
A parent might reach for this book when their child feels pressured to do things 'the right way' or is discouraged when their efforts don't look like everyone else's. 'Cannonball' follows a young boy determined to create the perfect cannonball splash. He tries all the advice from his family, from being 'fierce as a tiger' to 'slippery as an eel,' but nothing works. Frustrated, he finally listens to his own inner voice and finds his own unique, amazing style. This story is a vibrant celebration of individuality, perseverance, and cultural pride, with Māori words woven naturally into the text. It's a wonderful tool for encouraging children to trust their instincts and find joy in their own way of being.
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Sign in to write a reviewThe book touches on identity and feelings of inadequacy and failure. The approach is metaphorical, using the cannonball as a stand-in for any skill a child might struggle with. The resolution is entirely hopeful and affirming. The cultural elements (Māori language and whānau) are presented positively and integrated into the narrative as a source of strength.
A 6-year-old who is a perfectionist and gets easily frustrated when they can't master a new skill immediately (like riding a bike or learning to read). Also excellent for a child who tends to compare themselves to others or feels overwhelmed by too much advice.
The book includes a glossary of Māori terms at the end which is very helpful. A parent might want to preview it so they can pronounce the words confidently, or they can discover them with the child. The book can be read cold, but acknowledging the glossary beforehand can enrich the experience. The parent hears their child say, "I can't do it!" or "I'm not as good as my brother." The child might be showing signs of giving up on a new activity because they are not instantly successful.
A 5-year-old will enjoy the dynamic illustrations, the humor of the failed cannonballs, and the big splashy ending. An 8-year-old will connect more deeply with the internal struggle of the main character: the pressure to perform, the frustration of conflicting advice, and the empowering feeling of finding one's own way. They will also appreciate the cultural specificity more.
While many books cover perseverance, this book's unique strength is its seamless and joyful integration of Māori culture and language. It is not just a book about being yourself; it is a book that embodies cultural pride as a source of that individual strength. The specific, imaginative advice from the family is also highly relatable and humorous.
A young boy wants to do the perfect cannonball at the local pool. He gets conflicting advice from his whānau (family members): be a rocket, be a spinning top, be a tiger. He tries everything, but his cannonballs are flops. Discouraged, he is about to give up when his grandmother, Nan, advises him to listen to his own heart. He tunes into his own rhythm and unleashes a truly unique and magnificent cannonball, creating a huge splash and earning the admiration of everyone.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.