I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
Kids love candy! They would eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner if allowed. Sam, the shining star of this children’s book, has yet to meet a sugar-based treat he didn’t like. He wishes he could eat gumdrops, lollipops, cotton candy, ice cream, candy canes, candy apples, and more every day, whenever he wanted! Not a bad wish! If it weren’t for the potential for cavities, I would follow Sam’s lead and eat chocolate for breakfast, jelly beans for lunch, and gummy snakes for dinner, too.
Sam does not have an off switch when it comes to sugary delights. The images show Sam hiding candy when a craving hits: under the couch, behind the bed, up the stairs, and even in his hair. Only a kid would eat candy covered in hair. The illustrator also shows empty, colorful wrappers scattered all over the floor. While Sam’s tastebuds were all for eating more candy, his stomach rejected the idea. Sam suffered the painful effects of overindulging in sweet treats—the dreaded bellyache. He also experienced a sugar crash. Parents and many young readers will empathize with Sam’s belly woes. His story paints a beautiful picture of why less is more.
The author and their design team did a fantastic job constructing A Sweet Surprise. Families will love the playful and creative way the text is displayed. My two favorite pages are the upside-down words and the page where words are arranged to mimic a staircase. The brightly colored illustrations will activate everyone’s sweet tooth, even those who prefer savory over sweet! And the unicycle-riding giraffe wearing purple pajamas will tickle your funny bone!
I recommend this wonderful and vibrant storybook to children ages two years and up. I also suggest a trip to the candy store, playing Candy Land, or both!
Join Sam as he shares his love for all things sugary! Don’t forget to bring your favorite sweet treat along the way!
Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest)
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤
Meet the Author
If you think Sam has a sweet tooth you should meet Brittany. After experiencing the side effects of having too much sugar far too often. She decided this book would be a great way to help show people that candy is not always as fun as it seems.
Growing up on the East Coast of Canada. She has spent many years at summer camp discovering the best the tuck shop had to offer. Some might think she survives off apple juice and her hidden stashes of candy. Which only makes sense that she is a Pastry Chef in Sydney.
I’m partial to gummy candies.
I can easily pass on candy but not cake.