Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

Life is full of possibilities and what-ifs. You can be anything you want to be if only you believe in yourself. You can be an astronaut or a chef, a writer or a judge, or even a scientist. You might be different in how you look, in how you dress, even in abilities (or disabilities), but deep down, we’re all the same. We have a purpose. We were all meant to be here and there is a reason why we are here. But first, we must grow and learn and dream big, while working with others, caring for others, and accepting others. In our unique qualities lie our strengths and our power to make this world a better, more inclusive place to live.

Naomi V. Dunsen-White’s picture book story, Why Am I Here? A Child’s Book About Purpose, is a compassionate look at purpose and how we all fit into the grand scheme of this thing we call life. The concepts are presented in rhyming verse with a lyricism that will catch the attention of young readers. The author presents many possible careers a young person might aspire to and work toward, as well as what roads they might take and what roadblocks they might face. Life is a grand adventure, but the most important thing we all must remember is that we’re in this together and we must accept each other in spite, or because of, our differences. “We all have our dreams and a right to belong./ We stand together, united and strong.” These are powerful words to live up to. The author finishes the book with an interactive exercise, challenging young readers to think more deeply about the concepts they learned in the story. I love the illustrations – beautiful!

Reviewed by Vincent Dublado for Readers' Favorite

Dear Daughter: From Mother To Daughter Picture Book To Build Self Esteem by Jamie Chin is a charming story about self-esteem geared toward young girls. The girl in this story is unnamed, which means that she can be any young lady out there, as well as the mother who tells the story. In short, easy-to-read paragraphs, the mother talks about what she finds amazing about her daughter. She describes her hair, eyes, smile, and even deep sighs. The mother believes that her daughter is a lovely little human who possesses infinite possibilities and that the world will soon know that she is destined for greater things. This book sends the message to young girls that there is no need to be perfect as every person on this planet is unique, and that is why it is important to stay true to one’s self.

Children’s minds are very impressionable, which is why during their formative years, it is important to consistently provide them with a positive, creative environment to boost and develop their self-esteem. Part of this provision are books about self-esteem and unconditional love. Jamie Chin’s Dear Daughter accomplishes the teaching of personal value and staying true to oneself. It does not exactly have a plot in the real sense, and it reads more like a heartwarming message, but the message couldn’t have been delivered in a more creative and direct way. Its overall concept is further amplified by Alena Karabach’s appealing illustrations, as her artwork gives pictorial depth to the young girl engaged in different activities. This is a wonderful storybook to foster a positive self-image and self-confidence, and it can also be used by adults to spark discussions with young girls on the topic.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

Dads are pretty special. I know my Dad was. How about yours? Oliver has never met his grandfather, his father’s Dad. In fact, his Dad has never met him either. Oliver makes a list of all the things he would tell his grandfather about Dad if he were to meet him. It’s a pretty special list that includes all the wonderful things Oliver’s Dad does for him and how he’s always there when needed. Oliver’s Dad teaches him how to do things, shares special times with him (even if it means being silly), is there when Oliver is hurt or scared and, most important, reads to him every night: “He says that a child without books is like a house with no windows.” This is one very smart, loving Dad.

Victor Dias de Oliveira Santos’s picture book story, My Dad, My Rock, is a tender, compassionate look at a father-son relationship. The plot follows Oliver’s description of his Dad, listing all the great qualities that he’s sure his Dad’s Dad would want to know. The plot is a journey not only about the father-son bond but also about what it truly means to be a Dad. The language is simple so young readers can follow along and the protagonist, Oliver, will certainly connect with young readers and their feelings toward their Dads. As the plot reaches its climax, Oliver learns the most important lesson of all; that his Dad believes Oliver can be whatever he wants to be when he grows up. What do you think Oliver wants to be most? This is a beautiful, touching story that will melt your heart in the same way that Robert Munsch’s book, Love You Forever, touched generations of young readers (and their loving parents, too).

Reviewed by Astrid Iustulin for Readers' Favorite

Do you like playing with your pets? Do you think they are amusing? I absolutely agree with you, so I invite you to add a new furry friend to those you already have and have fun with him. Meet Frankie, the adorable protagonist of Frankie the Ferret by Kimberley Paterson. Inspired by the pet ferret who lived with the author's family for several years, this book will make you enjoy the company of Frankie while he steals your socks and hides them, does the ferret dance, plays with other pets, and digs holes into which he disappears. Just give him time to rest after all this fun! With this playful pet, it is impossible to get bored.

Frankie the Ferret is a funny and colorful book that will delight all children who read it. I immediately liked the idea that the protagonist of this story is a less common pet than cats and dogs (but do not worry, they are his playmates). In this way, children will understand that even unusual animals such as ferrets can be good company. Frankie is adorable, and I hope he will be the protagonist of many other stories so he can reveal to us his other habits. I am happy that Kimberley Paterson has shared Frankie's adventures with many young readers and that she has thus allowed them to enjoy the ferret's company as her family had for so many years. The joy that this book gives will make you appreciate this gift very much.

Reviewed by Vernita Naylor for Readers' Favorite

What are some of the best things to do when you have a loved one that's either experiencing dementia or Alzheimer's? As the population is changing, people are living longer. According to the Alzheimer's Association: "By mid-century, the number of Americans age 65 and older with Alzheimer's dementia may grow to 13.8 million. This represents a steep increase from the estimated 5.8 million Americans age 65 and older who have Alzheimer's dementia today." In the beautiful illustrated children's book Grandma, It's Me! A Children's Book about Dementia by Y. Y. Chan reflects the warmth, patience, kindness, and beauty of caring for a loved one battling dementia. While this book is based upon Chan's life with her grandmother who passed at the age of 95, it also gives a face, presence and exposure of the struggles plaguing this country. Dementia is quickly becoming one of the top five leading causes of death within the U.S. This book offers so many wonders in learning about the journey of loved ones living with dementia or Alzheimer's and those who care for them. This book is interactive because children are asked to reflect, perform activities, learn about dementia and Alzheimer's, and understand the connection between music and memories.

I was able to personally connect with Grandma, It's Me! by Y. Y. Chan because I've had six aunts that lived in a state of dementia for over ten years. To watch my cousins relocate either themselves or their mother to personally care for them for at least a decade helped me to learn and understand the essence of caregiving that was required of me to care for my father as he morphed into another person. Since dementia and Alzheimer's is occurring in many homes, children need to have the tools and a better understanding of what is happening right before their eyes. It was difficult for me as an adult and it can become tiring as Riley witnessed, but with helping her grandma to tap into music, photos, and sharing other memories, this journey can become a beautiful experience. I loved this book and highly recommend it for young and old alike.

Reviewed by Amy Louise Hill for Readers' Favorite

That Monster on the Block by Sue Ganz-Schmitt is a picture book for young children. One day Monster notices that someone new is moving into Vampire's old house. He ponders all the possibilities of who it could be. It may be an "ogre," a "dragon," or even a "greedy goblin." Monster can't wait to find out, and excitedly starts practicing how he will greet his new neighbor. Monster waits impatiently until, finally, the neighbor makes an appearance. It isn't who Monster was expecting. Far from it - the new neighbor is a clown! Monster is worried and quickly calls his other neighbors to alert them to the clown's arrival. Monster refuses to have the clown as a neighbor and goes to every length to get rid of him, even though his friends have already warmed to the clown. Will Monster succeed in removing the clown from the neighborhood or will he see that having a clown as a neighbor isn't all that bad? Find out in this fun-filled book.

I enjoyed every page of Sue Ganz-Schmitt's new book That Monster on the Block. It gripped me from the start and entertained me throughout the entire story. As well as being highly entertaining, this book also teaches important life lessons. It shows that we should accept people for who they are, no matter their differences, and that we shouldn't judge anyone by their appearance as it is what's inside that counts. The illustrations by Luke Flowers are cute and funny, and children are going to love every one of them. If you are looking for a new book to read with your child, then look no further; this would make the perfect bedtime story.

Reviewed by Cheryl Schopen for Readers' Favorite

Molly Morningstar, A Doll for Me, written by Andrea Coke and illustrated by M. Fernanda Orozco, is about a little girl named Molly who has just been invited to a birthday party. The invitation said to bring a favorite doll. The problem is that Molly cannot find a doll that looks like her. She searches and searches but doesn’t have any luck finding one. Her parents seem to have accepted the idea that it’s unlikely she will find a doll that looks like her, but Molly has her own plan. Being the problem-solver that she is, she comes up with an idea all on her own.

I absolutely adored this book, and I immediately wanted to buy a box of these and distribute them to the schools I work at. I think every parent and educator should have this book. It teaches a beautiful message. Children need to feel represented in the books they read and the toys they play with. We need to celebrate and embrace diversity and inclusion. Growing up Asian, I felt very underrepresented in many things, from books to television shows. So, I understand the importance of making sure that children feel like they belong. Molly Morningstar is a girl that every child can look up to. She didn’t just accept not being able to find a doll that looks like her. She got creative, and she didn’t give up. Not only does this book have an amazing message and a one-of-a-kind main character, but it has incredibly vivid and eye-catching illustrations. I can’t explain how impressed I am with these images by M. Fernanda Orozco. And Molly Morningstar, A Doll for Me is Andrea Coke’s debut picture book? I am at a loss for words. Unbelievable. This is definitely my new favorite picture book.

Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

Idia of the Benin Kingdom is a children’s historical fiction picture book written by Ekiuwa Aire and illustrated by Alina Shabelnyk. Idia had the strangest dream on the night before the Igue festival. The villagers in Ugieghudu, in Benin, an African kingdom, looked forward to this day of dancing, music, and mouth-watering things to eat. Idia and her best friend Adesuwa were excited as they walked along the wooded path that led into town. They and the other young children had practiced a dance in honor of the festival. Her dream, however, kept hold of Idia’s imagination. In it, she watched a woman who was a mighty warrior. She seemed virtually indestructible, no matter how many arrows were launched at her. And, after the fighting, this same woman helped to heal the injured, her knowledge of herbs and potions being indispensable to her healing arts. Idia loved to hear stories about battles and magic, but her own country was blessed with peace, and its people were happy. Who was this woman, and why did Idia have this dream about her?

Idia of the Benin Kingdom introduces young readers to the story of Queen Idia of Benin, who played an important role during the reign of her son, Esigie, who ruled Benin from 1504-1550. But don’t let the dry historical facts deter you from selecting this book for storytime or even a bedtime read. Ekiuwa Aire’s story is compelling and fascinating. Children become familiar with Idia when she is approximately their age. They get the premise of the story that dreams can be important and that their goals are worth working to achieve. I especially appreciated the fact that Idia’s father is supportive of her desire to learn to be a warrior. What a grand way of showing a young girl that she’s not limited by societal expectations and can take on any role in life.

Alina Shabelnyk’s illustrations are superb! Each panel tells a complete story, filled with action, drama, and meticulous detail. Readers see the imagery of Idia’s dream, her happy walk with her friend to the village for the celebration, and her studies under her father’s tutelage. My favorite panel, however, would have to be the one depicting Idia and the other children dancing at the festival. There’s so much to love about this picture: the depiction of motion, the joy expressed on the adults' faces, and those graceful dancing children. Idia of the Benin Kingdom is that rare jewel of a children’s picture book that can be read over and over, and the historical information the author gives at the end of the book may get kids considering history in a whole new light. Most highly recommended.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

Bradley rushes outside to the garden to collect flowers for his mother. He’s having fun collecting all kinds of flowers when a loud noise startles him. Then he sees it: a giant dinosaur. It’s not frightening, but rather friendly and it takes Bradley on an adventure to a land full of all kinds of dinosaurs: Dinoland. Bradley shares his flowers with the dinosaurs and enjoys playing with them, even having a ride on one of the dinosaurs, a pterasaur, getting a good view of Dinoland from above. He loses track of time, but fortunately, he realizes when it’s time to leave. The only thing is, he no longer has the flowers he promised to collect for his mother. That’s what imagination can do to a child, or anyone, really: it whiles away the time so quickly but with effective creativity.

Julian Hilton’s children’s picture book, Bradley and the Dinosaur, is a sweet story about having creative, imaginative fun. There’s nothing complex about this story, no hidden messages. With a simple plot that follows young Bradley’s adventures in Dinoland, it inspires young readers to enjoy their own imaginations and not to be afraid to allow dreams to fill their time with simple pleasures. Told mostly in rhyming verse and with beautiful, bold, colorful illustrations, this story will appeal to the very young reader and perhaps those just learning to read. Young dinosaur enthusiasts will take special pleasure in the many dinosaur names listed and illustrated in this charming story. Wouldn’t you love to be a child again and visit Dinoland? The invitation to adventure is one’s own imagination.

Reviewed by Joy Hannabass for Readers' Favorite

My Big Welcome: A Story About Kindness by Onaolapo Dagunduro is the story of a little girl who has to change schools in the middle of first grade. Emilia loves her school and doesn't want to move and leave her friends. She remembered a new girl who came to her current school, and the difficult time she had, and now she is in the same position. She is scared to be going to a new school with new people, being so alone and lost because she doesn't know where anything is. She will miss her old friends and her old school. Emilia doesn't like the city at all, everyone is busy and there are too many people and streets. Then, finally, the day comes for her to visit the new school. When Emilia and her mom walk into the classroom, Emilia has the surprise of her life.

What a sweet caring story. My Big Welcome is an amazing book for children to read when they are transferring from one school to another. It follows the fears of a first-grader, her thoughts about moving, and every scary thing involved. Adults do not always understand what's in their child's heart, and having a book such as this for children helps parents to explain in a better way about moving to a different place and all that is involved. I look at this as a conversation starter for parents. They can read this book to their child and then easily explain what will happen, as well as answering any questions their child may have.

I can't forget the amazing job of Saoirse Lou in creating just the right illustrations to perfectly bring this story to life. The characters are adorable, I love their cute expressions. And the vivid warm colors are charmingly beautiful. I especially love the purples and lavenders. If your family is planning a move that will send your children to different schools, or you know someone in this position, Onaolapo Dagunduro's My Big Welcome is a book you definitely want. I think it would be really nice to have this book in every elementary school library. I like it that much!