I have partnered with The Children’s Book Review and The Reed Foundation for Austim to bring you a book review of the “One Big Canvas” book series. Be sure to check out a special giveaway at the end of the review.

One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece

Written by Jay Miletsky

Illustrated by Luis Peres

Ages 3-9 | 24 Pages

Publisher: New Paige Press | ISBN-13: 978-0578496382

Publisher’s Synopsis: Join a spunky collection of paintbrushes as they set out to create a grand masterpiece.

When some of the brushes don’t cooperate, is it because they are misbehaving…or is there another reason entirely? In this story, young readers are introduced to some of the behavioral differences in their autistic peers.

Without ever mentioning any particular challenge or disability by name, this story helps children recognize and understand what autism is, and impress upon them the importance of showing kindness to those who are different, wrapped into a fun story with lighthearted, engaging characters.

They worked through the day, then stopped and admired,

the wisdom their now-painted canvas inspired:

their painting was perfect, It all meshed just fine,

with its colorful circles, and angry green line.

It was a true masterpiece, not one thing was wrong,

including the hum of their single-note song.

One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay

Written by Jay Miletsky

Illustrated by Luis Peres

Ages 3-9 | 24 Pages

Publisher: New Paige Press | ISBN-13: 978-0578496382

Publisher’s Synopsis: The brushes are back! Join Reese, Estelle and the rest of the gang in the art studio in another adventure as they learn the value of kindness and understanding.

When Clay comes to visit from the other side of the art studio, the brushes are excited to welcome their friend. But when a few of the brushes start acting differently, Clay needs to be reminded that it’s important to be accepting:

“Some brushes are different, so we like to remind,

it’s kind to be caring, so take care to be kind.”

Will Clay leave the brushes in frustration, or will he learn to mold his thinking as he comes to understand and accept that brushes have different abilities and challenges? Without ever mentioning autism or any particular disability, The Molding of Clay helps introduce children to the behavioral differences of their autistic peers, creating an opportunity for discussion. It helps teachers and parents impress upon them the importance of understanding, acceptance and kindness, through a fun, lighthearted story with quirky and colorful characters.

ABOUT THE FOUNDATION

The REED Foundation for Autism is committed to providing individuals with autism the opportunity to learn, live, work and thrive at every stage of their lives. For more information, please visit https://www.reedfoundationforautism.org.

The “One Big Canvas” books show how we can all work together and share our gifts with others to make the world a more beautiful place. We all have something to contribute, and even when others are not like us, they are not any less valuable. Being understanding and patient with people helps us live fuller lives.

Both titles address themes of being inclusive, understanding, working together, and showing patience.

These books lend themselves beautifully to classroom discussions with students about autism. They show that we all have an integral part to play. When we embrace each other’s differences, we can create a stunning masterpiece. The books address different characteristics that some students with autism display. We see characters being socially withdrawn, having outbursts, using repetition, and sharing expert knowledge on specific topics.

The writing flows nicely with the structure of rhymes. The writing is engaging and easy to read, and the illustrations are equally bright and colorful.

ENTER HERE for a chance to win a ‘One Big Canvas’ book series prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
• A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay
• A $50 Amazon gift card

Two (2) winners receive:

• A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
• A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay

The giveaway begins April 23, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT, and ends May 23, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.