In this series, young readers meet lovable Jelly Bean, a fourth grader who frequently finds herself in the midst of family chaos. Accompanying Jelly Bean on her adventures is her faithful dog, Roger-Over. In the first book, young readers follow Jelly Bean as she’s late for school after falling in the toilet when her brothers leave the toilet seat raised. However, even after all the mishaps, Jelly Bean has a great Halloween, even though she learns that some of her friends live very different lives from her own. In the second book, readers find Jelly Bean in even more difficult situations. Her family is divided because of her brother Michael’s decision to join the Marines. Jelly Bean’s grandpa dies, and Jelly Bean learns the meaning of grief. Young readers also accompany Jelly Bean as she learns valuable lessons about friendships and how, even though a person may not want things to change, they inevitably do.

What parents may notice about Jelly Bean is that, in reality, she is an exemplary role model. Jelly Bean is, without a doubt, always herself. Her individuality is an inspiration to young readers, and Jelly Bean, no matter what she faces, embraces the experience with curiosity. This lesson is particularly evident in the second book. When Jelly Bean’s brother, Michael, decides to join the United States Marines, her parents are consumed by Michael’s decision, and they frequently overlook their daughter. Nonetheless, it is a time of growth and maturity for the protagonist. For example, Jelly Bean discovers that all the experiences are “like puzzle pieces,” and “somehow they all fit together” because everything has a place. She also learns to take ownership, as each of the pieces belong to her. Ultimately, it is up to Jelly Bean to decide how these pieces best fit together. As readers travel through each new experience with the main character, they learn the value of learning to adapt to new situations early in life.

These books also hold valuable lessons for adults, which makes them even more powerful. For example, even though Jelly Bean and Roger-Over’s adventures are the books’ central focus, one cannot overlook the parents’ role in each book. Adult readers can find value in what Jelly Bean’s parents offer adult readers about patience and raising children who are very different from one another. This is particularly evident in the first book. Jelly Bean’s mother faces constant bickering between Jelly Bean and her brother Joel. Jelly Bean’s mother gracefully offers that her hope for the two is that one day, Joel and Jelly Bean will make up their minds to love each other and be kind to one another. Even though their mother states, “That’s what would make me happy,” she poses the benefits it would have for both Jelly Bean and Joel: “And it would be rewarding for you both.”

The author's engaging books will inspire readers of all ages. Those who are fans of Judy Blume’s books, and especially fans of Blume’s Superfudge and Freckle Juice, will appreciate the new young heroine these books offer to the world.

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