Beloved novelist and indie bookstore owner Ann Patchett says:
“The 5,000 Friends of Veronica Veetch manages to warn against the perils of snap judgment and extol the wonders of friendly books in such beguiling rhyme that it doesn’t seem like a lesson at all. In fact, what it seems like is pure joy. Hooray for Jean Hanson and Launie Parry for giving us this wonderful book.”
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“Whimsical rhyme and joyful spunk make it impossible not to get caught up in Veronica’s excitement as she side-steps hurtful words and swirls an invitation into the enchanting world of literature. The mixture of sketch and colored illustrations meld with spouts of higher-vocabulary to create a complexity without slamming doors on anyone. And that is the point. The treasure trove of knowledge and imagination knows no bounds and is open to everyone.” — Tonja Drecker, Bookworm for Kids
“The 5,000 Friends of Veronica Veetch is a fun, Seussical adventure. Written in a rhyming style that would make the top-hatted cat proud, Jean Hanson has created something with a powerful message that can teach kids the value and importance of books, reading, and the adventures and enjoyment possible through literature.” —Dick Leonardo, Book Room Reviews
“Yes! I’m constantly telling my students that books can take them on fantastic adventures. Plus, Veronica is a girl after my own heart. Like her, I’m always sad when a book comes to an end. But the good news is, whenever one ends, another can begin!” — Jackie Giehm, 2nd grade teacher, Gateway Polytechnic Academy
“The layers of messages in The 5,000 Friends of Veronica Veetch are as plentiful as Veronica’s vocabulary. A wonderful read-aloud for parents, teachers, and fellow librarians, with many teachable points on friendship, love of literature, vocabulary, and so much more. That it is so fun to read (and listen to) is just icing on the cake!”— Kristin Mortenson, Media Specialist, Hayden Valley Elementary
“Armchair traveler extraordinaire, Veronica Veetch, has five thousand books and she knows how to use them.” —Lauri Fortino, Frog on a Blog
“[Veronica Veetch] has the sort of wonder that kids can only access in the world of words, and what’s even better, it encourages them to go and discover that magic again and again in new books.”—Benjamin Lambright, Executive Director, We Read Together, a children’s literacy program
“Featuring utterly charming and whimsical illustrations, Veronica Veetch is a Seussian frolic of dazzling, dancing, and unpredictable rhymes that is sure to delight young readers. With panache and aplomb, Veronica sorts out her friendship troubles in the most kindhearted and literary way. A nod to book lovers, readers, and librarians everywhere who often find their very best friends and adventures in the pages of books.” — Sarah Kostin, MLIS, Youth Services Librarian, Bud Werner Memorial Library
“The 5,000 Friends of Veronica Veetch is a literary joy that takes readers through a world of rhymes and adventures. Jean Hanson reminds us the world of friendship is enhanced, expanded, and enriched when explored and shared by books.” –Amy Zembroski, Librarian, Indian Community School
“An ode to all things books and self-education, Veronica Veetch is a joy for children and adults alike. The scrapbook-like feel and unexpected beginning come together for an experience with plenty of lessons and tongue-twisting fun. Hanson achieves complexity that reaches for the profound while remaining accessible for all.” – Abby Hargreaves, 24 Hour Library
A fantastic book with a powerful message for kids of all ages! Lovely rhythm and rhyme. The lesson about first impressions creates a perfect talking point with students. The higher-level vocabulary also sets high expectations and another engagement with pupils. The love of books would be a perfect way to open the year’s book corner for any classroom. The illustrations are engaging and a pleasure to look at. I know I’ll be using this one in my classroom but would also recommend to every parent.” — Kathy Korth, teacher, Tollgate Primary School