This book tells a story of different ways of showing gratitude. The illustrations are really very beautiful.

As a mother of two, I found Gracie Feeds the Birds to be a gentle story about slowing down, appreciating the little things in life, and showing kindness and gratitude to others. The authors, Jane Yolk and Peter Tracy, take us through Gracie’s time spent outdoors, enjoying the birds and their songs. She even meets a squirrel and shows him patience and kindness as he climbs up to eat the birdseed. I read this book with my 8-year-old and 5-year-old, and while they were engaged at first, they did get a little bored toward the end. However, the illustrations by Frances Ives were absolutely beautiful, and my kids loved looking at the different types of birds. This book was perfect for this time of year, as spring approaches and the birds return to Michigan. I would recommend it to other families with young elementary-aged children.

Thank you to NetGalley and Magination Press — American Psychological Association for this eARC!

Synopsis: Gracie feeds the birds (and a squirrel)

Favourite Scene: I almost laughed out loud at the illustration of the squirrel with the tail ‘like an exclamation point.’

Enjoyment Rating: (5 stars) I loved all the illustrations of birds and having a name to put to the picture.

Ponder Rating: (4 stars) I’m on the wary side when it comes to books about gratitude, but this one left me with some things to muse on instead of just an overplayed message.

Conclusion: I usually prefer picture books with more story than message, but if you put beautiful illustrations of birds in a picture book, I make exceptions. I prefer some of Yolen’s other books (Owl Moon is a family favourite), but I did appreciate that the author avoids being too heavy handed with the message, making for a lovely, immersive read without any cringe. If I were specifically looking for a book about gratitude to read to my kids, this one would be at the top of my list.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Gracie Feeds the Birds is a delightful story! This book explores how simple acts of gratitude can bring joy. The illustrations are lovely and bring you into nature to look for beauty an kindness. Your young scholar will want to read this book again and again. It is the perfect book to use for discussions on peace and looking for the good. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book provided by the publisher, American Psychological Association, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I can't wait to buy multiple copies of this book.

Gracie Feeds the Birds by Jane Yolen and illustrated by Frances Ives has a wonderful message that it is better to give than receive and it is ok to be thankful even if the giving is not reciprocated. It is a simple story, the calming, pastel colored illustrations were what drew me to the book. Thanks to Netgalley for the chance to read it in exchange for my honest thoughts!

I enjoyed the meaning behind this book of gratitude and how everyone shows their gratitude differently. Great story, beautiful animals and beautiful water color illustrations! A perfect book to read during the fall and thanksgiving season!

Thanks for letting me read this book!

Netgalley ARC- As a general enjoyer of birds, I liked seeing them individually showcased and given attention. I thought this was good, but not amazing.

Thank you for the advanced copy! This was a great story for young readers and very well written! The pictures were entertaining!