The Power of Positivity: The ABC's of a Pandemic

By: Ruth Maille
Illustrated by: Harry Aveira
Publication Date: October 2020
ISBN: 978-1735567013
Reviewed by: Holly Connors
Review Date: December 23, 2020

There's no denying that 2020 has been one heck of a difficult year. Covid spread throughout the world and country after country went on lockdown. Children were undoubtedly confused and stressed by these unusual events. Now, thankfully, author Ruth Maille has published a delightful children's book aimed at spreading positive messages to everyone during this difficult time.

There are a lot of ABC books on the market - filled with animals, colors, numbers, and all sorts of other things. But Maille has come up with a unique re-imagining of an ABC book; she created a book all about the covid pandemic. But this book isn't a sad read about all the awful things that have happened in 2020. Instead, The Power of Positivity is all about the positive things that we can do, or that have happened, in spite of the pandemic.

First, we meet "Orbit," the book's mascot. Orbit is "...a fun-loving Planet Earth whose purpose is to spread kindness..." And, to add a bit of fun to the story, he likes to hide in plain site. How many "Orbits" can you find on the pages of the book?

Once Orbit has gone off to hide within the pages of the story, we can start the adventure. "A is for Appreciation" and I think we can all agree with the picture of a doctor, nurse, an elderly patient and child. "We appreciate the doctors and nurses who are working day and night to heal the people who are sick, and help everyone stay healthy." Move to the next page and the story continues with "B is for Breath." People are definitely stressing and the author acknowledges this by noting, "We all feel anxious from time to time. Taking a deep breath can help you feel calm."

The story continues with all sorts of great messages about things that have brought us together, or things that keep us going during this difficult time. Optimism, persistence, love, and understanding are just a few of the words that are used to run through the alphabet. At the back of the book is a two-page glossary of terms used, plus a page that asks the reader to write down some positive things that have happened to them in 2020.

It's easy to think that children haven't been affected by the pandemic of 2020 but the truth is they may be hiding the stresses they feel. Separated from school friends, believing they are alone or the only one feeling confused, is likely a common thread with many children today. Giving them this book is certainly a great idea because it's a very positive, fun, enjoyable read that will help children deal with the pandemic. The illustrator, Harry Aveira, has illustrated over 100 books, and it's easy to see why he's so popular. The bright, creative illustrations, especially those of Orbit, are eye-catching and really add to the story. If you need a little, or a lot, of positivity in this unusual time of stress and worldwide face-mask wearing, share this book with your loved ones. You'll be glad you did.

Quill says: There's enough positive messaging in The Power of Positivity to spread to all our family and friends. We will get through this together and author Ruth Maille and her wonderful new children's book is going to help.

For more information on The Power of Positivity: The ABC's of a Pandemic, please visit the author's website at: www.ruthmaille-author.com

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