Lost and Found by Natalie Shampanier
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I received a digital copy of Lost and Found from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I read a lot of children’s literature, initially because I enjoy it but now as research for how I want to curate my own child’s library. Lost and Found gave me the nostalgia of being in kindergarten and gathering around the teacher on the floor for story time. The illustrations are detailed and appropriately cartoonish, fitting the style of the writing.
With the exception of Toy Story, we don’t have many recent instances of tales told from the toys’ side of things, and this one is especially unique as it takes the perspective of toys at a camp – a traditionally seasonal job, if you will.
The spunky toys range from Dino Boy to a mood ring, all with different purposes and personalities, and they come together to help one another escape in search of children to love them. As they venture on their own, they each play to their strengths, highlighting that everyone is of value, while never once dulling another toy’s shine.
Young kids will love Lost and Found for its cleverness and cuteness, but also for the resilience of the toys. Parents and teachers will love sharing this story with their kids, as well as using it as a teaching instrument for courage, emotional understanding, and teamwork with all the people around you.
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