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Recommend this book:
Quack Along with Zack, Mack, and Jack
Jane Francis
2025 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Philip Van Heusen for Readers' Favorite
Zach, Mack, and Jack are mallard ducks that live on Farmer Hobbletick’s farm. Jane Francis shares their adventure in Quack Along with Zack, Mack, and Jack. This is a fun book to read with a heartwarming story. As your child enjoys the tale, they will be thrilled by the adventure of the day. The three mallards are joined in the pond by two ruddy ducks. First, the mallards have to decide if they will be friends with the new ducks or chase them away. The mallards decide the ruddy ducks are safe and they become friends. Lurking at the shore of the pond is a fox and the smaller ruddy duck is stuck in the weeds. Will the fox eat the unfortunate duck? The mallards and the ruddy ducks unite against the danger. See what happens when friends stick together even against a larger bully.
Ducks love to quack and so will your children as they follow Quack Along with Zack, Mack, and Jack. Jane Francis intends that children quack aloud as they read the book or have the book read to them. It won’t take much prodding for a parent to have their children join in the quacking. Jane’s style of writing is designed for younger children yet it teaches some major life lessons using many rhymes. Help your child learn the importance of sharing and making friends. Teach them to be cautious, but remind them that if friends stick together they can overcome any threat. Bullies tend to pick on the lonely and to leave groups alone. There is safety in numbers. This book will hold your child’s attention and make learning fun.
Zach, Mack, and Jack are mallard ducks that live on Farmer Hobbletick’s farm. Jane Francis shares their adventure in Quack Along with Zack, Mack, and Jack. This is a fun book to read with a heartwarming story. As your child enjoys the tale, they will be thrilled by the adventure of the day. The three mallards are joined in the pond by two ruddy ducks. First, the mallards have to decide if they will be friends with the new ducks or chase them away. The mallards decide the ruddy ducks are safe and they become friends. Lurking at the shore of the pond is a fox and the smaller ruddy duck is stuck in the weeds. Will the fox eat the unfortunate duck? The mallards and the ruddy ducks unite against the danger. See what happens when friends stick together even against a larger bully.
Ducks love to quack and so will your children as they follow Quack Along with Zack, Mack, and Jack. Jane Francis intends that children quack aloud as they read the book or have the book read to them. It won’t take much prodding for a parent to have their children join in the quacking. Jane’s style of writing is designed for younger children yet it teaches some major life lessons using many rhymes. Help your child learn the importance of sharing and making friends. Teach them to be cautious, but remind them that if friends stick together they can overcome any threat. Bullies tend to pick on the lonely and to leave groups alone. There is safety in numbers. This book will hold your child’s attention and make learning fun.
Recommend this book:
Boo Bear's Light
An A B C Rhyming Picture Book for Children (Little Library Treasures)
Catherine Ann Russell, Jessica Robin Harkey
2025 Honorable Mention
Kindle Edition
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Kristine Zimmerman for Readers' Favorite
Boo Bear's Light: an ABC Adventure by Catherine Ann Russell features the alphabet in a fun story. Boo Bear's Mama has just made a delicious apple cake, but where is Boo Bear? Boo Bear is cozied up in a tree, reading a book. When he hears his Mama call for him, he heads down the tree. He happens upon a little bug named Jack. The firefly has injured his wing and doesn't know how he will get home. Boo Bear's Mama and Papa are waiting for him. What will Boo Bear do? Will he be able to help Jack? Each alphabet letter is highlighted with a word from the rhyming verse. In addition, a hidden letter can be found on each page.
Catherine Ann Russell has written a sweet little adventure story that uniquely incorporates the alphabet in each rhyming verse. Boo Bear's Light starts with the traditional A is for Apple but then uses a variety of words, not just nouns, for the remaining letters. Jessica Robin Harkey's watercolor illustrations engage the young reader right away. There are some delightful details, especially when the bears are enjoying their cake with some uninvited guests. The hidden letters are cleverly disguised in the forest surroundings. Alphabet books can often be repetitive, so it is nice to read a story that includes some interesting words, which will increase a child's vocabulary. Catherine Ann Russell has created a thoughtful and caring character in Boo Bear. Boo Bear's Light: An ABC Adventure highlights the alphabet in an amusing tale.
Boo Bear's Light: an ABC Adventure by Catherine Ann Russell features the alphabet in a fun story. Boo Bear's Mama has just made a delicious apple cake, but where is Boo Bear? Boo Bear is cozied up in a tree, reading a book. When he hears his Mama call for him, he heads down the tree. He happens upon a little bug named Jack. The firefly has injured his wing and doesn't know how he will get home. Boo Bear's Mama and Papa are waiting for him. What will Boo Bear do? Will he be able to help Jack? Each alphabet letter is highlighted with a word from the rhyming verse. In addition, a hidden letter can be found on each page.
Catherine Ann Russell has written a sweet little adventure story that uniquely incorporates the alphabet in each rhyming verse. Boo Bear's Light starts with the traditional A is for Apple but then uses a variety of words, not just nouns, for the remaining letters. Jessica Robin Harkey's watercolor illustrations engage the young reader right away. There are some delightful details, especially when the bears are enjoying their cake with some uninvited guests. The hidden letters are cleverly disguised in the forest surroundings. Alphabet books can often be repetitive, so it is nice to read a story that includes some interesting words, which will increase a child's vocabulary. Catherine Ann Russell has created a thoughtful and caring character in Boo Bear. Boo Bear's Light: An ABC Adventure highlights the alphabet in an amusing tale.
Recommend this book:
Missy Moo and the Great Fart Mishap
A Laugh-Out-Loud Children's Farm Animal Adventure About Dancing, Friendship, and One Unexpected Smelly Noise!
Heidi Brooks
2025 Bronze Medal
34 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite
Missy Moo and the Great Fart Mishap by Heidi Brooks is a joyful romp through the barnyard, featuring a cow with a knack for moonwalking and a heart full of rhythm. We’re with Missy Moo, the life of the farm, who spends her time dazzling her fellow animals with her slick dance moves. But when an accidental fart erupts during her daily stroll, her confidence takes a hit as her friends scatter in shock and disgust. Mortified and lonely, Missy Moo hides away, sure that her days of barnyard fame are over. However, a group of empathetic animals, including a wise old cat and a bashful owl, share their tales of awkward moments, teaching Missy that friendship means loving each other through every little mishap, no matter how smelly. With playful language and hilarious illustrations by Zeeshan Shahid, this heartwarming tale delivers laughs, self-acceptance, and the timeless message that everyone farts sometimes, even moonwalking cows.
Author Heidi Brooks has a real knack for getting on the same level as her target audience, but in such a warm way that never feels like they’re being talked down to. This keen eye for inclusive and enthusiastic language has resulted in a hilarious and heartwarming story that makes children giggle while gently teaching empathy and self-acceptance. Missy Moo is such a lovable central character and a real active participant in her story, who doesn’t just let things happen around her. Zeeshan Shahid’s vibrant illustrations bring the barnyard to life with clear emotional cues for readers who need the pictures to help give them vital context for the characters’ inner feelings. It’s the perfect read-aloud book for parents, but also for educators who are looking to pair humor with meaningful life lessons, and I could see it forming the basis of some great classroom and playgroup sessions to explore important messages dynamically. Overall, I would certainly recommend Missy Moo and the Great Fart Mishap as an unapologetically silly and wonderfully sweet work of farmyard fun for young readers.
Missy Moo and the Great Fart Mishap by Heidi Brooks is a joyful romp through the barnyard, featuring a cow with a knack for moonwalking and a heart full of rhythm. We’re with Missy Moo, the life of the farm, who spends her time dazzling her fellow animals with her slick dance moves. But when an accidental fart erupts during her daily stroll, her confidence takes a hit as her friends scatter in shock and disgust. Mortified and lonely, Missy Moo hides away, sure that her days of barnyard fame are over. However, a group of empathetic animals, including a wise old cat and a bashful owl, share their tales of awkward moments, teaching Missy that friendship means loving each other through every little mishap, no matter how smelly. With playful language and hilarious illustrations by Zeeshan Shahid, this heartwarming tale delivers laughs, self-acceptance, and the timeless message that everyone farts sometimes, even moonwalking cows.
Author Heidi Brooks has a real knack for getting on the same level as her target audience, but in such a warm way that never feels like they’re being talked down to. This keen eye for inclusive and enthusiastic language has resulted in a hilarious and heartwarming story that makes children giggle while gently teaching empathy and self-acceptance. Missy Moo is such a lovable central character and a real active participant in her story, who doesn’t just let things happen around her. Zeeshan Shahid’s vibrant illustrations bring the barnyard to life with clear emotional cues for readers who need the pictures to help give them vital context for the characters’ inner feelings. It’s the perfect read-aloud book for parents, but also for educators who are looking to pair humor with meaningful life lessons, and I could see it forming the basis of some great classroom and playgroup sessions to explore important messages dynamically. Overall, I would certainly recommend Missy Moo and the Great Fart Mishap as an unapologetically silly and wonderfully sweet work of farmyard fun for young readers.
Recommend this book:
Count to 20 with the Silly Dinosaurs
Bonnie Kostan, Adept Content Solutions, Jon Kalvin
2025 Silver Medal
43 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Jennifer Senick for Readers' Favorite
Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs by Bonnie Kostan is a colorful and cheerful counting book that introduces young readers to numbers 1 through 20 through the antics of playful prehistoric creatures. Each page highlights a new number, paired with simple text and delightful illustrations that show dinosaurs engaging in a wide variety of silly activities like going to the beach, joining a rock band, attending a birthday party, and more. The repetition of structure helps reinforce number recognition, while the vibrant scenes create visual interest and energy. The friendly, smiling dinosaurs keep the tone lighthearted and engaging, ensuring that little learners stay interested from start to finish. Whether they’re counting two dinosaurs swimming in the sea or twenty dinosaurs saying goodnight, young readers are encouraged to participate by counting along with the pictures.
As an educator, I found Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs by Bonnie Kostan to be an inviting and valuable resource for supporting early numeracy skills. The illustrations by Jon Kalvin are fun and whimsical without being visually overwhelming, allowing children to match each number to the correct quantity easily. The consistent format and bold, clear numbers make it especially accessible to preschoolers just beginning to grasp numerical concepts and kindergarteners learning to read. This book would work beautifully as a read-aloud during circle time, with natural pauses to count aloud as a group. It also offers opportunities for follow-up activities like drawing, physical counting games, or creating your own silly dinosaur scenarios. With its appealing theme, engaging artwork, and educational value, Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs is a wonderful addition to any home, classroom, or early childhood math library. It brings energy and fun to foundational learning in a way that children will appreciate.
Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs by Bonnie Kostan is a colorful and cheerful counting book that introduces young readers to numbers 1 through 20 through the antics of playful prehistoric creatures. Each page highlights a new number, paired with simple text and delightful illustrations that show dinosaurs engaging in a wide variety of silly activities like going to the beach, joining a rock band, attending a birthday party, and more. The repetition of structure helps reinforce number recognition, while the vibrant scenes create visual interest and energy. The friendly, smiling dinosaurs keep the tone lighthearted and engaging, ensuring that little learners stay interested from start to finish. Whether they’re counting two dinosaurs swimming in the sea or twenty dinosaurs saying goodnight, young readers are encouraged to participate by counting along with the pictures.
As an educator, I found Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs by Bonnie Kostan to be an inviting and valuable resource for supporting early numeracy skills. The illustrations by Jon Kalvin are fun and whimsical without being visually overwhelming, allowing children to match each number to the correct quantity easily. The consistent format and bold, clear numbers make it especially accessible to preschoolers just beginning to grasp numerical concepts and kindergarteners learning to read. This book would work beautifully as a read-aloud during circle time, with natural pauses to count aloud as a group. It also offers opportunities for follow-up activities like drawing, physical counting games, or creating your own silly dinosaur scenarios. With its appealing theme, engaging artwork, and educational value, Count to 20 with Silly Dinosaurs is a wonderful addition to any home, classroom, or early childhood math library. It brings energy and fun to foundational learning in a way that children will appreciate.
Recommend this book:
Happy Bumble Bee
Ngoc Khanh Schmidt
2025 Gold Medal
40 Pages
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Children - Preschool
Reviewed by Melinda Facal for Readers' Favorite
Happy Bumble Bee is a delightful children’s picture book written and illustrated by Ngoc K. Schmidt. Young readers follow a charming bee as he goes joyfully about his day. From a shower in the morning, visiting flowers during the day, and dealing with the ever-changing weather, this little bee has a full day. Vibrant and cheerful illustrations enhance the upbeat and positive tone of this engaging story. Children will enjoy the bee’s adventures as he works together with butterflies to pollinate flowers. Readers of all ages will have fun seeing the world from the bee’s perspective as he seeks shelter from storms or basks in the sun. Interesting educational facts about the importance of bees are included along with the vital contributions bees make to the environment.
Happy Bumble Bee by Ngoc K. Schmidt presents the work of a bee in a fun and interesting way. This lively bee’s daily activities and adventures will likely spark discussions about bees' unique role in our environment. As the bee interacts with flowers and butterflies, children will also learn about nature's interconnectedness and pollinators' significant work. Parents, teachers, and caregivers will find this book to be a helpful beginning resource in teaching youngsters about the fascinating world of bees. Bright and colorful illustrations throughout vividly bring the natural world to life. This sweet story portrays bees as helpful and curious creatures, who work tirelessly all day to help maintain balance in our ecosystem. This is a highly recommended and enjoyable read.
Happy Bumble Bee is a delightful children’s picture book written and illustrated by Ngoc K. Schmidt. Young readers follow a charming bee as he goes joyfully about his day. From a shower in the morning, visiting flowers during the day, and dealing with the ever-changing weather, this little bee has a full day. Vibrant and cheerful illustrations enhance the upbeat and positive tone of this engaging story. Children will enjoy the bee’s adventures as he works together with butterflies to pollinate flowers. Readers of all ages will have fun seeing the world from the bee’s perspective as he seeks shelter from storms or basks in the sun. Interesting educational facts about the importance of bees are included along with the vital contributions bees make to the environment.
Happy Bumble Bee by Ngoc K. Schmidt presents the work of a bee in a fun and interesting way. This lively bee’s daily activities and adventures will likely spark discussions about bees' unique role in our environment. As the bee interacts with flowers and butterflies, children will also learn about nature's interconnectedness and pollinators' significant work. Parents, teachers, and caregivers will find this book to be a helpful beginning resource in teaching youngsters about the fascinating world of bees. Bright and colorful illustrations throughout vividly bring the natural world to life. This sweet story portrays bees as helpful and curious creatures, who work tirelessly all day to help maintain balance in our ecosystem. This is a highly recommended and enjoyable read.
Recommend this book:
How to Grow a Marshmallow Tree
Amelia and Paco
Stefanie Gamarra
2024 Finalist
Kindle Edition
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Children - Preschool
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.
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.
Recommend this book:
Eli Elephant Works Through Emotions
Practicing Kindness Along the Way (Pals with Purpose)
Shelby Stevens
2024 Honorable Mention
36 Pages
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Children - Preschool
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.
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.
Recommend this book:
Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes to School
Goes to School
A.M. Berkowitz
2024 Bronze Medal
24 Pages
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Children - Preschool
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.
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.
Recommend this book:
We're The Same, We're Different and We All Belong
KayJay Miller
2024 Silver Medal
32 Pages
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Children - Preschool
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.
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.
Recommend this book:
A Home Can Be. . .
Stephanie Seidler
2024 Gold Medal
39 Pages
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Children - Preschool
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.
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.
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