Hello, friends! Our book today is Grace and Box, written by Kim Howard and illustrated by Megan Lötter, a sweet story of an unusual friendship.

“The day the new refrigerator came, Grace got Box.” Grace’s new pal is a master of imagination and disguise – one day, he’s a rocketship; another day, he’s a tent. Roman ruins, a submarine, even the entire city of Hong Kong, Box can be it all. But after a week of play, Grace notices that Box is starting to show some wear and tear. So what does a friend do when their best bud is feeling a little worn out? Take care of them, of course! Nursing Box back to health as best she can, Grace loses none of her affection for her playmate; he may look a little different now, but he’s still her friend Box, and they have a whole universe of imagination to explore.

Utterly charming. This timeless tale about the astounding imagination and creativity of kiddos and their ability to form bonds with beloved playthings is as fun a read for young bookworms as it is for their adults. Adorable Grace, with her purple dress, polka-dot socks, dark skin, and curly Afro, is a wonderfully engaging and expressing character, and the perfect foil to the oddly endearing Box and his static Sharpie smile; Grace’s unnamed dog is an entertaining silent third in their adventures. The illustrations and text work together perfectly to create a story that is light yet tender and heartfelt, and the reader feels drawn into each of Grace and Box’s fully-realized escapades. The length is perfect for a quick storytime, and JJ enjoyed it immensely. A delightful little tale, and we definitely recommend it – Baby Bookworm approved!

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