Book Review: Signs of Trouble by Janet Ann Collins and Jack Foster

Reading Signs of Trouble by Janet Ann Collins brought a huge smile to my face. I remember too well what happened when one of my students got separated from the group while visiting the Louvre Museum in Paris, France. Fortunately, the student in question followed my instructions and went for help at the information desk.

In Signs of Trouble two girls were separated from their class during a field trip to the mall. This heartwarming story features what children should do in the event they are separated from their class. The girls did remember the simple and direct truths their teacher taught them: “If you get lost, stay where you are, someone will find you. If you have an emergency, dial 911. The police are your friends and will help you. Beware of strangers.” The girls put into practical application what they had learned from their teacher and were able to find help and were reunited with their class.

Jack Foster’s illustrations made the story complete by bringing the story to life visually. The author added an extra special element to the book by including some fun activities, games, and questions at the end of the book. This is a great resource for teachers.

This charming book should be read in every elementary classroom and teachers can use it as an easy guide to teach their students about safety while on field trips.