School Library Journal Review
Gr 3-5-In these titles, relatable fictional characters learn about writing through everyday experiences. For example, Olivia and Oscar pen an opinion piece to try to save the job of a crossing guard who is going to be let go. This approach makes the content engaging. Steps to accomplish a writing project and/or tips are included in list form in the back of each title, which is helpful for quick reference. While the characters' stories work well, the cartoonish illustrations are lackluster and do little to complement the texts. Digital Tools includes content that is too sophisticated for the lower range of the targeted age group, as the idea of creating a website is unrealistic for a young audience.-Lauren M. Sinacore, George M. Davis Elementary School, New Rochelle , NY (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
The Writing Builders series does an excellent job of getting middle-graders on the path to good writing. Each book introduces a boy and girl, working together on a project, and follows them as they learn the ins and outs of formulating a particular piece of writing. In Jesse and Jasmine Build a Journal, the duo go to Yellowstone Park and record what they are seeing, along with collecting images to bolster their journal. Exercises like the Five-minute Free Write, in which you write about whatever pops into your head, gives the topic a helpful specificity. Graphic organization in the series is strong, as are the colorful illustrations individual to each title.--Cooper, Ilene Copyright 2010 Booklist
