Book Review of Play Outside with Me
Sponsored* | All opinions are our own
The Children’s Book Review
Play Outside with Me
Written by Kat Chen
Illustrated by Lorraine Nam
Ages 1-3 | 24 Pages
Publisher: Rise x Penguin Workshop | ISBN-13: 978-0593659731
What to Expect: Interactive, Friendship, Social Skills, Imagination, and Nature Appreciation
Play Outside with Me is an interactive board book that not only encourages but celebrates the joys of outdoor play for young children.
Written by Kat Chen and beautifully illustrated by Lorraine Nam, this engaging story follows Sam and his friend Squirrel as they invite the reader to join them in various playground activities, sparking a sense of adventure and fun. Play Outside with Me subtly teaches essential social skills, such as asking for permission, taking turns, and being considerate of others’ preferences. As Sam and the reader engage in different activities together, children learn about friendship, sharing, and the joy of outdoor play.
The simple, conversational text is perfect for young readers, as Sam not only asks questions but also encourages the reader to participate throughout the story. Children will enjoy responding to Sam’s prompts, such as sharing their favorite outdoor activities and snacks. The book’s interactive nature promotes language development and helps foster a love for reading, making parents and caregivers feel part of the story.
Nam’s charming illustrations, created using cut paper, paint, and digital editing, bring the playground to life with vibrant colors and endearing characters. The artwork perfectly complements the story, making it easy for children to connect with Sam and Squirrel’s adventures. This board book is an excellent addition to any young child’s library as it combines an engaging story, delightful illustrations, and valuable lessons. It will surely become a favorite for parents and caregivers looking to encourage their little ones to explore the great outdoors and use their imagination.
In summary, Play Outside with Me is a charming and interactive book that celebrates the simple pleasures of outdoor play while fostering necessary social and language skills in young children. Kat Chen and Lorraine Nam have created a delightful story that will inspire many fun-filled playdates in the park.
Buy the Book
About the Author
Kat Chen is the author of several bestselling contemporary and historical romance books and serves on the advisory board for Books for Newborns.
After becoming a grandmother and spending most of her free time helping with “the fun stuff”—conversations, crayons, and crawling—she was inspired to delve into children’s books and help kids master the art of simple conversation through shared play.
Learn more about Kat and her work at kat-chen.com.
About the Illustrator
Lorraine Nam is an illustrator based in Brooklyn, New York. She was born in Philadelphia and spent her childhood drawing pictures and folding origami to pass the time at her parents’ jewelry store. She now spends her days combining those two loves to create her illustrations.
She is the illustrator of Look Up With Me, a picture book biography of Neil deGrasse Tyson, and the upcoming Wei Skates On by Olympic Gold Medalist Nathan Chen.
Learn more about Lorraine and her work at www.lorrainenam.com.
Dedicated Reviews allow authors and illustrators to gain prompt visibility for their work. This is a sponsored*, non-biased review of Play Outside with Me. Learn more about getting a book review …