Ruby René Had So Much to Say

March 15, 2024
A story of hope for incessant talkers. Ruby Ren�, a dark-skinned Black girl with big curly hair, loves to talk. She listens to informative podcasts, adores science, and collects interesting facts that she's eager to share--often. In class, Mrs. Hansen gets exasperated with Ruby's talking and calls her parents. Knowing she's in trouble, Ruby frets and decides to learn Morse code to communicate. Ruby's concerned and empathetic dad gives her a purple journal so she can write her thoughts down in class instead of speaking them aloud. This quiets Ruby, but she gets so wrapped up with writing in the book that she hears little of Mrs. Hansen's lessons. In gym class, Ruby can't contain herself and shares a dodgeball fact with a classmate, and a ball clocks her on the head. While in the office nursing her noggin, Ruby encounters Principal Gale, who suggests something that changes everything. This story emphasizes creative solutions to loquaciousness that don't squelch a child's spirit. Ruby is surrounded by caring Black adults (including Mrs. Hansen and Ms. Gale) who encourage her inquisitiveness but help her channel it into positive avenues. Speech and thought bubbles give readers a view into Ruby's perspective, and Jose's whimsical, colorful digital illustrations depict a diverse classroom. A wonderful tale certain to inspire youngsters to find creative outlets for their curiosity. (Picture book. 4-7)

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June 7, 2024

PreS-Gr 2-Meet Ruby Ren�-a young girl eager to share her thoughts on any number of topics with those around her. She has a tough time keeping these facts and ideas to herself, and catches the attention of her teacher, Mrs. Hansen, when she enthusiastically tells her classmates about the subjects of the day, from the Revolutionary War to the cafeteria's lunch menu. After Mrs. Hansen contacts her parents, Ruby's dad suggests she write her ideas in a journal throughout the day and share them during a more appropriate time, which leads to her missing the entire day's lesson. In gym class, Ruby is so keen to share a fact that she misses a dodgeball that hits her squarely in the head. While being treated for her injury, she encounters the principal, who is highly interested in hearing more about Ruby's fact. Not only that, but Principal Gale goes on to offer a creative and constructive solution that supports Ruby's curiosity. Iman's text is highly relatable, with an emphasis placed on encouraging and championing the passions of Ruby, while Jose's digital illustrations are vibrant and colorful. Ruby, her family, and the principal are Black; her teachers and classmates show diversity of backgrounds and circumstances. VERDICT An empowering and inspiring story that encourages young readers to pursue their passions and make their voices heard.-Olivia Gorecke

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