I love books with a message. And this one has a great one- accepting your strengths and weaknesses.

Leela wants to do a headstand so bad, but can't. She falls over every time. She is determined that she will be happy when she can finally do one. Her friend Lyle points out all the things she is good at, so Leela realizes that maybe not being able to do a headstand isn't the end of the world. She starts to find happiness in her strengths.

The simple, water-color like illustrations are gorgeous.
The book is fairly short- only a few sentences per page.

I received a digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

So over due to review! Time just slips away... Ok, I liked this little story. I thought the message was a good one- so big deal, you can't do a head stand! There are other things you can do just as well, even better! That doesn't mean you won't ever do a head stand. Just not now The illustrations were cute and funny! Kids, especially those into yoga, will love it! Super cute!

A wonderful story with beautiful illustrations about not comparing your best to others. Loved it!

Happiness Doesn’t Come from Headstands by Tamara Levitt is a lovely spin on the idea of teaching kids trying and trying again equals achievement. Children are often taught this idea; therefore, they often become frustrated because the end result doesn’t equal achievement or lead to perfection or happiness.

This is where this wonderful children’s book is effective. Little Leela loves yoga, but no matter how hard she tries, she is still struggling to learn how to do a headstand independently. She becomes frustrated and envious when the other children in yoga class succeed with this feat.

Until her kind friend, Lyle, points out all the great things Leela already can do. He helps her see that happiness does not come from headstands, but instead from being happy with herself. I applaud Tamara Levitt for presenting a difficult lesson in a way all children can understand.

If you have a child who struggles with perfectionism or is anxious about completing tasks, this book will be a helpful tool to have on hand. It will make a great addition to your children’s bookshelves.

I loved this story. The illustrations were beautiful and the moral something that is perfect for any child.

When I read a picture book I expect to be taken in by the pictures, I want to look at the pictures for a while and discover the story through them. Unfortunately this book did not deliver in the picture department.

Despite this, the story shows a young lady who is determined, develops resilience and has friendships which is a nice message for the young reader and hopefully will inspire them when they face challenges in life.

The message at the end of the book from the author was great to see, It makes the book more personal and you can tell through her words that she wants children to reach goals through perseverance and making their way through the failures to reach a good place.

I would recommend this book for 5 years and older.

This is a cute story about learning to be happy with all the things you CAN do and still continuing to work on the ones you can't.