Cake, Lemonade and Sprinkles by Aishah Hight

A quick and charming children’s book about being yourself, Cake, Lemonade and Sprinkles by Aishah Hight offers a bright burst of wisdom for young readers.

It’s London’s birthday, and while all of her friends have come up with great ideas for costumes to wear to the party, London doesn’t feel particularly inspired. Debating whether to imitate her friends or choose a costume that will please her mother, London is worried that she’ll be embarrassed at her own celebration. London’s mom encourages her to dream up a costume that feels true to her identity, and not necessarily what other people may expect. Newly emboldened, London crafts a creative costume and is freshly filled with self-confidence, proudly leading her friends in a costume parade through town.

Reminding young children that individuality is a quality to embrace, rather than hide, this vividly illustrated book is inspiring and accessible, with an important message about authenticity that is carefully woven into the story. The short rhyming couplets convey the story well, though the size and font choice could be better chosen, coming out as a bit flat and stark next to the colorful illustrations. There are also some couplets that don’t rhyme consistently, jarring the sense of flow, but these moments are few and far between.

All in all, the illustrations are exceptional and the text carries a musical lilt, telling an essential story about being proud of who you are, which is a vital message for all children.