1 / 4The Most Magnificent Thing: 1 by Ashley Spires
The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires is an illustrated picture book about a girl who struggles to build an invention, gets frustrated, and returns to the task after a walk with her dog. Its story explores perseverance, creativity and handling mistakes.
At a glance
- A girl and her dog attempt to make an invention, with repeated setbacks before she finds a way forward.
- The story depicts frustration and anger as well as persistence, offering an opening to discuss mistakes and coping with difficult feelings.
- Descriptive action verbs and an invention theme can support vocabulary discussion and early STEM-related activities.
Often bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- Combines an engaging making-and-mistakes storyline with themes of perseverance and creativity.
- Illustrated format and clear emotional arc offer points for shared reading and conversation with young children.
Technical specifications
11 specifications| Publisher | Kids Can Press |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 19 Oct. 2017 |
| Edition | Illustrated |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 32 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 1554537045 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-1554537044 |
| Reading age | 3 - 7 years |
| Grade level | Pre-school and up |
| Dimensions | 23.75 x 1.02 x 25.27 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 356 g |
What to know before buying
- The age and grade guidance is listed as 3 - 7 years and Pre-school and up. The story's emotional themes may be most useful when an adult can discuss frustration and persistence with the child.
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Families looking for an illustrated story about trying again after setbacks.
- Early-years readers and adults seeking a picture book to prompt discussion about emotions, creativity or making things.
Less suited to
- Buyers looking for an instructional STEM activity book or a detailed how-to guide. The supplied description presents a story rather than step-by-step projects.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
79% 79% - 4 stars
15% 15% - 3 stars
3% 3% - 2 stars
2% 2% - 1 star
1% 1%
Customer feedback highlights the creative story, illustrations and positive message about persevering through mishaps, with value for money also mentioned. The strongly favourable overall rating supports considering it as a well-received children's picture book, but ratings alone do not establish how it will suit a particular child's interests or reading context.
Positive themes
- Customer feedback praises the creative storyline and illustrations.
- The positive message about perseverance and overcoming mishaps is highlighted.
- Some feedback describes the book as good value for money.
Frequently asked questions
What is The Most Magnificent Thing about?
A girl sets out to make an invention with her dog nearby, but repeated attempts frustrate her. After a walk, she returns to the project and succeeds.
What age is the book listed for?
The listing gives a reading age of 3 - 7 years and a grade level of Pre-school and up.
Does this book include STEM activities?
The description connects its invention story and action vocabulary with STEM learning, but does not describe step-by-step activities or project instructions.
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