🌟REVIEW: "An Armadillo in New York" by Julie Kraulis (Childrens book, travel)

	An Armadillo in New York by Julie Kraulis Genre: Childrens book, Travel Publication Date: April 12, 2016 (Affiliate links)
Description from Publisher: A winsome armadillo from Brazil takes a trip to New York in this delightful new picture book from Julie Kraulis. Arlo is an armadillo who is always up for adventure. His grandfather, Augustin, loved adventure too. When Arlo was born, Augustin wrote travel journals about his favorite places for Arlo to use when he was old enough to go exploring on his own. When Arlo reads about New York and the mysterious Lady Liberty, he decides it's time for his next adventure. He travels to New York and, guided by Augustin's journal, discovers the joys of the city: gazing at the vast skyline, visiting the Guggenheim, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge and, of course, meeting Lady Liberty . . . but who is she? Each spread has a clue about her identity, and kids will see hints of her scattered throughout the pages. This book is like a gorgeous stroll through New York with an adorable friend--a stroll you'll want to take again and again.
My Rating: I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley.com for an honest, unbiased review. My opinion is my own. Between 3 and 4 stars, depending on if you want it for fun (3) or more for education (4). This is a great book for anyone looking to show their kid around New York City and the wonderful sights to be seen there. The illustrations are detailed and you get a real feel for the city as you read Augustin's notes to Arlo. Honestly, I think this would be an awesome book to read and also take along with you on a trip around NYC with your grade-schooler (perhaps younger, if you can show them the illustrations during or after seeing the actual sights). All of that said, it's a bit stiff in its delivery and not necessarily engaging. It's a bit like an actual tour guide taking you through the city. Because of that, I think this would be great for a teacher taking kids on a field trip, or a parent taking a trip with their kids and/or a parent who homeschools. I feel it works best as a book to be used with other tools. My son was a bit young for this (he's 3), when I think it's more appropriate for kids 6-10. He did, however, enjoy the illustrations.