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Jan 23, 2016mmcbeth29 rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
SUMMARY: Theodore's day starts as a gloomy and stormy one until he finds a lucky penny. Then nothing seems to go wrong from the perfect bus ride to school to winning at tether ball on the play ground. But after a day full of good things, he decides the penny gave him enough luck to share so he passes it on to a friend. ILLUSTRATIONS: The pictures in this book were created in colored pencil. This can be a very difficult medium to work with well so I am doubly awed at the amazing illustrations. They are retro in style and color and full of fun details and adorable faces. THE GOOD: This book doesn't just make you feel good because of the luck Theodore is experiencing, but also because of his happy attitude that he passes on to others. He compliments his mother's cooking, he waves to his friends, is proud of his work and he smiles. Then in the end he shares his good luck with a friend. This leaves you feeling upbeat. This book would be excellent for a group-read in a kindergarten classroom. It is also a perfect springboard for discussing luck versus how a good attitude makes everything around you better. THE NOT AS GOOD: The writing is a bit complex for kindergarten age children so there will be plenty to explain and talk about. The writing almost felt like it was "beatnik" in style matching the retro illustrations. AGE RECOMMENDATION: For kindergarteners or children getting ready to enter kindergarten.