When I received my copy of the new children’s book The Adventures of Lilly P Badilly: Cost Rica, by Debbie Glade, the first thing that caught my eye was the vivid colors. The cover of the book invites its reader to indulge in rich landscapes and an even richer imagination. I was amazed because while the old adage, “never judge a book by its cover” holds true, as an English Teacher I understand the importance of making reading an activity in which children want to engage.

My daughter thought the cover was amazing as well. She grabbed the book from me and screamed, “Mommy, WEAD. WEAD.” and when “She Who Has Spoken” speaks, we listen. Before I could begin reading, she was entranced by the pictures. I have never been to Cost Rica, but if the paintings in the book are any indication of the scenery, I am missing out on a BEAUTIFUL place. We pointed out pictures of trees and the inhabitants of the rainforest. And, we even practiced our colors. And then we read. The book is rather long, but it is not meant for children younger than four years of age. My daughter was able to sit through a little less than half of the story.

And what a story it is. Lilly, a precocious millipede, along with her grandmother and grandfather, embark on a very unpredictable adventure to Costa Rica. The story is filled with danger, and learning, and experiences that can only be enjoyed through the eyes of a very small..er, millipede.

Better yet, pop in the CD and listen as the story comes to life through the voice talents of the book’s author.  Debbie Glade does a very unique job of portraying each character’s unique personality on the CD. And she had… Continue reading →