Written in a warm tone, this book introduces the child to loveable Oliver – The Little Bear Who Sucked His Thumb written by Dr. Dragan G. Antolos, a dentist. So often, children’s books addressing behaviors tend to be didactic. This thoughtfully written narrative carefully sidesteps that approach allowing the child with a digit habit to uncover Oliver’s powerful message.
Oliver experiences all the emotions and frustration that children experience when they have a digit habit. Dr. Antolos, does an outstanding job of taking a very complex behavior and weaving it into a tale that children embrace. He also models responses for parents.
Dr. Antolos also did the illustrations which are equally intriguing and inviting. Both the text and the artwork combine to bring to life the story of a bear who has determination and is successful in achieving his goal.
In this story, Oliver goes to find the dragon who places the responsibility for giving up the habit squarely on Oliver’s shoulders when he says “Are you really, really ready to give up sucking your thumb?” Oliver discovers a powerful and poignant truth-only Oliver can keep his thumb from going into his mouth. The dragon presents a solution to Oliver and explains the need for a reminder (bandaid), and tells Oliver “..the rest is up to you.” The dragon presents Oliver with a bag of stars and a small book.
With its affirming story line, this is one book that deserves a place on your therapy bookshelf. Dr. Antolos’ insight into habit cessation and this positive approach is woven into this story. And… if you order this book from Dr. Antolos for your client, it will come with a bag of stars, just like the one the dragon gave to Oliver. For additional information go to: HYPERLINK “http://www.oliverthebear.com” www.oliverthebear.com
© 2008 by the authors. 2008 Patricia M. Taylor