‘Just Janey’s Way’, is a very delightful and thought-provoking children’s picture book by author Mandy Woolf, that explores the dynamics of friendship, the pitfalls of stubbornness, and the value of kindness and teamwork. The story revolves around Janey who insists on having everything her way. Initially accommodating her demands, her friends soon grow weary of her domineering behaviour. Janey faces the consequences of her actions, as she learns valuable lessons about the true meaning of friendship and the importance of considering others’ thoughts and feelings. Mandy’s engaging narrative and use of beautiful illustrations make this a captivating read for young children. The characters are ones of which many children will be able to relate to.
Overall, ‘Just Janey’s Way’ is an excellent addition to any child’s reading collection as it offers a meaningful message about empathy and cooperation, while providing a fun and engaging reading experience. For this reason, I award this title 4.5 stars.
By Bronwyn McKay