Tucky Jo and Little Heart

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I read this book two years ago to my wonderful group of fifth graders. I skimmed through the pages quickly to get a gist of the story when it first arrived. I had read the reviews and thought it would be a great addition to my picture book read alouds that supplement my Social Studies units.I sat in front of 28 students and an intern and began reading. I'm one for being quite theatrical when reading aloud, as I want to model good reading habits. Then it happened; I got to end of the book and I began feeling that prickly feeling that you feel when you know your emotions are about to explode. Out of nowhere, I began sobbing. This story is so beautifully written with such endearing illustrations, that I completely and utterly lost it. My students initially thought I was joking around, until they saw tears streaming down my face.I think this is what you call a 'teachable moment.' I've always lectured about the importance of being immersed in a book, so that you understand the plot and plight of the characters. Crying was not in my lesson plans, but I think I taught my students that day, how books can take you on an unexpected journey.Read this book, I'll have the tissue box ready.

Another of Patricia Polacco's true-life inspiring stories! I will write her a fan letter for sure for this one. She did a masterful job, a difficult one, telling--and illustrating--a World War II story for children. Set near Luzon, in the Philippines, it relates a young soldier's life-changing encounter with a little girl whose life he saves. The surprise ending was so moving that I could not read it aloud without tears, so I had one the students I tutor read it aloud for us.

I am collecting Patricia Polacco books for my children. We received our first, "bun bun button" in the mail through a program called Books from Birth that is sponsored by Dolly Parton. Children who are signed up at birth for this free program receive one book per month till they are five years and go to school. (Excellent Charity but that's another review) This is one of our favorite books by her. This talented author takes you to the jungle with this soldier Tucky Jo. You feel what he feels and you love what he loves and you learn as he does to love in the midst of hate. It is an excellent book. All of hers are. Patricia Polacco never fails to touch the heart.

Pollacco's book is a favorite among my students. This book teaches compassion and empathy across cultures. A must-read for both young and old. You won't be disappointed.

This is a really special story full of love.

I am a retired elementary school librarian, so I am familiar with the work of this author. Much of her work is autobiographical from her childhood. This story is not about her, but is a true story, and is very touching. After checking this out at our local library and reading it to my grandchildren, I bought it for a grandchild in another state, who is very interested in history. Excellent story that will touch the heart of readers of all ages.

What a wonderful story about a soldier in WWII helping a village in the Phillipines--in particular, a young girl haunted by the war who was able to find a hero and friend at a time she needed one most. Patricia Polacco has a compelling style of writing that brings the story and characters into your heart and your memory by the time the book is through. I first checked this book out of the library, and decided to buy it to add it to our family's book collection because it is so good.

wonderful