Description
I WANT TO RIDE WITHOUT TRAINING WHEELS!
Book summary
A picture book that tells the story of the desire to grow up fast with irony and tenderness. The protagonist, a frog named Ettore, is determined to take the training wheels off his bicycle to imitate the adults. After an initial attempt that ends in tears, he discovers that true strength does not lie in not falling, but in getting back up with the help of others. A story that celebrates resilience, empathy, and the value of solidarity, which was a finalist for the XVII Compostela International Prize for Picture Books.
What is it about?
Ettore, a frog with an irresistible pout, watches with admiration as the adults in the neighborhood pedal carefree, carrying bags, delivering mail, or even performing stunts. Convinced that he is ready, he decides to ride without training wheels, but his first experience turns into frustration and tears. Just when all seems lost, the adults he wanted so much to imitate rush to his aid, turning the fall into an opportunity for learning. Through double-page illustrations rich in detail and humor, the author presents a story about growing up, perseverance, and the power of empathy, showing how challenges can become opportunities for personal development.
Main themes
- Desire to grow up and childhood autonomy
- Resilience and the ability to overcome difficulties
- Empathy and solidarity as fundamental values
- Importance of adult help in the learning process
- Accepting one's own limitations and transforming falls into opportunities
Who is it recommended for?
This picture book is ideal for children aged 3 to 6, who are in the phase where they want to imitate adults and face new challenges. It is also perfect for parents, educators, and teachers who want to address themes such as frustration, perseverance, and the value of mutual support with delicacy. The simplicity of the text and the richness of the illustrations make it suitable both for independent reading and for sharing as a family or in the classroom.
What this book offers
- Teaches little ones that falling is normal and that true strength lies in getting back up with the help of others.
- Stimulates empathy by showing how adults can be models of support and understanding.
- Encourages discussion on themes such as resilience, perseverance, and solidarity in a lighthearted and engaging way.
- Offers illustrations rich in detail and humor that encourage observation and independent discovery.
Technical specifications
- Author: GIACOMAZZI, TOBIAS
- Publisher: Kalandraka
- Language: ita
- Theme: PICTURE BOOKS
- Collection: AUTHOR PICTURE BOOKS
- Binding: Hardcover
- Publication date: February 2025
- Number of pages: 32
- Weight: 372 g
Editorial review
A picture book that stands out for its ability to combine simple, repetitive narration with illustrations rich in detail and humor. The story, a finalist for the XVII International Compostela Prize, addresses the theme of growth and frustration with delicacy, offering young readers a positive message about the importance of mutual support. The choice of anthropomorphic characters and the use of pastel tones make the book visually appealing, while the structure of the text, based on the repetition of the key phrase, makes it easy to memorize. Recommended for those looking for a read that combines entertainment and educational insights.