FICTION

When Things Aren’t Going Right, Go Left

by Marc Colagiovanni (text) & illus. by Peter H. ­Reynolds
Orchard. Mar. 2023. 32p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781338831184.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 3–Colagiovanni’s affable journey will make children into orators: “When life’s burdens start to feel too heavy... don’t be afraid to put them down for a while.” When nothing is going right for the main character, he decides to go left. Along the way he leaves behind his worries, doubts, fears, and frustrations. The more he leaves behind, the lighter and more confident he feels, taking on a high-dive challenge and finding that he can carry those old worries and doubts but he won’t let them best him. Reynolds's iconic style features bold lines and clear images, all finished off in soft watercolors. The look of handwritten messages across the pages tells children just which words to emphasize and which ones to whisper, making this a perfect book for practicing read-aloud skills.
VERDICT Although the message is simple, it’s solid, and the collaborators give it appeal for all ages needing an inspiring story of strength, confidence, and perseverance.
Reviewed by Heidi Dechief , May 01, 2023

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BLOGS

Holiday Gift Guide: Six Inclusive MG Fantasies, a guest post by Marieke Nijkamp
by Amanda MacGregor
BOOKS

Gracie Under the Waves
by Park, Linda Sue
BOOKS

Make My Wish Come True
by Lippincott, Rachael & Alyson Derrick
BOOKS

My Weird School Special: Hip, Hip, Hooray! Every Day Is a Holiday!
by Gutman, Dan
BOOKS

Ramadan on Rahma Road: A Recipe Storybook
by Gutta, Razeena Omar & Faaiza Osman
BOOKS

Big Changes for Plum!
by Phelan, Matt
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?