Bumblebee Bike
Sandra Levins, Author
Claire Keay, Illustrator
Magination Press, Fiction, 2014
Suitable for Ages: 4-7
Themes: Stealing, Bicycle, Behavior, Guilt, Honesty
Opening: David was impatient. When he saw something he wanted, his teeth clenched. His fists tightened. His heart raced. When he wanted something, he wanted it right away.
Synopsis: David has a secret treasure box in his closet where he keeps the things he borrows from people without asking — like the Superman he snatches from his best friend Payton, the blinking reindeer pin from Aunt Rhonda, and a green rubber ball from his neighbor Charlie. To lessen his guilt, David tells himself that he will give it all back someday. When his prized yellow bicycle is missing he feels sick inside and wonders how someone can take something that belongs to someone else. He remembers the things he’s taken and realizes what he’s done is wrong. He knows he has to make things right.
Why I like this book: Sandra Levins’ book belongs in every home. Children are unaware of the value of an item until they lose something they cherish. A common conflict among children is the proverbial “I see, I want, and I take,” with no sense of consequence. Levins’ book addresses this common occurrence in a child’s development with simplicity and compassion. Claire Keay’s illustrations are colorful pastels, full of detail and they compliment the storyline.
Resources: The book is a resource. There is a two-page spread of helpful information, strategies, activities and discussion questions parents can use with their children.
Every Friday, authors and KidLit bloggers post a favorite picture book. To see a complete listing of all the Perfect Picture Books (PPB) with resources, please visit author Susanna Leonard Hill’s Perfect Picture Books.
Children's Books Heal 
You always find the BEST new books. This one looks like a MUST for my shelves! And it has a superhero in it; just perfect. Thanks, as always, for being such a great scout.
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I thought you might like this new release. Great classroom discussion book.
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Great book for itchy fingers!
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Oh, I love your comment so much — itchy fingers. What a great description! Thanks!
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This seems like a topic we don’t hear much about. I would’ve appreciated this as a kid, but as a parent, I love it. ‘Sounds like the author has done a great job without being too didactic. Thanks.
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No, the book isn’t didactic. It’s a great story to have in school and at home. Wish I had it when my kids were young!
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Love the title!
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Yes, it is a catchy title. It’s an excellent book for parents and teachers to read to kids.
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Yes, the title is terrific, and this one has a great premise. Thanks for sharing, Patricia.
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It is a terrific title with a wonderful story. Not preachy.
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And children do pass through this phase. A great universal theme. You are the book whisperer Patricia!
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Thank you for your compliment. Never thought about myself in that way. I just keep searching for those gems to share with parents and teachers.
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I think it is true of a lot of wrong behavior as kids, it is often when we experience the other end of it, we understand the consequences. Great find.
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Yes, the child had to have his bike stolen so that his own stealing was reflected back to him. He didn’t require a lengthy lecture from a parent.
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Love the title. This story sounds like a great way to make a point!
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Yes, the story is very cleverly written and the boy learns his lessons when his own bike is stolen.
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Great find, Pat. Catchy title, and great for classroom discussions.
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Yes, it’s perfect for classroom discussions and for home. As Catherine commented earlier, “itchy little hands.”
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A great idea for a book. Many kids do seem to think it is OK to take something that belongs to another. This book will make it clear it is not OK. I remember having to discuss this issue with both of my children. A book like this would have helped.
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I thought this book was well thought out. It reads like a story and isn’t preachy. I wish I had a book like this too when my kids were younger.
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This book sounds excellent, Pat! I have no idea how I missed it yesterday, and I’m very glad I went back to check the PPBF listing again today. As someone pointed out, you are definitely the “book whisperer.” You find the BEST books.
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It is an excellent book! Thank you for your compliments.
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Well, what a cool book! Not a subject you see often. If at all?!
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I would think you would see this subject in children’s books. But, a couple of people have made that comment. Know it belongs in your book bag, Rhythm. Great to discuss with kids.
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Sounds like a great one – one of those must-haves. You find some fabulous ones, Patricia. Thanks for sharing them!
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Thank you so much Joaane for your kind comments. I’m so pleased you enjoyed my selection. I thought it was an important book for parents and teachers to know about.
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Sounds like a good one for my class. Every year we have to deal with this “little problem”.
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Yes, I thought it might be a handy book to have in a classroom so kids can discuss — part of building character.
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Oooh, a very needed and useful book, Patricia. Looks like the author has tackled the topic well!
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The research and collaboration between the authors was phenomenal. They did an outstanding job of tackeling the story of the Lost Girls.
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This sounds marvelous! I love the cover. 🙂
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It is a great book to have around home and in the classroom. Love Catherine’s comments about “itchy fingers.”
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This sounds like an excellent addition to any classroom or home library, Pat. It’s not a topic that gets a great deal of coverage, and it’s one that I would think most children struggle with at least at some point. Thanks for sharing and adding to our list!
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I’m glad I can add it to our Perfect Picture Book list. It’s a topic that doesn’t get much coverage. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
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