Sometimes, you receive a book review that gets what you were trying to achieve.
“A book whose story of a boy hunting a monster is really about mental health and learning to accept the darkest parts of oneself…. Stated differences in racial and sexual identities also feed into themes of acceptance and support the idea that Dawz must appreciate everything about himself, just as those around him accept and appreciate each other. Monster vs. Boy is a supportive novel in which a boy learns to address his trauma—with his community’s support.“ Foreword Reviews
Six more sleeps until this book launches into the world with a gorgeous cover by Markia Jenai!
I’m thrilled with the positive response to my debut picture book Sour Cakes, illustrated by Anna Kwan and published by Owlkids Books. Since its first review in Publishers Weekly, it has received many lovely reviews that point to the same thing: this book provides a wonderful way into conversations about emotional health and acknowledging difficult feelings with compassion.
“This sensitive narrative shows the significance of empathy in meeting people where they’re at.”Publishers Weekly
“An ode to sibling relationships and how, in particular, a sibling can lift you up when you are in the stormiest, heaviest of moods.”Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast
“Empathetically acknowledges children’s big feelings and engagingly models emotional health.”Kirkus Reviews
“A wonderful antidote to … toxic positivity…. An uplifting and meaningful story about difficult feelings, the strategies we use to express them, and a reminder that there are supportive people you can turn to.”Canadian Children’s Book News
“By accepting big, negative emotions without condemning them or dismissing them, this book is great for launching discussions about when and how to express moods and feelings.”School Library Journal
[5/5 Stars] “Sour Cakes, a sensitive story, presents a great opportunity for discussing feelings, how we can express them, and the importance of empathy. Highly Recommended.” Canadian Review of Materials
