Book Nook: Paisley Rabbit and the Treehouse Contest

Steve Richardson is an experienced children’s author, and I had a chance to review his newest book–Paisley Rabbit and the Treehouse Contest that praises imagination and determination, both excellent traits to instill in kids.

The book is a sort of retelling of the classic Tortoise and the Hare. Jimmy Squirrel's dad owns the biggest construction company in town, and challenges his friends to a treehouse-building contest. With his resources and family experience, it seems like he's the shoe-in to win. But everyone's surprised when Paisley, without help or any experience with building whatsoever, decides she's going to give it a shot too.

Along the way the animals are surprised with her approach - instead of jumping right into the building phase, she spends time in research. She uses her strengths to make a strong entry, and the end reveals lessons about determination, helping others, creativity, and using one's own talents, even if it means a different approach.

I liked this new update on a classic fable. It has the same lessons as the first about determination and working at your own pace, but is updated with a few more life lessons along the way. The illustrations are well done, and I also like the strong female protagonist who isn't afraid to be different and try something new.

Connect with Steve Richardson on Facebook and learn more about the author and Paisley Rabbit and the Treehouse Contest including Paisley Rabbit Thank You Cards that can be ordered separately and the Common Core Lesson Plan for the book available for download at www.richardsonauthor.com.

Paisley Rabbit and the Treehouse Contest will be available for purchase on March 1st, 2018 wherever books are sold.

Steve Richardson is a three-time award-winning author from Albuquerque, New Mexico. He is also the author of Lavender Blue and the Faeries of Galtee Wood, illustrated by Larry MacDougall; Billy's Mountain, illustrated by Herb Leonhard; Alexander Trout's Amazing Adventure, illustrated by Marie Beschorner; and Canlandia, illustrated by Fiona Sansom. Canlandia won the Pinnacle Book Achievement Award in 2014 and was named the 2014 New Mexico / Arizona Book Awards best book in juvenile fiction 2014. Lavender Blue won the Pinnacle Book Achievement Award for best in juvenile fiction in 2013.