This children's picture book is a story about a boy who collects, but doesn't fly, beautiful kites. As he earns money and buys more kites his baby sister also grows and is interested in them. He eventually buys her a kite of her own and overcomes his worries about flying the kite. Even though the kite comes back with some wear and tear, he works hard so that he can pay to repair it and realizes that it's ok after all. This is a simple story but is an example of a child overcoming anxiety and worries and would be an awesome option for a child who has anxiety. It is also a good example of how hard work can earn money and allow you to buy things you love. In the story James speaks to his sister harshly and then realizes it wasn't a good choice and makes it right. I really like the subtle lessons incorporated into this story.
I love the print method used for the illustrations and the fun patterns incorporated into them. They made the pictures interesting and my kids liked them.
I would love to get a copy of this book for my elementary school library!
Thank you to Kids Can Press and NetGalley for an ARC of this book!

The Kite Collector is a charming and precious story all around. It has an unexpected life lesson for young children and also older readers - it's rewarding to work hard for things we enjoy, and it's natural to want to keep those treasures safe and hidden, but can keeping those things locked up and safe really worth it, or are you missing out on something more such as a wonderful experience that becomes memories? Some treasures are meant to be used and/or shared with others. The Kite Collector is also a great book for children whose younger siblings may go through their belongings and a reminder on how to be aware of their words and reaction to the situation. The story definitely allows for multiple open discussion while reading the story, and so I am definitely recommending this book for either a home or classroom setting.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is a very sweet story about a little boy who collects kites as well as his love for his sister who wants to be included and play with the kites. The little boy displays empathy and love for his sister, which is heartwarming.

The Kite Collector was such a charming book. The classic picture book art style draws you in instantly with the combination of white spaces and miniature art panels to a full page of environment with whimsy and color. The messaging was so clear and needed—we should enjoy the things we work for. Collecting is important but not experiencing and enjoying and living with the item collected is not completing the expectation of the “thing.” If we work hard to buy a kite but never fly a kite, then why the kite? It’s the “dream” of the experience but fearing losing that experience forever. This will be a go to read for all because the imagery, from GG as a new walker to lemons being squeezed for lemonade need to be visualized over and over again.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

The illustrations are absolutely stunning, Overall, the book was well written and I did really enjoy it. Thank you for this advance reading copy!