 |
In this delightful, colorful children's book, children enter a world of play, family, and imagination where stuffed animals are more than just friends. Readers follow Nathaniel, whose cousins affectionately call him "Budaniel," as he plays and frolics at his grandparents' house during a family reunion. As he plays, Budaniel misplaces Simba, and he faces his first night ever without him. The next day Budaniel meets his grandparents' kitten, Max. Shy and gray, Max quickly befriends Budaniel, who momentarily forgets that Simba is lost. Meanwhile, Budaniel's family tells him that Simba is on a safari, and Budaniel acquires a new friend—a stuffed animal that looks exactly like Max. When Simba "returns" from his adventures, Budaniel shares his delight at Simba's reappearance with not only his family but also Max. From that point forward, new adventures unfold, and Budaniel teaches his family and readers valuable lessons about friendship and inclusivity.
Throughout this book, young readers encounter lessons that have the potential to teach them for a lifetime. As Budaniel navigates losing Simba, he learns to adjust to a new situation and instructs young readers how to deal with spontaneous conflicts and other situations that arise in life. As Budaniel's family crafts stories about Simba's disappearance and Budaniel meets his grandparents' kitten, Budaniel teaches readers the value of making new friends. At its core, however, this book informs young readers about just how priceless and important a trusted support group can be in their young lives. Nonetheless, children are not the only ones who learn from this book. Adults can also garner valuable teachings, especially when they see the positive encouragement and reinforcement that Budaniel's family gives him during a difficult time. Young readers also learn the importance of inclusivity. For example, as they read through Budaniel's tale of losing and finding Simba, they realize that during Simba's disappearance, Budaniel acquired new friends—Max the real kitten and Max the stuffed kitten. Budaniel teaches readers an important lesson for readers of every age as he welcomes Max to his and Simba's world.
Because the book is based on the author's own experience, the book takes on more authority and becomes even more relatable to readers. With beautiful illustrations that add to the reading experience, this book is a verbal and visual experience. The story is refreshing because it offers positive lessons about expanding one's network of friends. On another level, readers learn lessons about loss. More importantly, though, they gain the knowledge of how to cope with loss by having a positive support group and environment. This inspirational book also provides a refreshing take on traditional children's literature as it advocates for diversity in its recognition and celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage. Additionally, readers will discover a delightful addition at the book's end: colored photographs that inspired the story of Budaniel and his toy lion. Parents seeking family-focused children's literature will appreciate this book, and young readers will undoubtedly love it because of its fun, engaging story and illustrations. It's a children's book that ranks with classics like Corduroy and Ruff! And the Wonderfully Amazing Busy Day.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review