A Delightful Children's Book (Book Review)

NOTE: I received this book free from the author requesting an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's rules and guidelines.


I know I don't typically review children's books, but I was at a local "Meet the Author" last night and this one caught my eye.  I strongly believe that fostering a love of reading in our youth is critical and what better way than through charming stories that teach valuable lessons.

Benny Buzzes...Please by Karen Smith is the story of one little caterpillar who learns that the simple act of being polite can go a long way with making friends. 

Hungry and grumpy Katie blames everyone but herself for not having any food to eat.  But would you share with someone who doesn't say please?  She decides to help herself to Sally's strawberry but is denied.  Benny the bumblebee quickly flies in to give some valuable advice. Why don't you simply try to say please?  Stubborn Katie continues on her quest for food in her rude manner and is once again shut down by Tommy and Arty, two other plants in the garden.  

Will Katie ever take Benny's advice and gain friends and food!? 

Filled with colorful,expressive illustrations, (courtesy of the very talented 14-year old, Hailey Ammons) Benny Buzzes is a delightful book suitable for all young children.

Tip for parents: As a former educator, one thing that caught my attention in this story is the rich, yet fun, vocabulary chosen by Smith. I hope parents will take advantage of this and have fun discussing the definitions of these words with their children in ways that make learning and reading enjoyable and interactive! For example,

"So without opening his eyes, he began to shimmy in the wind." ~ from Benny Buzzes

Ask your children: What do you think Tommy looked like when he shimmied? Have your child act out the word shimmy.  

Overall, Benny Buzzes is a fun read for children two years old to second grade. Your children will enjoy the illustrations as they take in the lesson to be polite. This is the first book in a series by Karen Smith.  Benny Buzzes is available in paperback on Amazon.