Tales That Spark Wonder in Young Readers

This picture book is a great fit for young children around age six and under. It echoes the kinds of questions kids often ask and offers simple, reassuring explanations in a way they can follow. The tone stays light and fun while still being educational, and the story is a short, easy read. The illustrations are also polished and appealing. (This review has been adapted for display on this website.)

I really enjoyed this book, and the illustrations are absolutely delightful. I read it aloud to my five-year-old neighbor, and she immediately started coming up with her own questions. I can easily imagine preschool and early elementary teachers using it with their classes and even creating their own Why can’t I books together. There is so much here to enjoy and to think about. (This review has been adapted for display on this website.)

I really appreciated seeing a Black girl as the main character and enjoyed most of the artwork throughout the book. One visual detail, the white chairs, felt a little unsettling to me as they reminded me of white sheets, which I did not enjoy. I also would have preferred a slightly more powerful ending to the story. Overall, the illustrations are colorful and engaging. (This review has been adapted for display on this website.)