by | Book Reviews by Ava Vian |
Ava is a senior at Notre Dame Academy in Hingham, Massachusetts. In addition to her studies, she works as an assistant preschool teacher, where she enjoys helping young learners grow. Looking ahead to the future, Ava plans to major in communications in college to pursue her passion for media and storytelling. Outside of school and work, she can usually be found reading a good book solo at the beach or grabbing a drink at her favorite coffee spot, Slacktide in Marshfield.
The Apple of My Pie by Ava Khouri
The Apple of My Pie written by Ava Khouri and illustrated by Maddy Moore is a meaningful children’s book about friendship, kindness, and looking beyond someone’s appearance. The story follows Ava, a bright red apple who has always been taught that she should not be friends with apples of different colors. When Vera, the town’s famous baker, chooses Ava for one of her pies, Ava discovers that red, green, and yellow apples are all the same once their peels are removed. This realization encourages Ava to question what she has been taught and helps the entire orchard understand that their differences should not separate them.
While The Apple of My Pie is colorful and entertaining for young readers, it also shares an important lesson about treating everyone with kindness and respect. The story helped introduce the children to topics like diversity and inclusion in a way that was simple for them to understand. It shows that a person’s appearance does not determine their character and that meaningful friendships are formed by getting to know what is on the inside. I would recommend this book to children between the ages of three and eight, as well as parents and teachers looking for an age-appropriate way to discuss acceptance, empathy, and belonging.
Nate & His Magic Lion by LaTonya Pinkard
Nate & His Magic Lion written by LaTonya Pinkard is a comforting children’s story about overcoming fear. Nate is a young boy who becomes frightened by the dark and the shadows he sees at bedtime. He wishes that he could be as brave as his older brother, Mike. With the help of his special friend Achi the Magic Lion, Nate begins to understand his fears and learns that the nighttime does not have to be so scary. Achi encourages Nate and helps him find the confidence to face the things that once frightened him.
This story teaches children that feeling afraid is normal and that being brave does not mean they can never be scared. Instead, bravery is about facing a fear and slowly learning how to overcome it. This message was easy to connect to the children because many young kids experience fears at bedtime or in unfamiliar situations. Achi also shows how encouragement and support from a friend can help someone feel safer. I would recommend Nate & His Magic Lion to children between the ages of three and eight, especially those who are afraid of the dark or need reassurance when facing their fears.
On the Right Path: Book Two by Brett Gunning and Stacy Padula
On the Right Path: Book Two written by Brett Gunning and Stacy Padula continues the story of siblings Jayden, Jordan, and Jasmine and their friend Shai as they attend basketball camp. While the children practice basketball and improve their skills, they also learn that being a good teammate involves more than simply playing well. The story uses situations on the basketball court to teach the characters why it is important to share, include others, and give everyone an opportunity to participate.
The main lesson in this book is the importance of being unselfish. It teaches children that working as a team means passing the ball, encouraging others, listening, and sometimes putting the needs of the group before their own. I liked how the authors used basketball to make the lesson exciting and relatable without making it feel like a lecture. The message can also apply to the classroom, friendships, and family life. I would recommend this book to children between the ages of three and eight, especially young athletes or children who are learning how to cooperate, share, and be supportive members of a group.
On the Right Path: Book Three by Brett Gunning and Stacy Padula
On the Right Path: Book Three written by Brett Gunning and Stacy Padula returns to basketball camp with Jayden, Jordan, Jasmine, and Shai. As the children continue practicing their basketball skills, they begin learning that the choices they make away from the court affect how they feel and perform while playing. The story explains the importance of healthy eating and shows how nutritious foods can give children the strength and energy they need to play, learn, and grow.
This book teaches children that taking care of their bodies begins with the choices they make each day. It presents food as fuel and helps young readers understand the connection between eating well, feeling strong, and having enough energy to participate in activities. I liked that the healthy message was included naturally through basketball and characters that children can relate to. I would recommend this book to children between the ages of three and eight, particularly those beginning to play sports or learn about healthy habits. It would also be helpful for parents, teachers, and coaches who want to start positive conversations about nutrition and self-care.
The Falling Star Repairman by Candido Bretto
The Falling Star Repairman written by Candido Bretto is an imaginative children’s story that explores what might happen to stars after they fall from the sky. The story follows Elmer, the last falling-star repairman in the galaxy, whose job is to repair fallen stars and help keep the night sky shining brightly. While completing his important work, Elmer also forms special friendships that make his journey even more meaningful. The creative setting makes the story feel magical while still giving young readers characters and emotions they can understand.
Along with encouraging imagination, The Falling Star Repairman teaches children about helping others and using their abilities to make a difference. Elmer shows patience and responsibility as he cares for the stars, reminding readers that things—and sometimes people—may need support before they can shine again. The space theme can also encourage children to ask questions and use their creativity after the story ends. I would recommend this book to children between the ages of three and eight, especially those who enjoy stars, outer space, magical adventures, and stories about unlikely heroes.
Baby Munchkin by Stacy Salomone Whitcomb
Baby Munchkin written by Stacy Salomone Whitcomb is a sweet and funny story about a young girl who is excited to become a big sister. While waiting for the baby to arrive, she becomes convinced that her new sister must be named Baby Munchkin. She holds tightly to her idea and spends time imagining what life will be like after the baby joins the family. Once her sister arrives, however, the little girl realizes that the baby’s name is not nearly as important as the love she feels for her.
This story helps children understand that welcoming a new family member can bring excitement, surprises, and changes. It also teaches that situations may not happen exactly as we expect, but the result can still be special. The playful story and rhyming language make the message entertaining and easy for young children to follow. I would recommend Baby Munchkin to babies, toddlers, and children up to around age six, especially those who are preparing to become an older sibling. It would also be a thoughtful book for parents and teachers helping a child adjust to a new baby in the family.
The Baby Cow & Other Children’s Poems by Jenna Feitelberg
The Baby Cow & Other Children’s Poems written by Jenna Feitelberg is a fun collection of seven illustrated poems inspired by childhood experiences and imagination. The collection includes “The Puppy,” “Monster in the Closet,” “Baby Sister,” “The Baby Cow,” “Blueberry,” “The Tree,” and “Swing from the Moon.” Each poem introduces a different character or situation, ranging from a puppy with an unusual problem to a baby sister who refuses to eat. The variety of topics keeps the book interesting and gives children something new to imagine with every poem.
In addition to being humorous and creative, the collection teaches children not to judge others by their appearance and to appreciate what makes each person unique. It also provides a simple introduction to poetry, rhythm, and imaginative language. Because the poems are separate, they can be read one at a time and used to begin short conversations or activities with children. I would recommend this collection to babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and early-elementary readers. It is a good choice for parents and teachers looking for a flexible book that can entertain children while sharing positive lessons about acceptance and creativity.
Discover more from
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
