Can't-Wait Willow by Christy Ziglar Book Review + Giveaway

*Disclosure- I was provided a copy of the book from the publisher via Flyby Promotions in exchange for my honest thoughts. I was not required to render a positive review and all opinions stated are 100% my own.

About the book:

Willow is so excited that the Over-the-Top Circus has finally come to town! The only problem is, that when left to her own devices, she can’t say “no” to some good things. On the way to the show, she is distracted by enticing treats and fun that she just can’t turn down. Willow arrives late and is sad to find that, not only has she has run out of time, but money, and she won’t be able to enjoy the pink cotton candy she’s been dreaming of. Willow is given valuable advice and a second chance and is ultimately taught the lesson that sometimes in life you have to say “no” to good things to end up with something great!

My thoughts: 

I was immediately excited about the book because the pictures are so cute! I know for my 3 little ones that what draws them to the book is great illustrations. And of course what keeps them drawn in is a great story and Can't-Wait Willow definitely has both wonderful pictures and a great story. I like that there is a purpose to this story, that it teaches a lesson in patience by highlighting a young girl's journey to the circus and all of the things that she encounters along the way. This book is written in a way that it can speak clearly to young children about making choices and show them why even though something might seem like a good decision in a moment, maybe something better will happen if we practice patience. We've had Can't-Wait Willow in our house for a little over a week and my kids have asked for it as their bed time story pretty much every night since it arrived. What I love most about this book is that it is the first in a series of book brought to you by Shine Bright Kids. This series will teach life skills and character traits such using good judgment, taking responsibility, self-control, having a positive attitude, and demonstrating perseverance. Check out the Shine Bright Kids website for free reward charts, activities and other parenting resources. I would recommend this book and checking out the Shine Bright series to parents of toddlers, pre-schoolers and young elementary age children.

About the author:

Christy Ziglar, financial planner, mother of twins and niece of legendary motivator and the world’s original optimist, Zig Ziglar, is bringing the same timeless wisdom and ageless advice to an entirely new, younger audience through her new Shine Bright Kids picture book series. 

About the illustrator:

Luanne Marten has been drawing, painting and sketching since she was Willow's age. For this book, she especially loved depicting Willow's changing emotions through her expressions and body language. Luanne holds a BFA in illustration and graphic design from the University of Kansas and has illustrated dozens of children's books. The mother of four grown sons, Luanne lives in the Kansas City area and enjoys reading, sewing, and playing the piano. Like Willow, she loves cotton candy.

Can't Wait Willow is now available at BarnesandNoble.com

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