Bella and Bean

Bella and Bean know that they are going to become big, that just comes with growing up for hippos, but Bella has started to dream about things other than becoming big. Her new dream is to open a spa, and while her friends and neighbors doubt her, she is certain that with some hard work and help, she can make this dream come true.
What I Liked: The illustrations throughout this book are cute and fun. The playful and friendly expressions on the animals' faces make this book inviting and entertaining. You see the hippos enjoying their time rolling in the mud or working hard to make Bella’s dream come true. Through each scene, you see more and more of this dream come alive and just how much you can accomplish with help from others. Each page builds upon this dream until we get to the point where Bean discovers that he, too, has a dream beyond getting big.


Final Verdict: Bella and Bean is an inspiring and eye-opening book that teaches young children the power of believing in oneself while highlighting the importance of perseverance when others doubt. Children ages 4 and up will be encouraged to pursue their dreams, no matter how big they might be, and learn how others can help them achieve those dreams.