UNICYCLE DAD

By Sarah Hovorka| Illustrator: Alicia Schwab
From: Amicus Ink / AmicusPublishing.us |2024
Picture Book | Ages: 3 - 7 years | ISBN: 978-1681529028

Sarah knows her unicycle-riding dad is special--even as Sarah cooks, takes care of her brother, and does homework on her own. When her dad finally graduates from high school, gets a second job, and eventually lands a promotion, Sarah realizes there's so much more that's special about him. Unicycle Dad shares the inherent struggles and quiet joys of a single-parent, impoverished household. Raised by a single, teenage father in poverty, author Sarah Hovorka grew up in a family structure lived by many but seldom represented in children's books. Illustrator Alicia Schwab captures the story with warm, expressive art.

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Reviews

“A heartwarming story of family resilience and an empowering narrative about overcoming obstacles—a valuable addition to any collection.” —School Library Journal (read more)

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"…Entertaining and thoroughly appropriate for children ages 5-9 on the subject of homelessness and poverty, "Unicycle Dad" is a very special and unreservedly recommended pick for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.”—Midwest Book Review (read more)

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“In this homage to her father, Hovorka shares her experiences being raised by a single dad…This book encourages diversity and is relatable for children with nontraditional family structures. Altogether, the beautiful messages of this tale show children to stay hopeful and perseverant, as well as to be grateful for what they do have.”—ChildrensLit.com
(read more)

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5-StaR Goodreads Reviews for UNICYCLE DAD

“A word to describe this book? Perseverance. Whether learning how to ride a unicycle, graduating from high school, helping out in the family, or becoming an author. Not giving up and plugging/cycling away is a trait that helps us all get through challenging times ~ the perfect book for every classroom and bookshelf.”—Cheryl

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“Grateful to have had the chance to see an Advance Reader Copy of UNICYCLE DAD by Sarah Hovorka. This book about a single dad fills an important gap in the market (all families need to be represented and honored in children's books) and the lessons are all the more powerful knowing that the story comes from the author's own experience. The family's unity and strength amidst very difficult circumstances make this an ultimately joyful, uplifting book, embodied by the unicycle. Themes of perseverance, hope and family love will resonate with young readers. Highly recommend.”—Nathalie Alonso

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“Two-Sentence Review: UNICYCLE DAD reminds me of people in our lives who teach us to persevere no matter the odds people stack against us. I freaking love this book, the illustrations by Alicia Schwab, and the message for both adults and kiddos alike!”—CK Malone