Book Review of Sophie and the Swans
Sponsored* | All opinions are our own
The Children’s Book Review
Sophie and the Swans
Written by Holly Peppe
Illustrated by Aeron Cargill
Ages: 4+ | 36 Pages
Publisher: Lincoln Square Books (2024) | ISBN-13: 9781947187146
What to Expect: Empathy and Understanding, Bullying Prevention, and Nature Appreciation
Sophie and the Swans is a heartwarming children’s book that tackles important themes of kindness, empathy, and bullying prevention through a gentle and engaging narrative that will captivate and entertain readers of all ages.
Author Holly Peppe weaves a touching story around young Sophie, whose love for the swans at Fernwood Lake becomes a vehicle for teaching valuable life lessons. Using a nuanced approach to addressing bullying, Peppe crafts a tale that encourages understanding and compassion rather than presenting a simplistic good-versus-bad narrative.
The character of Ned, initially introduced as an antagonist, is gradually revealed to have his own struggles, demonstrating to young readers that bullies often act out due to their insecurities or problems. Sophie’s response to bullying – standing firm yet remaining kind – provides an excellent model for children. The story beautifully illustrates how responding to negativity with empathy can lead to positive change, as seen in the transformation of Ned’s behavior by the end of the book.
The inclusion of Sophie’s “Magical Cabin” adds a touch of whimsy that will appeal to young imaginations, while the lakeside setting creates a serene backdrop for the unfolding drama. Peppe’s prose is clear and accessible, making it suitable for early readers while still engaging enough for adults reading aloud. The book’s universal themes and strong connection to social-emotional learning make it a valuable resource for educators and parents, empowering them with a tool to address these important topics. The inclusion of anti-bullying resources at the end of the book is a thoughtful touch, providing readers with actionable next steps.
Aeron Cargill’s illustrations enhance the storytelling with a cool color palette of blues and greens that somehow still manages to glow like the golden hours of our days. This artistic choice perfectly captures the serene lakeside setting while infusing the scenes with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Sophie and the Swans is a charming and purposeful addition to children’s literature, offering important lessons on kindness and conflict resolution in an accessible, engaging format. The book not only entertains with its engaging narrative but also educates and inspires, making it a worthy read for children and a valuable tool for adults seeking to discuss these crucial topics with young ones.
Buy the Book
About the Author
Holly Peppe is a writer and editor who lives near a lake full of colorful ducks, noisy gray geese, and elegant white swans who take to the sky when they feel like flying. Her published writing includes essays about the Jazz Age poet Edna St. Vincent Millay; a memoir, Mum’s the Word: The High-flying Adventures of Eve Branson; and two Young Adult books about Barrington Irving, the first Black pilot and youngest person to fly solo around the world.
About the Illustrator
Aeron Cargill is a Jamaican-American illustrator who has worked on several children’s books and textbooks. He continues to gain recognition for his realistic yet vibrant and expressive style. Aeron also works as a fine artist and art director. He resides in Florida.
Visit him at aeroncargill.com.
Dedicated Reviews allow authors and illustrators to gain prompt visibility for their work. This is a sponsored*, non-biased review of Sophie and the Swans. Learn more about getting a book review …
