Review of Spiker the Jumping Spider Learns about Joy
- Rashad Deniro Price
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Review of Spiker the Jumping Spider Learns about Joy
Spiker the Jumping Spider Learns About Joy: Joy Is a Fruit of the Spirit is a children's story written by J. M. Ashmore. The story begins with the friends Spiker the jumping spider and Crispin the cricket trying to figure out what the word joy entails while encouraging each other to maintain a positive mindset and be happy irrespective of what the situation is. As other characters like Sully and Gerry are introduced, the issues of what truly matters in life and the ultimate key to joy are presented and tested.
Proper understanding of situations is essential, as it helps one maintain the right mindset required to make helpful decisions and take profitable actions. But the problem is that one may be unable to give an objective assessment of life circumstances at times, partly due to one's level of awareness, state of mind, or any other factors. In this situation, a little kind word, encouragement, advice, clarification, and what have you can do a whole lot of good. These and more form the thematic preoccupations of this story.
I think the most outstanding merits of this story are the introduction of situations that demonstrate each lesson being taught and the patterning of the characters to complement and advance one another. These make it easier for children to understand and cultivate the mindsets and habits projected through this story. The narrative is fluid, and the storyline is cohesive. There was no missing element, and no aspect was rushed or half-done; as a result, I was always satisfied and ready to welcome the introduction of new characters and themes.
There are questions and answers at the end of the story and a couple of notes about jumping spiders and crickets, tailored to assess the children's understanding of the story and widen their knowledge about the characters: the jumping spider and the cricket. However, I have a suggestion to make. I think some of the characters should be feminine to balance the gender and further project the idea that it's our collective responsibility to build a joyful, progressive society.
But then, that didn't affect my enjoyment of the story. Spiker the Jumping Spider Learns About Joy: Joy Is a Fruit of the Spirit earns 5 out of 5 stars for its intriguing storyline, invaluable lessons, and flawless editing. The book is recommended for readers aged four to eight.
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Spiker the Jumping Spider Learns about Joy
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