Book Review: A Call to Needles: Acts of Craftivism and Crafted Kindness in the Age of Trump by Dee Ann Eisner

A Call to Needles: Acts of Craftivism and Crafted Kindness in the Age of Trump by Dee Ann Eisner is a comprehensive look at how our needlework became a tool for change, especially in the Age of Trump. Needleworkers have a particular set of skills, and this blending of craft and activism is often referred to as craftivism. This book pays homage to craftivists and needleworkers reacting to challenging times. The ideas, the design and development of patterns, the teams that have been built around these ideas, and the outreach to other needleworkers to support and sustain these efforts deserve more attention. Eisner builds on her backstory, calling on readers to feel their own Call to Needles, whether they participate in an existing project or create a new phenomenon. Writing this book began as the author's coping mechanism while watching the slow chipping away at democracy, both in the US and around the world. It quickly became a passion project. The moment came that, even knowing there was more to discover, the writing simply had to stop. The story will continue, with updates on those in the book and new endeavors at www.acalltoneedles.com.

A Call to Needles taught me a bit about the history of crafting in the activism lens, and I feel like I learned a great deal in that regard. I had no idea about some of the craft related protests and projects, both in our relatively distant history and much more recently. While I knew about the pussyhats and the penguin sweaters, many of the other projects and movements were things I had never heard about and things I very easily could have taken part in. The book has made me more interested in getting involved, and looking more at what I can do locally and globally with my resources and skill sets. I thought the book was informative and inspiring, with a great deal of information and resources to help readers further research the things that interest them and to do some self assessment to understand our own motivation and not only how we can help, but the most effective, efficiently, and ecologically friendly way we can do so. Time to put me privilege, skills, and inability not to have at least two works in progress to better use. 

Book Review: Greta and the Giants (Inspired by Greta Thunberg's stand to save the world) by Zoë Tucker, Zoe Persico

Greta and the Giants (Inspired by Greta Thunberg's stand to save the world) was written by Zoë Tucker and illustrated by Zoe Persico. Greta is a little girl who lives in a beautiful forest threatened by Giants. When the Giants first came to the forest, they chopped down trees to make houses. Then they chopped down more trees and made even bigger homes. The houses grew into towns and the towns grew into cities, until now there is hardly any forest left. Greta knows she has to help the animals who live in the forest, but how? Luckily, Greta has an idea. A section at the back explains that, in reality, the fight against the “giants” isn’t over and explains how you can help Greta in her fight.

Greta and the Giants is a lovely book. I have to admit that the first thing that drew me to the book were the colors and art style. I absolutely love the illustrations and bold colors that are used. I found myself paying more attention to the artwork and the details in it that the story during my first read through. In the first part of the book the text is almost lost in the corners, and easy to overlook. Once I slowed down and read the text I enjoyed the story, I only wish the giants in the real world were that easy to reach. The story is reminiscent of The Lorax for me, and I do not mean that in a bad way. My daughter loved The Lorax, and I could recite it for years after she stopped asking for it. The message that protecting nature is good, and that even if we are small and often overlooked we can effect change is something I have not problem telling and retelling. I liked that the story showed that we often have to come together just to get the attention necessary to be heard, but that it can be done. I love that the book included information in accessible terms about what is happening, and how anyone and everyone can do something to help not matter how small. I really enjoy the book as a whole and hope that it will reach the children (and adults) that need to hear the message. 

Greta and the Giants is a delightful story, and one that just might help continue the efforts towards protecting the environment. What makes this book even better is that it has been printed sustainably in the US on 100% recycled paper. By buying a copy of this book, you are making a donation of 3% of the cover price to 350.org. 

Early Book Review: Make Trouble Young Readers Edition: Standing Up, Speaking Out, and Finding the Courage to Lead by Cecile Richards, Lauren Peterson

Make Trouble Young Readers Edition: Standing Up, Speaking Out, and Finding the Courage to Lead by Cecile Richards, with Lauren Peterson and adapted by Ruby Skamir, is currently scheduled for release on October 15 2019. Sometimes to make change, you have to make trouble. Cecile Richards has been fighting for what she believes in ever since she was taken to the principal’s office in seventh grade for wearing an armband in protest of the Vietnam War. She had an extraordinary childhood in ultra-conservative Texas, where her father, a civil rights attorney, and her mother, an avid activist and the first female governor of Texas, taught their kids to be troublemakers. From the time Richards was a girl, she had a front row seat to observe the rise of women in American politics. And by sharing her story with young readers, she shines a light on the people and lessons that have gotten her though good times and bad, and encourages her audience to take risks, make mistakes, and make trouble along the way.

Make Trouble Young Readers Edition is a book that can inspire readers of all ages to take a stand, do use their voices, actions, and efforts to do the right thing even when it might earn them the label of troublemaker. I like that the encouragement comes with the information that sometimes standing up can bring about labels, stigma, and danger. I also like Cecile shared not only her positive inspirations, but also those that she came up against that made her work harder and think more creatively because of their opposing viewpoints and actions. She shared her successes, big and small, but also the mistakes that were made and what she learned from them. I think showing the next generation that small things can start change, and small actions can have a big effect is just as important as showing how much work and effort is involved in the bigger actions that can create bigger change. The risks are laid right right along side the goals. I appreciated seeing how some of the ideas and movements were formed, and how the daily work was done. The writing was fully engaging and I felt like I was sitting down with Cecile to hear her talk about her life. It is not a rally call to cause trouble for no reason- rather it is a offer of support and encouragement for the reader to stand up for themselves, for what they believe in, and for the causes that are important to them. Yes, those that question authority and fight for these causes are often labeled as troublemakers- but when earned in this context I think we should all be willing to wear that label with pride and the honor it merits.

Make Trouble Young Readers Edition is a read that is like talking to a trusted friend or relative. Engaging stories and the encouragement to be your best self, and cause trouble when need is something great for children teens, and adults alike. I think this would be a valuable addition to  home, public, and classroom library collections.

Early Book Review: Something Is Bugging Samantha Hansen by Nancy Viau

Something Is Bugging Samantha Hansen by Nancy Viau is currently scheduled for release on August 28 2019. Ten-year-old Samantha Hansen loves science! In the beginning of fourth grade, she never let a moment go by without talking about rocks. Now she’s back with a new obsession: insects! Upon learning that the local apiary is for sale, she goes into action to save the honey bees. Will her someday boyfriend Todd or her best friend Kelli be part of her plan? Will That Kid Richard get in the way? Sam’s lists of insect facts and funny thoughts highlight her quest to keep the bees in the community, the challenges she faces at school, and her ongoing struggle with her temper. Join Samantha as she looks to science for answers and does her part to change the world. 

Something Is Bugging Samantha Hansen was a read with some good points, and some low points. I really enjoyed that facs about bees and other insects were part of the story. I also liked that the larger idea of friendship changing and having more than one good or best friend is possible. Most of all, I liked the encouragement to get involved with causes that are important to you, such as saving the bees. The dealing with frustration and anger, counting and channeling the energy towards better things, were fairly well done as well. The friendship battles, dealing with changing interests, new friends, and peer groups seemed very accurate to me- as a mom and someone that has worked in an elementary school. All of that was what kept me reading. I was a little annoyed with the 'boyfriend' seeking, and the leaning on the idea that a boy teases a girl because he likes her. Can we not continue with that? I would much rather boys learn to give their attention in better ways, and girls not be in the position where they have to deal with that or be tasked with changing that boy's behavior by giving him the attention they want. I think that sets a bad president for both boys and girls. I also had some trouble becoming engaged with the story as a whole- the writing style just did not click with me, but I think that is more a matter of personal preference than anything wrong with the technique. 

Something Is Bugging Samantha Hansen is an interesting early chapter book that will strike a chord with some readers. The story just did not wow me, despite some very well done aspects.

Early Book Review: A Voice for the Spirit Bears: How One Boy Inspired Millions to Save a Rare Animal by Carmen Oliver

A Voice for the Spirit Bears: How One Boy Inspired Millions to Save a Rare Animal by Carmen Oliver is a children's book currently scheduled for release on May 7 2019. This book is based on the life and work of Simon Jackson, who found navigating the world of the school playground difficult. He felt most at home in the woodlands, learning about and photographing wildlife. As a teenager, he became fascinated with spirit bears, a rare subspecies of black bear with creamy white fur. These elusive creatures were losing their habitat to deforestation, and Simon knew he had to do something to protect them. He decided he would become the voice for the spirit bears. But first, he would have to find his own. Part of the CitizenKid collection, this book demonstrates how one child can be a voice for change. Simon's story is an excellent example of growth mindset at work, highlighting personal growth and overcoming obstacles through activism. This book can also be used to lead discussions about character education as it relates to courage, resilience and perseverance. In addition, it has strong science curriculum links to the environment, animal habitats and the effects of clear-cutting.

A Voice for the Spirit Bears is a biographical picturebook that can show young readers (and their adults) that young people can make a difference. I think that the fact that Simon had to battle a stutter, shyness, and bullying in order to spread the word about the bears and to work toward his goals is as inspiring as his dedication to his cause and fighting for the Spirit Bears. I think his dedication and perseverance might help young people find the courage to stand up and work for things they believe in as well, because if he can deal with all of those obstacles than why can't the rest of us? 

I liked the style of the artwork, and think it captured the feel and intent of the story as much as the text. The emotions of the people and the beauty of the landscapes and animals was very well done. Combined with the emotion and message of the story itself I found the book as a whole to be uplighting and inspiring. I also like that at the end of the book readers get a more detailed biography of Simon and his work, and a little bit of information on what readers might do to help make a difference in their own community or for their own cause. The only thing I was hoping for here was a list or other organizations or groups young readers might want to get involved with. 

A Voice for the Spirit Bears is a beautiful and inspiring read. I think it can be enjoyed and inspire a wide range of readers to step out of their comfort zones and to stand up for a cause of their own. 

Book Review: Striking at the Roots: A Practical Guide to Animal Activism 10th Anniversary Edition - New Tactics, New Technology by Mark Hawthorne

Striking at the Roots:  A Practical Guide to Animal Activism 10th Anniversary Edition - New Tactics, New Technology by Mark Hawthorne is, as you might expect from the title, an updated book about how things have changed and how we can continue to help. The book references changes from the last 10 years including the rise of social media, which is now a key part of any campaign. The book brings together the most effective tactics for speaking out for animal rights. Activists from around the globe explain why their models of activism have been successful - and how you can become involved. Concise and full of practical examples and resources, this manual for success demonstrates how many of the world's most engaged activists effectively speak to the public, lobby policymakers, and deal with law enforcement - all while keeping their eyes on the prize of achieving victories for animals. This book will empower you to make the most of your skills. From simple leafleting to taking direct action, each chapter clearly explains where to begin, what to expect, and how to ensure your message is heard.

Striking at the Roots is a resource for learning about what other animal activists have done, and how you might be able to step forward and take action as well. I like that the book covers a wide and varied number of activist actions. There is something here from just about every personality type- for the outgoing activists there are things like manning an information table protesting, or handing out leaflets and for the more introverted there is the use of social media, writing letters, and other less social possibilities. I loved reading about the animal sanctuaries, the stories of what some have done to help, and suggestions as to how readers can get involved. I also liked the mention of how activists should be cautious with the articles and news they share, making sure of its accuracy before sharing and using its information as a source. Too many people on all sides of all issues look to see if something supports their world view rather than taking the time to see if it is factual. I will say that I like that the book offers suggestions for going vegan, and many suggestions for convincing others to do the same. It is a little heavy handed on the topic on occasion, but that is not expected given the topic of the book. There are some methods listed in the book that I fully endorse (such as using the legal system and rescues to help create change) and some that I worry about (such as stealing lobsters or livestock from private property in order to liberate them). I highly suggest readers consider their personal strength, goals, and future to decide how they can do the most good. I found the final chapter, about taking care of yourself so that you can keep going, and the appendixes of extra information to be very useful and will greatly assist readers when are deciding what they are going to do, and how to do it effectively and safely 

Striking at the Roots is not a fun or comfortable read. However it is a very useful tool and resource for those determined to make a difference on behalf of animals. If you are looking for ideas, tools, and information about changes you can make and how you can encourage others to make changes as well then I would recommend this book. 

Early Book Review: Dr. Coo and the Pigeon Protest by Sarah Hampson, Kass Reich

Dr. Coo and the Pigeon Protest is a picturebook written by Sarah Hampson and illustrated by Kass Reich. It is currently scheduled for release on April 3 2018. Dr. Archibald Coo, an erudite big-city pigeon, is tired of the way people treat him and the other pigeons. They're always being shooed and swatted, and they're never admired the way the other birds are. As Dr. Coo tells his pigeon friends: It wasn't always this way. In ancient times, pigeons were known to accompany the gods. They brought news of the Olympic Games to all of ancient Greece. And more recently, they delivered messages and medicine to soldiers on battlefields. They were heroes! Surely, Dr. Coo reasons, pigeons can find a way to earn the admiration of people once again. And he's got just the bold plan to do it. 

Dr. Coo and the Pigeon Protest is a well written and illustrated picturebook. I found the artwork to be lovely, and to give extra details to the story. I liked that the pigeons not only noticed how other birds were treated in contrast to them, but that they came up with a solution that was about knowledge, awareness, and love rather than violence and causing problems for those that have treated them badly. I like the example about compromise and making changes happen. It is about diversity, activism, compromise, and co-existence. I like that the lesson is part of the story, but at no point did it feel like it was being forced. Also, children might learn something real about how our use and perspective of pigeons has changed over the years, and that the same could happen to any other group with the right conditions. 

Early Book Review: Be The Change: The Future is in Your Hands by Eunice Moyle and Sabrina Moyle

Be The Change: The Future is in Your Hands by Eunice Moyle and Sabrina Moyle is currently scheduled for release on March 1 2018. This book gives young readers the tools and encouragement needed to be the change they wish to see in the world. Featuring the popular founders of Hello!Lucky stationery, this guidebook offers instruction and guidance to spark readers’ creativity and inspire action in their local communities. The authors teach readers about great change-makers in history, the structure of community systems, and offer fun and creative project ideas to help budding activists get started making a difference right away.

Be The Change: The Future is in Your Hands is a book focused on empowering young people to understand and make changes in the world around them. I like that it is very encouraging to young women, focused on information about the government on all levels, community organizations, creativity, and how to get involved and help inform and encourage others. While I understand that the authors and the main audience of this book is more likely to be of the female persuasion, I felt like it was a little too focused on girls. If we want everyone to be involved, come together, and communicate I think it would be prudent to get people of all genders and walks of life involved. If the book is intended for girls only, then that should be included on the cover. It is not only CIS females that can feminists or should get involved. I did like the information and encouragement to get involved found in the book, and the idea behind it, I just felt like it could have been a little more inclusive.