Why Do I Have To Eat My Greens?: Big Issues for Little People About Health and Well-Being

PreS-Gr 2—This purposeful collection of behavioral questions, answers, and discussion suggestions for parents to share with their children is designed to facilitate a bonding experience while addressing common child-related issues. Each topic is given a single spread: the left page includes a kid-friendly short story, related conversation prompts, and a note to parents; the right page has the topic question in bold (e.g., "Why can't I wet the bed?") and a cartoon illustration. An introduction explains how the book should be used: adults should first read the note to parents in order to break down the issue with simple solutions or alternatives, then the child should read the story—with both parties using the story and the illustrations to ease into the discussion section. Most of the images depict a white child named Angus, but a few portray nonwhite characters. The decision to render a young girl, Yuki, with sallow yellow skin and unnaturally slanted eyes is problematic. The children ask about eating vegetables; wearing seat belts, raincoats, and sunscreen; and rationing Halloween candy and screen time. Most parents will find these conversations and the advice—including active listening—generally helpful. With the look of a picture book and text that alternates between addressing children and caregivers, this will be most comfortably housed on the parenting shelf.