📖 Mr. Prickly
✍️ Author: Betina Birkjær
🎨 Illustrator: Anna Margrethe Kjærgaard
🌎 Translator: Lindy Falk van Rooyen
👍👍👍👍

When I read the author’s description of this book as a “story about being kind to yourself when things pile up,” my first thought was that maybe I needed to read this one for myself instead of my son. LOL!

If there’s one thing I’ve learned since I started reviewing children’s books, it’s that I am OBSESSED with the illustrations. (Sorry, authors!) And “Mr. Prickly” is no exception. The artwork is absolutely adorable! But beyond the beautiful illustrations is such an important message. As adults, we’re overwhelmed ALL THE TIME, but kids experience those same feelings, too. As a teacher, I see it every day.

I loved the message of finding your way back to yourself when life becomes overwhelming. One of my favorite lines was, “he’d forgotten all about the melodies tucked away in his heart…” How beautiful is that?!

I did notice a couple of what I’m guessing are translation or editing hiccups, and the story felt a little wordy for the younger end of the age range. I think older children will appreciate the message a bit more, but it’s certainly one worth sharing!

👧 Age Range: 3–8 years
📖 Page Count: 40
📅 Release Date: Dec. 29, 2026

Special thanks to NetGalley, Publisher Spotlight, and Transit Children’s Editions for providing me this ARC.