Karen Autio

Children’s Author | Editor | Presenter | Sensitivity Reader for Disability Awareness


MAKING SEAKER: REVIEWS

Marsha review MS

The International Educator - BLOG: Teaching Your Way Around the World - GLOBAL BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS - review by Margriet Ruurs Read full review.

The Canadian Children's Book Centre Winter 2021 BOOKNEWS Review excerpts:
“An important theme in Making Seaker is the concept of authenticity and being genuine.”
“Karen Autio’s novel takes a clear look at the still prevalent gender stereotype that girls are uninterested in science, technology, engineering, and math.”
“An additional fun element in the Author’s Note is a URL address to an accompanying website that contains additional knowledge on Paddle-to-the-Sea, as well as information about Jamie’s science and space aspirations.”

"The characters are true to life with realistic problems, concerns and insecurities. Although the plot is about building the model boat, a lot of the story is about helping young girls see that they can be interested in learning about science and math and still have friends. It also explores the idea of being true to yourself and proud of who you are. Recommended.”—CM: Canadian Review of Materials. Read full review.

"Making Seaker inspires learning in the best possible way: mistake, discussion, improvement, leap for joy, mistake, testing, solution. Highly recommended.”— Eileen Holland, award-winning author of the chapter books Sophie Trophy and Sophie Trophy Too. Read full review.

Kristin B review MS "Making Seaker is a great read for kids. It is a wonderful transition vehicle to help youngsters make that move from early chapter books to middle grade novels. The friendship thread will ring true with many kids, and the adventure aspect of the re-enactment of Paddle-to-the-Sea will stir the imaginations of many to attempt something similar.”— Kristin Butcher, author of The Seer Trilogy. Read full review.

"I loved how the author included a STEM focus woven throughout and the perseverance and growth of the main character. This is a wonderful book to use in the classroom as so many activities and learning opportunities can be taken from it.”— Nikki Bergstresser, author of Lila Lou’s Little Library: A Gift From the Heart. Read full review.

"Making Seaker is a fantastic story. It’s so inspiring to read STEM stories for girls that are true to our children’s experiences today. Karen has created real characters with real life challenges. It also helps kids to reflect on what kind of creative ideas they can explore. I give this one 5 bright stars for sure.”— Lucille Charlton, responding to this blog post.

MW Amazon review

"This story will appeal to any child who feels like they stand alone, who likes building projects and seeing them to the end, and anyone who thinks that no one else makes mistakes but them.”— Loraine Kemp, children’s book author and illustrator. Read full review.