Contain the Flame

November 1, 2008
PreS-Gr 1-Similar to the How to Be Healthy series, these picture books feature a cast of diverse children, this time having fun as they incorporate safety measures into their lives. What makes this series different from others that cover safety is that, rather than providing illustrated safety tips, the books develop each topic within the framework of a story. Ajays birthday gifts include bicycle gear that will protect him, Rico and his family follow fire safety rules when they go camping, and Rani plays computer games supervised by her grandmother (who makes sure the girl never reveals personal information online). These plots carry positive messages that are cautionary rather than alarmist. That feature, combined with engaging illustrations, makes the stories easy to follow and even appropriate for storytime.

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