Ardie’s Big Secret - Tapa dura

"This engaging tale about a black family explains how Ardwick "Ardie" Edward Smith concealed an important secret. . . . As the clues mount . . . readers should be as delighted as his family about the big surprise . . .. Seay's (The Girl Who Loved Pots, 2017) frequent computer-generated illustrations of the family are perfect in tone and provide extra details and plenty of clues for beginning readers. Siblings are sure to identify with Ardie, and the author's use of suspense in slowly revealing hints about the secret should keep the audience guessing." (Kirkus Review: Review July 25th, 2018)

"Rosilyn Seay's tale of a young boy who almost succumbs to peer pressure from his own family truly keeps the reader begging for more at the turn of each page . . . Although not all secrets are good to keep, this one proved to be very exciting indeed, creating warmth and happiness for Ardie's family almost to the point of tears. I believe that Ardie's Big Secret will be a real hit with younger readers aged 7-12 years, as they can also revel in the happiness felt when the secret reveals itself as a big surprise" (Readers' Favorite: Review June 06, 2018)

"A delightfully entertaining and charmingly illustrated children's picture book by Rosilyn Seay is unreservedly recommended for young readers ages 6 to 9. While especially appropriate for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections..."( Midwest Book Review: August 2018)

When Ardie promised that he would not give away what he knew about an upcoming family surprise, it seemed so easy. But protecting the secret got harder and harder. Everything he tried seemed to backfire. Luckily, with help from his teacher, he came up with the perfect plan. Now, to execute it, all he has to do is collect an odd list of supplies, work around his two very observant parents, and make sure that his little brother doesn't do anything to ruin it all. Piece of cake.

"Ardie's Big Secret" is an engaging story about a young boy who goes out of his way to do something special to make his family happy. Young readers will relate to Ardie as he works through issues like keeping promises, sibling conflicts, and sharing. They will see that, even when things don't work out the way you expect, you can still succeed. It just takes determination, logical thinking, imagination, and knowing when to ask for help.

This illustrated chapter book can be enjoyed by any age, but it is perfect for young people between the ages of 6 and 9.