In the book world, the month of November is dedicated to reading and sharing nonfiction books. This month I’ll be sharing some non-fiction books that I think would be great for readers, young and old. These books will cover various topics and interests. If you’d like to see previous #NonFicNov posts, click HERE to see more amazing non-fiction books.
GOOD MORNING, SUNSHINE!
The Joey Moss Story
By: Lorna Schultz Nicholson
Illustrated by: Alice Carter
Published: August 15, 2022
Publisher: Sleeping Bear Press
Non-Fiction/Biography
I’m willing to bet that most of us here in the United States haven’t heard of Joey Moss, but we need to. He was a legend in Canada, but not for the reasons you would imagine. He was well-known for his smile and the joy he shared with others whether he was in a hockey rink, on a football field, or with his 12 other siblings. Joey Moss wasn’t an athlete but he inspired many to do their best and have pride in their team.
Joey Moss was the twelfth child born to Canadian parents, but he wasn’t like his other siblings. He was born with an extra chromosome meaning he had Down Syndrome. But, that didn’t stop Joey. He loved singing and playing the tambourine in his family’s band. He loved dancing to the “La Bamba” and singing “Oh Canada” at every sporting event.
Because his family was friends with Wayne Gretsky, the great Canadian hockey player, Joey was able to get a job working for the Edmonton Oilers. He soon became well-known among the hockey community and even though he received a few snickers and unkind words, everyone loved Joey and his smile.
I loved learning about Joey and his inspiring story. His dedication to helping others, especially those with disabilities, led Joey to receive numerous awards and eventually a foundation and home for those with Down Syndrome to live independently. This fall the Joey Moss School was opened in Edmonton to work with children that have disabilities.
We should all strive to be as joyful, kind, and hardworking as Joey Moss.
Download Activity Sheets, HERE
Lorna Schultz Nicholson has published picture books, middle-grade fiction and nonfiction, YA fiction, and adult hockey nonfiction. Her books have been nominated for many Canadian awards. She loves visiting schools to talk to students about reading and writing. Joey Moss was an inspiration to her. She is so happy she got to dance with him to “La Bamba” onstage for the Edmonton Down Syndrome Society fashion show! Check out her website, HERE.
Alice Carter is an illustrator, animal lover, and dream chaser. Over the years, she has worked as a puppeteer, an art teacher, and a caregiver for orphaned baboons. Alice has illustrated numerous picture books. Alice lives in Ottawa, Canada, with her favorite humans, a magical old cat, and a very goofy puppy. Alice loved learning about Joey Moss, and is honored to help tell his story. Visit Alice’s imagination at her website, HERE.
To purchase a copy of GOOD MORNING, SUNSHINE!, click the photo below:
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Thanks to the publisher for sending a copy of this book for the purpose of this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to make a purchase through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase.
Posted Under #NonficNov, Alice Carter, biography, Book Review, Canada, Children's books, Down Syndrome, hockey, Joey Moss, Lorna Schultz Nicholson, non-fiction