I really enjoyed the message of this book that gender affirming items like our clothes, toys, and a crown can bring us comfort, they are not required in order for us to be who we are. Atara is a girl with or without her crown.

I also enjoyed finding a children's book with Jewish and LGBTQ representation. It's important that children from all traditions and walks of life get to see themselves represented in stories.

I would have liked more illustrations to go along with the story. It was a bit wordy at times, but that could just mean it's for an older age group than I'm used to reading to.

This was such a lovely book! Just like Queen Esther is an inclusive and sweet story about a little girl named Atara who finds a lot in common with the Biblical character of Esther. In order to represent her identity, Atara decides to wear the crown of Esther everywhere and has some interesting adventures. In the end, Atara realizes something important about herself and who she is - that her worth comes from within and nothing externally can change that truth. I think this was a beautiful story that will resonate with Jewish children, gender non-conforming kids, and all kids in general would benefit from the lessons provided. There is a fun printable crown at the end so kids can print their own crown to decorate and wear, in order to embody the spirit of Queen Esther.

A huge thank you to the authors, Ari Moffic and Kerry Olitzky, the illustrator, Rena Yehuda Newman, the publisher, Jessica Kingsley Publishers, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review a digital copy of this children's picture book, Just Like Queen Esther! I will share my review on Goodreads, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble upon release. The overall story is moving and the illustrations are very eye-catching and playful.

In short, this is a cute Purim holiday story with diverse character representation, a touching story, and cute illustrations! Would recommend!