BookAwards.com
Award-Winning Books from Today's Best Authors
A Free Resource for Book Lovers, Authors, Agents, Publishers and Journalists
Recommend this book:
Especially Today
A Tale of Unexpected Kindness
Taryn M. Aina
2026 Finalist
43 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Doreen Chombu for Readers' Favorite
Especially Today: A Tale of Unexpected Kindness is a children’s picture book written by Taryn Aina, with illustrations by Emily Hercock. The story follows a mother who is frantically searching for a mouse in her house. As she looks everywhere, she realizes that things are not quite right. She searches each room, growing increasingly tired. With a broom in her hand, she flips rugs and checks under chairs but finds nothing. Her children watch her, adding to her frustration, but she remains determined to continue her search. Although today was meant to be special, nothing seems to be going well. Just as she is about to give up, she discovers a hidden surprise that transforms her frustration into joy.
Especially Today is a heartwarming story that revolves around kindness and the appreciation of loved ones. It emphasizes how small gestures can create memorable moments and reminds us that a little kindness can go a long way. The book celebrates mothers and shows the importance of family and a mother’s love. It offers both entertainment through humorous moments and profound lessons that will resonate with children and adults. The amusing depiction of the mouse running around the house while the mother searches for it will delight young readers and bring smiles to their faces. Additionally, the book includes questions at the end that encourage discussion and engagement, helping readers to explore its themes. The vibrant illustrations perfectly complement the text, with bright colors that enhance each page. The artwork captures the chaos and humor of the story beautifully. Overall, I enjoyed this book and highly recommend sharing it with your children to teach them about kindness and the joy of creating fun moments together.
Especially Today: A Tale of Unexpected Kindness is a children’s picture book written by Taryn Aina, with illustrations by Emily Hercock. The story follows a mother who is frantically searching for a mouse in her house. As she looks everywhere, she realizes that things are not quite right. She searches each room, growing increasingly tired. With a broom in her hand, she flips rugs and checks under chairs but finds nothing. Her children watch her, adding to her frustration, but she remains determined to continue her search. Although today was meant to be special, nothing seems to be going well. Just as she is about to give up, she discovers a hidden surprise that transforms her frustration into joy.
Especially Today is a heartwarming story that revolves around kindness and the appreciation of loved ones. It emphasizes how small gestures can create memorable moments and reminds us that a little kindness can go a long way. The book celebrates mothers and shows the importance of family and a mother’s love. It offers both entertainment through humorous moments and profound lessons that will resonate with children and adults. The amusing depiction of the mouse running around the house while the mother searches for it will delight young readers and bring smiles to their faces. Additionally, the book includes questions at the end that encourage discussion and engagement, helping readers to explore its themes. The vibrant illustrations perfectly complement the text, with bright colors that enhance each page. The artwork captures the chaos and humor of the story beautifully. Overall, I enjoyed this book and highly recommend sharing it with your children to teach them about kindness and the joy of creating fun moments together.
Recommend this book:
Garbage Squirrel
Megan Deliberto, Tiemoko Sylla
2026 Honorable Mention
31 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Makeda Cummings for Readers' Favorite
Garbage Squirrel by Megan Deliberto tells the story of Gary, a lonely squirrel living in a zoo with no home and very little food. Gary sleeps in garbage cans, takes what he needs to survive, and scratches the other animals; he is seen as a troublemaker. One day, Anthony, a lizard, and Bruno, a polar bear, ask why he behaves this way. Gary tells them he is not trying to be mean—he is just alone and hungry. Anthony decides to help Gary instead of scolding him. He tells Gary how Bruno once gave him a chance when he was lonely. Their talk causes Gary to rethink all his actions toward the other animals. With new friends at his side, Gary apologizes to the animals he hurt in the past. He even slowly makes new friends among the monkeys, elephants, dolphins, and giraffes. He finally finds comfort, friends who care about him, and a place to call home.
Garbage Squirrel by Megan Deliberto is a gentle picture book that feels warm and engaging. Although it is written for kids, it shows how hard it can be for anyone (children and adults) to be alone or misunderstood. The writing is simple and easy for all readers to follow. Tiemoko Sylla’s illustrations make the zoo and the incredible animal cast bright and lively. Gary’s growth is touching to watch, and Anthony and Bruno are examples of kindness and forgiveness. The story does a great job of teaching readers about empathy and the importance of helping someone who is struggling to survive or even fit in. It is very similar to classic children’s books that teach lessons through caring and understanding. Families, teachers, and kids who enjoy heartfelt animal stories will also love it. I highly recommend it.
Garbage Squirrel by Megan Deliberto tells the story of Gary, a lonely squirrel living in a zoo with no home and very little food. Gary sleeps in garbage cans, takes what he needs to survive, and scratches the other animals; he is seen as a troublemaker. One day, Anthony, a lizard, and Bruno, a polar bear, ask why he behaves this way. Gary tells them he is not trying to be mean—he is just alone and hungry. Anthony decides to help Gary instead of scolding him. He tells Gary how Bruno once gave him a chance when he was lonely. Their talk causes Gary to rethink all his actions toward the other animals. With new friends at his side, Gary apologizes to the animals he hurt in the past. He even slowly makes new friends among the monkeys, elephants, dolphins, and giraffes. He finally finds comfort, friends who care about him, and a place to call home.
Garbage Squirrel by Megan Deliberto is a gentle picture book that feels warm and engaging. Although it is written for kids, it shows how hard it can be for anyone (children and adults) to be alone or misunderstood. The writing is simple and easy for all readers to follow. Tiemoko Sylla’s illustrations make the zoo and the incredible animal cast bright and lively. Gary’s growth is touching to watch, and Anthony and Bruno are examples of kindness and forgiveness. The story does a great job of teaching readers about empathy and the importance of helping someone who is struggling to survive or even fit in. It is very similar to classic children’s books that teach lessons through caring and understanding. Families, teachers, and kids who enjoy heartfelt animal stories will also love it. I highly recommend it.
Recommend this book:
Look Up!
A Story About Changing Your Perspective
Izzy B
2026 Bronze Medal
32 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Robert A. Groves for Readers' Favorite
Look Up! A Story About Changing Your Perspective by Izzy B. is a warm children’s picture book about learning to be thankful. Gramm is a grumpy ant who has made his home in a thorn. He complains about everything. One day, a mouse, a beetle, and a roach stop to admire his home. Gramm is irritated by their staring and tells them so. However, their interest in Gramm’s house moves him out to the yard to look around for himself. Soon, he notices something that has been there all along. Something beautiful that will change Gramm’s views and relationships. Izzy B.’s storytelling is simple yet profound. The storytelling’s rhythm makes it ideal for young audiences, encouraging appreciation in everyday moments.
Izzy B. delivers Look Up! at just the right time in our nation’s discourse. The simple messages of gratitude, beauty, sharing, and optimism are important for young readers to hear. One feature of this story I am grateful for is the magnificent illustrations by Stewart Long. The whimsical, expressive, and bright visuals elevate the characters’ feelings and the reading experience. The emotional impact of Gramm’s changing views is gentle but lasting. Readers will be left with an appreciation for the space they live in. Izzy B.’s words and Stewart Long’s art brilliantly blend to make a delightful read-aloud for families and classrooms alike. It’s joyful and left me smiling. When I closed the back cover, I went outside to Look Up! And, with thankfulness, I cheered Izzy and Stewart for their talent and creation.
Look Up! A Story About Changing Your Perspective by Izzy B. is a warm children’s picture book about learning to be thankful. Gramm is a grumpy ant who has made his home in a thorn. He complains about everything. One day, a mouse, a beetle, and a roach stop to admire his home. Gramm is irritated by their staring and tells them so. However, their interest in Gramm’s house moves him out to the yard to look around for himself. Soon, he notices something that has been there all along. Something beautiful that will change Gramm’s views and relationships. Izzy B.’s storytelling is simple yet profound. The storytelling’s rhythm makes it ideal for young audiences, encouraging appreciation in everyday moments.
Izzy B. delivers Look Up! at just the right time in our nation’s discourse. The simple messages of gratitude, beauty, sharing, and optimism are important for young readers to hear. One feature of this story I am grateful for is the magnificent illustrations by Stewart Long. The whimsical, expressive, and bright visuals elevate the characters’ feelings and the reading experience. The emotional impact of Gramm’s changing views is gentle but lasting. Readers will be left with an appreciation for the space they live in. Izzy B.’s words and Stewart Long’s art brilliantly blend to make a delightful read-aloud for families and classrooms alike. It’s joyful and left me smiling. When I closed the back cover, I went outside to Look Up! And, with thankfulness, I cheered Izzy and Stewart for their talent and creation.
Recommend this book:
Don't Be Mean to 13
Douglas Harris, Robyn E. Blumner
2026 Silver Medal
24 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
Don’t Be Mean to 13 by Douglas Harris is an exploration of superstitions, particularly the fear of the number thirteen and Friday the 13th. Written in a lighthearted tone, it aims to demystify these irrational beliefs and encourage readers, especially older children, to think critically about them. The author introduces Thirteen as a misunderstood character, highlighting how superstitions often stem from fear of the unknown or cultural myths rather than evidence or logic. The narrative blends historical context with playful illustrations. The book explains the origins of triskaidekaphobia, the fear of the number thirteen, by referencing Norse mythology and ancient mathematical beliefs. It also touches on the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th, linking it to the Norse goddess Frigga and the cultural association with witchcraft.
The illustrations add a whimsical charm, bringing Thirteen and his friend Friday to life as characters who are unjustly feared. The visual elements complement the text, making the concepts more engaging. The book also includes examples of other common superstitions, such as breaking a mirror or finding a penny heads-up, to illustrate the widespread and varied nature of these beliefs. Douglas Harris encourages readers to seek evidence and think critically. This approach is particularly important for children, as it helps them develop critical thinking skills that will serve them well in other areas of life. Don’t Be Mean to 13 combines humor, history, and education. It not only sheds light on the origins of superstitions but also empowers readers to overcome irrational fears. By introducing Thirteen as a lovable character, the book turns a traditionally feared number into a symbol of uniqueness and individuality. It will teach older children who have been exposed to superstitions that there’s nothing to fear.
Don’t Be Mean to 13 by Douglas Harris is an exploration of superstitions, particularly the fear of the number thirteen and Friday the 13th. Written in a lighthearted tone, it aims to demystify these irrational beliefs and encourage readers, especially older children, to think critically about them. The author introduces Thirteen as a misunderstood character, highlighting how superstitions often stem from fear of the unknown or cultural myths rather than evidence or logic. The narrative blends historical context with playful illustrations. The book explains the origins of triskaidekaphobia, the fear of the number thirteen, by referencing Norse mythology and ancient mathematical beliefs. It also touches on the superstition surrounding Friday the 13th, linking it to the Norse goddess Frigga and the cultural association with witchcraft.
The illustrations add a whimsical charm, bringing Thirteen and his friend Friday to life as characters who are unjustly feared. The visual elements complement the text, making the concepts more engaging. The book also includes examples of other common superstitions, such as breaking a mirror or finding a penny heads-up, to illustrate the widespread and varied nature of these beliefs. Douglas Harris encourages readers to seek evidence and think critically. This approach is particularly important for children, as it helps them develop critical thinking skills that will serve them well in other areas of life. Don’t Be Mean to 13 combines humor, history, and education. It not only sheds light on the origins of superstitions but also empowers readers to overcome irrational fears. By introducing Thirteen as a lovable character, the book turns a traditionally feared number into a symbol of uniqueness and individuality. It will teach older children who have been exposed to superstitions that there’s nothing to fear.
Recommend this book:
The Chameleon Who Couldn't Change Colors
Nielle P. Marques
2026 Gold Medal
36 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Matt Lebois for Readers' Favorite
The fascinating color-changing power of chameleons turns into a charming, vibrant story in The Chameleon Who Couldn’t Change Colors by author and illustrator Nielle P. Marques. Deep in a lush, tropical forest, Frilly is a chameleon who laments her inability to shift beyond various shades of green. She has the support of close friends who assure her she is perfect just as she is, but she can’t help wanting to be red instead. When she finds a way to fulfill her dream, it leads to a scary encounter that shows Frilly she should be careful what she wishes for. It’s not easy being green, unless that’s exactly what you need! Bolstered by chameleon facts, these interesting creatures and the entire visual cast make for an enchanting story time.
This gorgeous picture book has a simple story that shines with relatable feelings and meaningful friendship, and just a little bit of danger, but nothing to cause worry to any sensitive young readers. The unconditional support from Frilly’s friends touched me the most, but what truly makes the book pop is the incredible artwork. Done in a collage style using original acrylic paintings, it captures the vibrancy of the rainforest, with an abundance of colorful creatures, from exotic birds and insects to sloths and jaguars, and amazing flora on every page. The Chameleon Who Couldn’t Change Colors by Nielle P. Marques matches Eric Carle’s classic children’s books in visual appeal, no mean feat. A visual treat for parents and children alike, it absolutely deserves a place on bookshelves filled with unique art and genuine wonder.
The fascinating color-changing power of chameleons turns into a charming, vibrant story in The Chameleon Who Couldn’t Change Colors by author and illustrator Nielle P. Marques. Deep in a lush, tropical forest, Frilly is a chameleon who laments her inability to shift beyond various shades of green. She has the support of close friends who assure her she is perfect just as she is, but she can’t help wanting to be red instead. When she finds a way to fulfill her dream, it leads to a scary encounter that shows Frilly she should be careful what she wishes for. It’s not easy being green, unless that’s exactly what you need! Bolstered by chameleon facts, these interesting creatures and the entire visual cast make for an enchanting story time.
This gorgeous picture book has a simple story that shines with relatable feelings and meaningful friendship, and just a little bit of danger, but nothing to cause worry to any sensitive young readers. The unconditional support from Frilly’s friends touched me the most, but what truly makes the book pop is the incredible artwork. Done in a collage style using original acrylic paintings, it captures the vibrancy of the rainforest, with an abundance of colorful creatures, from exotic birds and insects to sloths and jaguars, and amazing flora on every page. The Chameleon Who Couldn’t Change Colors by Nielle P. Marques matches Eric Carle’s classic children’s books in visual appeal, no mean feat. A visual treat for parents and children alike, it absolutely deserves a place on bookshelves filled with unique art and genuine wonder.
Recommend this book:
The Fin-Tastic Arctic
Laura Mancuso
2025 Finalist
38 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Join mermaids Sara, Alix, and Lucy on an exhilarating underwater adventure in The Fin-Tastic Arctic by Laura Mancuso. Every winter, the three mermaids travel to the Arctic Dune to meet with their friends, Rory, Ella, and Winter, and this year is no different. After arriving at their destination, the mermaids start enjoying the sights and their favorite playgrounds when they see their friend Patty Puffin with oil stuck to their body. The mermaids help Patty clean off the oil and begin their next planned activity; to ride the frosty peaks on sleds. But now, they must help a baby polar bear named Puck, who is floating away from his family, find his way back home. Noah, a narwhal, and Kiki, a local village girl, are going to join the mermaids in their mission to bring Puck home.
The Fin-Tastic Arctic is an uplifting adventure tale that brings to light the increasingly relevant issue of climate change and demonstrates how it impacts the environment, oceans, and different living beings worldwide. Author Laura Mancuso has written an inspirational story using rhyming verses that showcase the power of friendship and the importance of working together to make the world a better place for all. Full of humor and heart, this picture book is a joy. Illustrator Jenna Guidi's beautiful artwork elevates the tale and makes it even more enjoyable for the reader. Young readers are going to love the different animals featured in this story. Recommended to all readers below the age of nine.
Join mermaids Sara, Alix, and Lucy on an exhilarating underwater adventure in The Fin-Tastic Arctic by Laura Mancuso. Every winter, the three mermaids travel to the Arctic Dune to meet with their friends, Rory, Ella, and Winter, and this year is no different. After arriving at their destination, the mermaids start enjoying the sights and their favorite playgrounds when they see their friend Patty Puffin with oil stuck to their body. The mermaids help Patty clean off the oil and begin their next planned activity; to ride the frosty peaks on sleds. But now, they must help a baby polar bear named Puck, who is floating away from his family, find his way back home. Noah, a narwhal, and Kiki, a local village girl, are going to join the mermaids in their mission to bring Puck home.
The Fin-Tastic Arctic is an uplifting adventure tale that brings to light the increasingly relevant issue of climate change and demonstrates how it impacts the environment, oceans, and different living beings worldwide. Author Laura Mancuso has written an inspirational story using rhyming verses that showcase the power of friendship and the importance of working together to make the world a better place for all. Full of humor and heart, this picture book is a joy. Illustrator Jenna Guidi's beautiful artwork elevates the tale and makes it even more enjoyable for the reader. Young readers are going to love the different animals featured in this story. Recommended to all readers below the age of nine.
Recommend this book:
Rocky
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree
Jennie E. Nicassio
2025 Honorable Mention
40 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Little Rocky is a Norway Spruce tree. He’s not as big as the other trees in the forest. Nor is he as strong, and his branches are bent the wrong way and his needles are seldom green. All Rocky wanted was to be chosen as the Rockefeller Christmas tree. There was an annual contest and the winning tree was covered in decorations and allowed to stand tall and proud for all to see. When the wildlife inhabitants of the forest heard of Rocky’s dream, they laughed. When a tall, lush spruce tree called Bruce Spruce heard, he laughed too. But Mary Louise, Guardian of the Forest, a fairy, didn’t laugh. She told Rocky to believe in himself and then he would outshine the others. So believe he did, and amazing things started to happen.
There is nothing more important in this life than the simple fact of believing in ourselves. This is a very important lesson that we all must learn and relearn over and over again. Jennie E. Nicassio’s beautifully illustrated picture book story, Rocky: The Rockefeller Christmas Tree, is a charmer for all ages. Not only does the author tell a significant story about Rockefeller’s Christmas tree tradition (actually a footnote at the end to outline this tradition might be a good idea), but she also presents the theme of believing in oneself, something we don’t do often enough. For in our belief lies our inner beauty and strength and that’s the important lesson that Rocky learned, as did the other creatures in the forest, including his main opponent, Bruce Spruce. Well done!
Little Rocky is a Norway Spruce tree. He’s not as big as the other trees in the forest. Nor is he as strong, and his branches are bent the wrong way and his needles are seldom green. All Rocky wanted was to be chosen as the Rockefeller Christmas tree. There was an annual contest and the winning tree was covered in decorations and allowed to stand tall and proud for all to see. When the wildlife inhabitants of the forest heard of Rocky’s dream, they laughed. When a tall, lush spruce tree called Bruce Spruce heard, he laughed too. But Mary Louise, Guardian of the Forest, a fairy, didn’t laugh. She told Rocky to believe in himself and then he would outshine the others. So believe he did, and amazing things started to happen.
There is nothing more important in this life than the simple fact of believing in ourselves. This is a very important lesson that we all must learn and relearn over and over again. Jennie E. Nicassio’s beautifully illustrated picture book story, Rocky: The Rockefeller Christmas Tree, is a charmer for all ages. Not only does the author tell a significant story about Rockefeller’s Christmas tree tradition (actually a footnote at the end to outline this tradition might be a good idea), but she also presents the theme of believing in oneself, something we don’t do often enough. For in our belief lies our inner beauty and strength and that’s the important lesson that Rocky learned, as did the other creatures in the forest, including his main opponent, Bruce Spruce. Well done!
Recommend this book:
The Legend of the Sleep-Eating Elephant
Nocola Williams
2025 Bronze Medal
36 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
The Legend of the Sleep-Eating Elephant by Nocola Williams is a sweet children’s story with an endearing message and themes of coexistence between humans and animals. Elephant has the important job of helping a village of growers tend to the garden and is responsible for watering the crops. One day he notices a cabbage is missing but doesn’t worry about it until pollination day arrives and the bees notice even more are missing. This means that the village has a thief. Humans and animals band together to find the culprit, and the answer is surprising. They must develop a plan to keep the culprit out of the garden and find a way to stop any more cabbages from being taken. This story focuses on coexistence and shows how one creature can make a huge impact with inspiration derived from Dr. Lucy King, a zoologist who has conducted studies on honeybees and elephant interaction.
The illustrations show the personified nature of the animals, specifically the elephant. Each of the animals has animated expressions so it is easy to see how they feel and what they’re thinking. The images also show the harmony between animals and humans in ways that are easy for children to discern. These show everyone working together to tend to the garden and figure out who is taking the cabbages. There are humorous moments that children will enjoy and will keep them entertained all the way through. The inspiration for the story is a great way to teach children about the interaction between animals, specifically elephants and honeybees, and humans. This is cleverly woven into the story as the honeybees are used to wake the elephant up whenever he sleep-walks his way toward the garden. The Legend of the Sleep-Eating Elephant by Nocola Williams is a unique children’s book that offers something new with a lesson of coexistence at the core, inspiration drawn from real life, and plenty of humor.
The Legend of the Sleep-Eating Elephant by Nocola Williams is a sweet children’s story with an endearing message and themes of coexistence between humans and animals. Elephant has the important job of helping a village of growers tend to the garden and is responsible for watering the crops. One day he notices a cabbage is missing but doesn’t worry about it until pollination day arrives and the bees notice even more are missing. This means that the village has a thief. Humans and animals band together to find the culprit, and the answer is surprising. They must develop a plan to keep the culprit out of the garden and find a way to stop any more cabbages from being taken. This story focuses on coexistence and shows how one creature can make a huge impact with inspiration derived from Dr. Lucy King, a zoologist who has conducted studies on honeybees and elephant interaction.
The illustrations show the personified nature of the animals, specifically the elephant. Each of the animals has animated expressions so it is easy to see how they feel and what they’re thinking. The images also show the harmony between animals and humans in ways that are easy for children to discern. These show everyone working together to tend to the garden and figure out who is taking the cabbages. There are humorous moments that children will enjoy and will keep them entertained all the way through. The inspiration for the story is a great way to teach children about the interaction between animals, specifically elephants and honeybees, and humans. This is cleverly woven into the story as the honeybees are used to wake the elephant up whenever he sleep-walks his way toward the garden. The Legend of the Sleep-Eating Elephant by Nocola Williams is a unique children’s book that offers something new with a lesson of coexistence at the core, inspiration drawn from real life, and plenty of humor.
Recommend this book:
A World of Things That Won’t Change
Finding comfort amidst big family transitions
Melissa Garin
2025 Silver Medal
31 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite
Change is never easy. But not everything has to change. In this amusing picture book, author Melissa Garin tells the tale of two siblings who have recently moved into their new home with their parents. Narrated in rhyme, A World of Things That Won't Change follows young Emma and her brother Eliott as they unpack their stuff in their new home. The siblings are worried that everything will be different in this new place. When their mom hears them talking, she reassures the kids that although life is full of changes, both big and small, some things remain constant, especially love. Soon, their dad chimes in to play a little game with Emma and Eliott, which includes listing the things that will never change.
Moving house or traveling to a new place often affects children. In times like these, parents and other adults need to remind youngsters of their favorite activities that they can continue to do together as a family. A World of Things That Won't Change is the story of such a family of rabbits. Author Melissa Garin weaves an engaging narrative in rhyme that is not only entertaining but also immensely uplifting. The characters are likable, and young readers will love the fact that the characters are a family of rabbits. In addition, the illustrations by Ale Tadeo perfectly complement Garin's storytelling, making the book even more fun to read. At its core, it's an adventure tale that will spark children's imagination and help them navigate change. Highly recommended!
Change is never easy. But not everything has to change. In this amusing picture book, author Melissa Garin tells the tale of two siblings who have recently moved into their new home with their parents. Narrated in rhyme, A World of Things That Won't Change follows young Emma and her brother Eliott as they unpack their stuff in their new home. The siblings are worried that everything will be different in this new place. When their mom hears them talking, she reassures the kids that although life is full of changes, both big and small, some things remain constant, especially love. Soon, their dad chimes in to play a little game with Emma and Eliott, which includes listing the things that will never change.
Moving house or traveling to a new place often affects children. In times like these, parents and other adults need to remind youngsters of their favorite activities that they can continue to do together as a family. A World of Things That Won't Change is the story of such a family of rabbits. Author Melissa Garin weaves an engaging narrative in rhyme that is not only entertaining but also immensely uplifting. The characters are likable, and young readers will love the fact that the characters are a family of rabbits. In addition, the illustrations by Ale Tadeo perfectly complement Garin's storytelling, making the book even more fun to read. At its core, it's an adventure tale that will spark children's imagination and help them navigate change. Highly recommended!
Recommend this book:
Let There Be Light
A Diwali Story
Siva K.C. Penamakuru
2025 Gold Medal
108 Pages
Check current price
Children - Fable
Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite
Light is the essence of our existence on this planet and on a far-off planet where pasumans celebrate the same as humans do here on Earth. In Siva K.C. Penamakuru’s Let There Be Light, preparing for the Diwali celebration each year is very serious. It takes days of preparation for this holiday. Only, this year, the events leading up to the big celebration are rather un-Diwali. But, as friends gather to make ready, things tend to fall into place for all the celebrations, including the traditional songs, stories, and, of course, festive treats. And, if that’s not enough to explain the importance of Diwali and other celebrations, there’s a letter at the end written by Jambu, one of the pasumans, and an important character in the story. The letter carefully explains it all.
Siva K.C. Penamakuru’s early chapter book, Let There Be Light: A Diwali Story, is an engaging and educational read. Set on a faraway planet, with anthropomorphic pasumans, this story follows the exciting lead-up to one of the great festivals of the year. The story reads like a fable, a fantasy of sorts. The language is simple and easy to follow, a great way to help young readers improve their reading skills. The few illustrations are bright, bold, and colorful and add texture and a bit of zest to the story. The plot is well-developed and leads the reader through an exciting adventure of festival preparation. The characters are believable and dialogue is used with care. At the end of the book, there’s a glossary to help readers follow some of the vocabulary and traditions. Very interesting.
Light is the essence of our existence on this planet and on a far-off planet where pasumans celebrate the same as humans do here on Earth. In Siva K.C. Penamakuru’s Let There Be Light, preparing for the Diwali celebration each year is very serious. It takes days of preparation for this holiday. Only, this year, the events leading up to the big celebration are rather un-Diwali. But, as friends gather to make ready, things tend to fall into place for all the celebrations, including the traditional songs, stories, and, of course, festive treats. And, if that’s not enough to explain the importance of Diwali and other celebrations, there’s a letter at the end written by Jambu, one of the pasumans, and an important character in the story. The letter carefully explains it all.
Siva K.C. Penamakuru’s early chapter book, Let There Be Light: A Diwali Story, is an engaging and educational read. Set on a faraway planet, with anthropomorphic pasumans, this story follows the exciting lead-up to one of the great festivals of the year. The story reads like a fable, a fantasy of sorts. The language is simple and easy to follow, a great way to help young readers improve their reading skills. The few illustrations are bright, bold, and colorful and add texture and a bit of zest to the story. The plot is well-developed and leads the reader through an exciting adventure of festival preparation. The characters are believable and dialogue is used with care. At the end of the book, there’s a glossary to help readers follow some of the vocabulary and traditions. Very interesting.
Contact Author -
