I'm not a big fan of graphic novels because I prefer that children read from actual printed pages of text and allow their imagination to flesh out the scenes and action, the characters and their expressions. I believe this expands their ability to imagine and formulate on their own and to put identity to words. However, there is a time and place where graphic novels can benefit and lend enjoyment. This is especially true for the reluctant reader.

Amber Brown's stories are engaging and bring to life children in their day to day settings of school, etc. Amber Brown Is Not a Crayon: The Graphic Novel is a re-telling of the original book that was printed as a text novel with some illustrations.

Amber's parents are divorced. Amber has been best friends with Justin since kindergarten. Justin's family is moving to another city. Amber's emotions are on a roller coaster.

Their teacher seems to have lots of engaging activities and also a good degree of tolerance of lively third graders. A "trip to China" with Chinese food brought in for their lunch is a grand way to learn about another country. Writing post cards from China to family and friends is one of the activities. The teacher also has a high tolerance of their ill temper, spats, and general ill behavior.

Amber is experiencing unsettling emotions from her parent's divorce and her father moving far away and then she gets the news that her best friend's father's work is changing and they are moving far away. She is angry. Justin is angry. They lash out at each other and their classmates. Secret word: kindness

This book can provide a glimpse into the shattering of children's emotions caused by major events in their lives. It gives voice to their hurt, their discord, their struggles. It also shows that it is important to say "I'm sorry" when you hurt others.

I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. ( )

This book teachers empathy and can be a read aloud for 3 grade and up, I do believe that maybe some 2nd graders can enjoy it but it is a more complex book and requires to have an open mind. ( )

Not exactly the heir to Ramona Quimby, as sometimes Amber has real dark feelings inside, and sometimes she shares them. I don't clearly remember every story so I'm copying this review to each book. ( )

Read aloud with my 3rd grader :) ( )

Surprisingly long and complex for a children's novel, and innocently insightful, without jettisoning that childlike faith which so many children's books cannot but disturb.

(9/10) ( )