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B Is for Belonging
Kids learn the ABCs of belonging and expand their view of themselves and their community. B Is for Belonging uses the ABCs as an accessible framework to explore the importance of belonging. Understanding and learning about belonging helps kids boost their self-confidence, build positive relationships, and foster empathy and inclusion. " Aa. When you accept other people without judging them or asking them to change, you help them know that they belong. Bb. When you are welcomed and loved exactly as you are, you feel that you belong ." Making a distinction between "belonging" and "fitting in," B Is for Belonging empowers kids to show acceptance for others and themselves and create communities of belonging. With an uplifting and positive tone, this book shares the power and joy of belonging. A section at the back of the book includes discussion questions and activity ideas.
- GenresPicture BooksChildrens
40 pages, Hardcover
Published August 6, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
August 6, 2024
B Is for Belonging is a wonderful book to teach young students ways to accept themselves and how to be kind to others. It is written in a way that my kindergarteners can understand and learn from!
July 30, 2024
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This in no way impacted my opinions.
‘B is for Belonging’ by Shannon Anderson is a delightful children's book that combines the practice of ABCs with important lessons about belonging and inclusion. The story is engaging and educational, making it a valuable addition to any child's library.
Plot: ★★★★☆
The plot of ‘B is for Belonging’ is very cute and provides a unique way for children to practice their ABCs while learning about the concepts of belonging and inclusion. Each letter introduces a new word and idea related to these themes, creating a cohesive and meaningful narrative.
Character: ★★★★☆
The characters depicted in the book are cute and relatable. They help to bring the concepts of belonging and inclusion to life, making them more accessible and understandable for young readers.
Illustrations: ★★★★☆
The illustrations in ‘B is for Belonging’ are beautiful and add a vibrant, visual element to the book. The artwork complements the text well, making the book visually appealing and engaging for children.
Engagement: ★★★★☆
The engagement level of this book is solid. The combination of learning the alphabet and exploring themes of belonging and inclusion ensures that children will find the book both educational and interesting. The interactive aspect of identifying letters and words keeps young readers involved.
Readability: ★★★☆☆
The readability of ‘B is for Belonging’ may prove a bit difficult for younger children at times. While the book is designed to be educational, some of the words and concepts might be challenging for very young readers without adult assistance.
Enjoyment: ★★★☆☆
While the book is enjoyable, the educational nature of the content might not be as entertaining for some children compared to more story-driven books. However, the valuable lessons and engaging illustrations do contribute to a positive reading experience.
‘B is for Belonging’ by Shannon Anderson is a charming and educational book that effectively combines alphabet learning with important lessons on belonging and inclusion. With its cute characters, beautiful illustrations, and engaging format, it is a worthwhile read for young children and a helpful tool for parents and educators teaching these essential concepts.
‘B is for Belonging’ by Shannon Anderson is a delightful children's book that combines the practice of ABCs with important lessons about belonging and inclusion. The story is engaging and educational, making it a valuable addition to any child's library.
Plot: ★★★★☆
The plot of ‘B is for Belonging’ is very cute and provides a unique way for children to practice their ABCs while learning about the concepts of belonging and inclusion. Each letter introduces a new word and idea related to these themes, creating a cohesive and meaningful narrative.
Character: ★★★★☆
The characters depicted in the book are cute and relatable. They help to bring the concepts of belonging and inclusion to life, making them more accessible and understandable for young readers.
Illustrations: ★★★★☆
The illustrations in ‘B is for Belonging’ are beautiful and add a vibrant, visual element to the book. The artwork complements the text well, making the book visually appealing and engaging for children.
Engagement: ★★★★☆
The engagement level of this book is solid. The combination of learning the alphabet and exploring themes of belonging and inclusion ensures that children will find the book both educational and interesting. The interactive aspect of identifying letters and words keeps young readers involved.
Readability: ★★★☆☆
The readability of ‘B is for Belonging’ may prove a bit difficult for younger children at times. While the book is designed to be educational, some of the words and concepts might be challenging for very young readers without adult assistance.
Enjoyment: ★★★☆☆
While the book is enjoyable, the educational nature of the content might not be as entertaining for some children compared to more story-driven books. However, the valuable lessons and engaging illustrations do contribute to a positive reading experience.
‘B is for Belonging’ by Shannon Anderson is a charming and educational book that effectively combines alphabet learning with important lessons on belonging and inclusion. With its cute characters, beautiful illustrations, and engaging format, it is a worthwhile read for young children and a helpful tool for parents and educators teaching these essential concepts.
May 25, 2024
#BIsforBelonging #NetGalley
Great book that teaches smaller school-age kiddos about compassion, empathy, and kindness. It takes the reader through the alphabet assigning each letter a word that pertains to a social skill surrounding belonging. It moves along at a pretty good clip for being 40 pages. The drawings, for the most part, pertain to the word being highlighted. Some of the drawings were a bit confusing (M for "mistakes" was a total miss) but most kids will overlook. There is an undercurrent through the story as well as the drawings about self-acceptance which I believe enriches the skills the book is trying to teach.
There are activities for caregivers at the end of the book which really do a good job of explaining how to use this book to its fullest. Definitely a great addition to any classroom. Valuable lessons that every child should learn when starting school.
Great book that teaches smaller school-age kiddos about compassion, empathy, and kindness. It takes the reader through the alphabet assigning each letter a word that pertains to a social skill surrounding belonging. It moves along at a pretty good clip for being 40 pages. The drawings, for the most part, pertain to the word being highlighted. Some of the drawings were a bit confusing (M for "mistakes" was a total miss) but most kids will overlook. There is an undercurrent through the story as well as the drawings about self-acceptance which I believe enriches the skills the book is trying to teach.
There are activities for caregivers at the end of the book which really do a good job of explaining how to use this book to its fullest. Definitely a great addition to any classroom. Valuable lessons that every child should learn when starting school.
August 6, 2024
This inspiring picture book starts off by explaining the difference between “belonging” and “fitting in.” While the latter sometimes requires kids to change themselves in order to feel like they are part of a group, the former is about being oneself and finding others that are accepting of who they already are. The book continues on, following an A to Z structure, showing various ways kids can be the best versions of themselves both by accepting themselves and accepting others, just as they are. The illustrations are bright and cheerful and the extensive back matter, geared toward teachers, counselors and care givers, offers exercises and activities to help strengthen understanding of the concepts shown throughout the book. A beautiful book for anyone hoping to raise empathetic, helpful, and kind little humans.
August 7, 2024
As a child immigrant and a person who has struggled with feeling like I belong for most of my life, this book really had an impact on me. I can imagine many children like I was reading this book and thinking about the difference between belonging and fitting in and how one doesn't have to lose oneself, one's culture or one's language to belong. I think this would be a wonderful addition to any classroom, especially those classrooms that include a diversity of children, including those who may come from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds. The illustrations are very cute and fun to look at, enhancing the spirit of the text and adding to the appeal of the book as a whole. I highly recommend for any family or classroom as a clever spin on an ABC book that promotes empathy, kindness and thoughtfulness.
May 21, 2024
“B is for Belonging” is a great way to learn the alphabet with useful lessons about life. It utilizes great examples such as empathy, kindness and love, all while explaining what the complex meanings are to children. It is written at an easy level for children to understand and use of this book from early years could really aid in the development of children.
Fantastic use of inclusivity at its finest, as all types of children are used in the illustrations, such as disability, skin color and even hair types.
It also includes activities to further the lessons with notes to adults in the back.
Great book for the classroom or home library!
Fantastic use of inclusivity at its finest, as all types of children are used in the illustrations, such as disability, skin color and even hair types.
It also includes activities to further the lessons with notes to adults in the back.
Great book for the classroom or home library!
September 2, 2024
I love this book! A great way to introduce our little ones to their ABCs and at the same time teach them about belonging. I loved how positive this book is. It teaches all about caring for others, accepting others, and celebrating everyone's own uniqueness. Each letter of the alphabet goes with a word all about belonging, like Empathy,worthy and opportunity. The illustrations really show the feeling of each page. This is a great book to read with your family and encourage our little ones. I also feel it would work great in an Early Childhood classroom as well as elementary. The possibilities are endless. Enjoy this with your little ones.
August 6, 2024
B Is for Belonging is a unique and inspiring ABC picture book that beautifully illustrates the difference between fitting in and belonging. From Accepting of others to showing Empathy to embracing the concepts of Kindness, Potential, and Voice, author Shannon Anderson not only conveys that there are a Zillion ways to foster belonging, but also offers back matter and activities to encourage conversation, action, and connection. John Joven's charming artwork, which radiates emotion and celebrates diversity, sings on every page. This book belongs on everyone's shelf!
April 29, 2024
B IS FOR BELONGING by Shannon Anderson is a wonderful book about kindness, compassion, and building empathy. Each letter of the alphabet teaches kids how to show this daily. A is for accept, B is for belonging, and so on. The art by John Joven is colorful, warm, and inviting. Great back matter is included. It is a must for homes, schools, and libraries. This book is a perfect conversation starter!
May 24, 2024
B is for Belonging is an alphabet book for little ones that has a different lesson about acceptance for each letter. I though the illustrations were really charming and appreciated the message that was so lovingly worked into each page. This is a great way for parents to teach their kiddos about empathy and inclusion from a very early age.
Thanks to Shannon Anderson, NetGalley, and Teacher Created Materials for the chance to read and review this advanced copy!
Thanks to Shannon Anderson, NetGalley, and Teacher Created Materials for the chance to read and review this advanced copy!
June 10, 2024
I received a copy of this eBook from netGalley for a honest review.
B is for belonging but not fitting in. As someone who tried too long to fit in with others without being my total real self this book is wonderful. It goes through all the letters showing us how to be ourselves, accept others and belong in any group. The tips in the back for adults working with kids are great too. I highly recommend this picture book to anyone who works with groups of kids.
B is for belonging but not fitting in. As someone who tried too long to fit in with others without being my total real self this book is wonderful. It goes through all the letters showing us how to be ourselves, accept others and belong in any group. The tips in the back for adults working with kids are great too. I highly recommend this picture book to anyone who works with groups of kids.
July 13, 2024
I love how the author, Shannon Anderson, makes the distinction between fitting in and belonging in this alphabet book. Each letter of the alphabet highlights a word emphasizing an important aspect of belonging, acceptance, kindness, and believing in oneself. Backmatter includes activities to build empathy, confidence, and caring. The illustrations are bright and colorful to match the book's inspirational message. Parents and teachers will want this children's book!
July 19, 2024
Alphabet books are nothing new. However, some stand out and this is one of them. You went in knowing the book was supposed to teach a lesson on belonging. Using the letters of the alphabet it explains other ways to make you a better you, Help others, and be better. It focuses on the difference between fitting in and belonging and how your unique and that is OK. I really like how this book was done. It’s a tad bit long but perfect for school-age children.
July 25, 2024
I received an electronic ARC from Free Spirit Publishing through Edelweiss+.
An alphabet book that takes readers through ways to make sure everyone feels they belong including themselves. The artwork captures the word shared for each letter and shows ways to make it possible. Encouraging text ends the story and informative text follows to create spaces where people feel welcome. Definitely one for families and classes.
An alphabet book that takes readers through ways to make sure everyone feels they belong including themselves. The artwork captures the word shared for each letter and shows ways to make it possible. Encouraging text ends the story and informative text follows to create spaces where people feel welcome. Definitely one for families and classes.
August 27, 2024
A perfect straightforward dive into the many elements of empathy and how one can feel or create a sense of belonging in a group. This is so hard to master— even for adults—- and this book inspires readers to be kind, confident, and courageous. Bright art echos the powerful words. I love the distinction between fitting in and belonging and how true belonging is acceptance of your whole true self. A great addition to any library, school, or home.
August 30, 2024
B Is for Belonging is beautiful book that takes readers through each letter of the alphabet with meaningful terms to help readers learn about being inclusive. The delightful text is perfect for introducing terms to children and the bright and lively illustrations are engaging. This book would be perfect for a classroom or home library—I can see it being a great discussion starter in preschool, kinder or first grade (and even with older kids too). Lovely book!
September 8, 2024
What a delightful picture book! I love how Shannon uses the alphabet to introduce so many wonderful facets of belonging. This is just right for classrooms, all year, but especially for back-to-school time. As a former preschool and kindergarten teacher, I can think of so many ways to use this book with a group of young readers to create a welcoming and belonging classroom environment. Included back matter is great! Three thumbs up!
May 31, 2024
B is for Belonging is an alphabet book that covers “What does it mean to belong”. A is for accept, B is for belonging, and so on. An important book about showing acceptance for others and yourself. The colorful expressive art by John Joven pairs perfectly with Shannon Anderson’s text. Backmatter contains activities to build empathy and belonging.
August 6, 2024
This is a really clever, creative alphabet presentation featuring life lessons. It moves quickly and is engaging for the youngest audience. It would make a great book to open discussions with kindergarten age children about feelings. The vibrant illustrations make the concepts even more enlightening.
August 26, 2024
B Is for Belonging is a wonderful book that helps kids, (and adults), learn about empathy, kindness, and creating a world that includes everyone. And added bonus is that Shannon Anderson discusses the difference between belonging and fitting in. This is a wonderful book that will make a wonderful addition to many bookshelves!
August 26, 2024
If you're looking for a unique alphabet book, this is it! With meaningful concepts for each letter of the alphabet and bright/vibrant illustrations. B is for Belonging will have reader's singing the ABC's while exploring all the ways we can help one another belong like Kindness, Empathy, and Thoughtfulness!
October 2, 2024
What a wonderful ABC book to help teach your little one kindness, confidence, and emotional intelligence. I am going to purchase this for my two sons so we can read and re-read it. The backmatter is also extremely informative and a wonderful parental resource. The illustrations are warm and inviting. A must-have for any parent.
July 31, 2024
What a beautifully crafted guide to helping other to feel that they belong. Anderson's simple, but powerful texts makes this concept accessible to everyone. The inclusive illustrations enable everyone to see themselves on the pages. Highly recommended!
August 5, 2024
B IS FOR BELONGING is beautiful in the simplicity it uses to make children feel seen. It's a great compliment to Anderson's other book, Y IS FOR YET, and it's a must have on all preschool bookshelves! B is for BEAUTIFUL BOOK!
August 6, 2024
Everyone wants to feel like they belong. This book lists the most important parts of belonging and empathy from Accept to Zillion. With many extra ideas for building strong relationships, it is clear that this book belongs in every home, classroom, and community space for children.
August 8, 2024
This book is packed full of vocabulary that can help little ones navigate the importance of inclusion and social emotional learning! The colorful illustrations also show concrete examples of each concept and the back matter includes tons of activities that can promote inclusion/SEL with your kids.
August 28, 2024
EVERY CHILD NEEDS TO HEAR THIS!
I think this would be the perfect start to the school year for many teachers. Everyone has a different meaning of "Belonging." Anderson's text is beautiful, thought-provoking, and memorable. This is an important book.
I think this would be the perfect start to the school year for many teachers. Everyone has a different meaning of "Belonging." Anderson's text is beautiful, thought-provoking, and memorable. This is an important book.
August 28, 2024
It's an alphabet book, but has a few more words than your typical alphabet book. Each page features a letter, then explains a word that starts with the letter ... and it's all about belonging and helping others belong!
October 7, 2024
This is a lovely ABC book that covers the SEL range from acceptance to a zillion ways to belong. Share this with your young friends and family. The illustrations will bring you joy and happiness, along with the vocabulary of humanity.
4 stars!
4 stars!
May 28, 2024
This book was so great, for teaching children about "fitting in". At two, my son may be just below the age range, but I will definitely be revisiting it with him when he goes to school!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews