Manda and the Fish

Manda and the Fish
by Noah Bella Michaelis, illustrated by Claudia Pardo

“Manda and the Fish, by Noah Bella Michaelis, is a beautifully crafted story about resilience and determination. The narrative follows Manda, a young Oneida girl named after a river near her village, as she recounts a pivotal experience from her youth to the children of her tribe. Bound by the traditional gender roles of her culture, Manda watched her brothers and father hunt and fish while she planted seeds, made clothes, and performed other tasks. Despite this, her interest in fishing never waned. When she asked her father to teach her, he refused, citing tradition. However, after a poor fishing day for her family, Manda decided to defy convention and try fishing on her own, unaware of the potential consequences.

Noah Bella Michaelis has written a simple yet profound story that explores themes of self-confidence, facing fears, and the importance of communication and collaboration. The narrative is both exciting and intriguing, with well-defined characters whose interactions feel authentic and relatable. Manda's story highlights the love within her family, despite differing opinions, and underscores the significance of courage, initiative, and curiosity. The text was reviewed by the Oneida Indian Nation, ensuring an accurate and respectful representation of Oneida culture. This cultural authenticity provides readers with valuable insight into Oneida traditions and values. While some character names may pose a challenge for readers, a pronunciation guide at the beginning of the book enhances its realism and accessibility. The illustrations beautifully capture a range of emotions and settings, further immersing readers in the story. The book's exploration of gender equality and opportunities for all is truly inspiring, making Manda and the Fish a captivating and thought-provoking read.

Manda and the Fish is a moving tale that beautifully addresses themes of resilience, self-confidence, and the breaking of traditional gender roles. Noah Bella Michaelis weaves an engaging narrative that is both culturally authentic and emotionally resonant, making it a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and insight into the importance of bravery and curiosity.”

—LITERARY TITAN
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️

Published by Archway Publishing from Simon & Schuster

“Hop’s Case of Being Different is a heartwarming and poignant children's book that tackles the themes of diversity and self-acceptance through the eyes of a frog named Hop. Written by Noah Bella Michaelis at just eight years old, the story follows Hop as he navigates life in Frog Jumping Lake, where he feels out of place due to his unique features. Despite his differences, Hop eventually learns that being different is not only okay but something to be celebrated. The book, enriched with colorful illustrations by Angie Savoy, brings to life Hop’s journey in a way that is both accessible and deeply meaningful for young readers.

One of the most remarkable aspects of this book is the way it addresses complex themes in a manner that children can easily understand. Noah’s writing is simple yet powerful, and it’s evident that she drew from her own experiences and challenges in life. The story’s narrative is engaging, with Hop’s struggles and eventual triumph resonating on a personal level. What stands out is Noah’s ability to convey the idea that diversity is a strength, and this is done with a sincerity that only a child could bring forth. The illustrations by Angie Savoy complement the text beautifully, adding a visual depth to the story that enhances its emotional impact. Each character is vividly portrayed, and the colors used are both vibrant and inviting, making the book a visual treat for its young audience. The imagery of Frog Jumping Lake, with its diverse inhabitants, serves as a perfect backdrop to the story’s message. What makes Hop’s Case of Being Differenttruly special is the context behind its creation. Knowing that Noah, a young girl living with Congenital Heart Disease, penned this story while facing significant health challenges adds an extra layer of depth and poignancy to the book. The foreword, written by her mother, gives readers insight into the love and determination that went into bringing Hop’s story to life. It’s impossible not to feel moved by the knowledge that this book was written by someone who, despite her own challenges, had a profound understanding of what it means to feel different and the courage to share that understanding with the world.

Hop’s Case of Being Different is more than just a children’s book—it’s a testament to the power of storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit. I would recommend it to parents, teachers, and caregivers who wish to introduce young children to the concepts of diversity and self-acceptance. The story of Hop will undoubtedly inspire and comfort any child who has ever felt out of place or different, reminding them that their uniqueness is something to be celebrated, not hidden.”

—LITERARY TITAN
Rating: ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️