Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho

Disclaimer: I received this ebook from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.

Book: Eyes That Kiss in the Corners

Author: Joanna Ho

Book Series: Standalone

Diversity: Asian main and side characters

Rating: 5/5

Recommended For…: Diverse reads, ownvoice work, children’s book

Publication Date: January 5, 2021

Publisher: HarperCollins

Pages: 40

Recommended Age: 5+ (diversity and how we should celebrate it)

Synopsis: A young Asian girl notices that her eyes look different from her peers’. They have big, round eyes and long lashes. She realizes that her eyes are like her mother’s, her grandmother’s, and her little sister’s. They have eyes that kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea, crinkle into crescent moons, and are filled with stories of the past and hope for the future.

Drawing from the strength of these powerful women in her life, she recognizes her own beauty and discovers a path to self love and empowerment. 

This powerful, poetic picture book will resonate with readers of all ages and is a celebration of diversity.

Review: I absolutely loved this sweet book! It was adorable in every way. The story was moving and will be so relatable to so many children. The art is also so amazing and wonderfully well done. I highly recommend this read for anyone.

Verdict: Highly recommend!

Mc Plays Hide and Seek by Eva Grayzel

Disclaimer: I received this book from Foreword Publicity. Thanks! All opinions are my own.

Book: M.C. Plays Hide and Seek

Author: Eva Grayzel

Book Series: Standalone

Rating: 5/5

Recommended For…: children’s informational books, cancer books

Publication Date: January 5, 2021

Genre: Children’s Books

Recommended Age: 8+ (cancer talk)

Publisher: Mascot Books

Pages: 64

Synopsis: M.C. is a cancer cell who shares just enough information about the nature of the disease to promote dialogue and minimize fear. The scary part of cancer is the unknown. Learn about doctors who look for cancer. Understand feelings children experience and learn ways to cope. Empower children with knowledge and how to make a difference. M.C. Plays Hide & Seek strengthens communication and builds emotional health.

Review: Overall, I thought the book did well to be informative about cancer. It presented the disease in an informative and non-emotional manner. The dialogue allowed for open conversations and I can see where this can be utilized in doctor’s offices and waiting rooms to help calm or inform children. I also thought the book did well to not drag on. The book’s pacing was on par with the book and the way the information was presented was caring and kind. I don’t know how a child would react to the book, I do not have one to show it to, but I do think it could help at least start the conversation on a scary topic.

Verdict: It did well!