“I Can’t Eat No Pippin Apples” by Chris Stewart is a story told through the eyes of Jesse, a young boy who likes to hang out with his grandmother; however, the inspiration behind the story is Mr. Stewart’s own grandmother who did much more than hang out with her five grandchildren. He shares a short personal snippet on the back cover that reveals a grandson’s heart to forward a story that highlights such values as reverence for our elders and an appreciation for those who help in the tremendous responsibility of raising children.
Delores Coney
As an educator and elementary school counselor, my first thought after reading the book was how I could use this as a guidance lesson to teach a TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) first grade educational requirement related to Culture, which is defined as, “…family and community beliefs, customs, language, and tradition.”
I strive to make connections during my lessons between what students are learning and “the real world”. By making such connections I believe it reinforces the classroom lessons because the students are able to see and tell of personal examples. Such connections equal true learning.
The illustrations in the book are wonderful. Particularly, it was pleasing to see Jesse’s friends in the book. The illustrations provide a good platform to introduce and reinforce getting along with others, how people can learn from other’s/their families, and the importance of community.
I would recommend this book both professionally and personally. It is a great family read!
Cynthia Shaffer
As a momma of two kiddos who do not count reading as one of their favorite things to do, there is no greater compliment for a children’s book author than for my child to reach for the book and read it. Allow me to explain.
I earnestly desired to raise readers, but like many noble goals, I was challenged by “the real world”, so I re-evaluated. I got my first clue that perhaps my children were destined to pursue other interests when they both wondered over to be with the animals during story time.
You don’t understand. This weekly story time was…magical. Character voices, melodramatic gestures, dancing and singing and guitar playing. It was hosted on a family farm that housed animals such as ducks, goats, and rabbits. Imagine my confusion when each of my children stood up during story time and toddled out to the animals. I attempted to coax them back inside, but they were more interested in running around. Playing with animals. Getting dirty. Not my favorite things to do.
So, when my now eight-year-old daughter merrily reads her favorite part to her momma, in character voice, with melodramatic gestures, on her own accord, “She takes it, smiles big, shows that she has no teeth, and says, ‘Honey, I can’t eat no pippin apples’”…I can think of no greater compliment for the author! Well done, Mr. Stewart.
Momma’s favorite part is when Nana and Jesse are watching TV while eating snacks in bed. We do the same in our family, so I can appreciate the bonding that happens while doing simple things together.
