Loyalty

Booklist

Reviewed on 1 April 2009

With a clear color photos and simple interactive text on each double-page spread, the dramatic scenarios in this small, square picture book will spark discussion with young kids about standing up for a friend or family member in trouble. Part of the 21st Century Junior Library Character Education series, the issues are fundamental, drawn from daily interaction in the schoolyard and at home. In a searing photo three girls jeer and taunt a girl bent in pain (“Standing up to bullies can be hard”). With a photo of a child in Muslim dress, the question is, “Do you believe everyone should be treated the same?” Two kids do homework together (“Maybe your brother is worried about a spelling test. You are loyal when you help him study”). Or even: “Maybe your dad loses his job.” These questions make clear that being loyal is not easy; the scenarios will spark discussion, and grade-schoolers can go on from here to the many great fiction titles about friends and enemies.

—Hazel Rochman