Nonna’s Corner is a special feature where I share books I’ve reviewed with my grandchildren, affectionately referred to as the “Royals” here at Caffeinated.
The Royals and I are back with a new book to share with you! Eric the Earthworm by Cheryl Bond-Nelms, illustrated by Mike Motz. Come along as Eric the Earthworm learns how to deal with feelings of envy.
by Cheryl Bond-Nelms
Illustrator: Mike Motz
Genres: Childrens
Pages: 34
Source: Author
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
Beautifully illustrated, Eric the Earthworm helps us recognize and deal with feelings of envy. This book is about a young worm who loves life in the park where he lives. Eric looks around and just beams at all the sights and sound, but one day his joy turns to sadness when he begins to envy the abilities of other residents in his park. Without even realizing it, Eric's thoughts of wonder and amazement suddenly change to feelings of envy. Eric's mother notices a difference in her son and helps him realize he has no reason to envy anyone, and by doing so boosts his self-esteem.
The Royals and I settled in with this oversized, colorfully illustrated hardcover edition of Eric the Earthworm. It begins with a preface for parents and readers explaining Envy and mentions the six other deadly sins. I read this part to myself, but it offers some explanation about envy.
The text is large, and simple and wonderfully spaced with plenty of beginner words for early readers. The author first introduces us to Eric and had the Royals quite excited as they tried to find him under the tree. I loved the description of how Eric walks and the kids thought he was cute. As Eric moves through the park he sees other animals who can fly, have lots of legs and big fluffy tales. With each encounter, Eric wishes he could do the things they do. Soon, he is quite glum and feels sad. He confides to his mother that he wishes he could do things like the caterpillar, ant, green worm, etc.
Eric’s mom, who is quite wise, shows Eric all the things an earthworm can do. She points out the things they can do and how it differs from the other creatures and how it is similar. She encourages him to feel good about the things he can do. That each of us is special.
The Royals talked about things they can do, and things others can. We talked about Eric’s feelings and how it made them feel. The story left us all smiling and Eric too!
The story delivered an entertaining story while encouraging children to understand their emotions and to see the good in themselves. This is a lovely story for the classroom, bedtime, church, and more.
Reading Ages 3-8 *Available in KindleUnlimited
Nonna's Corner: Eric the Earthworm by Cheryl Bond-Nelms touches on envy and embracing the things you can do. #childrensbook #bookreview #earlyreader Share on X
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About Kimberly
Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram
Carla
This sounds quite cute. I know how much kids love bugs, worms etc. so this would be one they would gravitate to.
Mary Kirkland
That sounds cute.
Kimberly
Thank you, Mary. Happy Friday!
Wendy
I love your Nonna’s Corner posts! I enjoy the way you and your grandchildren read books together and how you discuss them. It also makes me want some grandchildren soon. Even if my kids aren’t ready! LOL/
Kimberly
Aww…some day.
Ethan
It is so important for kids to understand what their emotions mean and how they should deal with them. Books like this do their part in furthering that cause. I really like that this book also has an aside for adults to help them to help their kids process the content.
Kimberly
I agree Ethan.
Melliane
It looks cute! I’ll have to start looking at books like that for my very soon child!
Kimberly
Ooo… yes. Building a bookcase filled with books is fun for you and them.