Member Reviews

This children book was a very informative story on how ostriches got their long necks and long legs. It’s written by Scott Sollers and illustrated by Alejandro Echevez, I absolutely adored the pictures in this.

The story is very imaginative and is perfect for a young reader’s library collection. It’s an easy read and is filled with such great illustrations. I loved learning more about the origins of the ostrich and am sure children will adore this story!

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Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with access to read this book!

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This is a cute little story that would make a great read before bedtime! It’s entertaining, has a positive message, and the illustrations are very well done.

Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy!

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I received an ARC of “A Tall Tale: How the Ostriches Got Their Long Necks and Long Legs” from NetGalley, Mascot Kids, and IBPA in exchange for an honest review.

Written by Scott Sollers and illustrated by Alejandro Echevez, this picture book tells the story of two different tribes—the Have-Alls and the No-Haves in the land of I Want It—and how, through their fighting, the Squatz became Ostriches.

A a cute little story that is vividly illustrated, this book is perfect for reading to children before bedtime. In fact, this story is perfect for that occasion because it can quickly be read by tired parents who still have a lot to do before they themselves get to bed. The story is imaginative, but simple. With some picture books, parents do need to delve into explanations regarding some concepts that appear in PB’s. But this story does away with all of that. In many ways, this story reminds me of many indigenous stories about legends that have been retold for children (e.g., see Paul Goble’s “The Legend of the White Buffalo Calf Woman).

Overall, this is a great book to pick up for kids and great for parents, too. This book will satisfy children before bedtime who always yearn to be read to and told stories.

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I do love a tall tale and this one was a fun story of how the Ostrich came to be. I enjoyed the storytelling in this novel.

The art style was a little off for me.

The teacher in me worries a little bit about the cultural depictions in this novel.

The moral at the end is tasteful and meaningful though.

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Thank you to NetGalley for this e-copy of A Tall Tale by Scott Sollers.This is a great story that teaches a lesson about community, sharing and seeing beyond oneself to others and how we can help them.The No -Haves and the Have- Alls lived side by side in different parts of a valley . The Have- Alls had everything their heart desired including Squatz as pets. The No- Haves lived in a barren area with no water and harsh conditions. When the No- Haves invade the Have- Alls’ land and fight over the Squatz,it is the. That the Have-Alls learn the importance of sharing with others who are less fortunate.Great story for preschoolers.Love stories like this that teach a lesson and have a moral.

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A Tall Tale is a great fable about the origin of ostriches, but it is much more than that too. This book discusses class privilege in an easy to understand way. The illustrations were vibrant and engaging and the story definitely had a message for children to learn. The writing style did not always work for me as it leaned very heavy into the lesson, but I appreciated the levity in the ending. Overall, I think kiddos will enjoy this one!

Thanks to NetGalley, Scott Sollers, and Mascot Kids for the chance to read and review!

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While this book has an interesting thing to say about class and possibly slavery, I don't thing the message was clear and could be muddled in children's minds. Why did they only find they had enough space for the Have Nots when the creatures who did their chores were gone? The artwork was beautiful, but unfortunately I would not consider reading this to students.

Thank you to NetGalley, IBPA, and Scott Sollers for allowing me to read this book in exchange for an honest review (Unpaid).

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This is a perfect book with a perfect message. It has a full story, a real conflict and solution, and I think this structure will keep kids entertained throughout the book.
The lesson is very clear and incredibly valuable as it shows how humans need to collaborate and help each other instead of fighting and letting their ambitions ruin them. The animals are also finally free to live alone, wich works as another great example of how we should not be so greedy and use them as if they were objects.
The illustrations are stunning and fit the story perfectly.

*Thanks to NetGalley uk, the publishers and the author for the ARC*

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Aesop couldn't have done better in the tale of greed and resolution meet an explanation for the main characteristics of the Ostrich.
The illustrations by Alejando Echavez are fun, simple, colorful, expressive and delightful.
Well suited for reading WITH someone of any age, including ESL, and great for gifting to everyone, especially to a school, church library, or your local public library!
I requested and received a free temporary e-book on Adobe Digital Editions from Mascot Kids | Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles via NetGalley. Thank you!
#StephaniesStories #Why is an ostrich #Fables

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This is the perfect Children’s book! You have a legend, a story, a morale, then comedy. I want to buy all my friends this book that have little kids!

Thank you to NetGalley & Scott Sollers for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

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The Have-Alls and No-Haves are two existing communities dwelling in contrasting environments. This is a story with an underlying theme of compassion, collaboration, and love. The illustrations were stunning! I enjoyed this story, and can see this being a big hit to other readers!

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This book has a simple and clear message backed up by beautiful illustrations. The main message this book shares is ultimately about greed and the importance of sharing. I could easily see this book being read to children worldwide.

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Young readers are treated to a charming and imaginative story that explores the origin of ostriches' distinctive features. Through the lens of a playful fable, the author skillfully weaves together themes of cooperation, reconciliation, and the importance of understanding one another.

The tale of two communities coming together after a squabble over squatz is not only entertaining but also carries valuable lessons about conflict resolution and the power of unity. With its engaging narrative and vibrant illustrations, 'A Tall Tale' captivates readers of all ages, inviting them to embark on a heartwarming journey of discovery and friendship.

This delightful book is sure to become a cherished addition to any library, sparking both laughter and meaningful conversations about empathy and cooperation.

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