Entry Title: LOOKING IN THE MIRROR
Author: JEANNINE MARIE
Judge Number: 4
Entry Category: CHILDREN'S PICTURE BOOKS

Books are evaluated on a scale of 1 to 5, with 1 meaning "needs improvement" through 5 meaning "outstanding".

Structure, Organization, and Pacing: 5
Spelling, Punctuation, and Grammar: 5
Production Quality and Cover Design: 5
Plot and Story Appeal: 5
Character Appeal and Development: 5
Voice and Writing Style: 5
Judge’s Commentary*:

Looking in the Mirror is a moral tale told in easy going rhyme.  Every page encourages self engagement and self love. The author encourages children to look into their own mirror and see beyond the mundane accoutrements that we all have with combed or unkempt hair, bows, dresses, shirts and shoes.  She tells kids to look for the sparkle in their eyes and to recognize their self worth and the goodness they carry within.
As the pages turned, I began to wonder if the book was going to stop with children being emboldened to love themselves at the expense of everyone else. The author skillfully and quickly turns that around to help us all understand that self love has to come first before we can extend that love and encouragement to those who need it most.

The book is well designed with lovely large illustrations to appeal to children and adults alike. The text is set in a type face that appears to be hand printed but is still easy to read. The illustrations are colorful and imaginative in carrying the story forward.

Looking in the Mirror

SUNNYSIDE SCHOOL REVIEW

Hello Jeannine, Once again, I would like to extend our sincere thanks and appreciation for reading your wonderful story to our children and for spending time with us. I am happy to hear that we will always be your favorite! The children at Sunnyside School truly enjoyed your presentation. I will gladly spread the word of your great book and presentation to the other schools. And most of all, as we tell our children, always follow your dream!

—Darlene Tickey, Principal, Sunnyside School

“The kids and I absolutely loved the book. I will recommend it to everyone."

—Claudette Hill, grandmother, Glens Falls, NY

"This book is fantastic!"

— Bonnie Yanklowitz, Vice President 2012-2013, Iroquois Reading Council
A member council of the New York State Reading Association and affiliate of the International Reading Association

Cuckoo Bananas

Thompson County, Colorado not only purchased Looking in the Mirror for each of their thirty-five elementary and early childhood schools, they pre-ordered the next book on bullying - Cuckoo Bananas, as well!

“This is a delighrful story about the power of love and kindness to overcome adversity, and the human ability to heal through connection.”

—Erika Tsoukanelis,
LCSW

“This book should be required reading for all children.”

—Marion Cordova,
Special Education, Teaching Assistant

PROJECTS READY FOR PRE-ORDER