"On Duty: An Activity & Coloring Book" by Jessica Guidone offers a unique and heartwarming way to help children understand a parent's military service. Born from the author's experience answering her children's countless questions about her husband's deployments, this book creatively bridges the gap between a loved one's absence and their child's understanding. With over 130 pages of engaging activities, kids will learn fun facts about military life, explore patriotic illustrations, and participate in activities like a homecoming countdown and writing letters. Representing all branches and genders within the U.S. military, "On Duty" makes learning about service engaging and fun, easing anxieties and fostering connection during deployment.
Review On Duty
Wow, "On Duty: An Activity & Coloring Book" is truly a game-changer! I was blown away by the sheer brilliance of this concept. As someone who has a deep respect for military families and the unique challenges they face, this book resonates deeply. It's so much more than just a coloring book; it's a powerful tool for connection, understanding, and even therapy.
The author, Jessica Guidone, clearly poured her heart and soul into this project, born from a genuine need to help her own children understand their father's deployments. That personal touch shines through on every page. The sheer number of pages – over 130! – is impressive, offering a wealth of activities to keep little ones engaged and learning. I love the inclusion of various elements, from vibrant, patriotic illustrations perfect for coloring, to fun facts about different military branches and roles, to word searches, and even dedicated space for writing letters to their deployed parent. This multifaceted approach ensures there's something for every child, regardless of age or interest.
What stood out to me most is the book's sensitive and accurate portrayal of military life, including the equitable representation of both male and female service members across all branches. This is a refreshing change from many children's books that often overlook or simplify this vital aspect of our military. The detail and knowledge displayed about military culture is exceptional, creating an authentic and engaging experience for young readers. It's a book that helps children not just passively learn about a parent's job, but actively engage with it in a way that’s both fun and informative.
The book successfully addresses the emotional needs of children whose parents are away on duty. The activities provide a constructive outlet for their questions and anxieties, bridging the distance between parent and child through shared activities and creative expression. The countdown to homecoming is a particularly thoughtful inclusion, providing a tangible visual representation of the time until their loved one's return, offering comfort and anticipation.
The positive reviews speak volumes. Parents have expressed how much their children, spanning a wide age range, have enjoyed the book for various reasons – some loving the colorful pictures, others engaging with the informational pages. The book fosters family bonding through shared activities and opens the door for crucial conversations. The overwhelmingly positive feedback confirms what I already sensed: this book fills a much-needed gap, providing support and understanding for military families during challenging times. It’s a beautiful, well-executed concept that deserves widespread recognition and success. It's a truly heartwarming and helpful resource. I highly recommend it.
Information
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 0.31 x 11 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 136
- Publication date: 2024
Preview Book
