My Dad Is Awesome

Rating:
Summary: Hero Worship!
Review: Every father would like to receive this book for father's day, and read it his 2-4 year-old children.

One of the best ways to be a good role model as a father is to be encouraged to be one. This book will make any father sit up straight, stick out his chest, and be the best he can be.

"Awesome" is a wonderful word to use in describing another family member. I call our youngest child, the "awesome daughter." I enjoy saying it, and she loves hearing me say it.

This book is for age two and up, so the reinforcement for dads to be terrific comes at just the right age. The children are just becoming clear at two that adults are separate from them, and can do all kinds of wonderful things. Enjoy basking in that glow!

"My dad is awesome."

"He is as strong as a gorilla." Five children are on his back while dad has on a happy smile.

" . . . and he can run like a cheetah . . ." Imagine how fast our movements are to a small child.

" . . . and he can play any instrument . . ." Now, it doesn't say that dads play them well. You can probably get a sound out, can't you?

" . . . and he's a great cook . . ." Yes, there must be something you can make well. Frozen burritos in the microwave were my specialty when the children were young.

" . . . and he's fantastic on roller skates . . . " Yes, I did manage to get on them and stay up as each child learned. You can do it, too!

" . . . and he can sing like a rock star . . . " Well, if Bob Dylan is considered a rock star . . . maybe.

" . . . and he can juggle with anything . . . " Here, you have an illustration of toys and food flying in all directions. Now, here's where I have to draw the line. Three things is the most I can juggle. I'll bet you can do better than that.

" . . . and he's not at all scared of the dark . . . " Now, that's not so tough.

" . . . and he tells the funniest jokes in the world." Remember, there are joke books out there aimed at 2 year-old humor.

"It's great to have a dad like mine. He's awesome!" Wow!!!! If that doesn't get your heart pounding, I don't know what will.

As much as I liked the text and title, I enjoyed the illustrations even more. They exude happiness and good humor in a way that would cheer anyone up. Lost your job? Read this book. Lost your best friend? Read this book. You get the idea.

After you read this book with your child, and your ability to converse is pretty good, ask your child what awesome things you can do for her or him. You'll be astonished by the answers you will get. Taking an item off the top of the refrigerator, where it cannot be seen by the child, will seem like a magic trick. By asking, you'll extend your own mind and senses both into your child's world . . . and also back into your own childhood. I also suggest that if one or both of your parents are alive, ask them what they did that fascinated you at this age.

Be proud of who you are for your children! Happy father's day!!