by Melba A.Wescott
Lizzy Lizard by Robin Boasman is a colorful and very appealing book for children and for anyone who is fascinated with colors and animals. The main character of this oversized hardcover storybook is Lizzy Lizard.
Little Lizzy is one happy lizard in the animal kingdom. And because she radiates friendliness, all of the other animals that she meets on her one-day adventure in Philipsburg, at Great Bay Beach, at the Zoo on the Arch Road, along the Great Salt Pond, Long Wall Road, and in Little Bay, are inspired to be happy as well.
Lizzy Lizard proves that in order to gain a friend you must show yourself friendly and that showing yourself friendly to others is a very important aspect of a fulfilling life.
The various picture art of St. Martin's history, culture, and natural environment such as the Great Salt Pond, the Soldier Crab, and the Pelican made me smile and I believe it will do the same for many who read this wonderland story to children or for their own enjoyment.
Of course, boys and girls, ages four to nine, and even beyond, who will read the story for themselves will probably take a special delight in the conversations between Lizzy Lizard and her new friends, Iggy Iguana, Missy Mongoose, and all of the others.
The author's writing style is clear and simple. The use of relatable words makes reading very easy. Lizzy Lizard left me wanting more!
Boasman, who is a primary school teacher, leaves room in Lizzy Lizard for much interaction between parents and their children, between older and younger sibling readers, and between teachers and day care workers and the little ones that they take care of.
It was also surprising how the author brought back many childhood memories for me, especially the experience of making new and different friends, and how that aspect of childhood and adulthood is very important.
It might be no better time than during the holiday season to be like Lizzy, let's decide to be happy no matter what is happening and go out to various places of adventure, good company and good cheer, and interact with others. Meeting different people is a wonderful thing.
Lizzy Lizard by Robin Boasman was published by House of Nehesi Publishers (HNP) in St. Martin and is available in bookstores.
