Me and the Boss: A Story About Mending and Love
Heartwarming story of sibling love has great illustrations.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Me and the Boss: A Story About Mending and Love, by Michelle Edwards, illustrated by April Harrison, won a 2023 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Honor, and the art leaps off the page. Themes include learning a new skill, the dynamics of a sibling relationship, as well as compassion and love. Older sister Zora falsely reports her younger brother Lee's age so he can join an embroidery class with her; there are no negative repercussions. Lee, the main character, occasionally pokes himself with a sharp sewing needle while learning to embroider -- the injury is described as feeling like a bee sting.
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What's the Story?
ME AND THE BOSS: A STORY ABOUT MENDING AND LOVE shares the sweet story of Zora and Lee. Zora is a protective older sister who's bossy with her young brother to make sure he's safe and cared for. Lee follows her rules and guidance without protest. One day at the library, Lee struggles to keep up with his talented sister and the other older kids at an embroidery class. He enlists the help of the instructor, Mrs. C, to learn how to go steady and slow with his stitching. That night, when he can't sleep, Lee saves his messy project by focusing hard on what he needs to do. He then uses his new skill to mend a hole in his pocket and fix his sister's favorite toy. Zora, "the boss" of the title, embraces her brother with thanks. The two see how uniquely they can express their love for each other.
Is It Any Good?
This story is a sweet reminder of the complex and loving nature of sibling relationships. Me and the Boss: A Story About Mending and Love shows how, like with learning a new skill, interacting with your siblings requires love and patience. Illustrator April Harrison's bright and bold images capture the reader's attention. The story is easy for young readers to understand and highlights relatable themes. The book may inspire readers to pick up a needle and thread to make their own special creation, for themselves or a loved one.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how in Me and the Boss: A Story About Mending and Love Zora bosses Lee around. Do you have an older sibling like Zora? Or, do you act like Zora with your younger sibling(s)? Why do you think older siblings act this way?
How do Lee and Zora show their compassion and love for each other?
Lee learned a new skill -- you could join him! Follow the directions in the back of the book and embroider your own smiling moon!
Which page has your favorite illustration? Which colors do you see on the page?
Book Details
- Author: Michelle Edwards
- Illustrator: April Harrison
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Brothers and Sisters, Great Boy Role Models
- Character Strengths: Compassion
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Anne Schwartz Books
- Publication date: October 11, 2022
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Nook, Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Media Award
- Last updated: February 16, 2023
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