Rufus & Bea: You Don't Have to Sing

by Tiny Prime, Lisa Tucker Cummins, and Ryan Cummins

“You don’t have to impress. Just express.” —Bea

Singing and flying may seem like they would come naturally to a songbird, but Rufus is having a hard time leaving his nest and finding his voice. When a curious honeybee named Bea notices his difficulties, she offers her help. Together, the two take on the brave act of singing, one simple step at a time, and before long, Rufus has gained confidence—and a new best friend.

From the husband-and-wife musical duo and cocreators of Tiny Prime, the Rufus & Bea series helps families and friends enjoy the simple ritual of singing songs together, all while cultivating positive mental health and well-being for children. Perfect for early readers or reading (and singing!) aloud, each story features gorgeous illustrations and connects with a special song that children can enjoy listening to and singing along with.

• ISBN10: 1959411586
• ISBN13: 9781959411581
• Publish Date: 8 August 2024
• Publish Status: Active
• Publish Country: US
• Imprint: Flashpoint
• Format: Hardcover
• Pages: 48
• Language: English

Reviews

[annieb123]

Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.

Rufus & Bea is an adorable illustrated story for young readers about friendship and cooperation by Ryan & Lisa Cummins. Due out 25th June 2024 from Flashpoint, it's 48 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

Rufus is a songbird who can't sing -or- fly, and he's pretty upset about that. Bea is a honeybee, and a friendly, upbeat "person" and she wants to help Rufus gain enough confidence to make progress himself. It's got a lot of good lessons about uncritical support, positivity, kindness, and caring, and they're presented in a gentle way that isn't preachy or strident. 

The illustrations by Hannah Pascoe are beautifully rendered in detailed watercolors which are full of small details inviting readers to take a closer look at the little insects, flowers, trees, and other details. 

The text is simple and accessible, written about half and half in free verse and rhyming text. There are even some songs that Bea and Rufus sing, and the music is available on the authors' website, Tiny Prime. 

Five stars. This would make a great choice for public or school library acquisition, home use, gift giving, or classroom use.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.