~Written by JoAnne Mason
Paddy The Goat That Saved Anguilla by JoAnne Mason is a charming story that teaches children not to judge others for what they can't do but to recognize that everyone has potential to do great things. Paddy is born on the Island of Anguilla, but Paddy is different that the other goats. Paddy is unable to speak. The head goat tells Paddy's mother that if he is unable to speak by his first birthday he must leave the herd. Sadly, Paddy's first birthday arrives and he is still unable to baa like the other goats. He says his goodbye to his mother and sets out on his own. Lucky for Paddy he meets a kind lizard who teaches him that being unable to speak is a gift and should be used wisely. Paddy soon begins to really listen to the island and all those who inhabit it and is one of the first to realize a hurricane is on its way. Paddy must save his friends, but can he save them all without his baa? The illustrations in Paddy The Goat That Saved Anguilla add to the excitement as the story unfolds. Children will cheer for Paddy as he tries to rescue everyone that lies in the in hurricanes path. I loved the important message conveyed in the story and children will learn that even though we are all different we each have a special place in the world. Pick up a copy of Paddy The Goat That Saved Anguilla. Available at www.amazon.com. |