It happens to be my birthday today…In honor of the occasion, I wanted to feature one of my favorite books!

The Dot is perhaps my favorite picture book of all time. The Dot introduces us to Vashti a little girl who is not very eager about art class. Her art teacher encourages her to “make her mark”. With gentle guidance from her teacher, Vashti’s natural abilities as an artist as well as a teacher develop. Ultimately, the simple text and accessible pictures pull the reader into Vashti’s story. The profound impact of the words and actions of a teacher are highlighted and the power of enthusiasm and encouragement are reinforced.