Author: Kelly DiPucchio
Illustrator: Stephanie Graegin
Publisher: Atheneum, 2018
Age: 4-8
Themes: environment, friendship, apathy
Opening: Every weekend, Manny and Gertie put on their capes and saved the planet from danger.
Summary: (from my library catalog) Manny and his friend Gertie join forces to clean up their local park–because every superhero needs a planet worth saving.
I like this book because: it has such an important and urgent message for kids, that they too can be engaged and do something important or even just something they are passionate about, despite being ‘just’ a kid. The illustrations are warm and endearing, and are unique in the ability to distinguish between the real and imaginary world without skipping a beat.
Resources/activities: Start a clean-up/trash pick-up action in your community, even just around the house or school; discuss responsibility towards others, the environment and what issues bother you right now. What can you do about them?
For more Perfect Picture Book Friday picks with teacher/parent resources, check out the list on Susanna Hill’s blog HERE.
I am always looking for books that inspire kids to get involved in caring for their planet! This book looks delightful and a great starting point for young children — start them young! The illustrations are warm and inviting. Great activities.
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Very cute. And a lovely book about caring for the environment. Great for kids.
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Julie, I like the idea that “every superhero needs a planet worth saving. I gotta find this book. Thanks.
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And this planet needs super heroes!
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I love that motto too! This is a book that warms my heart, and I love the library scene and nod to NYPL.
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NYPL spread is my fave too!
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I can’t wait to read this one. Thanks for sharing, Julie!
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I wish it was that easy – to put on a cape and save the planet. Because we have one that needs saving. And my cape was eaten by the woodchuck.
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Make a new one. And HURRY!
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