Book Review of Tova’s Sweet Solution
The Children’s Book Review
A heartwarming and deliciously creative picture book, Tova’s Sweet Solution, written by Melissa Taylor and illustrated by Lise-Anne Aurélie, delves into the world of food allergies through the eyes of young Tova, whose life at her family’s bakery changes overnight after an allergy diagnosis.
When stomach pain reveals that Tova can no longer safely eat the honeygrain-based treats she’s grown up loving, her world shifts in an instant—the treats that once brought her comfort are now off-limits, leaving her feeling lost and disappointed. But Tova’s family refuses to let her face this challenge alone, launching into what they call “bakestorming”—experimental recipe sessions filled with hope and determination. Despite their best efforts, the new creations fall short of capturing that familiar magic . . . until Tova and her faithful companion, Biscuit the squirrel, make an unexpected discovery that sparks the most brilliant solution of all.
In this cleverly crafted storytime treasure for the food-sensitive crowd— where children with allergies or dietary restrictions will feel genuinely seen and celebrated—the narrative gently addresses the real emotional impact of food allergies, honoring both the disappointment of what’s lost and the excitement of what can be created anew. As well as being a story about adapting to dietary restrictions, it’s also about Tova’s journey toward acceptance and innovation, strengthened by her family’s unconditional love. The writing seamlessly weaves in playful, imaginative language—such as cinnalove and chocomint—that is so much fun to read aloud.
Lise-Anne Aurélie’s inviting illustrations are absolutely adorable, with the joyful spirit of the bear family popping off the pages against cool, color-toned backdrops—orange, yellow, and brown over lovely hues of blue and green. The pages are bursting with charm and heart, and they complement this meaningful story perfectly. The inviting bakery atmosphere, combined with Tova’s persistence and her family’s steadfast encouragement, creates a reading experience filled with warmth and hope.
Young readers, especially those navigating their own food sensitivities, will find Tova’s Sweet Solution to be a very fun read indeed—highly recommended for school libraries, too!
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About the Author
Melissa Taylor, MA, is an allergy mom, writer, award-winning teacher, children’s book reviewer, parent, and dog mom from Denver, Colorado. She loves (in no particular order) children’s books, learning new things, and knitting rectangles. Her aspiration is to eventually love baking as much as Tova. Tova’s Sweet Solution is Taylor’s debut children’s book.
Connect with Taylor on social media at @imaginationsoup and on her websites, imaginationsoup.net and melissataylor.net.
About the Illustrator
Aurélie Lise-Anne is a Belgian artist working in children’s book illustration and animation. She has worked on projects such as Klaus and The Adventures of Paddington. Passionate about animation, she has never stopped honing her own whimsical style, illustrating books and personal projects alongside her studio work. Lise-Anne currently lives in the Belgian countryside with her husband and sausage dog. Daily sightings of squirrels, rabbits, and all sorts of birds are a big inspiration for her.
You can find her on Instagram @aurelieliseanne or on her website aurelieliseanne.com.
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