Above: Young children learn about homonyms, culture, country and patriotism in the pages of “Blue Sky White Stars.”
Early reviews are praising a local author’s new book for young children, “Blue Skies White Stars,” which made its debut in retailers nationwide Tuesday, June 13.
Author Sarvinder Naberhaus describes the work as a patriotic picture book for ages 4 through 8. In sparse words and bold illustrations (by nationally prominent artist Kadir Nelson), Naberhaus says she tells “the story of America in less than 100 words.”
It is a work of American devotion for Naberhaus, who came to this country as a young girl from India. “Being an immigrant gives you a very different perspective and appreciation for this country,” she says. She shares her pride in America’s diversity through moments of history, often tied to aspects of the national flag. Publishing media have listed it on recommended lists for summer reading and have been effusive in their praise: “Many adult and child readers will warmly welcome the way it embraces the idea of e pluribus unum at this particular historical moment,” reported Kirkus Reviews.
A former teacher at Des Moines’ Madison Elementary School, Naberhaus teaches education at Iowa State University. She will introduce the new book personally in a presentation at the Ames Public Library at 10:30 a.m. June 24 with a book signing and refreshments.
