So happy about this School Library Journal review (below) for Ten Little Fingers, Two Small Hands! The book releases in just a couple of weeks: July 5, 2016! I have always been in love with books for the very smallest readers. The babies in these pages are adorably illustrated by Jane Massey and I think this book makes a perfect baby shower gift. Will it be obnoxious of me to give my own book to all the babies-to-be-born for years to come? Here’s even more good news: Ten Little Toes, Two Small Feet follows in November!

School Library Journal:

Toddler-PreS—This ode to delightfully dimpled hands is the stuff laptime snuggles are made of. A simple rhyming text describes toddlers’ hands as little ones play, wait for treats, eat, and clean up. The fresh, child-friendly illustrations are spot-on. Adults will appreciate the easy to read verses like “One last bite, then arms up high!/Wash two hands and pat them dry.” Little listeners will be comforted by the familiar scenarios and are sure to recognize themselves in the group of diverse faces. The simple finger-counting framework facilitates learning numbers without detracting from the appeal. VERDICT A solid choice. Purchase this hardcover edition, or wait for the board book so it can be zealously enjoyed by two small hands.—Jenna Boles, Greene County Public Library, Beavercreek, OH

It’s always a little bit of a relief when your first review comes out for a forthcoming book and not only is it a good review, but it highlights many of your own favorite aspects of the book.

Kirkus reviews writes, “. . . a ‘complete, unabridged’ instruction manual that guarantees it can turn anyone super in ‘seven easy steps.’ In the background, a friendly dog and an intrigued-yet-suspicious sister follow [the young boy] throughout his journey to superherodom in hilarious counterpoint.”

The review finishes off with, “This funny, spirited exploration of superhero culture sans violence and with an added dose of familial love is a powerful addition to any bookshelf.”

One of the dearest aspects of the book to my heart is the relationship between the main character and his sister. There is a definite love/hate relationship that plays out over the course of the story, and yet, in the end, they know they can count on each other. Isn’t that what being a hero is all about?

Read the entire Kirkus review here.