08/01/2022
PreS-K—By extending the lesson of their original "purple people" metaphor from The World Needs More Purple People to this book, Bell and Hart seek to open the minds of their readers—as well as those of adults, or "mostly grown adults," in schools—to the idea of building and learning in a "purple school." Led by a bubbly tour guide, Penny Purple, readers visit every room of her "purple" elementary school, a place where creativity blends richly with learning, like how red and blue mix into a perfect purple hue. Readers will be busy taking in the many activities that the students and teachers engage in with joyful enthusiasm; huge smiles fill the characters' faces, even as their simple, sharp-angled forms appear in constant motion, reaching, presenting, or dancing on the pages. In an electrifying voice, Penny applauds the meaningful mindset that her school supports to create a special sense of community, speaking matter-of-factly—with some funny examples—about how collaboration, curiosity, and hard work are a part of every lesson at a purple school. One sparkling note in Penny's animated speech lies in her inspiring claim that silliness, laughter, and individuality are just as important to the growth of the world. While seemingly simple in its message, this book reminds readers that the collaborative will and purposeful actions of all are needed to make this ideal learning environment a reality. VERDICT Engaging with its honesty, silliness, and inspirational message, this book celebrates the idea of a "purple school" to help students and teachers alike put the united value of learning and being yourself into perspective.—Rachel Mulligan
