Written by Hanako Masutani and Illustrated by Stéphane Jorisch, Tradewind’s title Emi and Mini is praised by Midwest Book Review as, “a charming and original story (and with an important and underlying message about the bond between pet and child)”.

This story tells the tale of Emi and her new pet, Mini, a loveable fat hamster. unfortunately, Emi is not a huge fan of hamsters — she really wanted a dog. After Mini escapes from her cage and hides somewhere in the house, Emi finally realizes she loves her new little friend.

The reviewer goes on to describe this heartwarming tale as, “an especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, school and community library storybook collections for young readers.”

Learn more about Emi and Mini here.

Read the full review here.