Review for Aya and Papaya Find Happiness
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review.
Despite that the blurb pretty much seems to spoil the book (why would you do that?) I wanted to try out this book as it looked (and sounded) adorable.
Meet Aya, and her doll Papaya, she wakes up one day feeling as something is different. But what is different? As her family tries to do things with her, and the day also makes sure it is a lovely day, Aya realises that she lost her happiness. No worries girl, we all have our down days. But I can imagine that, if this is her first time, it is a shock.
But I loved that instead of just sitting down/lying down and doing nothing… she pulled on her happiest clothes and went to find that happiness again. I loved the illustration accompanied that part of the text. Aya looks very determined and ready for anything. I also love seeing her doll wearing exactly the same clothes as Aya.
And yes, she searches everywhere. High, low, in the dark and in the light. Of course, she cannot find it there, and I was happy that she has such wonderful parents who immediately come to her and talk to her. Wow, she certainly had an amazing day yesterday. Dang. So much sparkling, singing, and laughter.
So yes, the blurb spoils the entire plot, and while I did think that is a shame, I still had fun reading this one as there is still enough to discover in this story. Seeing how Aya realises where her happiness is and her just starting the day again was amazing. I wish I could do it as easily as Aya. Just see your happiness and then boom, things are good again.
The ending made me smile, it wasn’t a too fun thing for Aya to experience, but now she knows a bit more on how to combat those sad days.
The art was pretty adorable and cute.
All in all, I would recommend this picture book to everyone. I am sure kids will enjoy it a lot and it may help them see how to combat those sad days. They aren’t alone, and there is a way to alleviate those sad days.
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