Hello, friends! Our books today are Clever Publishing’s new series Clever Zodiac Signs, illustrated by Alyona Achilova, twelve board books that explore the astrological zodiac.

With each book featuring a different sign of the zodiac, little bookworms can learn about their astrological sign and some of the traits and symbols associated thereof. Bright, friendly illustrations, cutouts, and an interactive wheel help engage little eyes and hands, making these short yet sweet titles fun to read for all ages.

Delightful. Introducing astrology in a casual and fun way, these lighthearted books do a great job of simplifying and condensing zodiac trivia for little readers while still managing to be inclusive and encouraging. The illustrations are filled with a mega-diverse cast of characters in each book, and the spinning-wheel interactive element is a great addition (JJ was a huge fan). The text wisely focuses less on shared traits – though they are briefly touched on – and more on things like each sign’s constellation, symbol, colors, lucky trees and flowers, and ruling planets. Gemstones are also outlined, but this are the books’ main weak point – since signs can straddle months, the gemstone and zodiac sign often don’t line up correctly; JJ’s Cancer book declared her gemstone a ruby, when hers is in fact moonstone, since she was born in late June. It’s a frustrating oversight in an otherwise stellar little series. Each 8-page board book makes for a quick read, and JJ enjoyed exploring her signs as well as those of her family and friends. This would make a great birthday gift for new babies or beginning readers, and we loved them. Baby Bookworm approved!

(Note: A copy of this book was provided to The Baby Bookworm by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.)