Awesome of the Day - Ellen Javernick - ★★★★

AUTHOR: Ellen Javernick

ILLUSTRATOR: Bhagya Madanasinghe

GENRE: Children's Picture Book.

PUBLICATION DATE: September 2, 2025

RATING: 4 stars.

In a Nutshell: A picture book about changing your perspective towards a more positive outlook. Realistic characters, great story, cute illustrations, essential message that cannot be repeated enough. Much recommended.

Plot Preview:

Whenever anyone asks Andrew how his day went, he grumbles about something awful that messed up his day. After a few days, his sister Amelia points out that he only talks of the bad things that happened. She suggests that he start thinking of one awesome thing that happens to him every day, even if it is something small. Andrew knows this is a tall ask, but he still agrees to try. What do you think happens next?

“Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life”, from Monty Python's Life of Brian, might have been a comic parody, but its titular message is true if you want to live a happier life. It always helps to think of the positives in your life, no matter how minuscule, instead of obsessing over the negatives. The change in perspective from ‘awful’ to ‘awesome’ can make a vast difference to psychological and physiological wellbeing.

There have already been many books that espouse this moral. But what’s one more cute addition to the list, right?

While the story is fairly straightforward and enjoyable, I love how it highlighted that ‘awesome’ isn't just something that happened but also something that didn’t happen. We usually forget this bit when we have to think of the blessings in our day. I also appreciate how the book doesn’t depict a magical absence of negativity once you start thinking of the positives. Life still throws lemons your way regularly, but it is up to you whether you squeeze them in your mouth directly or make a tasty lemonade.

The characters work well for the plot. Andrew gets the main chunk of the narrative, and does a commendable job at being a normal kid: one who grumbles, plays, laughs, falls, fights, hates brussels sprouts, scores low on tests…. I love that the book made him relatable and realistic. Anyone too picture perfect or too obnoxious would have messed up the impact. Andrew’s sister Amelia also is really sweet.

The content is written in simple and understandable prose, quite easy for the target age group.

For once, I am more familiar with the illustrator than the author. I have loved Bhagya Madanasinghe’s illustrations in “Awe-samosas!” and “My Teacher Has Tattoos”. I would have anyway grabbed this book from the cover, but seeing her name listed as the illustrator sealed the deal. She didn’t let me down! I loved the way she sketched the two children (Yay for showing Andrew as wearing glasses!) and the animals. Andrew’s dad appeared too boyish, but the rest of the characters were superb. There is also so much detailing on every page! I loved how the page space appeared full without being cluttered. Don’t miss Andrew’s dog and cat in the background of the scenes set in his home.

Overall, this is a really sweet picture book. While it isn't ground-breaking in its message, it is still a great option in terms of plot, characters, and approach towards positivity.

Definitely recommended. The book ought to work well for ages 4-8.

My thanks to Two Lions for providing the DRC of “Awesome of the Day” via NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

The digital version of this book is currently available on Kindle Unlimited.