REVIEW
Just Flowers written by Erin Dealey and illustrated by Kate Cosgrove, (Sleeping Bear Press) portrays the touching story of Izzy, a child who brings joy by sharing flowers with everyone in the neighborhood. Everyone loves Izzy’s gifts except for one grumpy neighbor who is Initially resistant to daily wildflower surprises in his rose beds. Izzy persists in showing him kindness and over time, the neighbor’s demeanor softens as Izzy presents him with a thoughtful gift tailored for his roses.
Dealey’s writing, filled with botanical allusions, encourages readers to further explore the enchanting world of flowers.
Just Flowers is not just about flowers; it’s about the power of compassion, persistence, and the joy that comes from making connections with others.
It’s a touching reminder that sometimes, all it takes to brighten someone’s day is a little bit of effort and a lot of heart.
The whimsical illustrations by Kate Cosgrove bring the story to life, capturing the essence of each character and the neighborhood which blossoms under Izzy’s touch.
The back matter on optimal flowers for butterflies and bees includes a guide showcasing a range of blossoms that attract and sustain these crucial pollinators. Among them, Aster stands out as a top choice for nourishing bees and butterflies. Milkweed was also emphasized as a crucial plant for monarch butterflies, offering both nectar and a place for them to lay their eggs.
This story is perfect for children and adults who appreciate the beauty of nature and the importance of community. It’s an ideal read for classrooms, libraries, and bedtime stories, fostering discussions about kindness, the environment, and the simple yet profound impact of small gestures.
Each page tells a unique story, capturing the essence of humanity and the impact we can have on one another. Whether you’re an avid gardener, a lover of heartfelt stories, or someone seeking a bit of inspiration, Just Flowers promises to uplift and delight. Allow yourself to be transported into a garden of emotions, where every petal whispers a tale of hope, love, and resilience. Embrace the beauty of connection and let this story remind you that, like flowers, we too can flourish with a little care and compassion.
Pick up a copy from Amazon, B & N, or BookShop.org and dive into a world where small acts of kindness bloom into extraordinary moments.
Lori Keating is an award-winning, multi-genre author with a unique talent for weaving tales that resonate with readers of all ages, blending humor, heart, and a touch of magic. Whether she’s penning a heartwarming children’s story, or an inspiring romance, her passion for storytelling shines through. She enjoys actively participating in the literary community by providing insightful reviews. She is a frequent contributor to this blog.
GIVEAWAY NEWS
If you want to win a copy of Just Flowers, please leave a comment by September 9. Congratulations to Emily Weitz who won Butterfly Ink from last week’s blog.
This story looks lovely! It reminds me of how my mother interacted with my children when they were little–and now I can do the same with my own grandchildren! :)
Thanks Stephanie. Your name starts the list!
As a librarian, I am always a big fan of further info in the back of the book! This colorful tome gives me great joy in the few pages that were shared.
What a beautiful story, and a beautiful way to spread seeds of kindness!
Please enter my name for a chance to win this gorgeous book that shares such a heartwarming message.
You’re in, Danielle!
Thank you, LInda. I’ll add your name to the list.
Oh gosh! JUST FLOWERS will be a perfect gift for my grandson (2 ½)! He picks flowers all the time and offers them to everyone!
Thanks, Patricia. Your name is added to the list!
Sometimes we ALL need a little reminder that even a small thing, like flowers, can give someone’s heart the lift it needs. Beautiful book with a great message and I would love to gift it to one of the libraries in the district where I retired.
Thank you, Melanie! I’ll put your name in twice since you want to give it to a library!
My niece’s favorite flower right now is the rose!🌹 She will love this.
Thanks Kyle. You’re in the running!
I love the look of joy on the faces of people in the book! Perfect illustrations for a perfect story!
Thank you, Teresa. Your name goes into the giveaway!