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Tennant has written an innovative children's picture book that focuses entirely on the important issue of basic money handling. Presented in an immersive, age-appropriate manner, fundamental aspects of financial instruction are shared with the young reader in a uniquely engaging manner. For example, the reader is addressed as a "commander," who learns "what orders to give" to an eventually gained "army of soldier dollars," as Tennant couches instruction in a patriotic, military context. The dollars ("soldiers") one accumulates throughout life are here to "protect" the owner, and importance is placed on wise decision-making regarding saving and spending in ways that benefit and ultimately enrich growing "commanders." Such areas cover education, adding value to one's own and other people's lives, and ensuring affordability for future adulthood necessities. Because young commanders grow into adults with responsibilities, briefly addressed are the realities of providing a home for one's family, food on the table, heat to keep warm, clothing, and even taxes to provide for police, firefighters, garbage pickup, and more.
Undoubtedly, Tennant's storybook helps fill a niche often lacking—that of basic financial literacy aimed specifically for the readership of young children. Some schools are beginning to incorporate such material into curricula, as the author notes. Because of this title's age-appropriate approach, Tennant's book itself could play a significant part in creating and imparting such real-world financial savvy to children of all ages. Educators and parents alike have here a helpful tool. And the educational process, vis-à -vis utilization of this title's material, can be fashioned significantly more engaging in that this work doubles as a coloring book. The accompanying artwork is presented in simple line drawings, with young readers encouraged to color in the pages with creative imagination. The result is an interactive and fun way to learn financial responsibility.