April 1, 2022
K-Gr 2-Repetition is the name of the game in this evolving reader series that focuses on social-emotional learning. Using colorful photos to illustrate the concepts, topics like good sportsmanship, following the rules, playing fair, and accepting losses are discussed, some more successfully than others. Losing Well shows images of teams, telling readers they all lost the games they played, however their feelings surrounding the loss aren't discussed. Particularly when encouraging resilience in readers, it would be helpful to name the emotions associated with playing games. Each book ends with a section asking readers to recall a time when they either were a good sport or a bad one. Without a caring adult by their side to help make the connections, these books might not accomplish their SEL goals. VERDICT Fine for evolving readers, less impressive as SEL learning aids.
Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.