BEA BY THE SEA is a sweet picture book about trying new things and making new friends. Bea loves lions but does not like sand, so she is not looking forward to going to the beach with her mother. Bea carefully steps on stones to avoid the sand until she slips and ends up meeting a Sand Lion. Sand Lion helps her to overcome her fear and enjoy the sand and the beach. In turn, Bea helps him overcome his fear of the water. Bea goes home and the next day, she is excited to go to the beach. However, Sand Lion is gone - luckily, Bea knows what to do!

What I loved: This is a sweet story of friendship and trying new things. I loved how Sand Lion helped to encourage Bea, and Bea helped to encourage him on something else. Bea is so charming, and her passion for lions will definitely resonate with the toddler and preschooler crowd. Although there is some sadness when Sand Lion disappears, the ending is hopeful and encouraging, presenting resilience (as Bea makes a new Sand Lion).

The length of the story is perfect and absolutely delightful, accompanied by lovely and colorful illustrations. The book works well for toddlers through young elementary school aged readers. The font is also nice and easy to read, so it's a great pick for reading aloud.

Final verdict: With fantastic illustrations, BEA BY THE SEA is a charming picture book with themes of friendship, trying new things, and resilience. Highly recommend for young children who may deal with similar feelings of fear around new experiences.