Bea by the Sea
by Jo Byatt
5 out of 5 stars

Bea loves lions. She is obsessed with everything to do with lions. But Bea hates going to the beach, because the sand is scratchy and gritty. When she goes to the beach with her mother, Bea meets a Sand Lion who helps her appreciate all the fun you can have with sandcastles and playing in the sand. Sand Lion is afraid of the water, so Bea helps him to not be afraid of the little waves on the shore.

I love how Bea and Sand Lion support and encourage each other through their anxieties and fears. It’s so sweet and cute! The story is told in a fun and comical way that is never too preachy, but there are also a lot of positive messages woven into the plot.

I love that Bea is a complex character, even for a short children’s picture book. She has a character arc and some personal development as she conquers her fears. She has definite likes and dislikes and a strong personality. She’s such a spunky little girl!

The illustrations are so cute! I love the bright colors and crayon art style. The lines of the art are gritty like the sand, and every scene is beautifully designed. I love how expressive the characters’ faces are, bringing emotion and interest to every page. There is also a lot of movement and energy in the artwork with specific details in the background that make this book really special.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.