Addison’s Delaware Discovery follows ten-year-old Addison Anderson on an unexpected journey from her cozy, pet-filled home to the quiet, swampy corners of Delaware. What begins as a family trip for her father’s work turns into a heartwarming and sometimes hilarious adventure about friendship, disability awareness, and community connection. Addison and her younger brother Albert meet Daisy and Danny during their stay in Delaware. The kids come up with a wild idea to throw a party featuring a made-up swamp monster called the “Delaware Drooler.” Their goal is to help Daisy, who has Juvenile Disc Disorder, connect with other kids in a town that has mostly ignored her.

Laura James has a light and easy touch with her writing that makes it feel friendly and familiar, like you’re being let in on a secret by a good friend. The characters are vivid and full of life. Addison is a wonderfully curious and kind lead, and her brother Albert adds a good dose of comic energy. What I appreciated most was how gently the story introduced serious topics like grief, disability, and acceptance, without ever feeling preachy or heavy. Daisy’s journey, especially, felt real and moving. The author manages to strike that tricky balance between humor and heart, which is what makes the story so satisfying.

The constant use of alliteration (nearly every chapter focuses on “D” words) is clever and educational. The illustrations are charming and full of personality. They bring the characters to life in such a fun and expressive way, and really add to the playful tone of the story. I especially loved seeing the Delaware Drooler. It was just the right mix of spooky and silly, and matched the kids’ creativity perfectly. The artwork made the story even more enjoyable and gave it a whimsical touch that young readers will definitely appreciate.

Addison’s Delaware Discovery is a charming read that blends imagination, empathy, and just enough mystery to keep things fun. I’d recommend this book to kids, especially those who enjoy animal sidekicks, light adventure, or stories that include important life lessons. Parents and teachers looking for books that encourage kindness and inclusion will find a lot to love here, too.

Pages: 65 | ASIN : B0FGXW5M1X