Ava's Secret Tea Party by Donna J. Shepherd, Illustrated by Bella Sinclair

Donna J. Shepherd’s new book, Ava’s Secret Tea Party, illustrated by Bella Sinclair, is every little girl’s secret dream! Who wouldn’t want to invite the Sandman, Tooth Fairy, Easter Bunny, and Santa Claus to come for tea? This is another one of those books that children’s book writers see and say, “Now why didn’t I think of that?” It’s also one of those delicious little books that children will scoop up and demand for a bedtime story again and again.

Ms. Shepherd handily scoops us up for a magical romp through the nighttime mysteries that parents don’t have to explain to children. Yes, the Sandman exists – who else puts the sand in our sleepy eyes? You know the Tooth Fairy brings you money for baby teeth – who else could fly so softly and silently? Of course, the Easter Bunny brings all the Easter candy – who else could do it so hoppity fast and well? And, we all know Santa Claus brings toys to good girls and boys in his huge sleigh pulled by magic flying reindeer. Ava wonders if these magical beings have ever met all at one time and decides to remedy the situation by asking them to come for tea through a note to the Sandman.

Bella Sinclair’s artwork is pure delight. Every picture is fun and engaging, especially coupled with Ms. Shepherd’s rhymes. We have no trouble imagining being in the story with little Ava – hopping with Easter Bunny, flying with Tooth Fairy, riding along with Santa Claus, scooping sand with Sandman, and helping them all out so they’ll have time to come to her tea party. 

At the end of the book are other special treats:  recipes for the goodies Ava serves her magical guests at her secret tea party. Plus, there are crafts to help kids decorate for their own tea parties. This is a very special, not-to-be-missed children’s book.

Available from: http://www.guardianangelpublishing.com/avas-tea-party.htm