Friday, June 12, 2015

PPBF: Who Wants Broccoli?

Today's Perfect Picture Book Friday pick

Who Wants Broccoli?, first in a series by Val Jones
Who Wants Broccoli?
Written and Illustrated by Val Jones
 HarperCollins, 2015
Grade K-3


Themes:
Animals, Fitting In


Opening:
"A hodgepodge of pets lived at Beezley's Animal Shelter. There were hamsters and guinea pigs and parrots and bunnies and kittens and turtles and...Broccoli."

Synopsis:
Broccoli is a big, crazy dog with a big, loud bark. He needs a home, but which is right for him? Broccoli thinks he knows. But when his antics become too much for the owner of  Beezley's Animal Shelter, Mrs. Beezley has to remove him from view. It will take all of Broccoli's unique talents to match him with the right owner before it's too late. Kid-pleasing humor and hidden details make this a book to pore over again and again.


What I Love:
Whoopeee! I have been eagerly awaiting the release of Val Jones's first picture book, Who Wants Broccoli? so I could share it with you! Isn't that a great title? Not only is Val's story fun and clever, but it has a dual purpose. She wants everyone to consider rescuing a dog or other pet from a shelter, especially pets like Broccoli whose age or quirks make them a challenge for some families. They might not be the right fit for everyone, but they are the perfect fit for ONE SPECIAL family. Get to know a prospective pet's personality. Take him on a play-date. Rescue pets usually have a unique aura of gratitude about them which makes them irreplaceable.



Bonus: 
Meet the author / illustrator, Val Jones!
1. Join us at the launch party at Towne Book Center & Cafe, Collegeville, NJ, on June 20 at 3pm. Bring pet food for the local shelter and receive 10% off the price of the book!
2. Check out Val's artwork for SCBWI-EPA on my Fresh Talent feature. Remember when?
3. Volunteer at a shelter near you or organize a supply drive.
4. Donate to Hope For Paws, Blue Chip Farm, Lucky Dog Animal Rescue or the SPCA.
5. Happy and Simple features a great recipe for home-made doggie treats.
6. Treat the kids, too with a recipe for puppy chow.
7. My kids adore this easy roasted broccoli recipe from The Amateur Gourmet.
8. Check out these and more Perfect Picture Books at your local library.




Reviewed by Rhythm
Reviewed by Cathy


Reviewed by Julie
Reviewed by Joanna


Reviewed by Joanne
Reviewed by Sue
Have you reviewed a Perfect Picture Book along this theme? Please leave the link in the comments below. Thanks!

Check out all the recommended titles for Perfect Picture Book Friday
for June 12, 2015 available on Susanna Leonard Hill's blog.

20 comments:

  1. What a fun name for a character! I have a rescued dog and know how rewarding that relationship can be. Sounds like a great book.

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    1. If you look carefully, the stray puppy is dropped off at the shelter in a cardboard broccoli box - hence the name! Thanks for stopping by.

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  2. What a cute book with a wonderful theme. Kids will really enjoy this and will make for great discussions in class. Thanks for sharing.

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    1. I should have mentioned Darcy Pattison's book "I Want A Dog." It would be a great companion book and very useful in a classroom setting. Thanks for the reminder.

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  3. Such a clever and wonderful subject that will melt any kid's heart. Kids today are very conscious about rescuing pets from shelters and giving them a home. Love the humor in this book. Great choice.

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    1. Wait til you see all the humorous touches in the illustrations! Thanks.

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  4. Sweet! I've got a broccoli title I've been working on for eons - this motivates me sheerly as a reminder! Thanks, Joanne!

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  5. I love everything about this book! It will be on my summer reading list. Thanks!

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    1. Thanks. Be sure to read about the real-life inspiration for Broccoli on Val's website.

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  6. I had the pleasure to meet Val at the PA SCBWI this spring. Go, Val!

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    1. She is a great person. Like her books, she is adorable with a cheeky sense of humor!

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  7. I am going to be recommending this one around. That title is brilliant!

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    1. Isn't it? Val excels at playful language. Thanks for spreading the word.

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  8. How fun! And wonderful to promote rescuing dogs! As an owner of one adorable such pooch it makes me happy.

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    1. All our dogs have been rescued. They are the most idiosyncratic, lovable mutts! Thanks for your thoughts.

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  9. This looks like such a fun book - and what a wonderful name for a dog. or any pet. How could a kid hate broccoli after that!

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    Replies
    1. Ha ha. I hope it does change some kids' perspective on broccoli. Wouldn't that be a bonus :)

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  10. This sounds great! Not that far off from my own rescue book "Edmund Pickle Chin, A Donkey Rescue Story" about an abused donkey who finds love and trust on his rescue farm, Evermay Farm. It is a true story as well.

    Great books!

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    Replies
    1. Thanks for bringing that up. Here's a link to Rhythm's PPBF review.

      https://readingwithrhythm.wordpress.com/2015/02/09/edmund-pickle-chin/

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