Did you ever lose a child in a mall? I did. In London. And he was seven years old. It’s something one never forgets, even if the ending is a happy one as in our case.
Signs of Trouble by Janet Ann Collins deals with that very situation with a twist. Two children from Miss Rose’s Special Education class get lost, and neither of them is good at directions. But Kim and Amy persevere with a bit of help from a guard, and all is well in the end.This book speaks to an issue that affects many school children in a sensitive and realistic manner. In fact, the girls quarrel a little between them which makes the story believable for children and adults. There is frustration and fear when one gets lost, and Ms. Collins addresses this in an honest way.
In the end, all is not lost, and the girls have done most everything correctly to find the way back to their classmstes. They are winners in spite of and because of tackling a problem and following through with a positive action. Signs of Trouble, then, is a heartening and enriching tale for Special Ed kids and for those who are not. A good lesson is to be learned between the covers of this lovely book, and I recommend it without reservation.
An added bonus is the lively artwork by Jack Foster. The kids spring off the pages and add a resonance to the book as a whole.
Signs of Trouble can be found at Amazon.com, Guardian Angel Publishing, Barnes & Noble.com.
Thank you for the nice review, Nancy.
ReplyDeleteAlways a pleasure to have you on the blog! All best wishes to you and your terrific book.
DeleteAlways a pleasure having you here on the blog, Jan. My very best wishes to you and Signs of Trouble!
DeleteThis book sounds awesome. I like your review too.
ReplyDeleteTeresa
Hi, Teresa,
ReplyDeleteMany thanks for your kind comments. Jan's book is marvelous and has a good message for all kids-and their parents!
Thanks for stopping by.
Hi Nancy,
ReplyDeleteNice review about a story all Moms (and some teachers) can relate to. It is hard to find one's way when lost and confused. But when kids learn to listen, the battle is half won. Thanks, Jan and Nancy.
Thanks so much, Penelope. Your comments are welcomed, and I appreciate the support.
DeleteSweet story about a fearful topic. I was lost as a 2 1/2 year old in a department store at Christmas time shopping. I was with 6 adults, and each thought the other had me. I don't remember being afraid but I can remember a sea of legs around me. I was at the top of an escalator on my way out the door when they found me. I think because of my age they were more frightened than I was.
ReplyDeleteSo well put, Lynda! Such a needed book on so many levels. Your reminiscence is interesting, in that we never forget how adults reacted to trauma. Thanks!
DeleteI lost my son on the beach once when he was three. I was panic stricken. The life guards jumped to it, and made a quick recovery. I'm sure it's the nightmare of all parents to lose sight of their child. Wishing you great success with this book Janet. Thank you Nancy for another enlightening review.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Susan! I appreciate your comments! Wow. It looks as if so many of us have "lost" children. Scariest thing in the world! Best wishes to you.
DeleteThanks for the review, Nancy.
ReplyDeleteAnd Janet Ann, thanks for a story that so many people can relate to. I lost my daughter for just a few minutes when she was about two. She was visiting a neighbor. It's hard to say if time slows down or speeds up in a situation like that. It's scary even when it's for a few minutes.
I know, Barbara. It's the worst feeling in the world. Even now, I can remember everythin about that terrible morning. Still makes me shudder. Thanks for your comment!
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