Little Helper by Regina Linke – Book Review
My family is excited to share a new children’s book with you called Little Helper by Regina Linke. This children’s story is a beautiful and meaningful children’s book filled with creativity, kindness, and stunning artwork inspired by Chinese culture. We received this book for free in exchange for our honest review, and all opinions shared are completely our own.
This paperback book immediately catches your attention, and it even comes with a removable cover that can slide on and off while reading, which gives this children’s book a unique touch families may enjoy collecting and displaying on their bookshelves.
The story follows Ah-Fu, a young boy who simply wants to enjoy a peaceful day flying his kite, riding in his grandfather’s oxcart, and spending time with his family. However, throughout the day, different problems appear, and Ah-Fu must use his imagination and problem-solving skills to help everyone around him.
My family liked how the Author shows us how Little Helper teaches children that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference. This is something all of us needed to be reminded of at times. Charlie enjoyed sharing the book with Granny Sherry.
One of the most enjoyable parts of this children’s book is how it can easily turn into a homeschool learning opportunity. The story touches on Chinese culture and even mentions Taiwan, giving parents the chance to continue learning outside the book.
Families could study Chinese traditions, explore Taiwan on a map, learn about Chinese artwork, or discuss the beautiful clothing and fashion shown throughout the illustrations. They could take a Field Trip to a Museum to check out the style of art used in the book.
Regina Linke is a Chinese American author and illustrator who specializes in contemporary Chinese landscape painting using traditional ink-and-wash techniques along with digital painting. That artistic influence shines brightly throughout the entire book. The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous and feel very inspired by traditional Chinese art styles.
The colors are soft and calming — not overly bright or pastel — but she uses rich medium tones that make every page feel peaceful and magical. The scenes of Ah-Fu flying through the air with the kite and eagle are especially breathtaking and keep readers excited to turn the page.
Little Helper itself is easy enough for many younger readers to follow independently, although some children may still need help with a few vocabulary words. Charlie could easily read much of the story alone, while David needed a little assistance with some words here and there.
Both Charlie and David loved the ox and Ah-Fu, and I loved the traditional Chinese outfits worn throughout the book. The grandfather was Charlie’s favorite character because his expressions when he is thinking and thoughtful personality added warmth and wisdom to the story. At times Charlie said the grandfather reminded Charlie of both his grandfathers.
One quote in the book that really stood out says:
“To you who may ask how you help, life will always present a chance to help that only you can fulfill. May you answer that call and be blessed in return.”
That message perfectly captures the heart of Little Helper when the children’s story encourages children to help others, think creatively, and understand that everyone has something important to contribute. No, matter their age, range or sex.
Little Helper also connects beautifully with Regina Linke’s other works including The Oxherd Boy and the companion picture book Big Enough!. Families who enjoy Little Helper will likely want to explore those titles as well.
After living in Taipei, Taiwan, Regina Linke moved to Rhode Island with her husband and son. Readers can learn more about her work and artwork through Oxherd Boy Official Website.
If your family enjoys meaningful stories, beautiful illustrations, cultural learning opportunities, and gentle lessons about compassion and helping others, Little Helper is a wonderful addition to your home library and this book should be in all Public Libraries and School Libraries as well.
About the book:
From the creator of the beloved webcomic The Oxherd Boy comes a gorgeously illustrated original folktale about a little boy who must use his big imagination to help solve big problems.
It’s a beautiful day in Ah-Fu’s village, and all he wants to do is fly his kite, ride in his grandfather’s oxcart, and have a picnic. But a tangled string, a busy aunt, a fallen tree, and more threaten to ruin Ah-Fu’s chances of enjoying this perfect day with the people he loves.
Can little Ah-Fu come up with creative ways to help his friends and family, or will his plans for a nice day be ruined?
Inspired by traditional Chinese philosophy and told alongside gorgeous illustrations, this modern fable encourages readers of all ages to use inventive problem-solving strategies and lend a helping hand wherever they can.
Don’t miss the companion book Big Enough!
Meet the Author:
Regina Linke is a Taiwanese American artist specializing in Chinese gongbi-style painting, an ancient form of brush painting that depicts narrative subjects in colorful high detail. She enjoys writing and illustrating stories that celebrate East Asian folklore and philosophy in a modern way and is set to release the first Oxherd Boy picture book in 2025. Follow for more.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
