Customer Reviews

Absolutely Not

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

"Absolutely Not" is a cleverly written and planned, beautifully illustrated book.

The story involves two bugs, Gloria and Frieda, who decide to go for a walk. On their way, Frieda seems to see all sorts of dangers around, but her friend Gloria is there to clear up her misconceptions.

So why do I think this simple idea is so clever?

The author/illustrator has created beautiful illustrations that include, if you search, illusions. When I read the book to my daughter, she sees the obvious illustration, but she has to hunt for whatever it is that Frieda sees.

When my little girl first found the secret pictures, she felt triumphant! I look forward to the day that her little brother is old enough for her to read the book to him and help him discover all the secrets.

A wonderful book that is genuinely involving. Recommended? Absolutely!

This beautiful book works on several different levels -- it's a story about facing and conquering your fears. It's a story about friendship. And it also has incredibly clever illustrations -- trompe l'oeil style landscapes which kids will love poring over. A terrific picture book, one that warrants repeat readings.

Gloria wants to go for a walk in the garden, Frieda is afraid but goes with her. Gloria thinks she's always safe, Frieda sees danger all around. But then is there something to fear at times? A very sweet, relevant book about being afraid to the point where you can't do anything or being so fearless you can put yourself into danger. The middle path is always the way!

This is new to my school counseling library. I was at my local bookstore and asked for suggestions on stories about anxiety. Don't you love it when the person helping you gets really excited and says, "Ohhhhhh, have you read Absolutely Not?" Um, NO, but lead me to it!!! After I read this story I said to myself, "This is pure genius." So the character Frieda says a big fat NO to everything. She is paralyzed with fear and worry. She worries about all the things that could happen. Her imagination runs wild! In the end, there is a little twist where they are actually put in danger. HOWEVER (big however here), isn't that sort of life? We can't protect ourselves from everything. But there is no need to go around stressing out about it. We have to deal with what comes our way. I want to teach the students these invaluable lessons. Can't wait to present this story to them!