This colorful picture book tells the story of a girl who feels self-conscious about wearing hand-me-downs and is embarrassed to get a hole in her pants at school. She learns how to patch her clothes, and is reassured to find that many of her fellow students also have hand-me-downs, or could also benefit from patches and mending. This book feels a little bit heavy-handed at times, but it has a good message about community and taking care of things instead of throwing them away.

Another wonderful addition to your picture book collection is this one new one.

When Paula's pants rip, she hides it all day in school, embarrassed that other kids may see it. But as she goes through the day, she sees other children's ripped, or torn items as well, which sparks an idea; maybe everyone could use a patch.

A story celebrating ingenuity, creativity, and also to mend and reuse.

A fantastic conversation starter as a way to change the narrative from new is best, to how can we protect and extend what we have?

RIIIIPPPP! It's the sound of pants ripping; for young Paula, it means the end of the world. She's frantic and scared of her classmates making fun of her. But when her friend George spills spaghetti on his shirt and Zoila's backpack doesn't have her name on it, it gives Paula inspiration to try something for everyone. A bright and colorful tale of making the most out of a scary situation. I felt for Paula, as I had moments at school, growing up, where I spilled mustard on my white pants. (Remember: don't wear white pants!) An engaging picture book for all walks of life.

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I found this book covered two topics beautifully. First, it addresses the fact that some kids wear old clothes and sometimes feel embarrassed. Readers may gain understanding about the fact some people rely on hand-me-downs instead of buying new clothes. Secondly, it’s a craft book encouraging kids to create using old fabric pieces, cardboard, glue, etc. to make and give away patches, bookmarks, and little drawstring bags.