Turns the notion of handicapping conditions, quite literally, on its head
Andy is born the only boy with no hair in a kingdom of red-haired people. When his parents begin to worry, his father takes him to a wizard, who gifts him with a magic cap and cautions him never to take it off. For many years, Andy is the architect of fanciful games and the favorite of his many playmates, until one day, a game of leap-lizard sends the cap tumbling off his head. Suddenly, this clever and imaginative child finds himself friendless and adrift. Thrust into this lonely place, he embarks on a journey that teaches him the true magic of the cap: It was not meant to hide his difference, but to unlock a treasure trove of remarkable qualities that he has always possessed—wisdom, bravery, and kindness among them.
In the title’s clever twist of phrase, author Linda Tepper Cohen turns the notion of handicapping conditions, quite literally, on its head. Readers young and old will be enchanted by the book’s fairytale prose and the and the colorful illustrations by Alejandro Echavez that practically leap off the page.
Andy’s Handy Cap serves as a reminder that life’s seemingly insurmountable obstacles often transform into unexpected abilities and strengths.
Susan Hynds, Ph.D.
Professor Emerita of English Education, Syracuse University
A lively tale of optimism and courage
No child wants to be bullied. Every child wants to be accepted. But very few are ever celebrated or honored for what makes them stand out from the ‘typical.’ Andy’s Handy Cap moves the narrative beyond bullying and acceptance into a new realm of appreciation for those unique qualities that are often labeled ‘different.’ It holds out hope for the child who feels left out through a lively tale of optimism and courage.
Linda Lowen
Book reviewer for a leading industry publication, and editor of the anthology “Hopeful Grateful Strong.”
Message of inclusion is clear and uplifting
Andy’s Handy Cap is an engaging story from beginning to end. The story line carries the child reader/listener into the Kingdom of Aurora to meet the quirky red-headed inhabitants and an intriguing bald protagonist boy who doesn’t fit in. A wise wizard with a twinkle in his eye named Groolin fashions a special cap for the boy to wear at all times, and the rest is pure delight. The conflict is gentle on kids who read this wonderful tale, but the message of inclusion is clear and uplifting. Illustrations are bright and charming. Kids will want to read it for both the story and the pictures, over and over again!
Kelley Romano
English teacher / writer
In a land where everyone is the same, being different can be powerful 