Elle Pierre's Blog, page 6

Book Review: "Pax" by Sara Pennypacker (Illustrations by Jon Klassen)

Pax by Sara Pennypacker

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Set in a unnamed country, Pax by Sara Pennypacker is about a young boy named Peter who, after having to abandon his pet fox Pax in the woods because his father had been enlisted for war, runs away from his grandfather’s house (where he was staying while his father was away) to find his lost friend. I personally thought it was a compelling read. It incorporates the moral/emotional costs of war, fighting to follow the right example when the wrong one has been shown to you, and standing for what you believe in in such a way that is intelligent and though-provoking. A perfect coming-of-age story for boys, and an excellent read for anyone else.

Edit (10/10/2016): I just thought I’d extend my analysis of the book. Even though I believe it was good book, I have to add that it’s also a very tragic story. The author weaves her words well, but I think it's still a heavy read for a younger reader to go at alone. There are several instances of death in the story, and a graphic depiction of how another fox character lost their parents. If you have a sensitive reader, be sure to review this book and determine its content first before handing it over to your child.




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Book Review: "Tip & Lulu: A tale of two friends" (Written and Illustrated by Me!)

Tip & Lulu: A tale of two friends by Lauren Isabelle Pierre

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Dear Reader,

After spending almost a year writing and illustrating a simple story with an important message, it gives me great joy (and relief!) to finally be able to share the fruits of my labor with the rest of the world!

Today, more than ever, young children need affirming and uplifting reading material that will touch them and teach them. Tip & Lulu: A tale of two friends strives to do just that.

The story begins when Lulu, a playful leopard cub, discovers how difficult it is to find playmates because she is a predator. Things really get interesting when she stumbles upon Tip, a shy meerkat pup in need of a true friend.

The book’s poetic prose combined with vibrant illustrations promises to keep children engaged from beginning to end. And its wonderful themes of compassion, acceptance, and friendship will surely stay with them as they grow up.

It is my hope that children will be inspired by Tip and Lulu’s story to always search beyond the exterior when choosing the company they keep, and to always have the courage to do what is right… even when it’s hard.

Happy reading!
Lauren Isabelle Pierre



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Book Review: "It's Your World: Get Informed, Get Inspired & Get Going!" by Chelsea Clinton

It's Your World: Get Informed, Get Inspired & Get Going! by Chelsea Clinton

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Though I haven't read this book in it's entirety, I have to say I was impressed with the information it provided. This book is a great read for kids (and adults) who want help make the world a better place get inspired and do their part. Chelsea Clinton often uses her own personal experiences, as well as experiences of those she's known or heard of, throughout the book which gives it a personal feel, as if she's standing there talking to you. The information is to-date and the chapters are written in such a way that makes this book as engaging as a work of fiction. I would recommend this book to readers 10+.

So what are you waiting for? Get Informed, Get Inspired & Get Going!



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Book Review: "Audrey Bunny" By Angie Smith (Illustrated by Breezy Brookshire)

Audrey Bunny by Angie Smith

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


Audrey Bunny is a sweetly written tale with beautifully crafted illustrations (I highly recommend checking out Breezy Brookshire's website). I personally enjoyed the book, though I’ll admit that the overall theme of the story (“love the way you are”) was a bit overdone, the way Audrey is constantly trying to shield her “imperfection” from the kind girl who purchased her at various points throughout the book. There is a certain story element near the end that I also found confusing. At one point, the little girl whispers to Audrey that she loves her “more than she will ever know” and tears up a little. WHY? What is the significance of the toy that made this little girl so emotional? Did something happen to this little girl? It’s never explained. Overall, I like that its message is backed by Faith-based values, and I believe it’s a good read, regardless. I recommend this book to readers ages 4-10.



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