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[A]n intimate and culturally rich picture book.

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Kirkus Reviews

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A warm portrayal of a loving, close-knit community.

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Horn Book

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[T]his picture book celebrates the expansion of a family we’ve grown to love.

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Quill & Quire

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An enjoyable, feel-good read for young children.

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School Library Journal

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Malaika’s beautiful interracial family and new friendships make this story a powerful one.

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Toronto Star

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Malaika’s Surprise offers a refreshing new sibling narrative … [the] joyful, textured illustrations are busy and inviting, like the other titles in this series, and the blend of English and Caribbean patois makes Malaika’s voice sing.

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Canadian Children's Book News

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Much of our lives, like Malaika's, involves change and a newness of circumstances. But what Malaika's Surprise demonstrates is that, though newness and change can be stressful because of the anticipation of the unknown, the reality is often not as bad as expected, especially with the knowledge that others care.

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CanLit for LittleCanadians

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Mailaka’s Surprise celebrates culture, friendship and family in a captivating, warm way.

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CM Review of Materials

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Written in a combination of standard English and Caribbean patois, Hohn’s work celebrates family values and acceptance of cultural diversity. Bright and lively illustrations by Irene Luxbacher add to the book’s attraction.

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Winnipeg Free Press

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Hohn’s mastery of the craft command[s] a standing ovation.

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Cloud Lake Literary