5 Stars!

Reviewed by Amy Louise Hill

I Heard Christmas Whisper by Janice Garden Macdonald is a holiday-themed picture book for young children. Does your child love Christmas? Then this book will become their new favorite. A little dog can feel Christmas in the air and soon realizes that a Christmas tree is following him. The dog decides to take care of it and hopes it will stay around forever. But unfortunately, the dog learns that the tree has to go away, at least until next year. This makes him feel sad, but he knows that Christmas will always be with him, in his heart, and he can look forward to seeing the tree again next Christmas.

I Heard Christmas Whisper warmed my heart from the moment I began reading. I love Christmas time and can't wait for the holiday to begin. Children are going to love this adorable book as it will fill them with Christmas spirit and, at the same time, reassure them that even when it's over, Christmas will remain in their hearts.

You Are More Than What You Wear

Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila

Jane's Jeans by Janice Garden Macdonald is a heartwarming children’s picture book that follows Jane as she prepares to visit her grandma. Her favorite jeans are unavailable, and her old ones no longer fit. Her mother encourages her to wear a special blue dress made by her grandma. Initially resistant due to her belief that a dress limits her adventurous spirit,

Jane realizes she can still engage in fun activities. Her mother reminds her that what she wears does not matter; what matters is what is in her heart, and that she is always loved, regardless of her attire. Inspired by these words, Jane does not get angry but channels her creativity when she discovers that her dog has damaged her new jeans. Instead, she makes a bow and collar out of the pieces. Jane's Jeans is an inspiring story that covers themes of self-acceptance, love, and the importance of personal expression that surpasses material items.

Can't Wait for Sunday!

Reviewed by Doreen Chombu

Sunday by Janice Garden Macdonald is a heartwarming children’s picture book that follows a boy who loves Sundays because he can dress in his best and spend time with his loved ones. Unfortunately, today is not Sunday; it is Monday, and he has to help his mother with chores. He eagerly anticipates Sunday by counting down the days. On Tuesday, he needs to attend daycare, and on Wednesday and Thursday, he bakes and shares cupcakes and helps clean the yard. By Friday and Saturday, he does his laundry and tidies his room. When Sunday comes around, he cannot wait to have fun. Join the little boy as he prepares to enjoy his favorite day with his family, readying himself to go on adventures and learn new things. Overall, this is a great read with vital lessons about family time, responsibility, and the joy found in everyday activities.

You've Never Had a Birthday Like This!

Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila

The Red Sweater by Jan Garden Macdonald is a children’s picture book about a little boy who receives a present he does not want.

The Red Sweater is a delightful story that teaches children about charity and generosity. It is a familiar theme that many children will relate to and appreciate. Receiving something you do not want is a common occurrence that happens to both children and adults. Giving it away to someone who may need it creates a beautiful cycle that ensures everyone feels appreciated. Jan Garden Macdonald conveys this message about giving and receiving beautifully, explaining the benefits of being charitable in her surprising plot twist at the end of the story. The beautiful illustrations perfectly complement the story and include hilarious images of colorful sheep. I enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend sharing it with your children to teach them about giving.