Saturday, July 22, 2017

Big-Hearted Charlie Runs the Mile, by Krista Keating-Joseph, illustrated by Phyllis Holmes

Charlie loved to run, and begged his mom to let him join the track team.  He came in last when he raced, but worked very hard until he finally began to do well in his races.  He carried that hard work and determination to successfully become a decorated Navy SEAL.  Charlie's determination and big heart will inspire children to pursue their own dreams and not give up.

Krista Keating-Joseph's text conveys the story in a simple, straight-forward way.  Phyllis Holmes's illustrations are very simple, even amatuerish.  It's a book I could easily dismiss, had I not learned the story behind it.  Keating-Joseph started the book as an inspiration to her son Charlie when he was a kid.  Her mother Phyllis Holmes drew some pictures for it.  As a Navy SEAL he served with distinction in Iraq, where he was killed in action.  After his death, his mother pulled out this book, added a few pages about his service, and published it to honor him and inspire others.

With a story like that, how can you not love this book?

www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/phoenix/2017/05/03/navy-seal-charlie-keating-anniversary-childrens-book/309458001/



Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary electronic review copy!

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