Book Review - Can't Wait Willow

Can't-Wait Willow! 

By: Christy Ziglar
Illustrated by: Luanne Marten
Publisher: Ideals Children's Books
Publication Date: April 2013
ISBN: 978-0824956486
Reviewed by: Holly Connors
Review Date: June 2014

Can you believe it? Today is the day “The Over-the-Top Circus” arrives in town and Willow is super-de-dooper excited. It is going to be an amazing day! Willow heads to the circus, but within a few minutes she spots the ice cream truck. Yum! An ice cream is the perfect way to start an awesome day so Willow takes out her money and buys a cone. She just can’t say no.

Willow keeps walking and soon sees her friends playing kickball. That looks like fun! Willow plays for a bit until she gets thirsty. A little more money for a glass of lemonade and then it’s back to walking to the circus.
Willow gets distracted again and again on the way to the circus until she finally arrives and after a few more distractions, she finds that she is out of money AND the show she was so excited to see has ended. What will she do?

Can’t-Wait Willow! is the sweet story of an adorable little girl who just can’t say no. She wants to try everything, but soon realizes that sometimes you need to say no to the little things so you can enjoy the more important things. There is a note at the start of the book from the author to parents that includes a link for games, apps, and parenting resources. For kids, there is a ‘star search’ within the story where a little yellow star appears repeatedly (can you find it?) and its appearance reflects the choices (good or bad) that Willow makes. A fun story, cheerful illustrations that mesh perfectly with the story, and a valuable lesson make this book a winner!

Quill says: If you want to teach your child how to make good choices, and when to say ‘no’ to things that may not be important, check out Can’t-Wait Willow! Your child will have fun AND learn a valuable lesson.