Otis Grows is one of my favorite new books on the market. Explaining certain issues to children can be difficult, but Kathryn Hast really tackled a hard-to-explain issue with Otis Grows. Otis Grows explores the issues of family conflict. This book did a wonderful job of understanding what happens when mom and dad don’t get along, which is a growing issue for children these days. This book also covered the issue of children not fitting in. I really love how Kathryn Hast covered such dark topics with adorable illustrations and super fun characters. Some of the unique characters included Otis (the son of a chicken and a flower), The NUH-UHS (Otis’ mother), and The YES-CHUMS (Otis’ father). In my opinion this is a must-read for children of all ages, and I can’t wait to see what kind of issues Kathryn Hast covers in her next children’s book.
Book Excerpt: Young Otis is forced to question his origin and allegiances, given that his mom, a yellow chicken, is part of the Nuh-Uhs, and his dad, a blue flower, stems from the Yes-Chums. Struggling to find answers, Otis runs away, only to encounter more colors (and cultures) than he could ever imagine, including a giant portrait full of possibilities.
*I RECEIVED THE PRODUCTS MENTIONED ABOVE FOR FREE IN RETURN FOR AN UNBIASED REVIEW. I ONLY REVIEW AND RECOMMEND PRODUCTS OR SERVICES THAT I HAVE USED PERSONALLY. I AM DISCLOSING THIS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION’S 16 CFR, PART 255: “GUIDES CONCERNING THE USE OF ENDORSEMENTS AND TESTIMONIALS IN ADVERTISING”. THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS POST ARE ENTIRELY MY OWN*
Modern Mama's Messy Life 
This book sounds great for children! I think my mom would love a book like this in her classroom.
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This looks like a great positive book for children! My niece would love it.
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I love children’s books that teach a positive lesson. I would definitely buy these as gifts.
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I couldn’t love this more. I think all children’s books should be giving an important message and mindfulness, emotions, self-help and empathy should be part of everyday teaching! Great review, thank you x
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I like that this is an option for parents who want help discussing sensitive topics.
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This sounds like a good book. It looks like the illustrations are real entertaining too. Love how it seems fun and also teaches children. Nice.
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What a great story! This would be a really nice gift to give young kids.
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As a divorced parent, I recognize a need for this type of literature. Parenting amidst a breakup isn’t easy for anyone, least of all the children. I’m going to check this book out. Thank you for the recommendation.
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Thank you for your comment, Raine. I’m the author, and it touches me to see a parent considering my little red onion as a bridge to conversation. Thank you for your interest. Good luck to you.
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This sounds like a really sweet story! My daughter would enjoy it.
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this book sounds and looks like something my kids at pre k would enjoy
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Hello, Josselyn. I’m the author of this book, and I’m just seeing your comment here now. It sounds like you’re a pre-school teacher. LuJu Books has made it a part of our business plan to give back to schools and libraries when we can. Could we send you a copy? Thank you for doing your good work.
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Aww, this sounds like a cute story! I love books that try to teach kids how to deal with life’s issues in healthy ways.
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this seems like a fun book! I love building up my daughter and son’s little library!
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This book sounds great & interesting. Certainly would like to read more about Otis !
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