We read this book to Audrey, finished it, and Scott said "that book was kind of stupid and pointless."

There was something about it that did not resonate. And you would think I would enjoy books about how "a person is a person no matter how small" ( )

Don’t Give Up!

Lily, a little sailboat, is very excited because some special ships are coming, they are older and very tall. To see them, Lily must get out of her harbor, but to do that, the bridge must go up so she can sail out to the lake. Every time she tries, a bigger boat scoots in front of her, and the waves they make almost topple her over.

Even though Lily doesn’t give up, boat after boat continues to block her. Just when it looks like all is lost, Lily makes it through. Not only does she get to see the boats, something very special happens to Lily.

This story will grab children’s attention when the bigger boats won’t let Lily through. Little ones will identify with Lily because they know what it is like to have someone bigger make it harder to do something. It would be a good time to ask a child if they have ever had something like that happen.

The book’s message of not giving up is a great one for small ones to hear, and put into practice. Since Lily doesn’t stop trying, she has something wonderful happen.

I like this five-star, hardbacked picture book. It has beautiful illustrations on each page, and making the point to not give up can never be made too often. Children preschool age through third grade will enjoy this tale!

Candlewick Press has provided Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, Lily Leads the Way, for the purpose of review. ( )