Taneesha Never Disparaging

I was delighted to read this book by M. Lavora Perry. Taneesha is a lively, real-world character full of charms and flaws. The book is well-written, and the story moves along well. I had never read a book with a Buddhist character, and the skillful way Perry writes really shows a slice of life through the eyes of a kid. The cover is a gorgeous painting by Floyd Cooper - don't miss this book!

M. LaVora Perry's book is a delightful read that teaches children to accept self, to embrace difference, and to develop compassion for others. Taneesha, the young protagonist, possesses a strong voice that resonates with readers and struggles with issues such as self-confidence and bullying that many young readers experience as well. Perry has written a skillful, well-paced children's book that should be on all home, school, and library bookshelves. Reviewed by Wendy Rountree, North Carolina Central University, and author of Lost Soul and Just Us Girls: The Contemporary African American Young Adult Novel

Taneesha Bey-Ross' life at the present moment is going miserably wrong. She feels neglected by her parents. No matter what, it seems as if they aren't able to understand what's going on in her life. To make things worse, her best friend, Carli, is a bully's dream. Finally fed up, Taneesha stands up and is now the bullied. Evella, the voice who lives inside of her head, is always, always putting her down. Friend Rayshaun learns of her religion and constantly has something negative to say. And thanks to Carli, again, she's involved in a no win election. Carli's quick solution is to let their parents know. However, Taneesha doesn't want her mom to interfere and believes she can handle things on her own. "Taneesha: Never Disparaging" is about Taneesha's life, the ups and downs and happy and sad times. Overall I really enjoyed getting to know Taneesha Bey-Ross. While the read was very funny it was also sad. Taneesha is a girl that most girls can relate to. Reviewed by: Marshae Pre-teen Reviewer

Instantly, she's hilarious! She's imaginative! She's stubborn! She's Taneesha Bey-Ross with a determination to do fifth-grade life her way. Never mind the local, enormous, army boot-sized bully and never mind Taneesha plans to thwart an election nomination by her physically challenged, best friend, Carli. M. Lavora Perry has "Buddha-fully" written TANEESHA: Never Disparaging. Perry lively brings religion and politics together in one classroom. Can religion conquer any of Taneesha's little trials? Can it transform her youthful rebellious tactics into juvenile triumph? Witness how Perry makes sure Taneesha will keep every young reader engaged and laughing hysterically to learn the answers! But hold on to your little political spectator seats with this exciting and thrilling page-turner, kiddies. There are very strong real-life values intertwined in this story as well. From interrupting a juvenile beat-down, to revisiting history of the devastating Atomic Bomb, Taneesha will remind you to be compassionate and caring. She will remind you to stay on top of your game of respect, love, and obedience as a child. Throughout, Perry cleverly prepares young readers for superior language arts skills using powerful descriptive words, text fonts, and good ole' grammar! TANEESHA: Never Disparaging gets my vote! Go Taneesha! Reviewed by Swaggie Coleman for The RAWSISTAZ Reviewers