A beautifully illustrated story about friendship and collaboration.
There are few things better on a beautiful summer day than strolling on the beach, playing in the sand, and splashing in the water. Thus, when three young friends, Leigh, Tara and Cosmo, decide to take their dogs for a walk in their seaside town, it isn’t a surprise that Tara suggests they head to the shallows. There’s only one small problem; Leigh is in a wheelchair. It isn’t that the other children are intimidated by the mobility device, rather, Leigh worries about his wheels getting stuck in soft sand. “I’d need a crane to pull me out,” he laments. After digging into some ice cream together on the boardwalk, Leigh’s friends begin brainstorming ideas that will allow him to wheel onto the sand since they don’t want him to miss out on any of the fun in the sun. Their first ideas don’t work out as well as planned, but the tenacious friends keep trying until Cosmo finds something on the beach that just might be the solution they’re looking for. With one final attempt, the trio not only succeeds in helping Leigh visit the beach, but they have a lot of fun in the process!
Effortlessly inclusive, Squishy Sand begins with three lively kids who each have different personalities and limitations. Despite the differences among them, they enjoy spending time together and enthusiastically support one another. Tara’s idea to help Leigh offers a touch of humor while Cosmo’s unconventional plan almost leads to disaster. Their efforts, successful or not, teach wonderful lessons in cooperation, creative thinking, problem-solving, and persistence. Perhaps the most touching lesson of all, though, is in showing how to be a true friend. Additionally, seeing a fun-loving lead character in a wheelchair fosters compassion within the hearts of young readers, and opens the door for honest and educational discussions on disabilities. McIver’s writing is clear and easy to read, and the kids’ conversations are engaging and realistic. The charming pictures lend a sense of movement and add whimsy to the text, ensuring that the book is welcoming for all ages. A beautifully illustrated story about friendship and collaboration, Squishy Sand is a wonderful choice for parents who want to inspire empathy in their children.
