(Be Smart About) Screen Time!

September 1, 2024
Having advised kids on consent and anxiety, Brian now offers a primer on healthy technology use. "Congratulations!" this high-energy comic opens. "You're getting some screen time, maybe even a screen of your own"--language that will be familiar to many children and their adults. In eight quick chapters, simple cartoon figures who vary in skin tone explain how the brain's reward system processes the dopamine hits that result from social media "likes," the importance of establishing boundaries, and how to be a good digital citizen. Brian makes glancing references to the more dangerous aspects of unsupervised browsing, such as hate speech and "images and videos with naked people." She tells kids to talk with parents or trusted adults about things that make them uncomfortable or upset. Throughout, Marble the cat pops up with reminders about staying safe, though a bit inconsistently. Dealing thoughtfully with a thorny, ever-evolving subject, this book will help shore up conversations about screen time and internet usage. Illuminating and instructive, the book is a first line of defense for parents and educators wanting to spark discussion or reinforce their established rules. Necessary guidance for kids starting to navigate smartphones and social media.(Graphic nonfiction. 6-10)

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September 1, 2024

Gr 3-6-The latest installment in Brian's popular "Be Smart About" series offers a lighthearted and practical introduction to the complexities of screen time and social media. Aimed at young readers who are new to accessing the internet, this volume addresses topics like setting boundaries, avoiding screen addiction, dealing with cyberbullies, and recognizing when it's time for a social media break. Adults can benefit from this book, too, as certain sections are specifically intended to equip parents and caregivers with ideas for how they can help. The narrative is clear and inviting, reminding readers to communicate with kindness and integrity, and to go to their trusted adult if they encounter anything unsettling online. Brian avoids preachiness and maintains a friendly tone, using humor to underscore important points. Cheerful two-color illustrations feature expressive stick-figure drawings, eye-catching lettering, and easy-to-follow page layouts. Characters are depicted with a variety of skin tones and physical abilities. The thought-provoking narrative concludes with a handy recap of its main points and offers affirmations that encourage readers to go forth with confidence about their screen use. VERDICT Positive, straightforward, and useful, this appealing graphic novel is a solid choice for youth collections.-Allison Tran

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