“I’m Not” is a delightful tale about two crocodile friends who celebrate the differences and find a fine friendship in the process. The little narrator describes her friend, Evelyn, as extraordinary, fascinating, energetic, and creative, as Evelyn tries to lift off into space in a garbage can, declares herself an apple, insists that band-aids and pearls are the latest fashion, and makes sculptures of the principal out of bubble gum. After each declaration of Evelyn’s traits, her friend proclaims in refrain, “I’m Not.” But alas, after feeling slightly discouraged that Evelyn has all the best traits, Evelyn sits down next to her friend and says, “I’m stinky at spelling.” Her friend realizes that she’s not. So goes the flip in the plot as Evelyn confesses all the things she’s not good at and realizes that her buddy is conversely not afraid of the dark, good at karate, and baking cookies. Weinstock’s simple, playful illustrations add a sense of enchantment at the end of the story as the two friends recognize the connection needed for a true-blue friendship. All the contrasts provide great language lessons as kids can talk about what they are good at as well as where friends shine, discuss the differences and similarities, and finally, what we have in common. Listing characteristics describing a great friendship helps kids articulate positive relationships.
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2018 PAL Awards
Play on Words speech and language expert Sherry Artemenko recognizes exceptional toys, games and books that encourage language, spark fun and invite creative play.
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Video reviews of our PAL Award winners with tips on how to advance language through play • see PAL tips... ►
See more video reviews... ? Sherry, thanks for giving us back our son. We are so grateful for everything you did for Ben and our family. Not seeing you every week makes me feel that something is missing… but we look forward to a summertime walk! We miss you,
Nicole, mother of 2 year-old boy who was dismissed from therapyWestport, CTThank you Sherry! You are a BIG help and Max adores you.
Maria, mother of a 5 year-old boyFairfield, CTSherry, thank you so much for working with my girls for so long. Your kindness, thoughtfulness, insight and professionalism made our experience so meaningful. My husband and I appreciate all you have done for them. Let’s keep in touch. Thanks again.
Mother of 3 and 5 year-old girlsGreenwich, CT