Bucket Filling from A to Z
The Key to Being Happy
Bucket Filling from A to Z is an inspiring and positive book for young readers.
In Carol McCloud and Caryn Butzke’s Bucket Filling from A to Z: The Key to Being Happy, the letters of the alphabet are used in a fun and creative way to expose young readers to positive actions and choices that lead to a happier and more fulfilling life.
The bucket filling concept promotes the idea of heaping our imaginary buckets with positive words and actions to attract happiness, rather than dipping into containers with mean-spirited words or ill intentions that diminish the joy in life.
While there are several titles in the Bucket Filling Series, this particular book, with its ABC structure, makes use of a popular and enjoyable way to relate the concept. Each letter is boldly introduced at the top of the page with a representative word, which begins a short rhyming verse to display an element such as kindness, respect, or consideration. Some, including “J is for Joyful” and “V is for Volunteer,” are easily comprehended; others, like “Q is for Quit” (with an emphasis to quit being mean), may require a bit more discussion with early readers. The book’s rhyming patterns are catchy, though some rhymes feel forced.
An ideal choice for teachers, parents, and caregivers to read with their children, the book’s clear bucket analogy goes a long way in demonstrating acts of kindness. From being a friend and good listener to helping a grandparent, the lessons revealed are positive and important.
Glenn Zimmer’s engaging illustrations are bright and colorful. Defining character details represent varieties in race, ethnicity, religion, and physical abilities, purposefully showcasing an inclusive theme. Positive and negative facial expressions on the adults, children, and animated buckets help deliver a sincere emotional charge ignited by the containers being filled or depleted.
Bucket Filling from A to Z is a well-crafted, inspiring book for young readers that is filled with positive messages.
Reviewed by
Carol Davala
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book and paid a small fee to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. Foreword Reviews and Clarion Reviews make no guarantee that the publisher will receive a positive review. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
