Siblings, Illness, Special Needs 

For ages 4-8. Isaac is almost three years old and Emma is in elementary school. Emma misses the adoring baby brother Isaac used to be. Now that hes older, hes a pain. Emma used to be able to make Isaac laugh. He used to let her hold him without squirming. But no more. Now Isaac spits out his food and knocks down her blocks when Emma tries to play with him. Sometimes his behaviour is downright embarrassing. Emma thinks Isaac would be more fun if hed hurry up and learn some of the sign language she and her mom are trying to teach him. His slower pace is maddening at times! THE BEST WORST BROTHER is an endearing and realistic look at how a relationship evolves between a typically developing older sister and her younger brother with a developmental disability. It also shows how sign language can help a child that acquires speech more slowly. As Emma is pleased to discover, Isaac can learn to sign, he just learns when hes ready. For those who recognise aspects of their own family in the story, it will be comforting to read about this 'warts and all' sibling relationship. Charlotte Fremauxs realistic illustrations are deft and colourful. Text and illustrations mesh beautifully, making THE BEST WORST BROTHER a delightful tale to read at home or share at school. Also by Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen: We'll Paint the Octopus Red - from Amzon