Leo the Late Bloomer (original 1971; edição 1999)

"Teacher's Helper" Gr 1, Aug/Sept 2004

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Leo the tiger is not reading, or writing, or drawing, or even speaking, and his father is concerned. But Leo's mother isn't. She knows her son will do all those things, and more, when he's ready. With its message of patience and humor, Leo the Late Bloomer is sure to be a family favorite. ( )

This is a story about a young tiger cub who develops at a slower pace than he expects. His mom calls him a late bloomer but his dad worries that something is wrong and he'll never learn to talk, read, and write. After impatiently watching and waiting for his son, he realizes that he was indeed just a late bloomer. This story was very relatable to me because I too was a late bloomer and my dad was also worried about me. I didn't even hit my growth spurt until I was out of high school. I think this could be a great story to share with someone who may also be developing at a slower pace than what's expected. ( )

Leo the tiger simply cannot comprehend why he cannot complete tasks in a timely manner. He cannot write; He cannot draw. He cannot write; He cannot even eat without making a sloppy mess. His father is very concerned and wonders outloud what is wrong with Leo?

A loving mother notes that Leo is fine, he is simply a late bloomer. While Leo's father is frustrated, it is Leo who is most anxious. And, then one magical day, Leo bloomed "in his own good time," as the author notes!

And, when he blooms, he draws inside the lines. He can read lots of books, Finally, he made it!

What a wonderful book to read to a child who is struggling, confused and anxious. Leo's mother was his advocate. She knew he would bloom, but not at the same time of others, and not at the misunderstanding of his father! ( )