Book Review: The Potato Chip Champ

Well that was an unexpected break. Between the bullying issue, Madeline’s croup, and a migraine that came out of nowhere and knocked me sideways, I feel like we lost the whole week.

Mostly because we did.

The bullying seems to be handled for now (thank you so much for your kind comments and emails). Madeline is on the mend. And the migraine isn’t completely gone, but is nowhere near the intensity it was on Thursday.

So time to try and get back on track.

When Maria Dismondy asked if we would like to check out her newest book, The Potato Chip Champ, I said yes without hesitation. Madeline loved the last book of hers we read, Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun, and we so rarely say no to new books. You know, because story reading happens on a daily basis.

And this topic? On kindness? Well, it was a no-brainer. It’s a great tie-in to a little project the kids and I have been working on, but that’s a story for another day. Or, well, when that project is complete.

Kindness is something I don’t harp on with the kids. Because I want it to come naturally. Because they know it’s the right thing to do, not because I said so. So I try my best to lead by example, and give subtle hints along the way. On Friday, after our second doctor’s office visit for the week, we stopped by Target to get another round of medicines and magical elixirs to clear up what was ailing Madeline. She has been in such a sorry state this last week, and seriously looks like a walking zombie. Miserable. My mom said to give Madeline $20 to buy herself something at the store, to cheer her up a bit.

After selecting one item, she kept looking up and down the aisles. Determined to get something for her brother and one of her cousins as well.

Kindness? She gets it. She has such a wonderful heart.

So the story of the Potato Chip Champ. Champ is the main character, a little baseball-playing bundle of giant ego who think he’s all that. He doesn’t jive well with Walter and, while he doesn’t go out of his way to make him miserable, he isn’t particularly kind either. Until one moment when Walter shows Champ a true gesture of kindness, and gives him a peek into his world. It’s a simple story, with colorful, retro-like drawings and it resonates well with children.

If you’re looking for a new book or to discover a new author, do check this one out. You can follow Maria on Twitter here, her facebook page here, and her blog here.

Happy reading!

Hungry for more children’s book reviews?
The Kissing Hand is a favorite classic.
If I Could Keep You Little is one of my favorites, and a great reminder on how quickly this time goes.
A Bad Case of Stripes is a run, lively, colorful story that your kids will love.