Customer Reviews

Oliver's High Five

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Oliver is an octopus with beautiful green eyes and a constant smile. Although he doesn't believe himself to be physically challenged, Oliver only has five arms, rather than eight arms like all the other octopuses. Oliver's High Five, a children's picture book, is the story of how he ventured out into the world and how he overcame the rejections he initially faced. Beverly Swerdlow Brown has written several children's books and numerous short stories and articles. Margot J. Ott has two previous picture books to her credit. Oliver tries to find a job, but no one wants him because he is missing three arms. Then a pet shop has a big problem with a leaking fish aquarium. Oliver uses his five arms to plug the leaks, catch the birds, and pet the dogs--all at one time! He shows everyone that being different isn't a measure of his abilities. Ronald M. Andiman, M.D. the Clinical Chief of Neurology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center wrote the foreword to the book. He says "This is a children's book that deals gently with a difficult topic. The simplicity of plot and language belie the complexity of issues relating to the physically challenged that are dealt with and hinted at in the small colorful volume. It is a book that will open up discussion, lead to further reflection and build greater understanding. It is a book for adults and children to share. Books like this help to repair the world." A copy of Oliver's High Five belongs in the library of every child, whether physically challenged or not. It's a book that teaches them how to "focus on their abilities, not their disabilities."

Sandra I. Smith Reviewer

The plight of Oliver the Octopus and his struggle to become an accepted member of the workforce in the "world above the sea" is conveyed with warmth in this beautifully written, creatively illustrated book. Oliver's perserverance, despite the rejections he receives based upon his appearance rather than his abilities, is a potent testimony to the strength of his own self-image. The ignorance of discrimination is portrayed with honesty in a contemporary setting, which makes the book mandatory reading for all grade school educators and child therapists.

This story teaches us all to never give up! Even though we face rejection and disappointments, if we continue towards our goals, we might succeed, like Oliver-the Five Armed Octopus! A wonderfully illustrated and entertaining book for the world and society we live in!