Friday, September 11, 2015

"Outside, Inside" by Cindy Helms

REVIEW and EXCERPT
Outside, Inside
by Cindy Helms


Outside, Inside is suitable for children ages 0 to 6. Author Cindy Helms is currently on tour with Reading Addiction Book Tours. The tour stops here today for my review and a giveaway. Please be sure to visit the other tour stops as well.


Description
Have you ever felt like all of your friends had forgotten about you? Have you ever felt left out? This is exactly what happens to Birdie in Outside, Inside.
When Birdie does not see his friends around, he decides to go out and look for them. He quickly finds that something strange is going on. Birdie’s friends are really planning a super fun surprise that gives Birdie a change of heart.
Outside, Inside is a simple story about the joy of friendship and giving. Using 35 easy words and vivid, colorful characters, this story is enchanting for the youngest of readers.

Excerpt


Praise for the Book
"Seussian shapes and creatures dominate this clever concept book about opposites - and friendship - by debut author/illustrator Helms. [...] The text, comprised of only thirty-five words, is as much a part of the imagery as the illustrations themselves ... all the words are simple enough that very beginning readers will be able to sound them out, and may have a victory of reading a book all on their own." ~ Kirkus Reviews
"Quirky, whimsical and colorful illustrations add real appeal [...] this upbeat, appealingly illustrated production is an ideal book for adults and preschoolers to enjoy together at home, in preschool, playgroups or during library storytimes." ~ Blue Ink Review
"A charming story with delightful, memorable images." ~ Foreword Clarion Review

My Review


By Lynda Dickson
Birdie is outside looking for his friends. Where can they be? Why do they seem to be hiding inside?
The simple text seamlessly blends into the colorful and creative hand-drawn illustrations, also by the author. With its message of inclusion, friendship, and belonging, this book is bound to appeal to readers both young and old. This is sure to become a favorite with your children, who will start to read it by themselves in no time.

About the Author
Cindy Helms is a visual artist, author and illustrator known for designing unusual projects. For Cindy, art is created from curious and whimsical combinations of shapes, textures and colors. In her unique and simple children’s books, Cindy’s art work comes to life in characters that enchant children and adults alike. Cindy lives in the Denver, Colorado, area with two artistic boys and two fat black cats. She loves road trips, camping and discovering new places.



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