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Book Review: Mom's Cloud and the Beach Adventure ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐


Hi friends! Today I’m sharing my thoughts on Mom's Cloud and the Beach Adventure

by Kendall Concini-Moore.

A huge thank you to Ziggleoafing Books for sending me an advanced reader copy (ARC)!

As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.



Book Details:


  • Title: Mom’s Cloud and the Beach Adventure

  • Author: Kendall Concini-Moore

  • Illustrator: Juliana Castro

  • Release Date: March 2026

  • Genre: Children’s Picture Book

  • Age Range: ages 4-7

  • Format Read: eBook / PDF

  • Rating: ️️️️️Five-star rating!


Book Summary:


Here is the book summary straight from the book itself!


Alma and Max are eager for sunshine and adventure. But a cloud rolls in over Mom,

casting shadows on her day. With empathy and playful hearts, the family

encourages her to rest—reminding her that it’s okay to not be okay,

because clouds don’t last forever.


Complete with discussion questions and resources, this picture book gives children

ages 4-7, the language to understand when someone they love is struggling, while

celebrating that sometimes, simply being together is the most caring thing.


My Review:


First, I want to congratulate Kendall Concini-Moore, Ziggleoafing Books, and Juliana Castro on creating such an outstanding picture book for young readers! You can truly feel the thought, passion, and talent poured into both the storytelling and the artwork.


Review gallery:



The Full 5 Star Review:

Thank you so much to Ziggleoafing Books for the advanced reader copy (ARC)—my thoughts are my own.


Mom’s Cloud and the Beach Adventure is a comforting reminder that everyone carries something unseen. The kindness in this book felt deeply healing—like being wrapped in a warm hug you didn’t even realize you needed.


This story is incredibly relatable and gives a wonderful example of how to be there for someone who might be feeling down. I also loved the resources included at the back of the book, along with the conversation starters. This was a brilliant add-on.


Not only does it share a meaningful message, but it delivers it in a fun and creative way with beautiful illustrations that keep you wondering what will happen next. A must-read and a great addition for home and classroom libraries.



One thing I really appreciated was the author’s note, where Kendall shares the heart behind this story and the importance of helping children understand that all feelings, even the heavy ones, are real, valid, and always passing. It also offers such a thoughtful reminder that kids aren’t responsible for “fixing” a parent’s hard day; they can simply offer love and understanding, and that is enough.

I also loved that resources are included at the end of the book, making it even more supportive for families and opening the door for honest, compassionate conversations.

Which leads me to the WHY I decided to give this such a high rating! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️



This book is a golden star review for how it teaches emotional intelligence

with warmth, empathy, fun, and creativity. 

And for how beautifully it simplifies holding space for a loved one,

while keeping it understandable for all ages.

The bright, colorful illustrations kept the story light-hearted and warm, while

adding humor and fun that will keep young readers’ eyes fixed on the pages.  

Making this a must-read for everyone!



Themes / Vibes:


The family is headed to the beach for the day, but the story gently shows how emotions can come along with us, and how love can meet us there.


  • Creative, imaginative fun: The creative play reminded me of the playful imagination that the family has in the Bluey children’s tv show.)

  • Emotional awareness / emotional intelligence: My favorite line from the book is “It’s a part of me, not all of me.”

  • Support, empathy, and holding space for someone you love: Dad in the book tells mom, “it’s okay not to be okay,” and that melted my heart.


Final Thoughts:


I read this to my 3-year-old son, and it kept him engaged the whole time! Some of the things he kept pointing out were all the seashells, the sand “snowman” (he really loved that part), and even the cloud throughout the story. It was such a fun read, and one we truly enjoyed together.


Kendall Concini-Moore is not only an author and mom, but also a passionate advocate for mental health. Through her website, she shares helpful resources and tools that support families and encourage honest, compassionate conversations. I’ve linked everything below, and I highly encourage you to take a look!


Where to Find It:


  • Preorder / Buy Link:


  • Goodreads:


  • Author Website:



Let’s Stay Connected:


If you enjoyed this ARC review of Mom’s Cloud and the Beach Adventure, I’ll be sharing more early reader reviews, favorite finds, and heartfelt book recommendations here on the blog, especially stories that bring comfort, kindness, and meaningful messages to young readers.

Want to follow along? Join my newsletter by visiting the Home page on my website to get updates, new blog posts, behind-the-scenes peeks into my own books, and occasional cozy freebies. And if you’re an indie author or illustrator, don’t forget you can fill out my feature form to be highlighted on the blog. I’d love to help shine a light on your stories, too.


Here’s to…

Stories that heal.

Books that spark connection.

And the creative magic that brings us all together.


With stardust and wonder,


Torrey Lynn Sullivan

Star Lake Stories

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