All about never giving up....how sometimes we do indeed have to walk away from a problem (especially if it makes us angry) in order for it to get better! ( )

Reading level: Grades K-2, Lexile 390L
Awards: Best STEM Books, Charlotte Huck Award, ALSC Notable Children's Books, Marilyn Baillie Picture Book Award, CCBC Choices, Junior Library Guild Selections

A great book about friendship and trying until you succeed. Teaches children that it's ok to be angry as long as you can calm down soon afterwards, which the book also gives students a way to calm their anger (going on a walk). ( )

I've been wanting to read The Most Magnificent Thing since I spotted it in a Goodreads giveaway. Luckily, it didn't disappoint.

Like the main character, I too am a bit of a perfectionist with a canine assistant, so I understood her frustrations as each item she made wasn't quite what she wanted. I think many kids will understand those sentiments, too, especially the getting-so-mad-you-jam-your-finger part.

The illustrations were perfect for the story -- not to messy, not too precious, but just right and utterly adorable. I appreciate that the little girl is feminine (dress and pigtails) without being overly girly and that she's mechanically minded.

I really have no complaints about The Most Magnificent Thing. (And I think my canine assistant would also enjoy the final "magnificent thing.")

Note: I received a digital galley of this book through NetGalley. ( )

I love this story! The characters are unique and full of personality and the illustrations are very well done. The expressions on the face of the little girl, her dog, and community of onlookers is a story in itself. Spires tells an engaging story about the creative process and the road bumps along the way. ( )