Reviewed by Jennifer Ibiam for Readers' Favorite

Amelia had a polar bear best friend named Paco. The duo loved sweets and always dreamed of beautiful adventures. One fateful day, they ran out of their tasty marshmallows with only one piece left. The friends brainstormed on how to get more marshmallows, and an idea struck. The previous week, Amelia learned how to grow apple trees at school, and it was time to replicate the lessons. They planted a piece of marshmallow and went through all the steps Amelia knew. Amelia and Paco waited for a while, but there were no sprouts. The friends then watered and fed the soil to no avail until Amelia employed a last resort. What did Amelia do, and did her marshmallow tree grow? Read How To Grow A Marshmallow Tree written by Stefanie Gamarra and illustrated by Mark Bertran for details.

How To Grow A Marshmallow Tree by Stefanie Gamarra is a fun and educative book for toddlers. This picture book has many nuggets that will help children shape their outlook on life. The book taught kindness and selflessness as Paco handed Amelia the last piece of marshmallow. Amelia also refused to eat it but tried multiplying it so there would be enough for them. The picture book will help children learn determination and a never-give-up attitude. Amelia stuck to her conviction, explored all parameters, and succeeded. Little ones will also understand the love, patience, attention, and care spent planting crops. Teachers and parents can read this storybook before practical planting lessons for kids. I loved the simple English, appealing pictures, and conciseness.

Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite

Have you ever had your plans for a wonderful day dashed to pieces? I think we all have. In Eli Elephant Works Through Emotions, Shelby Stevens explores various emotions, assuring children that emotions are natural and okay to have. Eli had planned a playdate with Finley Flamingo but was very angry, disappointed, and sad when his plans had to be canceled because Finley came down with the flu. With his mother’s help, Eli learns to heal his emotions by naming and talking about them and then taking steps to control them. Ways to control negative emotions include deep breathing and gratefulness. Since feelings follow thoughts, when one thinks correctly about emotions, these will change to positive emotions that allow the person to be kind, thoughtful, and loving. It is good to take time to be sad and cry, but then one must move on to healing and enjoying life again. While emotions may come and go, the important thing is how we respond to them.

Since everyone deals with emotions daily, a wise parent takes the time to help their child learn how to respond to them correctly. You can help your child learn about emotions and how to deal with them in Shelby Stevens’ wonderful children’s picture book, Eli Elephant Works Through Emotions. After telling this enjoyable story about Eli and his friend Finley, Shelby takes the time to share six steps for working through emotions. As a caring parent, you may want to read the book with your child more than once—first time for pleasure, then work through the book, asking questions about emotions and your child’s experience with them. To help facilitate your discussions, Shelby provides a section with some guidelines. Agostina Cozzo did a masterful job illustrating this story.

Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite

In Gigglet the Happy Little Piglet Goes to School by A.M. Berkowitz, young readers are taken on a delightful adventure with a charming character, Gigglet, as she happily heads off to school. The book features vibrant illustrations and an engaging narrative that creates an inviting world for early learners, encouraging them to join Gigglet in a day filled with giggles and fun. The simple and rhythmic language makes it an ideal choice for young children, capturing their attention and fostering a love for reading from an early age. As Gigglet goes through the school day, the book becomes an interactive experience, inviting young readers to giggle along with the cheerful piglet. The repetitive and rhythmic structure of the story aids in language development, making it both an educational and entertaining read for its target audience.

In Gigglet the Happy Little Piglet Goes to School, A.M. Berkowitz has crafted a standout board book that not only provides an enchanting narrative but also features colorful illustrations that bring the story to life. The book's simplicity is its strength, catering to the developmental needs of very early learners. For an enhanced experience, the story is complemented by the companion coloring and activity book, adding an extra layer of engagement and making this a comprehensive and interactive learning package. The rhythmic cadence of the text, coupled with the endearing character of Gigglet, creates a memorable reading experience for both children and their caregivers. This is a delightful addition to the world of children's literature, offering a perfect blend of entertainment and education for the youngest of readers. This book should be on everyone’s list of enjoyable reads. It is perfect for family reading time or when you want to read a story to your very early learners right before bed.

Reviewed by Kristine Zimmerman for Readers' Favorite

We're the Same, We're Different and We All Belong by KayJay Miller is a beautiful picture book that embraces the differences that make us unique. Six-year-old Marnie is our guide through this story. She shares the wisdom she has learned from her Mama, that everyone has many layers to them. People are more than what you see on the outside. Marnie jubilantly shares the things she loves about herself. She celebrates her thick, beautiful hair, that she can do difficult things (even if they are scary), and her self-confidence. Marnie also talks about a time when people judged her based on her looks alone and how that made her feel. Throughout the story, kids are encouraged to answer questions about what makes them unique.

KayJay Miller's We're the Same, We're Different and We All Belong is one of the best books I've read about celebrating and respecting diversity. Everything about this book is top-notch. Marnie is a character that kids will immediately want as their friend. She is confident yet also vulnerable and engaging. The illustrations are vibrant and full of life and emotions. I love how they are sprinkled throughout the text in addition to the full-color pages. The layout of this book is so inviting with varied text sizes and formatting. The message of diversity and acceptance is woven expertly throughout the story. KayJay Miller has crafted a luminous character in Marnie. I hope to see her in future stories. As a retired children's librarian, I've read thousands of picture books, and We're the Same, We're Different and We All Belong is one of the best.

Reviewed by Ann Linus for Readers' Favorite

Have you ever imagined where animals call home? Can you imagine a home outside the conventional four walls humans live in? A Home Can Be... explores the diverse places that serve as a home to humans and animals. A home can be spun from threads or woven from leaves. A home can be a tent or a condo. A home can be a ship on the sea or up high on tree branches. A home can be carried around or static. A home can be in an underwater cave or underground. A home can be anywhere. For me, home is anywhere I am happy to go to rest. Author Stephanie Seidler outlines many more options for home in this lovely little book, including an alphabetical glossary of homes. You should check them out.

A Home Can Be… inspired me to appreciate my home and other creatures’ homes. It was a thoughtful and creatively written read. I was impressed with how much information was relayed in so few lines. Each home was described in four lines, two of which had end rhymes, and the story was illustrated with beautiful images that brought the words to life. The illustrations by Anastasia Sikilinda added color and substance to the exposition. The diction was simple yet rich and would be an educating challenge for young readers. Most of all, I liked the cozy feeling this book inspired in me. Stephanie Seidler did a great job with this book, and I highly recommend it for all children.

Reviewed by Diana Lopez for Readers' Favorite

Going to the dentist to have your teeth cleaned can be scary for some children, especially if it is their first time. However, it doesn't have to be that way. Abby Patterson shares a story that will teach little ones how much fun this procedure can be. Miles Smiles is a story that takes place on a special day because Julia, an adorable girl, is going to the dentist for teeth cleaning. It is her second visit of the year. However, her little brother is going for the first time and he is nervous. Julia reassures him, showing him that there is nothing to fear. She even agreed to be treated first to allow her little brother to observe the whole process. After reading this book young readers will feel comfortable during their visits to the dentist.

I enjoyed Miles Smiles because it explains what the teeth cleaning procedure involves. I found it an excellent way to approach the topic with children because it will help them overcome their concerns. Abby Patterson uses melodious sentences with basic ideas. Young readers can practice reading at the same time that they learn about visiting the dentist. The illustrations are beautiful, with soft colors, conveying a congenial mood. The relationship between the siblings is also a positive aspect because it shows supportive interaction. At the end of the book, there is a Tooth Loss Chart with a diagram. It mentions the approximate age at which each baby tooth falls out so that readers can keep track. The book is perfect for demonstrating that going to the dentist can be a painless experience.

Reviewed by Melinda Facal for Readers' Favorite

Henrietta Hedgehog’s Prickly Problem by Carole P. Roman shares a beautiful story about self-acceptance. Henrietta is a charming hedgehog who is unhappy with her spiky quills and feels they keep her fellow critters from becoming close friends. While at school, some of the animals tease her about her prickly appearance. Wanting to fit in, Henrietta tries to change how she looks. The response from the animals at her school is not what Henrietta had expected. Adorable and detailed illustrations by Mateya Arkova highlight the emotions Henrietta experiences as she begins to understand how special she is. This poignant tale conveys a vital message about having the courage to be yourself and appreciate that our differences make each of us one of a kind.

Carole P. Roman’s Henrietta the Hedgehog’s Prickly Problem presents a situation that many children will easily relate to; everyone wants to feel included and loved for who they are. This uplifting story acknowledges that different attributes are essential to creating individuality. Henrietta’s sharp quills protect her from harm, while Bella the beaver’s teeth allow her to chew wood. Parents, teachers, and caregivers will enjoy the positive lessons promoting self-confidence. Henrietta and her friends are highly likable and demonstrate kindness, compassion, and empathy for one another. Children will be engaged and curious as they follow Henrietta while she discovers her inner strength and becomes more self-assured. This heartwarming tale will encourage young readers to embrace their extraordinary qualities. It is a highly recommended book.

Reviewed by Emma Megan for Readers' Favorite

Nervous Nolan Bison Goes Poopy on the Potty is an encouraging rhyming story. Kevin Christmann did a wonderful job of crafting this book for youngsters who may have trouble pooping on the potty. The story is engaging, educational, and entertaining. It's about Nolan, a tiny bison who is too nervous and scared to go poopy on the potty. Nolan loves diapers because they feel safe, but now that he has to poop, he wishes he had the courage to try the potty. Luckily, his mother offers him some encouraging words, and then his friend, Nina (a deer), tells him she doesn't wear diapers anymore. Their words motivate Nolan to be brave and overcome his fear. Nolan's accomplishment calls for a big celebration.

Nervous Nolan Bison Goes Poopy on the Potty is a great book encouraging little ones to try the potty. It shows children that being nervous is okay when going on the potty. It will convince them that pooping on the toilet is not scary as they may think it is, and they can try the potty at their own pace. Kevin Christmann's book contains vibrant, action-packed illustrations featuring activities that perfectly mix fun and learning. This rhyming story will capture any toddler's attention, especially those who love animals. It's a must-have for parents or grandparents having a bit of a struggle with potty training. It shows how to offer the gentle support and encouragement a toddler may need during potty training.

Reviewed by Emily-Jane Hills Orford for Readers' Favorite

We can’t all be good at everything and we can’t expect to love doing everything. That’s a very difficult lesson for everyone to learn, especially Petunia. She enjoys participating in activities at school, but the problem is: Petunia’s a unicorn. Her horn pierces the soccer ball and when she’s jumping on the trampoline, her horn gets stuck in the ceiling, with Petunia dangling below. Frustrated, she asks Auntie Sprinkles for advice. She’s surprised when Auntie suggests she takes up ballet and starts dancing around the house to demonstrate her agility and grace. Petunia goes along, but she’s not very good – at first. Then she works hard between classes and starts to improve. The only problem is Madison. She’s the best and she lets everyone know it. So, when auditions for the lead in the upcoming performance approach, Madison convinces everyone she’ll get the lead. Should Petunia try out anyway? She had improved, but has she improved enough to outshine the obvious star dancer? Sometimes we just need a little bit of encouragement, a whole lot of hard work, and a lot of faith in ourselves to prove to the world (and to prove to ourselves) that we’re always good enough!

R.L. Ullman’s picture book story, Petunia the Unicorn’s Magically Marvelous Ballet, is another exciting book in the Petunia Cupcake Fluffybottom series. Petunia has a lot of lessons to learn and she’s about to find her niche in a very difficult world where appearances matter and pride can easily become one’s downfall. The plot follows Petunia’s journey to discover her talents and the lessons she learns along the way. The language is simple and there’s lots of dialogue to help the story move forward with ease. The illustrations, as always, are bright, bold, and spectacular, just like the main character, Petunia. The entire story is magical and full of charm. And you can’t have a spectacular Petunia adventure without a little bit of humor and a little bit of unicorn magic. It’s not always about winning, but rather about being the best you can be, being proud of your own accomplishments, and being a good friend at all times, even to those who don’t always demonstrate friendly attitudes. Absolutely beautiful!

Reviewed by Amy Louise Hill for Readers' Favorite

My Bumpy Lumpy Belly Button by Cindy Ninni Grant is a funny and uplifting picture book for young children. Does your child have an outie belly button and do they ever think that they're strange because of it? This book will help change that by explaining where belly buttons come from and providing them with the reassurance they're looking for. A young girl named Charli has an outie belly button, and she hates it! She thinks it is weird and gross and it makes her feel insecure. Charli has many questions about belly buttons and doesn't understand why they exist in the first place. After a beautiful explanation and kind words from her dad, Charli soon realizes how belly buttons are made and how special they are. Charlie learns that her belly button is a part of her mom and that it is how she was able to grow when she was in her tummy. Charli no longer sees her belly button as weird; she now loves her outie!

My Bumpy Lumpy Belly Button was a joy to read. I love books that promote self-acceptance, and even more so when they are aimed at children. Body shaming is still a huge issue and needs to be tackled from a young age so that it becomes a thing of the past, and with books like this, that may become a reality sooner rather than later. As well as learning from the story, children will laugh their socks off as it is full of fun and silly belly button comparisons. My favorite was the giant coconut! I adored every word Cindy Ninni Grant has written and I hope to see more soon. Keep up the good work; children are going to love this book!