Miss Brooks Loves Books (And I Don't)

First-grade student Missy strongly dislikes reading books, despite the enthusiasm of her school librarian Miss Brooks. Throughout the school year, Miss Brooks shares different books with the class while wearing costumes that match each story's theme. Miss Brooks assigns the students a project to present their favorite book, but Missy cannot find one she enjoys. Her mother helps her search through various types of books to find something that might interest Missy. The story explores themes of personal choice and the discovery that reading preferences are unique to each person. It validates children's right to their own tastes while showing how persistence can lead to unexpected connections with books.

Readers appreciate how the book validates children who are picky about reading while showing how persistence and finding the right match can turn reluctance into enthusiasm. Parents and teachers report success using it with students who resist reading. Specific praise focuses on the expressive illustrations, especially Miss Brooks' creative costumes and Missy's skeptical expressions. Many note how the story presents reading preferences without judgment. Main criticism centers on Missy being portrayed as too negative initially, with some finding her attitude off-putting rather than relatable. A few reviewers mention the story feels predictable. Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (2,300+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (180+ ratings) Scholastic: 4.8/5 (25+ ratings) Sample review: "Perfect for showing kids it's okay to not love every book - you just need to find YOUR book." - Goodreads reviewer "The transformation feels natural and earned" - Elementary school librarian on Amazon

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🎯 Author Barbara Bottner worked as a professional artist and taught art before becoming a children's book writer 📚 The book's main character is inspired by real students Bottner encountered during her years as a teacher 🎨 The illustrator, Michael Emberley, comes from a family of artists - his father and sister are also successful children's book illustrators 📖 The story takes place during "Book Week," which is a real celebration in many schools that promotes reading and literacy 🤔 The protagonist's eventual love of Shrek mirrors many real-life reluctant readers who discover their passion for books through unconventional or unexpected stories