The Tiny Baker
by Hayley Barrett (Author), Alison Jay (Illustrator)
5 out of 5 stars

The tiny baker has the most dainty and delicious treats at her fashionable tearoom. Her insect customers are always well-behaved and elegantly dressed. But when the ladybug pastry chefs in the kitchen are called away to migrate, they leave a huge mess in the kitchen! How will the tiny baker clean up the mess and deliver delectable desserts to her fancy clientele? She discovers that true friends are always willing to help in a crisis.

I adore this book! Everything about it is perfection.
I love the positive messages about true friendship and jumping in to help someone in need.

The Kiosk
by Anete Melece
3 out of 5 stars

Olga, a very plump woman, lives in her newspaper kiosk, and dreams of travelling. She finds herself stuck in her kiosk, and unable to leave by the door because of her girth. So she picks up the kiosk structure and walks down the street looking for adventure with her kiosk on her back.

The illustrations are full of bright colors and little details in the setting that make the story come alive. Each character in the story has their own unique look. I like the whimsical art style.

I am concerned about stereotypes and unhealthy messages in this book. Olga lives in squalid conditions in her kiosk where she has an armchair, sink, and toilet squeezed into a small space. I worry about children getting confusing messages about the health of this woman and her extreme weight.

Claris: The Chicest Mouse in Paris
by Megan Hess

5 out of 5 stars

Claris dreams about moving to Paris, and she takes a leap of faith to make her dreams come true. She meets a mean cat in Paris, and has to use all her fashion wiles and personal compassion to win the day.

I just adore Claris! She is such a sweet and lovely little mouse. I love stories about mice anyway, but this little mouse takes the cake. I love all her pretty clothes. She is the epitome of elegance and refinement, but with a heart of compassion and humility.

Claris: Fashion Show Fiasco
by Megan Hess

5 out of 5 stars

Claris and Monsieur Cat have to return a lost invitation to Fashion Week’s greatest show. They go on an adventure across half of Paris to track down the fashionista who has lost their important invitation.