Title: Sweety

Author/Illustrator: Andrea Zuill

Publisher: Schwartz & Wade Books, 2019

Fiction

Age Range: 3-7 years

Theme: Finding the courage to be yourself; fitting in

Opening Lines: Sweety was awkward. Even for a naked mole rat. Her own grandmother called her a little square peg. Sweety didn’t exactly know what that meant. But she did know that she didn’t always fit in.

Synopsis (from Amazon): Sweety is awkward, even for a naked mole rat. She has protruding front teeth, thick glasses, and some very unusual hobbies, including interpretive dance and fungus identification. She’s intense and passionate–and her peers don’t always get her. But surely there are other mushroom lovers out there? As Sweety sets out to find them, she comes to realize–with a little help from her cool Aunt Ruth– that being Sweety is actually pretty awesome. With heart and humor and a whole lot of charm, Andrea Zuill delivers a story about learning to embrace everything that makes you you–and that’s something many kids are going to relate to.

Why I Like This Book: The charming illustrations pair perfectly with the text to remind kids that although it isn’t always easy to fit in, it is important to stay true to yourself. A great book for anyone looking to find their people! Sweety is a very likable character who will steal your heart.