Tuesday, May 30, 2017

Willow and the Wedding by Denise Brennan-Nelson - OPTIONAL

Brennan-Nelson, Denise Willow and the Wedding, illustrated by Cyd Moore. PICTURE BOOK. Sleeping Bear Press, 2017. $16.99. 

Willow loves spending time with her Uncle Ash--playing at the park, eating donuts, and even volunteering at the animal shelter. When Ash announces he is getting married to his partner, David, Willow is thrilled and eagerly helps plan the wedding. Even though it has been years since he has danced, Willow helps Ash find the courage to try again; his appearance on the dance floor on wedding day surprises everyone (except Willow!) and helps make it a perfect day all around. 

This is one of those picture books that has an obvious message/lesson to get across to readers--in this case, accepting differences and embracing who you are. I found the length of the text a bit prohibitive for a great read-aloud, and the illustrations are nothing extraordinary. But for those looking for a book about accepting differences--with a huge and obvious emphasis on homosexuality and gay marriage--this is the book for you. There is a need for books like this and Willow is a fine answer. 

EL--OPTIONAL. Reviewer: TC

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