"The moments chronologically cover the seasons of the year from spring through winter: each picture shows a child absorbing a detail of the world around them, either alone or with friends or family, which can give readers and listeners an entry point to think about their own special moments as well as providing a springboard for identifying new ones."
-- The Horn Book Magazine

"Featuring kids and families of all skin tones, shapes, and sizes, this is a lovely and effective reminder of what is important and meaningful."
-- School Library Journal

"Detailed scenes depict both countryside and cityscapes while the diverse characters that are shown throughout the story make this a comforting book many will find themselves in. Brilliantly rendered illustrations ... The imagery makes this lyrical poem "twinkle and shine" and will have children searching for details."
-- Kirkus Reviews​

"Extraordinary, by Penny Harrison and wonderfully painted by Katie Wilson, is a rhyming tale of relishing the beauty of this earth and the changing seasons. The essence of this book is to enjoy the small things that happen all around you every day. This is the time you must listen and look. For it's found in the branches, the puddle, the nook. Be sure to check out the end-pages which emphasize the passing seasons."
-- Meridian Magazine, "Books to Provide Encouragement and Celebrate Fathers"

"Written in flowing verse, the text is brought to life in expressive illustrations which fill the pages of this oversize book. Some depict quiet scenes, such as rowing a small boat in a stream, while others burst with vitality, such as that a fireworks display with a large crowd watching. People of many backgrounds and ages are featured throughout the presentation."
-- Children's Literature Comprehensive Database

"The ordinary IS the extraordinary in this beautifully illustrated reminder to celebrate the moments of quiet ... mindfulness is honored in the small experiences and moments and we love reading this to quiet our mind and bodies."
-- Storymamas

"This is a heartwarming exploration of appreciating every day moments shared with friends and family. The text is lyrical and so fun to read aloud. I love how the typography is playful and filled with movement. ... The illustrations are beautiful, diverse, and relatable."
-- Tons of Books and Bottles

"The gorgeous watercolor illustrations are warm and captivating and the smooth, gentle rhyme makes this one a great choice as a bedtime read!"
-- Little Cub Literacy

"Extraordinary is such a sweet, sweet read! It's been a while since we've read a book filled with lyrical rhymes like these and we truly enjoyed this one. I love how this story shares how all the ordinary little things we experience in life are actually quite extraordinary when you really think about it!"
-- Oh, The Books We Love!

Gently flowing rhymes are paired with charming illustrations showcasing examples of moments that can be treasured in different seasons. I particularly love how it encourages children to dream of big achievements, but also find joy in everyday experiences."
-- librarymombooks

"Whether you're about to embark on the 9th Annual Classroom Slice of Life Story Challenge or you're about to begin a unit on poetry where you want to encourage students to capture the beauty of their ordinary lives in verse, consider using Extraordinary! as a mentor text."
-- Two Teachers Writing

Publisher: Kane/Miller Book Publishers

Pub date: 2021-01-01

Length: 32 pages