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Hello everyone! Welcome to the first installment of my new “Book Review” series! I am so excited to start this new series because over the years I have read many great, not so great, and downright terrible, children’s books. There are so many books out there. As I have browsed the children’s books at stores and libraries, I have found myself pretty surprised as to what is out there for young children. I hope this series will help you develop a go-to list for books for your own children and to pass along as gifts for other children!
I am so thrilled to share this first book with you because it is one of my new favorites! While this book does have animals that are talking (usually something I steer away from), the illustrations and the story itself are just so touching, I couldn’t help but fall in love with it. So, without further ado, let’s get to the review!
We Found a Hat by Jon Klassen
Jon Klassen is a Canadian born Illustrator and Author. He has written several other books, such as “Where is My Hat” and “This is Not My Hat”. He has won both the Caldecott Medal and the British Kate Greenaway Medal for his illustrations. He has collaborated o many books, and I highly recommend that you look into the many other books he has worked on.
I love his illustration style, and love his restrained color palettes, sticking to a few colors rather than splashing colors garishly across the page in an effort to draw attention. His simple style draws the eye in, focusing on the details and composition, rather than overworking the eyes. I think his illustration style also allows for the story to come across more, allowing the child to take in the tale while enjoying the minimalist images.
The story itself is so sweet. Two turtles come across a hat that they both fancy. They decide to leave the hat behind, however, because it would not be fair if one of them got to have it and the other did not. At the end of the story, they are both pleased with the decision to leave it there and both be without hats.
I love this because they are not sharing. Sharing is a difficult concept for young children who are not yet ready. I love that the story gives permission to just go without, rather than have one without or forced into a share structure. They find they are happy without having the hat and that their friendship is more important than the hat.
A super sweet story, coupled with attractive illustrations, this is a must for young children! I highly recommend you add this story to your collection! If you would like to purchase the book, you can find it here, here, or here.
Do you have this book? Do you have a favorite children’s book you would like me to review on The Peaceful Family blog? Comment below!