Official Review: Me and My Sparrow by Yvonne Valle

Please use this sub-forum to discuss both middle-grade and younger children's books, including picture books, easy readers, and children's chapter books. Topics for books aimed at children 12 and under go in this forum.
Forum rules
Authors and publishers are not able to post replies in the review topics.
User avatar
Bianka Walter
Previous Member of the Month
Posts: 1874
Joined: 10 Feb 2018, 15:22
Favorite Book: The Old Man and the Sea
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 368
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-bianka-walter.html
Latest Review: Thir13en by Keegan Nielsen
Reading Device: B06XD5YCKX

Official Review: Me and My Sparrow by Yvonne Valle

Post by Bianka Walter »

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Me and My Sparrow" by Yvonne Valle.]
Book Cover
4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review


Me and My Sparrow is a beautiful children’s tale motivated by a true story. Young Eve and her parents live in a high-rise apartment in New York City. Eve has a bird’s nest above her window with a baby sparrow living in it. One day, the sparrow falls out of its nest and into Eve’s room, injuring his little claw. With the help of her dad, Eve begins to nurse the sparrow back to health. The author, Yvonne Valle, condenses her real-life story into 20 pages of gorgeous illustrations and a wonderful narrative.

This inspiring story should be read to all children. It is a heart-warming tale of one little girl’s quest to care for the smaller creatures of the world. It teaches children that being kind to animals is a beautiful thing, even when you don’t get anything in return. Eve wants only to make sure that her little sparrow friend has a happy life and tries her hardest to achieve that.

There are some wonderful themes in this story. For one, as mentioned, being kind to others is a prevalent idea. There is also the family dynamic. Eve makes no decision on her own, and through the images, we can see that her family is a very happy one. They have dinner and dessert together, they are affectionate towards each other, and they are always smiling.

This short book had a small bible verse at the very end. Also, there is a point in the story where Eve prays for the sparrow to be safe, but there is no lingering religious narrative. I am not a religious person, but I believe that this type of book is important for children to learn that faith and prayer go hand in hand. It is aimed at any religion, and I find that commendable on the part of the author.

The illustrations were an absolute delight. The watercolour depictions of Eve’s family and their home were beautiful and vibrant. My favourite part was the interpretation of the sparrow. As a ‘bird nerd’, I am familiar with how house sparrows should look, and this one was perfect. That bit of attention to detail makes the illustrations all the more realistic.

There really is nothing that I didn’t love about this book. I read through it a few times to find anything that could be improved on; there was nothing. The editing is perfect, and there is not one error throughout. I also struggle to think of anyone who wouldn’t enjoy this book. Sure, it’s a children’s book, but even as an adult I found it very sweet. I can’t wait to read it to my niece and show her the stunning illustrations. This gets a well-deserved 4 out of 4 stars. Little Eve, her mom and her dad are an inspiring family, and this children’s book is a must-read.

******
Me and My Sparrow
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Like Bianka Walter's review? Post a comment saying so!
You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.
- Dr. Seuss
User avatar
Shrabastee Chakraborty
Book of the Month Participant
Posts: 2512
Joined: 23 Mar 2018, 00:38
Favorite Book: The Warramunga's War
Currently Reading: Timewise
Bookshelf Size: 1154
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-shrabastee-chakraborty.html
Latest Review: The Infinite Passion of Life by D.J. Paolini

Post by Shrabastee Chakraborty »

A lovely read it seems to be! It is important to teach the value of kindness from a tender and impressionable age. And what better way to do that than incorporating in a children's book with attractive illustrations? I loved reading the review and your insights on the beneficial lessons the book contains for children. Thank you!
Kajori Sheryl Paul
Official Reviewer Representative
Posts: 2648
Joined: 10 Aug 2018, 15:10
Currently Reading: Noah's Quest
Bookshelf Size: 976
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-kajori-sheryl-paul.html
Latest Review: Alien Bonds by Carmen Webster Buxton

Post by Kajori Sheryl Paul »

I like the way the book teaches kindness to children through Eve's story. Also, I believe that illustrations are a great addition in a children's book.

Thank you for the detailed review.
Shraddha singh
Posts: 13
Joined: 09 Jun 2018, 10:33
Currently Reading: E-M-P Honeymoon
Bookshelf Size: 11

Post by Shraddha singh »

This book actually teaches us a step towards humanity and even explain that how soft hearted children's are. Just because they are not aware of today's going on.but I enjoyed this review very much and even my small brother also enjoyed reading the review
User avatar
kandscreeley
Special Discussion Leader
Posts: 11686
Joined: 31 Dec 2016, 20:31
Currently Reading: The Door Within
Bookshelf Size: 487
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-kandscreeley.html
Latest Review: The Elf Revelation by Jordan David

Post by kandscreeley »

Watercolor illustrations are somewhat unique in a children's book. They sound quite attention-grabbing. I love the theme of this one - to care for and be kind to animals. A perfect lesson for children. Thanks for the review.
A book is a dream you hold in your hands.
—Neil Gaiman
User avatar
Ayat paarsa
Posts: 238
Joined: 01 Oct 2018, 00:18
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 66
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-ayat-paarsa.html
Latest Review: Sigfried’s Smelly Socks! by Len Foley

Post by Ayat paarsa »

Bianka Walter wrote: 21 Sep 2018, 13:31 [Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Me and My Sparrow" by Yvonne Valle.]
Book Cover
4 out of 4 stars
Share This Review


Me and My Sparrow is a beautiful children’s tale motivated by a true story. Young Eve and her parents live in a high-rise apartment in New York City. Eve has a bird’s nest above her window with a baby sparrow living in it. One day, the sparrow falls out of its nest and into Eve’s room, injuring his little claw. With the help of her dad, Eve begins to nurse the sparrow back to health. The author, Yvonne Valle, condenses her real-life story into 20 pages of gorgeous illustrations and a wonderful narrative.

This inspiring story should be read to all children. It is a heart-warming tale of one little girl’s quest to care for the smaller creatures of the world. It teaches children that being kind to animals is a beautiful thing, even when you don’t get anything in return. Eve wants only to make sure that her little sparrow friend has a happy life and tries her hardest to achieve that.

There are some wonderful themes in this story. For one, as mentioned, being kind to others is a prevalent idea. There is also the family dynamic. Eve makes no decision on her own, and through the images, we can see that her family is a very happy one. They have dinner and dessert together, they are affectionate towards each other, and they are always smiling.

This short book had a small bible verse at the very end. Also, there is a point in the story where Eve prays for the sparrow to be safe, but there is no lingering religious narrative. I am not a religious person, but I believe that this type of book is important for children to learn that faith and prayer go hand in hand. It is aimed at any religion, and I find that commendable on the part of the author.

The illustrations were an absolute delight. The watercolour depictions of Eve’s family and their home were beautiful and vibrant. My favourite part was the interpretation of the sparrow. As a ‘bird nerd’, I am familiar with how house sparrows should look, and this one was perfect. That bit of attention to detail makes the illustrations all the more realistic.

There really is nothing that I didn’t love about this book. I read through it a few times to find anything that could be improved on; there was nothing. The editing is perfect, and there is not one error throughout. I also struggle to think of anyone who wouldn’t enjoy this book. Sure, it’s a children’s book, but even as an adult I found it very sweet. I can’t wait to read it to my niece and show her the stunning illustrations. This gets a well-deserved 4 out of 4 stars. Little Eve, her mom and her dad are an inspiring family, and this children’s book is a must-read.

******
Me and My Sparrow
View: on Bookshelves | on Amazon

Like Bianka Walter's review? Post a comment saying so!
Wow, what a title and what an amazing review, I will surely like to add this book in my want to read shelf. So cute the story and so cutely you did.
:reading-5: @paarsa. :escribir:
User avatar
Cecilia_L
Previous Member of the Month
Posts: 4952
Joined: 08 Jun 2018, 22:16
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 436
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-cecilia-l.html
Latest Review: No Rushing when Brushing by Humairah Shah

Post by Cecilia_L »

The illustrations were an absolute delight. The watercolour depictions of Eve’s family and their home were beautiful and vibrant. My favourite part was the interpretation of the sparrow. As a ‘bird nerd’, I am familiar with how house sparrows should look, and this one was perfect. That bit of attention to detail makes the illustrations all the more realistic.
Based on your review, this sounds like a delightful children's book. I love your description of the illustrations, too!
User avatar
Connie Otwani
Posts: 2185
Joined: 01 Nov 2017, 16:12
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 200
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-cotwani.html
Latest Review: The Fisherman and his Foundlings by Phillip Leighton-Daly

Post by Connie Otwani »

From reading detective stories, I gather that sometimes serial killers have a history of killing/practising on animals as children. It's thus important for kids to learn to being kind to animals. Great review as always!
There is more treasure in books than in all the pirates’ loot on Treasure Island!
-Walt Disney
User avatar
Sushan Ekanayake
Official Reviewer Representative
Posts: 4854
Joined: 04 May 2018, 19:13
Currently Reading: Uplifting The Pain of Behavioral and Learning Styles Through Poetry Now
Bookshelf Size: 408
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-sushan-ekanayake.html
Latest Review: Unsettled Disruption by Juana Catalina Rodriguez
Reading Device: B0794JC2K5

Post by Sushan Ekanayake »

I am not certain whether I will like this or not. But I enjoyed your review. Thank you 👍👍
We all need people who will give us feedback. That’s how we improve.

- Bill Gates -


:lire4: $u$han €kanayak€ :text-feedback:
User avatar
Hiruni Bhagya 81
Posts: 745
Joined: 31 Aug 2018, 14:43
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 128
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-hiruni-bhagya-81.html
Latest Review: Randy Love...at your service by Shay Carter

Post by Hiruni Bhagya 81 »

Sounds like a lovely story with a beautiful message. From your descriptions, I'm sure the author has done a great job with this tale. Your review is also great!
User avatar
Ashiyya Tariq
Posts: 2181
Joined: 17 Mar 2017, 02:17
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 235
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-ashiyya-tariq.html
Latest Review: Deadly Waters: The Vietnam Naval War And Its Aftermath by Randy Miller
Reading Device: PDF

Post by Ashiyya Tariq »

It sounds a wonderful book with a perfect story and excellent illustration. Thanks for the review!.
Make your ideals high enough to inspire you and low enough to encourage you.

📕📖📰📓📕
User avatar
Bianka Walter
Previous Member of the Month
Posts: 1874
Joined: 10 Feb 2018, 15:22
Favorite Book: The Old Man and the Sea
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 368
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-bianka-walter.html
Latest Review: Thir13en by Keegan Nielsen
Reading Device: B06XD5YCKX

Post by Bianka Walter »

Shrabastee wrote: 18 Dec 2018, 01:40 A lovely read it seems to be! It is important to teach the value of kindness from a tender and impressionable age. And what better way to do that than incorporating in a children's book with attractive illustrations? I loved reading the review and your insights on the beneficial lessons the book contains for children. Thank you!
Thank you so much for the lovely comments! Thank YOU for reading my review :)
Kajori50 wrote: 18 Dec 2018, 08:39 I like the way the book teaches kindness to children through Eve's story. Also, I believe that illustrations are a great addition in a children's book.

Thank you for the detailed review.
Thanks, Kajori, I appreciate your comments :)
You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.
- Dr. Seuss
User avatar
Bianka Walter
Previous Member of the Month
Posts: 1874
Joined: 10 Feb 2018, 15:22
Favorite Book: The Old Man and the Sea
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 368
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-bianka-walter.html
Latest Review: Thir13en by Keegan Nielsen
Reading Device: B06XD5YCKX

Post by Bianka Walter »

Shraddha singh wrote: 18 Dec 2018, 08:45 This book actually teaches us a step towards humanity and even explain that how soft hearted children's are. Just because they are not aware of today's going on.but I enjoyed this review very much and even my small brother also enjoyed reading the review
Thank you for reading my review! I appreciate your comments :)
kandscreeley wrote: 18 Dec 2018, 09:05 Watercolor illustrations are somewhat unique in a children's book. They sound quite attention-grabbing. I love the theme of this one - to care for and be kind to animals. A perfect lesson for children. Thanks for the review.
They aren't common at all. And I was surprised by how much I loved them!
Thanks so much for your comments :)
You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.
- Dr. Seuss
User avatar
Bianka Walter
Previous Member of the Month
Posts: 1874
Joined: 10 Feb 2018, 15:22
Favorite Book: The Old Man and the Sea
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 368
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-bianka-walter.html
Latest Review: Thir13en by Keegan Nielsen
Reading Device: B06XD5YCKX

Post by Bianka Walter »

Ayat paarsa wrote: 21 Dec 2018, 07:21 Wow, what a title and what an amazing review, I will surely like to add this book in my want to read shelf. So cute the story and so cutely you did.
Thank you so much for reading my review and stopping by :)
Cecilia_L wrote: 21 Dec 2018, 08:16
The illustrations were an absolute delight. The watercolour depictions of Eve’s family and their home were beautiful and vibrant. My favourite part was the interpretation of the sparrow. As a ‘bird nerd’, I am familiar with how house sparrows should look, and this one was perfect. That bit of attention to detail makes the illustrations all the more realistic.
Based on your review, this sounds like a delightful children's book. I love your description of the illustrations, too!
Thanks, Cecilia! I loved the illustrations, so it was easy to describe them :)
You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.
- Dr. Seuss
User avatar
Bianka Walter
Previous Member of the Month
Posts: 1874
Joined: 10 Feb 2018, 15:22
Favorite Book: The Old Man and the Sea
Currently Reading:
Bookshelf Size: 368
Reviewer Page: onlinebookclub.org/reviews/by-bianka-walter.html
Latest Review: Thir13en by Keegan Nielsen
Reading Device: B06XD5YCKX

Post by Bianka Walter »

Cotwani wrote: 23 Dec 2018, 15:57 From reading detective stories, I gather that sometimes serial killers have a history of killing/practising on animals as children. It's thus important for kids to learn to being kind to animals. Great review as always!
Exactly! Get the crazy kids to read this one :lol2:
Thanks, Cotwani, for stopping by!
Sushan wrote: 27 Dec 2018, 06:20 I am not certain whether I will like this or not. But I enjoyed your review. Thank you 👍👍
Thanks for the comment :)
You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.
- Dr. Seuss
Post Reply

Return to “Children's Books”