Member Reviews

An enjoyable read on a character whom the children could readily identify. This was worth sharing, but not with my current age group of students.

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<em>Greta and the Giants</em>by Zoë Tucker and gorgeously illustrated by Zoe Persico is quite literally one of the <em>best</em> children's books I've ever had the pleasure of reading. I will sing this book's praises to the brightest stars in the universe and all the way back because <em>that's</em> how good it is. The biggest problem I have with this book is the fact that the "giants" of our world are nothing like the giants of hers who eventually learn and make an effort to change the horrible things they have done to the planet.

<b>The story.</b>

The plot of this book somewhat loosely follows the story of Greta Thunberg and how she became a voice for the earth as she protested against the actions of the world and spoke out about climate change. She is a young girl who grew to feel very strongly about all the horrible things that people have done to the planet they call their home and is actually making an effort to do something about it. This story follows Greta, who lives in the forest, as she protests against the actions of the giants--adults--in order to make them aware of the damage they cause.

It's a wonderful and beautiful tale that I instantly fell in love with.

<b>The artwork.</b>

Illustrations in <em>Greta and the Giants</em> are some of the most beautiful that I have ever seen in my life. I have to admit that a large part of why I fell so in love with this particular book over several of the other Greta themed children's stories I've read recently is because the illustrations are so charming. Persico did such an excellent job of portraying Greta, her forest, and the giants in their factories that you genuinely felt a part of everything that was happening.

<b>I love it so much.</b>

<em>Greta and the Giants</em> is an absolutely superb children's book with beautiful illustrations that is a must-read for everyone alive today. I can only hope that her speaking out sparks change for the majority of the world. You can bet that one day, I will be reading this to my children.

<em>I was provided a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.</em> 

Review will go live on the Reader Fox Blog on May 22, 2020.

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This is the perfect little story to introduce youngsters to the incredible climate change activist that is at the forefront of this movement. I feel like a lot of today's youth will be inspired to change the world after learning about Greta.

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Greta and the Giants is an endearing picture book inspired by the environmental activist Greta Thunberg.

Lovely art accompanies this story that highlights the importance of climate change, simplifying it enough for small children to easily grasp. It is a fable about a little girl trying to protect her forest from greedy giants who are destroying it. Although the story is more fantastical then realistic, it is really uplifting and has a happy ending.

The book finishes with a little explanation that in real life, we are still fighting the giants on this issue, and it also describes how children can help in their own small ways, just as Greta did. This is a gorgeous, well written book and Zoë Tucker does a very good job of depicting Greta and what she's trying to do. This ecological tale about nature and society is simple, but perfectly executed and worth reading. The illustrations are cute and engaging. Highly recommended!

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Children’s Books via NetGalley at my request, and this review is my own unbiased opinion.

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This story uses Greta Thunberg as a character in a fairytale with a happily ever after, let me explain. Greta lives in a forest and the animals are being wiped out by giants who have built cities and factories and are killing everything. Greta isn’t afraid of the giants and she stands up to them by protesting. Gradually other children and the animals all join her and begin protesting as well. That is similar to what is happening in the world today. But in this tale, the wonderful thing is that the giants actually listen to them and begin to make changes and save the world.

This is a great way to bring this story to children. It shows the issues of climate change in a way that will appeal to children. I love that the animals that are being affected also join in. At the back of the book, there is information about the real Greta Thunberg and information about Climate Change. There is information showing that everyone needs to do their part to help. The illustrations were great. They showed great expression, emotions and issues all done in a way that attract the eye and complement the text. I read this to my grandson and he felt bad for the animals and wanted to know how he could help. We talked about a few things that he said his parents and teachers had also talked about, so that is all good. This is a definite book that should be in all schools. I think it would have more impact with children 8 and up.

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Greta and the Giants is about Greta Thunberg. It is modified into a children's story - humans contributing to pollution and environmental damage are made into giants who threaten the woodland creatures' homes and way of life. At first, they are unaware of the problems they are causing, but the animals and a little girl from the woods begin to stand up and make their voices heard. With the fires, natural disasters, and environmental issues our world is facing due to our inaction toward climate change, it is more important now than it has ever been to teach our children how to be responsible for their planet.

There is a section at the back that explains what Greta is doing and how children can help her in real life! My favorite part of this book is that it is printed on recycled paper and that they donate 3% of the price to 350.org, an organization focused on sustainability and climate change. The creator is really practicing what they preach!

Please note, I received a free ARC in exchange for a review. The review contains my honest, uninfluenced opinion and I was not compensated in any way for a positive review.

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I know this is going to be an unpopular opinion; but I think it's important that I say it regardless. My issue with Greta's approach, and thus the one put forward in Zoe Tucker's children's book, is that no one actually proposes solutions to climate change. Saying 'we' need to do something is fair; but without the science, technology, ingenuity, creativity, etc. that is needed to come up with solutions that are affordable it's just blowing hot air.

I by no means disagree that climate change is an issue; but I don't feel like protesting it is really helping the problem. It isn't because governments don't want to do something it's that those solutions that exist will bankrupt worldwide economies, put people out of jobs (and thus their homes) and create inflation so high that everyone will starve. Like it or not we have to balance economics with policy decisions and implementing a bunch of mandatory, expensive climate change stoppers isn't going to solve the worlds problems; in fact it might make them worse.
For example, shutting down every oil well in the world will not work as Greta and everyone in the first world on Earth needs that oil. Even those protesting in the street don't realize how reliant they are on oil and gas and other industries deemed 'responsible' for climate change. The reality is that we as a consumer society are responsible and we can't blame companies who've provided us with products we've bought for making those products. Instead you have to stop consuming those things in order to stop production. It's just basic economics.

I'd much rather read a book to children (and for myself) that talk about what we can do right now to help. Whether that be simply reminding children to turn off the lights, recycle, re-use toys, etc. I want a book that will help with both education of the issues, and making children feel heard. Complaining in the streets, in this case, isn't going to help. We don't need a drastic change in government worldwide; what we need are affordable solutions. So far there are very few of those around. So let's make our kids want to help and get engaged in the STEM initiatives behind what causes climate change and maybe the future generation can help us figure out what to do.

Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.

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Beautiful beautiful story in a sort of metaphorical take on the green-house gas giants as well as big corporate giants, and the illustrations are to die for

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This is an absolutely gorgeous picture book inspired by Greta Thunberg and her fight against climate change and the institutions that will not change to save this world.

In this story Greta sees how the giants have been destroying the forest around her house and decides to protest in hopes of getting the attention of the giants and convince them to stop.
For the most part this is exactly the story of Greta Thunberg. She learned about climate change in school and was saddened by the lack of action the rest of the world was taking to combat climate change. In an effort to contribute something positive, she started protesting outside of the Swedish parliament. Her efforts have sparked a renewed interested and a world wide discussion about climate change.

The art is absolutely GORGEOUS. It reminds me of the fairy tales I used to read as a kid, with a cheeky and modern twist. I think some of the double page spreads would make lovely bedroom decor or a cool theme for a room (and really that is what I want from children's picture book's art).

I am really glad that Zoë Tucker decided to end this story full of hope. The situation we are in at the moment is very bleak and every encouragement is necessary. We need to believe we can still make a change and this way anyone reading this lovely story might find the courage to fight.

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This book has a few faults, but I'd definitely recommend it. The author has taking Greta Thunberg and turned her into an allegory, and has done a lovely job of it; it does feel a bit jump-on-the-bandwagon-ish, but it's an important subject, so I can cut Tucker some slack. The allegorical Greta lives in a beautiful forest, but the Giants are causing more and more destruction every day, so Greta decides to fight back. She makes a sign that says "STOP!" and stands where the Giants can see her. At first, they don't notice, but as others join her, the Giants finally stop and listen. They feel bad for what they've done, and change their ways- a lovely, happy ending. In the notes following the tale, the author admits the real Greta is still fighting the Giants, and needs our help. A list of things suitable for a child to do is provided, such as taking care of your things and repairing them instead of replacing them, which is a good way to start children thinking about what changes people can make in their lives to help. A list of websites to find more information is also included. Of course, there is a short bio of Greta, explaining how she got started and how she is inspiring people around the world to take notice of climate change, as well as a brief explanation of what climate change is. I really appreciate the message to children that "no one is too small to make a difference, " something every child (and adult) needs to know. The beautiful, detailed illustrations add so much to the story, and are a delight to look at.

#GretaAndTheGiants #NetGalley

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A fabulous non-fiction picture book! Children and grown-ups alike will be drawn in by the large size, beautiful illustrations, and powerful message. Greta is an an inspiration to so many, and I love the straight-forward and easy to digest format that introduces her to children and people who may not have heard of her. The back matter is informative without being preachy or boring, as well as directing readers to more information available on the internet.

I was fortunate to receive a free ARC of this book from Netgalley. The above thoughts, insights, or recommendations are my own meek musings.

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An introduction to Greta Thunberg for younger readers. In an age when eco-living and care for the planet are at the forefront of the media and minds of many, Greta Thunberg has spurred many into action. As more people become more aware of their own affect on the environment, this fictionalised introduction to one young activist helps young readers to recognise that everyone can make an impact - whatever their size. With bright pictures and accessible language this book will get many readers interested in living more green and with examples at the back of the book of simple changes they can make in their own lives, it couldn't be easier!

I received an eARC of this book from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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I loved this book. I enjoyed every written word as much as enjoy reading any article involving little Greta with her huge heart. I will definitely recommend this book to everyone, especially to the little children who have the right to know more things about our real world and about the climate change.

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A mix of imaginative fantasy and realistic protest scenes, all centered around Greta's message of environmental responsibility. Beautiful art. Could be read in a storytime for older children.

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This fairytale-like telling of Greta Thunberg's actions makes for an engaging and enjoyable story. The illustrations are whimsical, and I especially like how the Giants can represent a variety of companies or figures that come to mind. Zoe uses her story to help young people understand who Greta is, what she is doing, and why she is doing it. Fitting as Greta was just named Time's Person of the Year for 2019, I really enjoyed this book and look forward to including it in my future libraries.

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As the Giants use up the natural resources, Greta stands up for the animals of the forest. This beautifully illustrated book teaches young people about making better choices to protect the environment. Kids will see that they can be a voice and make a positive change in the world. Well done! I would love to see this book used in English classes for persuasive writing. Thanks Zoe Tucker and NetGalley for the ARC of this title.

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Greta Thunberg is an important example for modern kids. She shows us not only the importance of protecting the environment but also the power of the individual, even a child, to make a difference. Tucker walks us through how, even if something seems futile initially, if we can at least get one person's attention we've had a positive affect. If one person joins a protest and gains the attention of one person, it has a cumulative affect. And that's what we see in this little picture book. While the message is pretty heavy and serious, the illustrations are charming and magical. This would be a great book to use in a group setting to spark a discussion.

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Greta and the Giants (Inspired by Greta Thunberg's stand to save the world) was written by Zoë Tucker and illustrated by Zoe Persico. Greta is a little girl who lives in a beautiful forest threatened by Giants. When the Giants first came to the forest, they chopped down trees to make houses. Then they chopped down more trees and made even bigger homes. The houses grew into towns and the towns grew into cities, until now there is hardly any forest left. Greta knows she has to help the animals who live in the forest, but how? Luckily, Greta has an idea. A section at the back explains that, in reality, the fight against the “giants” isn’t over and explains how you can help Greta in her fight.

Greta and the Giants is a lovely book. I have to admit that the first thing that drew me to the book were the colors and art style. I absolutely love the illustrations and bold colors that are used. I found myself paying more attention to the artwork and the details in it that the story during my first read through. In the first part of the book the text is almost lost in the corners, and easy to overlook. Once I slowed down and read the text I enjoyed the story, I only wish the giants in the real world were that easy to reach. The story is reminiscent of The Lorax for me, and I do not mean that in a bad way. My daughter loved The Lorax, and I could recite it for years after she stopped asking for it. The message that protecting nature is good, and that even if we are small and often overlooked we can effect change is something I have not problem telling and retelling. I liked that the story showed that we often have to come together just to get the attention necessary to be heard, but that it can be done. I love that the book included information in accessible terms about what is happening, and how anyone and everyone can do something to help not matter how small. I really enjoy the book as a whole and hope that it will reach the children (and adults) that need to hear the message.

Greta and the Giants is a delightful story, and one that just might help continue the efforts towards protecting the environment. What makes this book even better is that it has been printed sustainably in the US on 100% recycled paper. By buying a copy of this book, you are making a donation of 3% of the cover price to 350.org.

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Thank you to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group - Frances Lincoln Children's Books for a copy of Greta and the Giants by Zoe Tucker. This is a story inspired by the work that Greta Thunberg is doing. Greta and her animal friends are upset at the destruction the giants are causing to the forest. They come up with a plan to solve the problem.

This book takes a big issue and breaks it down so even the youngest reader can understand it. The illustrations are beautiful. The book ends with information on the real Greta Thunberg and a list of things you can do and websites you can visit. This would be a great book for any young environmentalist.

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Greta and the Giants is a children's picture book inspired by Greta Thunberg (but not authorized, licensed, or approved by her, per the publication information at the back). It is full of lovely, charming art, of Greta and her forest friends, and their growing and diverse crowd of human friends and supporters. It's apparently printed on recycled paper and 3% of the proceeds will benefit 350.org. 350.org is also one of the organizations cited in the further reading section at the end of the book, which is accompanied by an explanation of the origins of this story, Greta's real struggle, and a list of suggestions "you can do to help Greta." The story itself really mythologizes Greta's struggle, with nameless "giants" and a generic protest instead of a school strike, with talking animals and a happy ending--although it does retain Greta's signature yellow raincoat. Imagine a happy Lorax starring a girl with pigtails instead. It's a sweet, attractive book that could serve as a catalyst to important discussions with the children in your life, but I cannot imagine would be welcomed by anyone who is not friendly to the environmental movement. But if you believe in science, and want to encourage the children around you to do the same, this could be a valuable part of their early library, and help raise funds for related organization at the same time.

Thank you to #NetGalley and Quarto Publishing for letting me read an advanced copy of #GretaandtheGiants in exchange for my honest review.

You can read this and more of my reviews at www.onceaweekormore.wordpress.com

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