Children’s Book Reviews

Turning traditional fairy tales on their patriarchal heads, Darina: A Self-Rescuing Princess by Magda Nasadowska is an essential reminder of the importance of self-reliance.

Princess Darina is frequently faced with challenges to her safety, her city, and the people of her kingdom, and there always seems to be a suitor eager to solve her problem in exchange for her hand in marriage. However, Darina is not only beautiful, but also intelligent and well-trained in a range of skills, which she confidently demonstrates to each prospective husband, showing that she is a capable, clever, and compassionate leader.

Ultimately finding joy in […]

A charming children’s book about overcoming hard moments, making new friends, and learning to trust yourself, Ava and Maya the Fairy Dragon by Medha Bhaskar is a fantastic parable of self-discovery.

When young Ava goes for a wander in the forest, her curiosity and the beauty of nature lead to her getting lost. Fortunately, she encounters a magical creature in the woods – a fairy dragon with powerful spells and an eagerness to have a new friend. After returning Maya safely to her parents, the dragon disappears, only to return that night and explain that her existence must remain hidden. […]

A children’s book that encourages young readers to think critically, Professor Nincompoop by Jimmy Vee is a wildly entertaining read with a poignant yet subtle message.

Professor Nincompoop is a scientist whose dream is to be included in the Professors Hall of Fame. Talking to two young acquaintances who love to learn new things, the professor claims to have found the most mysterious animal on Earth, traveling far and wide to find clues to its location from talkative cheetahs and baboons. When he takes out a tiny box, however, Nick and Tessa are perplexed – how could such a strange […]

A fanciful collection of short stories centered around an imaginative fictional holiday, Tales for Tra-La-La Day by Steve Michael Reedy is a magical anthology of festive fables.

From stories about the origins of a sacred song to dire parables about overconsumption and greed, each story adds a new and intriguing facet to this tall tale of a town, bursting with the energy of a beloved fairy tale realm in the making. “The Iceling Queen” is one of the most touching pieces in the collection, providing a compelling backstory for the creative holiday, but each story has the gleam of brilliance […]

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 […]