Maddie Moo Baby Book Review: Red Socks Go With Absolutely Anything

Written by: Darla Woodley
Illustrated by: Evan Munday

Sometimes it is hard to find exactly the right words to show that you are sharing your encouragement and support. This uplifting story demonstrates that a simple pair of red socks can give someone special a boost when they are feeling down or out of their comfort zone. You'll find yourself smiling when you see how red socks go with absolutely anything! {cover copy}
Slobber Durability: 6/10
Tear &Fold Resistance: 4/10
Font Readability: 9/10
Baby Engagement: 4/10 {She's rather young for it}


I recieved this book in exchange for an honest review. The story behind this story is an inspirational and heartwarming one. I love the idea behind the red socks, that they can lend encouragement without a word. 

But I wish I could have gotten more of that feeling while I read the story itself. I really wanted it to be something more than just being really nervous, seeing red socks and suddenly all the nervousness goes away. It felt... incomplete. I think if on the first page, the mom said more than just that the socks go with anything, and said something to the effect of, "They can help you feel strong and ready and remind you that you can do anything," then that statement the boy makes at the end of each page would resonate so much more. Perhaps this is just a case of the book not being my style, or the fact that Madeline can't quite engage with a story like this yet, because I have a friend who has older kids and they and she had a much different reaction. You can see her review here.

In the end, I feel like unless you read the preface, you don't really get the emotion behind the socks, so it didn't quite live up to the potential I thought it had before I read it. But I do like the way the pictures are only black and white except for the pop of red socks. That was smart and eye catching, and Madeline seemed to enjoy that part {since she's too young yet to enjoy the story}.