Annabelle's Big Move

While I believe that reading should be fun, it's an additional gift if the story can consciously (or unconsciously) address an issue in the child's life. Since I work with many children with attentional difficulties, I'm always on the look out for books which can also hold the attention of these children. Carla Golembe's previous book Dog Magic first caught my eye while I was passing through the children's section of a local bookstore. The joyous colors seemed to leap off the shelf into my arms like magic. It may have seemed odd to others that this bearded adult seemed to be lost in space while reading this children's book. I wouldn't have noticed it anyway since I was transfixed by Golembe's strikingly beautiful and colorful illustrations. I was then enchanted by her use of these illustrations to enhance the manner in which she approached a sensitive topic. I've since recommended this book to many parents. When Annabelle's Big Move came out, I knew this was going to be another winner and I wasn't disappointed. Once again, I was drawn to the interplay between the colorful, vivid illustrations and the simple, yet poignant story line. Golembe's illustrations add a magical quality which evoke details that are not contained in the words. In Annabelle's Big Move, children will personally identify with the initial sadness which accompanies a move (or any change in their lives). Kids are also aware that any change exposes them to unfamiliar territory. Golembe's wonderful illustrations and memorable characters though, have young (and older) readers trying to figure out ways to cheer them up. This process allows all readers to experience how a moment of brief sadness can be quickly transformed into joy and how the unfamiliar becomes familiar when you are accepted for who you are. Keep going Carla