and vibrant cut-paper collage, author Tricia Springstubb and illustrator Elaheh Taherian nurture a heart-tugging tribute to the love of good neighbors and to the strength of intergenerational and intercultural bonds.

GIVEAWAY ~ 2 WINNERS

Begins June 13

Ends July 10 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA and CANADA addresses

(No P.O. Boxes & NO business addresses)

Canadian winners must provide phone number

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DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies from the publisher to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's copies are provided and shipped directly to the winner by publisher or publicist.