Official Review: Don't Put Down Your Crown by Edna L. Myles

[peprica21]

[Following is the official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Don't Put Down Your Crown" by Edna L. Myles.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Don't Put Down Your Crown by Edna L Myles, is a children's book that teaches the reader about the importance of virtue and values through the use of a simple crown.

The main character, a young girl who does not have a name, listens to her mother explain how she has an invisible crown that sits on top her head and to never, ever put it down. Throughout the story, the mother describes the importance of wearing the crown and all the characteristics that come with it, such as manners, self-respect and individuality.

A few of the virtues covered, which I think are the most important, include learning how to stand up for your beliefs, being an example for others, treating others as you would like to be treated, manners, believing in yourself and the value of giving back.

The writing style is, for the most part, very simple. However, there are a few complex words that are used in the story, such as “integrity”. I was surprised to see these words in a book for children because, most are at or above a middle school reading level. I felt this book is geared more towards younger children, so having those words present in the story made me wonder if a young audience would be able to comprehend the storyline. There are also parts of the story that rhyme, which I think helps keep that child-like element. The illustrations in the book are simple, yet relatable. They are drawn without faces but are still detailed enough for a young reader to picture themselves in the story.

One thing I did not like about the storyline is that it ended abruptly. I felt there was no closure or some way to wrap up all the mother’s lessons she had explained.

Despite a quick ending, I rate this book a 4 out of 4 stars. I chose this rating because I think it is written in a way that no matter the age of the reader, everyone can learn and be reminded of the importance of upholding values in everyday life. I also enjoyed this book because the characters were relatable. The young girl’s reaction to her mother’s teaching is both accurate and entertaining. The young girl also finds ways to question the things her mother is telling her, which I think adds an element of reality.

I would recommend this book to anyone with children to share these values with them or to anyone who needs a reminder about the importance of integrity and character.

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Don't Put Down Your Crown
View: on Bookshelves | on Barnes and Noble

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[bookowlie]

Nice, insighful review! You made a good point about the use of complex words that younger children wouldn't understand. Still, kids always love rhymes!

[peprica21]

Thank you Bookowlie for your feedback, I appreciate it.

[gali]

Thank you for the nice review. Sounds like a good book for kids.

[peprica21]

Thank you Gali! I think it is a great book for children to easily understand some very important life lessons.

[EM TheAuthor]

Thank you for the very insightful review Peprica21!! I greatly appreciate your time and effort! I completely understand your view on my use of a few complex words, because I used to think that way once upon a time. However, I have since been blessed to know some VERY intelligent little people, who are smarter than most people think they should be. While I am aware that many little ones won't be familiar with some of the words, I also know that children are quite inquisitive; which means dialog will take place within the family! There is method to my madness my friend #FamilyTime

Thank you again, you are awesome!

[peprica21]

You are very welcome EM!! I very much enjoyed this book, so thank you for your talent.

After I wrote the review, I had a similar thought, "does the author intend to use the words to create conversation among families". But of course that did not occur to me until later. I am glad to know that eventually I caught on to your madness

All the best with your future endeavors!

[Tanaya]

Sounds like a cute, inspiring book. Great review and congrats to the author!

[peprica21]

Thank you for your kind words Tanaya!

[EM TheAuthor]

Thank you both!!!

[anonanemone]

This sounds like a wonderful book! I think a few complex words are ok and might spark some conversations with the child. We try not to dumb down language for our children too much and they've surprised us a few times. Congrats on a great review to EM and peprica!

[EM TheAuthor]

Thank you so much anonanemone!

[peprica21]

It really is a wonderful story. Thank you anonanemone!

[amybo82]

I like your review, and I think you support your rating well. There's always some argument over using advanced language in children's books. I'm in favor of it! Typically, picture books are meant to be read to young kids, and it's not expected that they will know or understand all of the words. This helps them learn to use context clues, illustrations, and other resources (ask an adult!) to figure out what the word means. This is an important part of acquiring language.

[peprica21]

Amybo82, thank you for your kind words! I would agree with your reasoning about advance language, giving children the opportunity to discover answers for themselves is a great building block for life.