Ruby Rene is a young lady with a lot on her mind, and she wants to share with everyone. She absorbs facts and sees them as gifts to share with others. A problem arises when her exasperated teacher can’t teach because Ruby Rene can’t stop sharing her knowledge. Ruby’s father gives her a journal to write down her thoughts, but how does that help if she can’t share her facts? During PE, Ruby is so busy reciting facts that she gets hit in the head with a ball and sent to the school nurse. There, her principal asks what happened and alights in a brilliant solution: Ruby Rene gets her own podcast where she gives one new fact each day during morning announcements.

This book sends a wonderful message. When so much of the time, children are told to be quiet, this book celebrates and values their voices. At the same time, author Ashley Iman gently reminds young readers that there are more appropriate times to speak up when their thoughts can really be appreciated. This book is a wonderful choice for those bright minds with a whole lot to say.

(Review originally published on the Portland Book Review and book donated to the Maltby Food Bank.)