Children's Book Reviews
Here's a list of fantastic children's books you can check out. The amazing authors and illustrators would love to see your encouraging comments. You can also support each author by asking your local library to carry their book (no cost to you - infinite gratitude from the creators).
For your convenience, Amazon links are included. I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Mamiachi and Me
Empowering and educational!
This is an upbeat story about female mariachis seen through the eyes of a mother and daughter. It’s heartwarming, transcendent, and educational, all at the same time.
The illustrations are vibrant and portray the passion of the characters and the subtle messaging.
I love that this story is the epitome of women supporting and uplifting other women. It also includes backmatter about women in mariachi bands and so much more.
Written by Jolene Gutiérrez and Dakota Gutiérrez
Illustrated by Mirelle Ortega
Worm and Caterpillar Are Friends
Celebrating friendship and metamorphosis!
This story cleverly and simply (and it’s cleverer in its simplicity) weaves a tale about a worm and caterpillar who become friends. They note how alike they are, yet also how different, and agree to be friends even though they are different. Then a beautiful change occurs that threatens the friendship.
The illustrations are adorable, and the artist gives the characters quirk and likability.
I love that this story addresses a major issue all of us face today in a relatable and friendly way.
Written & Illustrated by Kaz Windness
The Ofrenda That We Built
Celebrating those we love and miss!
This is a beautifully written story about the ofrenda a family built to honor the main character’s grandfather. Each family member shows their affection through the time and care dedicated to gathering and making just the right items to honor their relative.
The vibrant illustrations are delicious and draw the reader right into the scene.
I love that this story covers a delicate topic and shows how other cultures remember their loved ones in a celebration.
Written by Jolene Gutiérrez and Shaian Gutiérrez
Illustrated by Gabby Zapata
When You Love a Book
Kaz hits a home run again!
This story is a beautiful serenade to all the children’s books we love and adore. It will open the heart of young ones to new reads and hopefully give that ‘aww’ moment to adults.
The illustrations are simply gorgeous and have a mixed media feel! The artist captures all the whimsy and joy our good friends, the books, bring to us.
I’m in love with this book and will read it again and again.
Written by Kaz Windness
Illustrated by Heather Brockman Lee
Papa and Pearl
Divorce is a tough subject to tackle. Annette M. Clayton addresses this issue for children with honesty, integrity, and a helping hand for both the children and caregivers. The story deftly weaves a tale about how the young child feels, what changes, and what constants they can count on during this difficult journey.
The illustrations have bold color and soft brush strokes, adding to the poignancy and tender scenes.
This would be a great book for children of divorce to understand they are not alone in how they feel and learn a few tips to help them cope. This is also great for other children and adults to understand the emotional upheaval created by divorce and how they might help.
I especially love that the backmatter not only has tips for children to cope, but also for caregivers.
Written by Annette M. Clayton
Illustrated by Kim Barnes
Capybara Zen, a Story and Coloring Book
Adorable!
Capybaras are just so darned cute.
Helen H. Wu has launched a whole new planet full of capybaras in space. One of those adorable critters, named Capy, comes to Earth and has a freak out as it’s so different from his home planet. Before he leaves, he practices Zen to soothe his emotions before the long trip home. And, in doing so, is surprised to see the results around him. What did he see? You’ll have to read the story to find out.
I love how this beautiful story is also a coloring book, allowing children of all ages to practice their own Zen.
Written and Illustrated by Helen H. Wu
This Book is Full of Holes
You have to check it out!
Until now, I didn’t know my education was full of holes!
Nora Nickum weaves a funny and informative story about holes…all kinds of holes. And in places you wouldn’t have thought of if you suddenly found yourself on a game show and needed to list all the types of holes you can imagine. My favorite is the ‘whodunnit’ hole.
The illustrations are funny, popping with color, and pull you right into the reading.
This would be a great STEM book for children to learn about different types of holes and a book to just have fun with the story even without the factual notes.
Frankenstein's Matzah: A Passover Parody
What's not to love?!
K. Marcus wrote a simply fantastic book! It has everything from Jewish culture, definitions of Jewish words (which I absolutely want to learn more), science projects, a kitty, and it’s all wrapped up in a graphic picture book.
Oh, yeah, and a monster!
The darling illustrations are well-paired with the text.
This would be a great introductory book for children to science as the author shows the simplicity of science experiments with engaging and thoughtful script. It’s also a wonderful cultural diversity book to discuss Jewish Passover traditions.
I’m going to read this book over and over again.
Written by K. Marcus
Illustrated by Sam Loman
Trucker Kid
Engaging!
Athena misses her dad when he drives his big rig. But she loves it when he comes home!
And most of all, she likes it when she gets to tag along.
Full of fun trucking words and knowledge, this book is sure to charm everyone (kiddo and adult) who loves trucks.
With loving illustrations, this book encourages discussions about family, friends, and trucking! Backmatter included to create conversations about why we need trucks.
Written by Carol Gordon Ekster
Illustrations by Russ Cox
The Monster Above the Bed
Absolutely adorable!
A topsy-turvy romp in which the creature sleeping under the bed thinks there is a monster above their bed. Blossom, the cutest monster ever, here’s things above her bed. She investigates and finds…a monster? A new friend?
Delightful illustrations immerse the reader while we’re taken on Blossom’s quest to find that pesky monster above her bed.
Written by Kailei Pew
Illustrated by Steph Lew
Sometimes, a Tiger
Destined to Become a Classic!
This is a lovely and empathetic story about Dario, who doesn’t have much to eat, but is quite rich with imagination. Through his story, he shows us that it only takes one person to help change the day for others who may be having a “not-so-shiny day.”
With artful language and amazing illustrations, this book promotes conversations of hunger, imagination, and kindness. Absolutely delightful.
Written and Illustrated by Z.B. Asterplume
Little Ellie Learns to Respect
A great read by creative children!
Little Ellie sometimes forgets to do what her parents ask of her. After forgetting to pick up her toys, she trips over them and gets an owie. After that, she tries to remember what her parents ask her to do and realizes life is simpler and happier.
What I love about this book is that the parents don’t yell at her, merely reinforce why they ask Ellie to do certain things.
With adorable illustrations, this book promotes conversations of why parents ask children to do things, kindness, and empathy.
Written and Illustrated by The Malone Kids
Zadie and the Witch’s Tea
Magical!
Delightful rhyme, fanciful dresses, and enchanting characters greet you in this spin of Cinderella’s tale.
Zadie dreams of joining the witch’s high tea, but her sister’s won’t let her go. Her Hairy Godspider has other plans. As the young witches spin spells, competing to be the Grand Witch’s assistant, Zadie shows us that kindness is the strongest magic of all.
Written by Gayle C Krause
Illustrated by Kate Talbot
Long Goes to Dragon School
So much fun!
Intertwining Eastern and Western dragon lore, Helen W. Wu spins a tail of Long, a dragon in his first day of school, who doesn’t quite fit in with the other dragons. Afterall, dragons are supposed to breathe fire (Western culture) and Long breathes water (Eastern culture).
We learn that each of us has unique talents that benefit others. By embracing our talents, rather than hiding them, we get to be ourselves and happy.
The book is wrapped in amazing watercolor illustrations, enhancing the story and drawing the reader right into the classroom.
Inclusive of backmatter, this story would be a great addition to educational learning, and it’s just so much fun to read.
Written by Helen H. Wu
Illustrated by Mae Besom
A Barnyard Christmas
A classic!
Donna L Martin’s creative and engaging twist on 'Twas the Night Before Christmas is sure to become a Christmas classic!
The barnyard critters celebrate Christmas Eve when Santa Claws arrives, dropping presents from his nest pulled by a team of hawks. The artwork is adorable and colorful, pulling you right into the story.
The book left a smile on my face and cheer in my heart.
Written by Donna L. Martin
Illustrated by Nimra Junaid
Hilton’s Island
Fuzzy wuzzy illustrations!
Hilton, the family pooch, goes for a romp on the beach, away from his family. Along the way, he meets new friends native to Hilton’s Island. At the end of the day, when everyone goes home, Hilton realizes he doesn’t know where his family is and is scared.
Beautiful illustrations bring this fun-loving character to life. It feels like you could reach out and scruff Hilton's furry head.
This book encourages discussions about dogs, animals native to a specific area, and the meaning of family. Complete with fun backmatter learning.
Written by Mary Beth McCarthy
Illustrated by Michele Ziemke
Be My ValenSlime
Do darned cute!
An adorable celebration of love…and monsters.
Snoodle wants to celebrate Valentine’s Day with the other monsters and silly mayhem ensues. From the very first page, the artwork puts a smile on your face. This book is just so darned cute!
Written by Kris Tarantino
Illustrated by Cori Doerrfeld
Lunar New Year, a Celebration of Family and Fun
Sunning and joyful!
A stunning cultural celebration of the Lunar New Year, highlighting family, friends, and fun. A great way to learn about different traditions and perhaps find a new tradition for yourself.
Colorful and joyful artwork accompany this fun read.
Written by Mary Man-Kong
Illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan
Good Morning, I Love You, Violet!
An absolute favorite!
A beautiful story of ‘planting seeds of kindness’, starting with yourself.
Wouldn’t it be a lovelier world if we could love ourselves and treat others with kindness? This messaging is so needed in today's world.
The illustrations are charming and joyful. Stunning combination of story and art.
Written by Shauna Shapiro
Illustrated by Susi Schaefer
Our World: Argentina
Yay! She did it again!
Another joyful read by this talented author. Explore Argentina with a child as he spends his day with his mommies.
Delightful, vibrant, and cleverly educational.
Written by Aixa Pérez-Prado
Illustrated by Mariana Ruiz Johnson
I Ship: A Container Ship's Colossal Journey
Brilliant!
A fascinating read from the perspective of a container ship – BRILLIANT!
I Ship is a fun read and chock full of learning opportunities. Inquisitive kids will love this book.
Written by Kelly Rice Schmitt
Illustrated by Jam Dong
Wash Day
No more ouchies!
Jelaya has gorgeous hair, but washing and restyling HURTS! So she hides.
Her big sister comes to the rescue and the two have heartwarming sister time, without the ouchies, while showing us how to take care of their curly manes.
Written by Tiffany Golden
Illustrated by Lhaiza Morena
Hugh the Manatee
Hilarious!
Gentle Hugh just wants to make new friends. But everyone visits the other tanks in the Sunlight Bay Aquarium and doesn’t even notice him.
He finds himself in hilarious situations when he tries to act like other creatures, in the hopes he will be noticed. In the end, Hugh learns how special he truly is.
Includes information about an endangered species, accompanied by sharks and mermaids, children are sure to love this book.
Written by Kim Dowd
Illustrated by Melissa Janssen
Doña Gracia Saved Worlds
I hope this is taught in school!
Accompanied with a rich tapestry of colors, we learn the incredible story of Doña Gracia.
She was brave, intelligent, beautiful, and a hero – not just to the Jewish community, but to the whole world.
Amazing!
Written by Bonni Goldberg
Illustrated by Alida Massari
A Christmas Eve Wish for Santa
Delightul!
A delightful rhyming book with gorgeous illustrations with a wonderful message – a wish for Santa.
A creative display of gratitude and wonderment. Bravo!
Written by Deb Adamson
Illustrated by Anne Zimanski
Our Class is a Country
Yes!!!
We are all different…and we are all wonderful.
Classrooms are truly diverse and I love this book showing the fun, unique ways we are different, along with the gentle messages of inclusivity and positivity!
Written by Andria W. Rosenbaum
Illustrated by Dream Chen
Heroes Don't Have to Fly
Let your words soar!
Words can hurt or lift us up. In this adorable story, Scooter the bird stands up against the fowl-tempered new bird and turns things around with…words.
Written by Shannon Anderson
Illustrated by Olga Demidova
Copy That, Copy Cat!
Clever!
A brilliantly clever book engaging children as clues are given to guess an animal and the invention they inspired.
With fun facts and vibrant illustrations, this is sure to be a big hit with young readers, in school, and libraries.
Written by Katrina Tangen
Illustrated by Giulia Orecchia
Everybody Has a Body
A Must Read!
Everyone had a body, and each body is different. The author promotes body neutrality – you don’t have to see your body as good or bad, it just is. Body positivity is great, but how achievable is it for everyone?
I love the idea of learning there are different types of bodies, no one shape is perfect, and you can respect what your body does for you. This is an important life lesson to share. Coupled with engaging artwork, this is a great book.
Written by Molli Jackson Ehlert
Illustrated by Lorian Tu
Bing, Bang, Pling
Charming & Brilliant!
A charming bevvy of rhyming and the sounds the equipment makes as a family builds a playset in their backyard.
The child is happily engaged by the parents and they share quality time and the fun play that comes after.
A brilliant introduction to DIY and putting in time to reap the rewards. Cute illustrations and I truly believe the tabby is supervising.
Written by Deb Adamson
Illustrated by Candice Hartsough
The Glow Show
Adorable!
Glow doesn’t want anyone else to steal the show. He adores fans and doesn’t understand what friendship is all about. When he gets into a scary situation, he learns the importance of friends and sharing the spotlight.
Beautiful illustrations accompany this adorable squid story. Complete with fun facts to learn and share with your friends.
Written and Illustrated by Susi Schaefer
Night Market Rescue
Everyone wants to belong!
Magic is woven in this beautiful story of GoGo, a lonely dog seeking food and a friend.
Set in a night market, the author weaves tantalizing smells and sights in this delightful story of finding where you belong.
Written by Charlotte Cheng
Illustrated by Amber Ren
I Want to be Big!
Imaginative!
Jaiceon is the youngest and smallest in his family. And he just wants to be big enough to do things for himself. So, he wishes to be bigger, and bigger, and BIGGER until he’s just too…BIG.
Fun artwork accompanies this imaginative and relatable story about being careful what you wish for.
Written by Tiffany Golden
Illustrated by Sawyer Cloud
Big Truck Playdate
Empathetic and relatable!
Big Truck Playdate is a warm and sensitive story about a boy on the autism spectrum.
When Corey has the chance to play inside a real big truck, he is overwhelmed by a crowd. The author weaves an empathetic, relatable tale and the artist enhances the story with warm and thoughtful illustrations.
This is a great read for those who feel the same as Corey and those who wish to understand a “Corey” in their life.
Written by Laurie Carmody
Illustrated by Jennica Lounsbury
The Loud Librarian
Witty!
The Loud Librarian is a witty, clever, and fun read.
Penelope is too loud for the library. By staying true to herself, she finds her niche in which a loud voice is just right for the job.
Vibrant art adds nuances to the story.
Written by Jenna Beatrice
Illustrated by Erika Lynne Jones
Our Roof is Blue
A gentle hug!
Our Roof is Blue is a tender story about siblings braving a hurricane and the devastation it leaves in its wake, to the environment and the human spirit.
The author cleverly weaves preparation, enduring, coping, and healing into a gentle hug.
Beautiful artwork.
Written by Sara E. Echenique
Illustrated by Ashley Vargas
Moonlight Memories
Touching!
Moonlight Memories is a touching story of how Piper finds an outlet for grief over the loss of her mother. The gorgeous artwork adds to the depth of feelings.
I love how the author notes grieving is different for everyone and provides backmatter with ideas to help.
Written by Amanda Davis
Illustrated by Michelle Jing Chan
Daddy Dressed Me
Heartwarming!
Paired with beautiful artwork, Daddy Dressed Me is an empowering true story about a single dad and his little girl.
I love how the dad wants to build up his daughter’s confidence and makes beautiful creations for her.
Everyone should read this heartwarming book.
Written by Michael & Ava Gardner
Illustrated by Nadia Fisher
Daddy & Me, Side by Side
Beautiful!
Daddy & Me, Side by Side is a beautifully illustrated remembrance of a loved one, while recreating special time spent with that person.
I love the bond between the father and son as they trek through the wilderness and quietly grieve Pop-Pop.
Encourages discussions of family, loss, and outdoor activities.
Written by Pierce Freelon
Illustrated by Nadia Fisher
Fishing with Grandpa and Skye
Sweet!
Fishing with Grandpa and Skye is a sweet tribute to the connection between a grandchild and a grandparent. Children will love the relaxing atmosphere and the lyrical language as Skye shares her special day.
Encourages discussions of relationships, boating, fishing, and how to make wonderful memories.
Written by Candace Spizzirri
Illustrated by Beverly Love Warren
Anzu and the Art of Friendship
Sweet and hopeful!
Moving and making new friends is tough! Anzu finds it difficult as well until she kindly and steadfastly uses her skills to show others how to do something new.
Encourages discussions of friendship, diversity, and learning new things.
Written by Moni Ritchie Hadley
Illustrated by Nathalia Takeyama
God Sent You With Love
Heartwarming!
A loving letter from a parent to their child, full of warmth and affection. Beautifully illustrated for a wonderful read, over and over.
Will make a fantastic gift.
Written by Deb Adamson
Illustrated by Alessia Trunfio
I Love Strawberries!
Delightful!
Adorable Jo wants to grow strawberries, but her parents say ‘no’. So she creates a plan to show just how ready she is.
When the ‘berry’ best day arrives and she is granted her wish, Jo shows us the beauty and work required to grow something of your very own.
Written by Shannon Anderson
Illustrated by Jaclyn Sinquett
A Vote for Susanna, the First Woman Mayor
A must read!
An inspirational page turner told by a loving grandmother to her grandson as they bake a cake. This is quite the gem of a story and the author cleverly weaves a tale of strength, kindness, and perseverance.
I hope every child reads this book.
Written by Karen M. Greenwald
Illustrated by Sian James
It's Chinese New Year, Curious George
Beautiful celebration!
A wonderful addition to the Curious George books!
The author has clearly done her research about the Chinese New Year and brings this beautiful cultural celebration to us through lovely rhyming and immersive text.
Children will love reading this again and again.
Written by Maria Wen Adcock
Illustrated by Rea Zhai
City Feet
Magnificent!
A wonderfully silly and colorful depiction of the diversity in shoes.
Love the rhyming and creativity. The artwork, with cleverly hidden easter eggs, is amazing.
Kids will surely love to read this book over and over again.
Written & Illustrated by Aixa Perez-Prado
Missing Violet
Touching and hopeful!
Missing Violet is an honest and empathetic story abut losing a friend. The author engages the reader with the emotions felt during a time like this, shows us the grieving process, and illuminates the light at the end of the tunnel.
This story will touch your heart and give you hope.
Written by Kelly Swemba
Illustrated by Fabiana Faiallo
Finley, a Moose on the Caboose
Unexpected!
A beautiful and unexpected story of Finley the moose who has a dream to ride the rails.
Pesky rules keep getting in the way and thwart his every attempt. But Finley doesn’t let this affect his kind heart and he comes to the rescue of the train and its passengers.
A warm and cozy read!
Written by Candace Spizzirri
Illustrated by Chantelle & Burgen Thorne
The Three Canadian Pigs
Hilarious and witty!
This fractured fairy tale has the pigs fighting back to save their bacon! I’m totally in love with this story, the lovely lyricism, and the clever illustrations.
It’s one of my new favorites.
Written by Jocelyn Watkinson
Illustrated by Marcus Cutler
Diwali in My New Home
Honoring diverse cultures!
Priya lives in a new home and a new country. My heart soars with her as she softly teaches us about Diwali and engages her friends and neighbors to join the celebration.
This story will delight all readers with its delicious language and stunning illustrations.
Written by Shachi Kaushik
Illustrated by Aishwarya Tandon
Moon Tree, The Story of One Extraordinary Tree
Lyrical learning at its best!
This beautifully written and illustrated story weaves a tale lost in time…and space. The reader forgets they’re reading factual information and is drawn into the prose of seeds traveling to the moon.
Bravo!
Written by Carolyn Bennett Fraiser
Illustrated by Simona Mulazzani
Stan's Frightful Halloween
Silliness!
What’s a werewolf to do when he breaks his leg the night before Halloween? Try to be a ghost, a witch, and a mummy, of course! Only, maybe it’s not as easy as he thought.
Children will laugh at Stan’s silliness as he tries his best to have a frightful good time.
Written by Sandra Sutter
Illustrated by Chantelle and Burgen Thorne
The Monsters on the Broom
Delightful Halloween Fun!
The Monsters on the Broom is an adorable board book introducing young children to friendly Halloween monsters and the sounds they make.
Five ‘monsters’ take a ride on the broom, taking delight with their own voice. They then wish everyone a Happy Halloween.
Paired with delightful art, this book is sure to be a hit and leave a smile on everyone’s face.
Written by Annemarie Riley Guertin
Illustrated by Shauna Lynn Panczyszyn
Thundermaestro
Stormy Symphony!
Thundermaestro calls to the child inside me. Growing up, and still, I loved watching a beautiful thunderstorm, spring rain, or just a simple drizzle. Annemarie Riley Guertin captured the pure childish imagination of enjoying the symphony only nature can bring. And my heart thanks her.
Written by Annemarie Riley Guertin
Illustrated by Maria Brzozowska
30,000 Stitches
A subtle stitching of hope and love.
Wow! This book grabs your heart and deftly strums the strings.
The story follows the journey of the flag flown over the 9-11 rubble, from its tattered, grimy remains, to a full restoration from a place of love and hope.
Bravo!
Written by Amanda Davis
Illustrated by Sally Wern Comport
Thankful Thanksgiving
Introduction to thankfulness and gratitude!
A colorful palette of Thanksgiving gratitude and spending quality family time together.
I love the adorable mice and the author’s insightfulness to include true thankfulness in the story.
Written by Deb Adamson
Illustrated by Benedetta Capriotti