Lisa Blecker is the author and illustrator behind Sweet Neighbors Come in All Colors, a silly and cheerful new picture book with an important message about kindness and inclusion. In this tale, a variety of fruits at a farmer’s market come to life. Although the fruit are very different, they all get along, and what they have in common is emphasized. The book’s celebratory message of acceptance is made accessible to even the youngest of audiences through bright illustrations and thoughtful prose.

This is a very teachable text that will make a wonderful addition to classroom libraries. I recommend it for young students, from two to four years old, who will appreciate the simplicity and bright colors. Beyond the dominant message about celebrating difference, the picture book provides young audiences with opportunities to learn and reinforce knowledge about different colors, textures, sizes, shapes, and healthy fruits. My four-year-old attends a Montessori school that ends the year with a celebration featuring a friendship fruit salad. Students bring different fruits, which are mixed together and shared – what a perfect text to accompany such an activity! Even more, the book is based on a song by Dick Grover, which can be used for movement activities.

Sweet Neighbors Come in All Colors is a little book that does a lot of work!

Sweet Neighbors Come in All Colors is a recent recipient of a Mom’s Choice Gold Award!