Tuesday, March 8, 2022

Review: The Rhino Suit by Colter Jackson

Who wants a rhino suit? Lately, having a tough skin seems like it might be a super idea. I didn't pick up this one because of that, though. I loved the cover (what else?) and was sure this one would be an interesting read.

Ready to find out if it is? 


THE RHINO SUIT
by Colter Jackson
Sounds True
Picture Book
40 pages
ages 4 to 8

COMING...
MARCH 29th!!!

When a little girl feels like the pain of the world is too much, she builds a tough-skinned rhino suit to protect herself.

When one little girl sees litter in the streets, an animal without shelter, and the pain of a parent, the weight of the world feels like too much to bear. She feels everything so deeply, it makes her want to hide.

One day, when the tenderness and pain of the world feel like they are more than she can handle, she has a grand idea. She decides to build a rhino suit to keep herself safe.

Inside the rhino’s armor, the pain of the world is easy for the girl to ignore—but the beauty and joy that the world has to offer are hidden from her, too. And soon, she finds that the rhino suit blocks off her ability to help. Maybe living without thick skin is worth the risk …

With soft and emotive illustrations and a story that will open hearts, The Rhino Suit is about moving from fear to courageousness, from brokenness to wholeness, and from feeling shut down to letting all of life in.

GOODREADS   /   AMAZON   /   B&N   /   BOOK DEPOSITORY


MY TIDBITS


Sometimes feelings and emotions of all of the negative things around us seem overwhelming, and this is what this book addresses, while adding a touch of imagination along the way.

The illustrations draw in right away and bring the girl across in a very sympathetic manner. She's easy to relate to as she enjoys things around her or is sad when things aren't so great. Each setting comes across gently and vividly thanks to the calming style. It also allows the rhino suit to carry a hint of humor, and that is perfect to keep things from growing too heavy or serious. 

The writing flows smoothly and makes for a nice read-aloud. It balances with the illustrations. The vocabulary is just right for the age group and describes the scenes in a way the reading level can understand.  

Sensitive listeners/readers will have no trouble relating to the girl, while others will see moments of themselves in her as well. The ending message is one that reminds listeners of the wonderful world around them. I was a bit surprised that her temporary ability to ignore the hurt of others wasn't really addressed, but that's more of a personal perspective.

It's a good read for alone or group settings and definitely opens up to discussions as well.

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