What Should I Do? If a Stranger Comes Near

November 1, 2011

K-Gr 2-These books are well intentioned, but the language and information are not entirely appropriate for the audience and their messages are often negative and frightening. Some titles mention death in a blunt manner, and there are scary images, such as a smashed car and a cowering child. Each volume focuses on the danger associated with the featured situation, but the eventual safety tips are useful. The advice places a lot of pressure on children, such as checking the safety of car seats and playgrounds, which is probably intended to empower readers but instead comes off as burdensome. Stranger and Fire are the strongest in the series, with the best practical tips and guidelines. The final page in each book usually has a more calming message, such as in Playground, where readers are reminded that "Bumps and scratches are a normal part of being a kid!" It's unfortunate that these messages weren't at the beginning of the books.

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.