I have long been a subscriber to Neil Pasricha's blog and have been eagerly awaiting a children's version of his chart topping books. Awesome is Everywhere does not disappoint. This book is on sale September 29th but one of the students at my school saw him speak at a book festival last weekend and Neil gave her an autographed copy. She was so excited that she brought it in to show me and said that I could read it to my library classes all week. It has been awesome seeing their reactions. I have read the story to the kindergartens, the grade 8's and all grades in between. Awesome is Everywhere reads a bit like a meditation book. I encouraged students to close their eyes and pretend they were on a beach while I read. The short story also has some relaxation breathing. For me the ending is the best. Where is the best place on earth? Right here in the classroom surrounded by all the awesome kids of course. There is a mirror at the back and I take the time to make sure each person gets a chance to see themselves. It was very interesting to watch their reactions. Some students made funny faces but most smiled. Some appeared shy. Only one boy refused to look at all. Made me think he needs to be told he's awesome a little bit more often.
The story may seem quite primary for the grade 8's but when you flash the last page around they are all smiles.
Neil will be at the Word on the Street in Kitchener on September 26th.