By Bianca Schulze, The Children’s Book Review
Published: December 14, 2010
What about Daisy?
by Maryam Faresh (Author), Gail Suzanne Weissman MFA (Illustrator)
Reading level: Ages 4-8
Hardcover: 31 pages
Publisher: What about Daisy? (2010)
Source of book: Author
What about Daisy? is a heartfelt story inspired by the author’s own experiences with her deafblind dog: A deafblind rescue dog, Daisy, is in search of her forever home. The colorful and impressionistic illustrations tell the same story as the text, but offer a few special hints in the beginning pages; these hints indicate that Daisy is a little more special than the other dogs at her rescue facility. Using a repetitive phrase: “What about Daisy?,” Faresh encourages readers to experience empathy for Daisy. This repetitive phrase also allows young readers to stay connected to the purpose of the book—the search for Daisy’s forever home—and it also builds anticipation and hope. The book offers opportunities for young readers to raise questions about special needs, and increases awareness in the areas of self-acceptance, acceptance of others, and the importance of friendship. It’s also important to know that a portion of proceeds from What About Daisy? book sales goes to charities for both deafblind children and special needs pets in need of adoption.
Add this book to your collection: What about Daisy?
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FYI: At Faresh’s website, you can visit the “Friend Finder” to meet some of Daisy’s friends who are waiting to be adopted, or discover how to sponsor a pet and learn about volunteering at a shelter.
2 Comments
Having attended a reading by the author, Maryam, at a local classroom I was impressed with not only the way the 4-5 year old children kept their attention focused on the story throughout the presentation but more with the sheer number of questions the students had and the depth of their inquiries. A very special project addressing issues that are current and in process with children (and us older folks as well).
Paul Giampaoli
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!