Kick Push - book cover
Growing Up & Facts of Life
  • Publisher : Bloomsbury Children's Books
  • Published : 19 Apr 2022
  • Pages : 40
  • ISBN-10 : 1547605928
  • ISBN-13 : 9781547605927
  • Language : English

Kick Push

Award-winning picture book creator Frank Morrison makes his author/illustrator debut in an exuberant story about being yourself.

Epic has tricks you won't believe. He's the kick flipping, big rail king. When his family moves to a new neighborhood, he can't wait to hit the street with his skateboard. But his old moves don't feel fresh without a crew to see 'em. Epic thinks about giving up his board to fit in, but an encouraging word from his dad helps him see that the trick to making new friends is to always be yourself. Be you. . . be epic!

Award-winning illustrator Frank Morrison offers a heartwarming, dynamic celebration of self-expression, inspired by his own journey through fatherhood.

Editorial Reviews

"Dynamic perspectives, . . . a lively story that encourages kids to use their strengths and talents to find community." ―The Horn Book

"Along with the vibrant images, the author brings to life an encouraging story about new schools and new friends which many students will identify with." - School Library Connection

"Morrison's energetic, brightly hued paintings are rendered in his signature urban mannerist style that also incorporates graffiti and abstract contemporary techniques . . . and the message of being true to yourself and your passions will please young readers." ―Booklist

"A beautifully illustrated book about the exhilaration of being yourself. Recommended for all school and public library collections." ―School Library Journal

"Viewers can focus on the dizzying angles and color intensity of Ivan's airborne maneuvers, the graffiti vibe that permeates his vibrant urban milieu, and the carefully, credibly cultivated cool of his diverse new crew." ―BCCB

"Morrison's upbeat narrative slides along smoothly, mirroring the energy and panache of its protagonist . . . An important reminder that, in the quest for friendship, who you truly are is more than enough." ―Kirkus Reviews

"Vibrant. . . If a school pep rally could walk and talk, this kid would be it." ―Kirkus Reviews, starred review, on I GOT THE SCHOOL SPIRIT

"The electric hues, constant motion, and winning smiles that fill Morrison's oil paintings enhance the boundless vitality of this sensory celebration of school." ―Publishers Weekly on I GOT THE SCHOOL SPIRIT

"This joyful offering will be a happy addition to any shelf." ―Booklist on I GOT THE SCHOOL SPIRIT

"Christmas spirit is expressed in joyous and reflective onomatopoeic exclamations in this new holiday staple. . . . Soul-stirring and sure to put readers in a festive mood." ―Kirkus Reviews on I GOT THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

"Morrison's oil paintings capture the crackling energy of a city preparing for Christmas; the married coauthors' message about cultivating kindness, gratitude, and community the whole year through sings on the page." ―Publishers Weekly on I GOT THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT

"Schofield-Morrison's onomatopoeia-inflected text and Morrison's kinetic, zoomed-in oil paintings en...

Readers Top Reviews

OC
Wonderful story and colorful images for young readers. Bought this for my 4 year old skateboarding grandson so we can enjoy the book together. The hardcover beneath the paper jacket cover is also cool.
S.Russell
I purchased this book for my 8 year old nephew, after hearing about it and the author on my local NPR station, 89.5 and he loves it. So do his younger and older brothers. The story is about a young man who couldn't find a group, in which he fit, so he created his own and kids flocked to and followed him. Always talking to my kids and any kids in my circles about being independent and not feeling as if you have change who you are to fit in. If the group doesn't fit, perhaps it's not worthy of you and your talents. Pros: Story, artwork, author, message Cons: None Highly recommend this book for kids and the adults in their lives.

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