Parents' Guide to Sunshine

Book Jarrett J. Krosoczka Graphic Novel 2023
Young man carrying on his soldiers a littel boy holding up a sword. They;re by a river, and other yuoung campers behind them are crossing a bridge.

Common Sense Media Review

Michael Berry By Michael Berry , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 10+

Heartfelt memoir of working with seriously ill campers.

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Why Age 10+?

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age 12+

Based on 1 parent review

 

 

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What's the Story?

As SUNSHINE begins, Jarrett arrives at Camp Sunshine worried about how he will interact with the other campers, who all face different kinds of medical challenges and just want some time not spent thinking about sickness. Jarrett is a skilled artist, and he's able to connect with Diego, who's dealing with a brain tumor. He also makes friends with Eric, a young camper obsessed with the Power Rangers. Over the course of one week, Jarrett will have to re-examine his assumptions about disabilities and what it means to be a friend.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say ( 1 ):
Kids say : Not yet rated

It's difficult to write a memoir that's not self-absorbed, but this tale of a meaningful summer pushes all the right buttons, Jarrett J. Krosoczka, author of Hey, Kiddo, is able to find the right mix of sentimentality and tartness in his art and dialogue. Each kid at Camp Sunshine is a unique individual, with unique facial expressions, wardrobe, and speech patterns. Themes of hope, dependability, and determination run throughout the book. It's a definite winner.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Sunshine works as a graphic novel. What kinds of effects are possible in comics that aren't available in an all-prose work?

  • Have you ever been seriously ill? How did it change your everyday life?

  • What is it about camping that promotes emotional closeness? Does being out in nature have a positive effect on people?

  • How do Jarrett and friends show teamwork, compassion, and courage? Why are these important character strengths?

Book Details

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Young man carrying on his soldiers a littel boy holding up a sword. They;re by a river, and other yuoung campers behind them are crossing a bridge.

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