As an elementary librarian, I adore the book, Amaleigha Loves a Good Story. Amaleigha has the world’s biggest heart and always finds ways to help the people around her. She loves to read books but soon notices that the bilingual section of her school library does not have many books. She crafts a plan to enhance her school library collection and soon has the whole community’s support.

Janice Pratt has a knack for writing amazing stories that show children how to be better people in a relatable manner. One of my favorite things about this book is that it provides a message that children need access to bilingual books at school and in the community. Pratt even included the mayor’s message in different languages which makes the message shine through her book.

Many social-emotional points can be spoken about within the story… Speaking to children about these different points can help them become more like Amaleigha.

– How can we have big hearts?
– How can we help others?
– How can we work together as a community?
– Even as a child, you can do great things.

This book would be a great way to spark the interest of children in creating a little library. Speaking of which, the back of the book provides information about creating a little library.

I also want to give a shout-out to Alina Kralia who truly brings the story to life with vivid illustrations. Kralia does an amazing job even with the smallest details of the illustrations.

As a side note… I have to say that for one of two reasons, the dedication made my heart smile: I serve as a school librarian and I know of a few librarians in the Oklahoma area.

Amaleigha loves everything about nature, playing outside, exploring the wonderful world around her- even the tiniest parts (insects), and watching the seasons change. There are many things that I adore about this book! First, let’s start with the fact that I was Amaleigha… Growing up, I was always playing outside, going on adventures, and building things out of items I found outside. Secondly, I love the rich vocabulary that is used throughout the book. As a teacher, I could think of many ELA lessons that could be tied to this book. As a school librarian, I loved the detailed illustrations created by Alina Kralia. Kralia’s detailed illustrations ensure that children can see the wonderful world of nature that Amaleigha loves. Readers can see the changes in seasons throughout the book as they explore the world with Amaleigha. The thing that I love most is the message that even though you are young, you can still do great things like Amaleigha.

This is a delightful book for any nature lover, it makes me just want to get outside right now and explore! I think this book would be fantastic to share while on an adventure with your little one. Take a blanket and Amaleigha’s Big Idea outside to enjoy, then go on a mini adventure of your own. Build a love of nature and books within your child! 🙂

I would give this book more stars if I could because I absolutely loved it!