Book Nook: Maybe, Maybe, Marisol Rainey

From Newberry Medalist and NYT Bestselling author Erin Entrada Kelly comes a new adventure starring Marisol Rainey, a sensitive young girl inspired by the author’s own childhood. 

Marisol’s mom is from the Philippines, her dad works and lives far-away part-time, and she has a fantastically tall tree she names Peppina in her yard that she’s terrified to climb– all of which make her careful and fearful. But this summer, maybe Marisol will find the courage to climb the tree, spend time with her father, and find time for fun with friends. 

You can learn more in this interview and in the  Author’s Note. 

Why did you write this book? I wanted to write a book about a kid who is a worrier. Many kids are worriers--many adults, too!--and it's important that young readers see that quality reflected back at them. It lets them know they aren't alone.

How can parents and caregivers find quality books for kids? In my opinion, the most important thing is to find books that the kids will love. When I was a young mother, I bought Judy Blume and Dr. Seuss for my daughter because those were the books that I loved. But she didn't like them. Her reading tastes were completely different from mine. I had to respect that. My advice would be to ask yourself: What is my child interested in? What kind of child do I have? Some kids are visual learners and readers, so they may want graphic novels. Other kids like science. Some want dragons and superpowers. The highest quality book is the one that speaks to them and turns them into lifelong readers.

 

What is your favorite piece of advice for increasing literacy and reading skills in kids? Let kids read the books they want to read -- not the books we think they should be reading.

 

What do you hope readers will take away from your book? They are not alone.