Tuxedo Baby

Written by Victoria Smith

Illustrated by Helen Stebakov

Tuxedo is a penguin orphaned due to an oil spill. Two conure parrots decide to adopt him.

Tuxedo is curious and passionate about trying new things. Sometimes he forgets that he is not a parrot and gets in trouble for attempting things his penguin body cannot achieve. His parents are patient and urge him to exercise curiosity but also caution. As Tuxedo grows, he learns how to maximize his unique qualities and talents.

I enjoyed the bonus sections that provide readers with facts about conures and penguins as well as background about oil spills.

This charming book contains valuable lessons as well as solid educational information.

Recommended especially for primary grade readers but also beginning chapter book readers.

If Shapes Could Talk

Written by Rella B

Illustrated by Wendy S.

This book is much more than a rhyming picture book about shapes. It teaches young children colors, empathy, compassion, kindness, gratitude, and diversity.

A rhombus introduces us to her shape family. Each member is different but they all live happily together. When the rhombus goes to school, she discovers a world of diversity and begins to feel left out because she has fewer material possessions. Soon, she learns that appearances can be deceiving.

Toddlers and preschoolers learn shapes and colors, older elementary school age readers will better understand the value of uniqueness and diversity.

Recommended for toddlers through grade three.

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A Colorful Beginning

Written by Raven Howell

Illustrated by Carina Povarchik

An adorable picture book that features animal creatures getting ready for the first day of school. Each of the animals is associated with a different color The author uses vocabulary that stimulates interaction and even includes a bit of math to enhance the value of the book. When the animals arrive, they meet Mr. Mole, their teacher who assists them in painting a beautful work cooperatively that blends all their colors. Children learn to understand each has something important to contribute. Together, they create a beautiful tapestry.

This is an excellent book to read aloud to a preschooler or kindergarten child ready to begin school to allay their fears and teach them how each child is unique and special.

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The First Unicorn

Written by Kathleen J. Shields

Illustrations by Aashay Utkarsh

A beautiful rhyming picture book written for Christian children and their families.

What child does not love the mythical unicorn creature? Aden is introduced as a young yearling with spirit. He has a tender heart filled with compassion and kindness for others and never seems to put himself first.

One day Aden is gifted with a magical power. He is transformed into a unicorn. Rather than becoming impressed with this gift, Aden continues to be kind and unselfish. His love for others is soon tested. Will Aden ever fit in? Does he really want to be like all the others.

This book teaches children lessons from the Bible as well as strong character values.

I received a copy of this book from the author and voluntarily chose to read and review it with my honest opinions with no compensation.

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Her Name Was Flower

Written by Imani Cortez

Illustrated by Alexandra Ignateva

This book is a series of short stories to encourage empathy and acceptance of differences among members of the human race. The protagonist is named Flower. She is the daughter of the Sun and Moon.

Flower struggles to find her identity. She has trouble and sometimes disrespects her parents who try to teach her. When Flower becomes a bit older, she goes off to search why others do not accept her. Along her journey, Flower discovers that the most beautiful part of our Earth is the ability to respect and accept our uniqueness.

The illustrations in this book are beautiful. Cortes’ sends her readers many worthwhile lessons. However, young children may be confused and need guidance as to how to interpret them.

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