"The story McBride tells belongs in all libraries and schools." * The Michigan Daily * Unreservedly recommended. * Childrens Bookwatch, Midwest Book Review * "Dear Dad, Love, Nelson is a unique story told through the letters of Nelson to his father who's in jail. It's a touching story for those who have gone through Nelson's situation and for those who haven't." Dear Dad: Love, Nelson is a heartwarming childrens book that explores the complexity of families dealing with the justice system. Through Nelsons eyes, we see the beauty and pain of a familys journey as they navigate the challenges of having a loved one in prison or jail. This touching tale provides an important message of hope, laughter, and love, making it a must-read for anyone seeking comfort and understanding in a difficult situation. Join Nelson on his journey as he discovers the power of family, love, and letter writing in the face of adversity. -- Shaka Senghor, founder of Redeemed Sole, New York Times best-selling author of Writing My Wrongs: Life, Death, and Redemption in an American Prison and Letters to the Sons of Society Dear Dad: Love, Nelson thoughtfully portrays the love and struggle of various members of a family separated by incarceration. This book has a beautiful way of helping young people feel connected to other children and families as they deal with their own confusion and pain in encountering courts and prisons. Dear Dad: Love, Nelson is a much-needed resource for families with loved ones in prisons and jails, and this book should be made available in schools, public libraries, and bookstores throughout the United States. -- Ashley Lucas, professor and former director of the Prison Creative Arts Project, University of Michigan I was astounded at the power of Margarett McBrides epistolary picture book when she shared it in my childrens book class. She had me from the first letter when, with youthful language, she captured the innocent, sincere perspective of young Nelson. In a few short sentences, readers understand his animated take on family members, his longing for his father, and his questioning nature. Over the next ten months, Nelsons periodic letters show readers changes in his relationship with words, his fathers Chevy, his increased understanding of the court system and imprisonment, and finally, the joy he shows as he prepares for his fathers return. Letter by letter Nelson wins readers compassion and gratitude as he becomes a realistic and positive model for the children of incarcerated parents who need him. -- Susie Wilde, M.Ed., Igniting Writing
