J.P. and the Polka-Dotted Aliens by Ana Crespo - OPTIONAL

Crespo, Ana J.P. and the Polka-Dotted Aliens, pictures by Erica Sirotich.  PICTURE BOOK.  Albert Whitman, 2015.  $17.  

JP is usually a fun kid, but one day some aliens (girls) come to use his favorite play place.  JP wants to kick and scream, until he remembers that he can have more fun if he finds the fun.  

JP’s story is bright and attractive, but short on actual story.  There is a page of discussion and information for parents at the back of the book for dealing with children’s temper tantrums, but nothing about how to use the book with your child.  The actual temper tantrum part only lasts one page - as if it is that easy for an upset child to recognize their feelings, acknowledge them and deal with them with the turn of a page.  I feel like this is close and may be a springboard for a few children to talk about disappointment and anger, but in the long run doesn’t really hit the target. You might look into Helen Lester’s emotion book as an alternative.

Pre-K, EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL.  Cindy, Library Teacher