Citation: Carlson, N. L. (2006). Get up and go! New York: Viking. 
Ages: 0- 8
Grades: PreK – 1
Description: Carlson’s text begins by telling readers: “You are special!” and that no matter if you are “tall, short, skinny or round” that it is important to take care of your body! She then directly challenges readers to get out from behind the screen, and to get out and get some exercise. Throughout the book, the animal characters take part in a number of different types of physical activities, and with the text frankly, yet delicately, explaining the importance of physical activity, and what parts of the body physical activity can help.
Uses: Carlson’s text is a direct challenge to the readers to get up and get moving. It is ideal to use in a storytime about the importance of exercise our about being healthy. The way Carlson presents the information highlights that this book could be used to introduce young children to healthy lifestyles. The book could also be useful in a family, toddler, or preschool storytime where adult family members and/or guardians are present, to also encourage them to get up and get moving, and/or to understand the importance of physical activity. This book could be used in a storytime program as a lead in or explanation before the teacher or librarian leads children through a group exercise.
Review Sources:
Jonas, JoAnn. (2006). Get Up and Go! [Review of the book Get Up and Go!]. School Library Journal, 52(2): 94
Phelan, C. (2005). Get Up and Go! [Review of the book Get Up and Go]. Booklist, 102(7):52.
Kirkus Reviews. (2005). Get Up and Go. [Review of the book Get Up and Go]. Kirkus Reviews, 73(23):1271
Tags: exercise, non-fiction, animals, dance, hiking, sports