Blog Archives
Hello, My Name Is Harper
Hello, My Name Is Harper is a sweet and simple children’s book about a bunny named Harper who’s absolutely terrified to start first grade. From the very first page, Harper’s nerves are front and center—heart thumping, name forgotten, knees like jelly. But as the story hops along, we see Harper’s day unfold with gentle surprises: a kind teacher, a new friend who’s just as nervous, and classmates who turn out to be kind and welcoming. By the end, that first-day fear fades into sunshine and smiles.
Harper’s little rhyming thoughts feel like they came straight from a kid’s brain. The writing doesn’t overcomplicate anything. That’s what makes it work. The fear feels real, but so does the comfort that slowly builds up.
The artwork has a charming homemade vibe, like a kid might’ve helped draw it with crayons. The lines aren’t too sharp or polished, and the colors have that soft, scribbly texture that makes the whole book feel warm and familiar, like something you’d hang on the fridge. That style makes it feel accessible, like it’s coming from a kid’s world instead of being made for one.
And the ending is such a sweet touch, with space for kids to write about their own day. I love that it turns into a little keepsake or even a conversation starter. The helpful tips from Harper were adorable and solid advice for anyone with first-day jitters.
I think this picture book is a gem. It’s perfect for kids about to start school, especially those who feel nervous or shy. It would make a great gift for kindergartners or first graders, and even better if a parent or teacher reads it with them. It’s comforting, light, and full of heart.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DH4FNPC1
Harry the Hedgehog and the Missing Pumpkin
Harry the Hedgehog and the Missing Pumpkin, by Rayner Tapia, is a charming little tale that follows Harry the Hedgehog on a Halloween morning as he wakes up, ready to enjoy his treasured pumpkin, only to find it is missing. Determined to solve the mystery of the vanished pumpkin, Harry dons his detective “hat” and ventures out, meeting various woodland friends who help him along the way. Eventually, he discovers a family of mice who have found the pumpkin and offers to share it with them, learning a valuable lesson about the joy of sharing.
I found this children’s book utterly delightful. The writing is simple and engaging, perfect for its young audience and beginning readers. The scene where Harry interacts with Donna the Duck, who suggests the pumpkin might have been carried away by the wind, made me chuckle. The dialogue felt warm and playful, and I appreciated each animal’s unique personality, like Ollie the Owl’s wise demeanor and Sally the Squirrel’s cheeky energy.
Harry’s decision to share his pumpkin with the mice showed incredible kindness and generosity, which is a wonderful message for young readers. The idea of sharing as a source of happiness was woven beautifully into the narrative without feeling preachy. The feast scene, with pumpkin stew, pie, and roasted seeds, left me craving something pumpkin-flavored myself.
The vibrant watercolor illustrations bring the pages to life and are the perfect complement to Tapia’s lively tale. From Harry’s bright yellow pumpkin to the cozy cave of the mice, each illustration added charm and excitement. The scene I loved most was when Harry put on his detective hat, which was just a leaf–an adorable scene that is sure to delight young readers.
I wholeheartedly recommend Harry the Hedgehog and the Missing Pumpkin, by Rayner Tapia, to parents, teachers, and anyone looking for a heartwarming story to share with young children. It’s perfect for bedtime or a classroom read-aloud. The themes of kindness and community are timeless, and Harry the Hedgehog is sure to be a beloved character for many.
Pages: 28 | ASIN : B0DN1C1GTL
Dogs: A Counting & Comparing Book
Dogs: A Counting and Comparing Book, by Frances Mackay, emerges as a delightful and educational experience for children, cleverly intertwining the joy of canine companions with fundamental counting skills. This book transcends the typical format of a counting book and engages young readers in more than just number recognition by bringing an array of dogs to life on each page. From Dachshunds to Pugs and Shar Peis to Terriers, young readers will find Mackay’s book a delight.
Mackay’s approach is far from a mundane enumeration. Instead, each page overflows with vibrant energy as a variety of dog breeds playfully guide children through numbers. The book’s structure, alternating between counting and comparing the different breeds, maintains reader engagement and adds an educational layer, encouraging observations about the dogs’ diverse characteristics. The art style in this book is both friendly and contemporary, resonating well with modern young readers. It successfully captures the essence of classic children’s literature, reminiscent of authors like P.D. Eastman, yet it stands out with its own unique flair. One particularly memorable moment is the depiction of an “extremely long dog” stretching across an entire page, showcasing the book’s creative and humorous side. The book is accessible and enjoyable for early readers and their families, fostering a fun environment for learning.
Dogs, A Counting & Comparing Book is an excellent choice for young readers who have a fondness for dogs and learning. It skillfully blends entertainment with education, making it a noteworthy addition to children’s literature in the genre of counting and comparison.
Pages: 34 | ISBN: 0646890042
LITERARY TITAN 