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Shine
Shine is a children's picture book illustrated by a seven year old boy with Autism Spectrum Disorder. In the tradition of Dr Seuss, Shine encourages all children to see that they have a light within. An ideal resource for teachers, educators, parents and children with special needs such as Autism, Aspergers and Downs Syndrome. Shine focuses on ability rather than challenges and helps the reader to see that, if they believe in themselves, anything is possible.
28 pages, Paperback
First published June 18, 2013
415 people want to read
About the author
Justine Edward
1 book3 followersJustine Edward is a mother of three and an educator with over a decade of experience. Her passion is to see every child reach their potential.
'Shine' is her first children's book. Published by Balboa Press and available as an e-book and in softcover. She is already working on other children's books which she hopes to release in 2014 and 2015 respectively.
Justine lives in the land of eternal sunshine. She has a soft spot for chocolate (actually many soft spots for chocolate), beautiful books and the beach. She believes you only have one life- so you had better live it!
Follow her on Facebook at:
https://www.facebook.com/JustineEdwar...
Website
http://just235.wix.com/shine
and on Twitter
@JEd_Au
"Thanks for taking the time to get to know me a little better. I always love getting questions and feedback about my books so feel free to contact me." Justine Edward
'Shine' is her first children's book. Published by Balboa Press and available as an e-book and in softcover. She is already working on other children's books which she hopes to release in 2014 and 2015 respectively.
Justine lives in the land of eternal sunshine. She has a soft spot for chocolate (actually many soft spots for chocolate), beautiful books and the beach. She believes you only have one life- so you had better live it!
Follow her on Facebook at:
https://www.facebook.com/JustineEdwar...
Website
http://just235.wix.com/shine
and on Twitter
@JEd_Au
"Thanks for taking the time to get to know me a little better. I always love getting questions and feedback about my books so feel free to contact me." Justine Edward
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 30, 2013
My son (6) and I reviewed this book for Mother Daughter Book Reviews. Here are our thoughts:
SON SAYS:
I thought the pictures were good. I think the little boy is a good artist for his age. The message in the book is that there is something special about each person. I think this book is good for kids, espcially young kids. I think the pictures are good for kids, but the words are good for everyone. I would give 5 stars for the words and 4 stars for the pictures.
MOM SAYS:
There is something magical about this special little picture book. Shine uses rhyming verses conjuring up beautiful imagery of that special light that shines within each and every individual. These images are captured in the charming hand-drawn pictures provided by 7 year-old Karl Gabriel, who both illustrated Shine as well as provided the inspiration for the author in penning this sweet book.
Shine is all about positive affirmations and self-esteem building in children. Children are encouraged to look within themselves and see the light that guides them when they are feeling discouraged, sad,or frightened and to draw strength from that light. I love this simple concept and I think that even young children can grasp the metaphor of the “light within you” as a source of strength and empowerment. In this respect, I’m reminded of the book, How Full is Your Bucket? For Kids by Tom Rath and Mary Reckmeyer who also used a memorable metaphor (for being kind) to teach children a valuable life lesson.
The illustrations are provided by a 7 year-old boy who has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. My son commented that he didn’t particularly appreciate the pictures in the book. However, that being said, we did spend a lot of time talking about the pictures, talking about what Karl was trying to capture in his pictures, and discussing how the meaning behind the text actually fits with the pictures. At the end of the day, the text and illustrations stimulated a lively discussion and provided an opportunity to discuss many issues including self-esteem and identifying things about yourself that make you unique or special; and we also discussed what life may be like for children diagnosed with Autism and their families.
My Bottom Line:
Shine moved me – it is a heartwarming picture book focused on developing self-esteem and empowering children and it is sweetly illustrated by a special little boy. I think this would be a great book to read and discuss with children at home, preschool, kindergarten, or at library reading time. I recommend it for children aged 2+.
* I received a copy of this book free-of-charge by the author in exchange for our honest opinions. *
SON SAYS:
I thought the pictures were good. I think the little boy is a good artist for his age. The message in the book is that there is something special about each person. I think this book is good for kids, espcially young kids. I think the pictures are good for kids, but the words are good for everyone. I would give 5 stars for the words and 4 stars for the pictures.
MOM SAYS:
There is something magical about this special little picture book. Shine uses rhyming verses conjuring up beautiful imagery of that special light that shines within each and every individual. These images are captured in the charming hand-drawn pictures provided by 7 year-old Karl Gabriel, who both illustrated Shine as well as provided the inspiration for the author in penning this sweet book.
Shine is all about positive affirmations and self-esteem building in children. Children are encouraged to look within themselves and see the light that guides them when they are feeling discouraged, sad,or frightened and to draw strength from that light. I love this simple concept and I think that even young children can grasp the metaphor of the “light within you” as a source of strength and empowerment. In this respect, I’m reminded of the book, How Full is Your Bucket? For Kids by Tom Rath and Mary Reckmeyer who also used a memorable metaphor (for being kind) to teach children a valuable life lesson.
The illustrations are provided by a 7 year-old boy who has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. My son commented that he didn’t particularly appreciate the pictures in the book. However, that being said, we did spend a lot of time talking about the pictures, talking about what Karl was trying to capture in his pictures, and discussing how the meaning behind the text actually fits with the pictures. At the end of the day, the text and illustrations stimulated a lively discussion and provided an opportunity to discuss many issues including self-esteem and identifying things about yourself that make you unique or special; and we also discussed what life may be like for children diagnosed with Autism and their families.
My Bottom Line:
Shine moved me – it is a heartwarming picture book focused on developing self-esteem and empowering children and it is sweetly illustrated by a special little boy. I think this would be a great book to read and discuss with children at home, preschool, kindergarten, or at library reading time. I recommend it for children aged 2+.
* I received a copy of this book free-of-charge by the author in exchange for our honest opinions. *
November 8, 2013
"Shine" is full of inspirational affirmations of everyone's ability to shine in their own unique way. It provides positive messages reminding us that we are all special.
Justine's poetic words are sincere but a bit difficult for young readers. This is a book best read by parents to their children. It also provides a great starting point to talk to children about their differences.
Illustrated by Karl Gabriel (the seven-year-old son of the author's best friend) who is autistic, the drawings are simple and heartfelt. You can tell they were drawn to illustrate the words, which brings to mind the poignant image of a mother reading to her autistic son.
I read the ebook version and was disappointed to find that it doesn't contain any information about the author or illustrator (which is included in the paperback version). I also think the author has wasted a valuable opportunity by not including a forward or end-note explaining the idea behind the book or including any links to her own website or sites about Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I received this book for the purpose of providing an honest review.
Justine's poetic words are sincere but a bit difficult for young readers. This is a book best read by parents to their children. It also provides a great starting point to talk to children about their differences.
Illustrated by Karl Gabriel (the seven-year-old son of the author's best friend) who is autistic, the drawings are simple and heartfelt. You can tell they were drawn to illustrate the words, which brings to mind the poignant image of a mother reading to her autistic son.
I read the ebook version and was disappointed to find that it doesn't contain any information about the author or illustrator (which is included in the paperback version). I also think the author has wasted a valuable opportunity by not including a forward or end-note explaining the idea behind the book or including any links to her own website or sites about Autism Spectrum Disorder.
I received this book for the purpose of providing an honest review.
September 24, 2013
I won this book through a giveaway on Goodreads! This is a sample from the book, and also my favorite part:
"There is a light within you
Believe it with all of your heart
And when people don't understand you
Remember it sets you apart"
When I received this book I thought it would be great to share with my baby, with the simple (yet wonderful) pictures and sing song rhyming of the words. After reading it, I immediately shared it with both of my preteen daughters. My oldest, who has ASD, appreciated the book so much, she thought it was amazing and that everyone should read it.
This really is a feel good book, and excellent reminder that the things that make us unique are also the qualities that make us all special. What a wonderful book, I am so glad that I was one of the chosen winners!
"There is a light within you
Believe it with all of your heart
And when people don't understand you
Remember it sets you apart"
When I received this book I thought it would be great to share with my baby, with the simple (yet wonderful) pictures and sing song rhyming of the words. After reading it, I immediately shared it with both of my preteen daughters. My oldest, who has ASD, appreciated the book so much, she thought it was amazing and that everyone should read it.
This really is a feel good book, and excellent reminder that the things that make us unique are also the qualities that make us all special. What a wonderful book, I am so glad that I was one of the chosen winners!
October 16, 2013
I won this book through First Reads. So many thanks to Goodreads and to the author, Justine Edward. I found this book to be very inspirational. The message is so positive and comes across loud and clear. I made the mistake of having my boyfriend's daughter read the book to me, when I should have read the book to her. She is 7 years old and it was just a little above her reading level. There were a few words she couldn't pronounce or didn't know, so she struggled a bit. I think she would have enjoyed the book more had I read it to her. But she loved the illustrations, especially the butterfly. I would definitely recommend this book to others.
July 31, 2013
If only every child was told the words of this book, it's one of the greatest books I have read to my children, it inspires me and empowers me as I read it to my kids to give them the strength to SHINE!
September 26, 2013
Inspiring for everyone, this beautifully poetic book is filled with love and a message for all. Shine by Justine Edward, illustrated by her friend's young autistic son is heartwarming, and should be a must read to/for all readers, especially young children, who need to understand early on that they have their own unique light that shines bright! A perfect quiet time read for the family, a great bedtime read, one of those books that can create some wonderful dialogue with kids!
I received this book from Story Cartel in exchange for my honest review. If you don't take something positive away from Shine or find it coming back to you later, I'd be surprised!
Publication Date: June 21, 2013
Publisher: Balboa Press
ISBN: 1452575312
Number of Pages: 28
Genre: Children's Literary Fiction
Age Recommendation: ALL Readers
Available from: Amazon
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
I received this book from Story Cartel in exchange for my honest review. If you don't take something positive away from Shine or find it coming back to you later, I'd be surprised!
Publication Date: June 21, 2013
Publisher: Balboa Press
ISBN: 1452575312
Number of Pages: 28
Genre: Children's Literary Fiction
Age Recommendation: ALL Readers
Available from: Amazon
For more reviews check out Tome Tender's Book Blog or find us on Facebook.
September 2, 2013
First of all, I won this book through Goodreads first reads, so thank you very much to the author and to the site for sending me this wonderful little book.
The book is a compilation of short verses that reflect the hope and strength of children with autism. Every page has a nice and colorful image that accompanies the verse (it was drawn by a small child, amazing!). The book is very short but its message stands out pretty clearly. There is always hope and people should celebrate what makes us different from the rest and embrace it. When I read the blurb, I knew that the story's main idea was about children with autism. However, these verses are also relatable to everybody. We are all different and sometimes others do not understand us and tend to put us down or stay away from us. But, we are unique and there is nothing wrong with who we are. Wonderful story, HIGHLY RECCOMEND IT! Happy Readings! :)
The book is a compilation of short verses that reflect the hope and strength of children with autism. Every page has a nice and colorful image that accompanies the verse (it was drawn by a small child, amazing!). The book is very short but its message stands out pretty clearly. There is always hope and people should celebrate what makes us different from the rest and embrace it. When I read the blurb, I knew that the story's main idea was about children with autism. However, these verses are also relatable to everybody. We are all different and sometimes others do not understand us and tend to put us down or stay away from us. But, we are unique and there is nothing wrong with who we are. Wonderful story, HIGHLY RECCOMEND IT! Happy Readings! :)
October 26, 2013
How often do we look at others and judge those who appear to be different? Ever think that they look at us and view us as different? God created each of us with unique abilities and talents, in addition to a special light that shines differently in each of us.
Justine Edward takes her empowering writing skills and reminds readers that anyone can overcome the most difficult of obstacles. They only have to believe in the light that burns within them.
Shine is a beautifully written, simple to read children’s story that uses a rhythmic, poetic style to hook in readers. This book should be read, not only to children who may have a sense that they are different, but by all individuals, so that we are always reminded that we all hold a distinct duty in God’s world.
Good luck Justine and I’m looking forward to your next masterpiece.
Justine Edward takes her empowering writing skills and reminds readers that anyone can overcome the most difficult of obstacles. They only have to believe in the light that burns within them.
Shine is a beautifully written, simple to read children’s story that uses a rhythmic, poetic style to hook in readers. This book should be read, not only to children who may have a sense that they are different, but by all individuals, so that we are always reminded that we all hold a distinct duty in God’s world.
Good luck Justine and I’m looking forward to your next masterpiece.
November 10, 2013
I loved this book. I think the message is wonderful and the pictures are touching. It has a clear message that everyone is special. That we all have a light that shines, no matter what. It tells us that we should not let anyone make us feel bad about who we are.
I think every child should read this, or have it read to them. Especially anyone with any type of disability, condition, syndrome, or whatever label some doctor has put on them.
My son has Asperger's Syndrome, so autism and feeling different is always a part of my life. I really appreciate everyone that attempts to get the message out that everyone is special.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in hopes I would review it on my blog. Regardless, all opinions are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
I think every child should read this, or have it read to them. Especially anyone with any type of disability, condition, syndrome, or whatever label some doctor has put on them.
My son has Asperger's Syndrome, so autism and feeling different is always a part of my life. I really appreciate everyone that attempts to get the message out that everyone is special.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in hopes I would review it on my blog. Regardless, all opinions are my own. I was not required to write a positive review.
November 11, 2013
Shine is a delightful little book that could/should be read over and over again as a bedtime story to children. Adults can also learn from the simple poems that encourage individuals to embrace who they are and be proud to let their lives shine.
Young and old, we all need to realize that we are each special, that we each have a light to show. People who are born with different abilities are no less a spiritual being than others, and often they teach us about kindness and love in a basic simple way beyond the scope of most, if we are open to the message.
This is a tiny little book with a very big message. When children learn it from their parents arms, it establishes a solid base for them to grow from. Please share it. Consider it for a stocking stuffer for a child or give it to new parents to share with their child!
Young and old, we all need to realize that we are each special, that we each have a light to show. People who are born with different abilities are no less a spiritual being than others, and often they teach us about kindness and love in a basic simple way beyond the scope of most, if we are open to the message.
This is a tiny little book with a very big message. When children learn it from their parents arms, it establishes a solid base for them to grow from. Please share it. Consider it for a stocking stuffer for a child or give it to new parents to share with their child!
November 7, 2013
I was given an e-copy in exchange for my honest review.
Shine is illustrated by a 7 year old boy with Autism. The book helps children understand that no matter if you are different you still SHINE! A great inspirational children's read. There was even a few times when I could feel a few tears trying to sneak out.
When I was asked to read this book, I was more than eager to. Having a child with Autism myself, I understand the importance of getting the word out. Big thank you to the Author and to Karl for the great read!
My son (age 6) loved the book and the illustrations. A book he could read with help.
A great inspirational book for all to read.
Shine is illustrated by a 7 year old boy with Autism. The book helps children understand that no matter if you are different you still SHINE! A great inspirational children's read. There was even a few times when I could feel a few tears trying to sneak out.
When I was asked to read this book, I was more than eager to. Having a child with Autism myself, I understand the importance of getting the word out. Big thank you to the Author and to Karl for the great read!
My son (age 6) loved the book and the illustrations. A book he could read with help.
A great inspirational book for all to read.
September 10, 2013
It is a very positive book. It reinforces that we are all unique, have our own light to bring to the world. The pictures brought a smile every time I turned the page.
I read it to my daughter right after I received it. She just listened to it, and she loved the pictures. She actually wants to write Karl (the illustrator) a thank you card for the wonderful pictures he drew. That right there made it an even better book (and I liked it the first time I read it).
Thank you Justine Edward for the wonderful book!
I read it to my daughter right after I received it. She just listened to it, and she loved the pictures. She actually wants to write Karl (the illustrator) a thank you card for the wonderful pictures he drew. That right there made it an even better book (and I liked it the first time I read it).
Thank you Justine Edward for the wonderful book!
August 1, 2013
I loved this book. The words will ring true for any parent of an autistic child - and hopefully bring light to the children themselves. Parents and carers will appreciate the colourful illustrations of a gifted autistic child, knowing the hours of dedication, support and encouragements which led to such a creative achievement. This should be on every coffee table, to share with every friend, guest or relative in your home. Well done Justine.
August 1, 2013
I found this children's picture book to be wonderfully inspirational. The art was created by Karl Gabriel, who has autism. I thought that was a fantastic idea considering how well crafted the poetry of the book is. I absolutely recommend this book for parents to read to their children.
On top of that, Justine Edward is a thoughtful and caring human being who promotes awareness for autism on a daily basis.
My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
On top of that, Justine Edward is a thoughtful and caring human being who promotes awareness for autism on a daily basis.
My Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
July 28, 2013
Shine is a sweet and simple book with a very important message: Let your beautiful light from within shine bright, embrace and love who you are. Author Justin Edward teamed up with young illustrator Karl Gabriel, an autistic eight year old boy, to share their message of love and acceptance. A perfect gift to buy for any child in your life to show them how bright their inner light is.
August 6, 2013
We all loved this delightful book - my daughters especially loved the gorgeous, bright, fun drawings. This book is a must for all families with children. A lovely read, inspiring on all levels.
Also a great idea for Christmas and other gifts - easy to post too.....with relatives far and wide, this will make the perfect add on to Christmas gifts!
Also a great idea for Christmas and other gifts - easy to post too.....with relatives far and wide, this will make the perfect add on to Christmas gifts!
September 9, 2013
A great empowering story for kids with simple, sweet illustrations.
Reviews from the kids:
Hudson - I liked the rainbow part and the heart part. It was very good. I also liked every single part.
Aislinn - It was a good book, the words were special to me.
FYI: We received this book as part of the First Reads program.
Reviews from the kids:
Hudson - I liked the rainbow part and the heart part. It was very good. I also liked every single part.
Aislinn - It was a good book, the words were special to me.
FYI: We received this book as part of the First Reads program.
October 25, 2013
I received this book through Goodreads. OMG it is so adorable and inspiring. I loved the drawings and thought that the entire premise of the book was amazing. I really felt inspired as I read the poem and saw the pictures that went with it. Amazing job! So inspiring! I can't wait to share this with my kids and with friends children.
November 2, 2013
What a lovely book. This book is a long poem of light and love, letting children know that there's a special light within them that they should always be aware of.
Written with beautiful rhymes and filled with children drawings. This book is authentic and can be a good one to read again and again so you can learn in by heart and remember the light!
Written with beautiful rhymes and filled with children drawings. This book is authentic and can be a good one to read again and again so you can learn in by heart and remember the light!
November 5, 2013
Shine is an inspirational book and gives everyone hope, not just people with obstacles in their way, but also their loved ones and people around them.
We all have our differences, but if we try to be everything that we are meant to be and love others and ourselves then we are heading in the right direction.
A really positive book and well worth a read.
We all have our differences, but if we try to be everything that we are meant to be and love others and ourselves then we are heading in the right direction.
A really positive book and well worth a read.
August 27, 2013
Let your light SHINE! What a great message to kids. With the illustrations from the young artist, my son was sparked to start working on a book! His inner light is shining bright! A simple mantra for children, a great nightly bedtime story! 4 stars.
September 30, 2013
Such a touching, inspirational story! The drawings were amazing and perfect for such a story. I hope others will share it with their children. We all have our own light and the author inspiring that message.
August 14, 2013
Heart warming book. Filled with words all children (and adults) should hear. Love the illustrations; they're elegant, bright, and full of light and love. I was touched by the book.
September 23, 2013
I won this book through Goodreads first reads. I love this book and thank you very much to the author.
December 27, 2013
SHINE by Justine Edward is a beautiful and heartwarming book that will leave you with hope and confidence
Every written page of this magnificent book describes the inner light that is within all of us.
My favorite part is when Edward writes,
"There is a light within you
And even if no one agrees
Let your light always guide you
Trust in what you believe”
This passage beautifully illustrates that the world is not perfect and we will have challenges but our purpose is driven by our heart and we should not be swayed by people that don’t understand us.
Another one of my favorite parts is when Edward writes,
"There is a light within you
It makes you truly unique
When you smile it shines from within
Bringing joy to all whom you meet”
The author beautifully describes how a person can live to their potential by understanding that the light is within you and using your God given tools to release it.
This book will teach children many valuable lessons that include the power of belief, that we have unlimited power, that we are unique individuals with a genuine purpose and that we have the ability to determine our future paths by the actions we take.
In addition to being beautifully written, the illustrations were done by 7 year old Karl Gabriel who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The text and crayon drawings go together like leaves on a tree.
I highly recommend this book to give children the knowing that they are truly special and are valuable to the world.
Every written page of this magnificent book describes the inner light that is within all of us.
My favorite part is when Edward writes,
"There is a light within you
And even if no one agrees
Let your light always guide you
Trust in what you believe”
This passage beautifully illustrates that the world is not perfect and we will have challenges but our purpose is driven by our heart and we should not be swayed by people that don’t understand us.
Another one of my favorite parts is when Edward writes,
"There is a light within you
It makes you truly unique
When you smile it shines from within
Bringing joy to all whom you meet”
The author beautifully describes how a person can live to their potential by understanding that the light is within you and using your God given tools to release it.
This book will teach children many valuable lessons that include the power of belief, that we have unlimited power, that we are unique individuals with a genuine purpose and that we have the ability to determine our future paths by the actions we take.
In addition to being beautifully written, the illustrations were done by 7 year old Karl Gabriel who was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The text and crayon drawings go together like leaves on a tree.
I highly recommend this book to give children the knowing that they are truly special and are valuable to the world.
November 9, 2013
This is a lovely children’s picture book written in verse. Each verse is accompanied by an illustration.
While the book was written with Karl in mind, I believe that this book is about all children(and adults). It will remind them that they are unique and special and of value. I think that part of the value of this book is that it is illustrated by a child with a disability. By having Karl provide the illustrations, it demonstrates that persons with disabilities are valuable, and can make valuable contributions to our society.
This is a lovely children's book that I think children and adults will share together for generations to come. I give it 5 stars!
Thank you to the author, Justine Edwards who provided a free copy of the book in exchange for my fair and honest review.
While the book was written with Karl in mind, I believe that this book is about all children(and adults). It will remind them that they are unique and special and of value. I think that part of the value of this book is that it is illustrated by a child with a disability. By having Karl provide the illustrations, it demonstrates that persons with disabilities are valuable, and can make valuable contributions to our society.
This is a lovely children's book that I think children and adults will share together for generations to come. I give it 5 stars!
Thank you to the author, Justine Edwards who provided a free copy of the book in exchange for my fair and honest review.
November 29, 2013
WOW!
This book is WONDERFUL!
CUTE with a POWERFUL message!
"Shine is a children's book with a BIG difference. Designed to empower and encourage, this series of positive affirmations will have children smiling from ear to ear. Illustrated by 7 yr old Karl Gabriel who has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Shine helps all children to understand that anything is possible if they believe in themselves."
"There is a light within you"...you can do many things!
"There is a light within you"...let it SHINE :)
This book is WONDERFUL!
CUTE with a POWERFUL message!
"Shine is a children's book with a BIG difference. Designed to empower and encourage, this series of positive affirmations will have children smiling from ear to ear. Illustrated by 7 yr old Karl Gabriel who has been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Shine helps all children to understand that anything is possible if they believe in themselves."
"There is a light within you"...you can do many things!
"There is a light within you"...let it SHINE :)
December 26, 2013
This is a truly beautiful book, a book you should read to your children over and over again.
Justine’s words are heart felt, beautifully written, flow together and roll of the tongue with ease.
I actually feel this is not just a children’s book, us adults need to be reminded that anything is possible also.
Five stars all round
Justine’s words are heart felt, beautifully written, flow together and roll of the tongue with ease.
I actually feel this is not just a children’s book, us adults need to be reminded that anything is possible also.
Five stars all round
December 14, 2013
We received a copy of Shine as a First Reads giveaway. It is simple, inspirational, and encouraging book for young children. My children enjoyed it and as we enjoy discussing our books, opened up dialogue on how special every individual is.
January 4, 2014
This inspirational, positive and empowering text is great for all.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews