Every parent knows the struggle of getting children up, dressed, fed, and out the door to school. Sometimes it’s just so hard to get up! But what if it isn’t the child who is having trouble getting out of bed?
GET READY, MAMA!
Written by: Sharon Giltrow
Illustrated by: Arielle Li
Published by: EK Books 2022
Picture book for ages 4-8
Themes: mother-daughter relationship, morning routines, empathy
The story begins…
When you see your mama
Roll over and open her eyes,
Announce, “Get Ready, Mama!”
She will ask, “Five more minutes please?”
And…
In this how-to, role reversal picture book, the narrator daughter gives a step-by-step guide to coercing her reluctant Mama to hurry so that they won’t be late.
With tickles, hugs, and help with dressing, this organized daughter encounters all sorts of obstacles as she tries to prepare breakfast, keep Mama from watching television, and letting her wear her sparkly dress-up shoes. Filled with humor and charm, Mama makes it on time (barely) as the story ends with a delightful twist.
The sweet illustrations, done in muted purples and browns, showcase the hectic morning rush while highlighting the loving relationship between the mother and daughter. Children will laugh as they see themselves in the story and cheer on the daughter as she perseveres in her goal to arrive on time.
This is a great read aloud story. Use it to help children learn to develop routines and pair it with author Sharon Giltrow’s picture book, BEDTIME, DADDY!
Here’s a picture of the book in action!
Visit Sharon Giltrow’s website to learn about her other books.
Click here to download teacher’s links and activities.
Here’s a chart to help with your own family’s morning routine:
Cute. I like the role-reversal!
It really is a role reversal. At first I thought it might be about mental health. What a great idea for a book. Love the list and precious iillustrations!
A role reversal and a ‘how to book’ that’s a fun combination. The illustrations really are sweet.