Dr. Toughlove’s Book Club

Do you know a youngster who is struggling to learn to write? Even if the answer is no, Dr. Toughlove is sure you will enjoy the book “Aaron Slater, Illustrator”, written by Andrea Beaty and Illustrated by David Roberts. Beaty and Roberts have produced a string of New York Times best-selling books including “Iggy Peck, Architect”, “Rosie Revere, Engineer”, “Ada Twist, Scientist”, and “Sofia Valdez, Future Prez.”

This enchanting, rhyming tale is about a boy named Aaron who loves to listen to stories and dreams of writing a story someday. But when he goes to school, he struggles to learn to write. “But the words are just squiggles, and try though he might, even with help Aaron can’t get it right. Why can’t I do it? Why is it so hard? He goes back to drawing on slate in his yard.” (p. 8-9).

Aaron’s self-confidence is shaken by his inability to excel at reading and writing, and his effervescent personality is transformed into a quiet, inconspicuous young boy. But in grade two, something magical happens. Aaron realizes that although writing and reading aloud is a challenge, his superpower is his ability to capture his thoughts with pictures. “His art makes the difference. His art leads the way and helps him discover what he wants to say.” (p. 32).

Speaking of pictures, the illustrations in “Aaron Slater, Illustrator” emanate joy and beauty and just jump off the page. Dr. Toughlove loves colorful illustrations, and this book does not disappoint. It is no wonder that David Roberts illustrations have received so much acclaim.

If children wish to explore art further, “Aaron Slater’s Big Project Book for Astonishing Artists” provides additional information about how art influences our world and includes follow-up art projects as well. If you go to Andrea Beaty’s website (andreabeaty.com) there are downloadable coloring sheets and other goodies available.

The rhyming verses in this book are also ideal for emergent readers who are working on learning how to sound out words, which is one of the cornerstones of mastering reading. “Aaron Slater, Illustrator” is appropriate for children aged 4-7 and is available at your county library.

Carol Franks-Randall has a doctorate in education and is a retired educator and children’s book author. She lives in Centreville and each month writes children’s book reviews as Dr. Toughlove, one of the protagonists in her first book, “Jamal and Me.”