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These ABCs Belong to Me!
A joyful ABC picture book that helps kids reclaim the words used to describe them—transforming labels into superpowers and building confidence one letter at a time.
When others use words to define us, they’re not always kind.These ABCs Belong to Me! flips the script, inviting children to reclaim traits like “bossy,” “quiet,” and “picky” as personal strengths. From ambitious—because chasing big dreams takes courage—to zany—because creativity deserves to shine—each page celebrates what makes us unique.
Here’s what makes These ABCs Belong to Me!
Turns Labels into Shows how being “bossy” means taking charge, “quiet” means loving peace, and “picky” means knowing what’s best.
Empowers Kids’ Helps children build resilience and pride in who they are—perfect for nurturing emotional intelligence.
Inclusive & Written from a child’s perspective, free of gender pronouns, so every kid can see themselves in these pages.
Playful, Uplifting Filled with colorful illustrations that celebrate individuality and spark joyful conversations.
These ABCs Belong to Me! is more than an alphabet book—it’s a heartwarming guide to self-love and a reminder that the stories we tell ourselves are the most powerful of all.
When others use words to define us, they’re not always kind.These ABCs Belong to Me! flips the script, inviting children to reclaim traits like “bossy,” “quiet,” and “picky” as personal strengths. From ambitious—because chasing big dreams takes courage—to zany—because creativity deserves to shine—each page celebrates what makes us unique.
Here’s what makes These ABCs Belong to Me!
Turns Labels into Shows how being “bossy” means taking charge, “quiet” means loving peace, and “picky” means knowing what’s best.
Empowers Kids’ Helps children build resilience and pride in who they are—perfect for nurturing emotional intelligence.
Inclusive & Written from a child’s perspective, free of gender pronouns, so every kid can see themselves in these pages.
Playful, Uplifting Filled with colorful illustrations that celebrate individuality and spark joyful conversations.
These ABCs Belong to Me! is more than an alphabet book—it’s a heartwarming guide to self-love and a reminder that the stories we tell ourselves are the most powerful of all.
- GenresPicture BooksChildrens
Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
1 person is currently reading
3211 people want to read
About the author
Alicia McKenzie
2 books15 followersAlicia McKenzie is an author, keynote speaker, and entrepreneur dedicated to evidence-based wellness and personal growth. As the founder of Lift Like A Mother™, she creates content that empowers women to integrate health, family, and ambition without compromise. A former USAW and CrossFit athlete turned wellness coach and real estate investor, Alicia shares research-backed insights through her writing, podcasting, and speaking engagements.
Her debut children’s book, These ABCs Belong to Me, introduces a fresh take on social-emotional learning, helping kids redefine commonly misunderstood words in a positive and empowering way. A mother of five, she is passionate about shaping stronger mindsets for future generations. Alicia lives in McLean, Virginia, with her husband, children, and two dogs.
Her debut children’s book, These ABCs Belong to Me, introduces a fresh take on social-emotional learning, helping kids redefine commonly misunderstood words in a positive and empowering way. A mother of five, she is passionate about shaping stronger mindsets for future generations. Alicia lives in McLean, Virginia, with her husband, children, and two dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 13, 2025
4.75
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨✨
Thanks to Netgalley and The Collective Book Studio for this eARC. I confirm this review is honest and that all thoughts are my own.
I really liked this book! My son LOVES the ABC’s and upon reading the premise of the book, it really caught my eye. This book takes certain words that usually have negative connotation to them and flips them on their head to a positive. This was ingenious as it can really help reframe a child’s mind to take these words and make them their own power, rather than something that could be taken as them doing/or being something wrong.
I personally also found it was teaching ME a few things along the way as a parent! It’s so easy to fall into the trap of labelling our children ‘hyper’, ‘messy’ and thinking that these are bad traits to have, and this book helped ME see that they are not.
I guess I didn’t give it full marks as I fear it may teach children to use those words openly as compliments and perhaps with them being taken the wrong way by others, but I suppose that’s the whole reason for this book. To instill and seed a positive way of thinking and sharing those messages to one another, or at least taking them onboard themselves for positive self-talk. I also found the colours to be VERY bright and some of the illustrations a little chaotic with a little too much going on, which could be a little overstimulating for little minds, but I did appreciate the diversity of all the children portrayed.
Overall I thought it was a great book and would definitely recommend. The eReader sadly didn’t load the book properly so my experience of reading it was a little obscured, but I would definitely buy this for my 3 year old son as a paperback.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨✨
Thanks to Netgalley and The Collective Book Studio for this eARC. I confirm this review is honest and that all thoughts are my own.
I really liked this book! My son LOVES the ABC’s and upon reading the premise of the book, it really caught my eye. This book takes certain words that usually have negative connotation to them and flips them on their head to a positive. This was ingenious as it can really help reframe a child’s mind to take these words and make them their own power, rather than something that could be taken as them doing/or being something wrong.
I personally also found it was teaching ME a few things along the way as a parent! It’s so easy to fall into the trap of labelling our children ‘hyper’, ‘messy’ and thinking that these are bad traits to have, and this book helped ME see that they are not.
I guess I didn’t give it full marks as I fear it may teach children to use those words openly as compliments and perhaps with them being taken the wrong way by others, but I suppose that’s the whole reason for this book. To instill and seed a positive way of thinking and sharing those messages to one another, or at least taking them onboard themselves for positive self-talk. I also found the colours to be VERY bright and some of the illustrations a little chaotic with a little too much going on, which could be a little overstimulating for little minds, but I did appreciate the diversity of all the children portrayed.
Overall I thought it was a great book and would definitely recommend. The eReader sadly didn’t load the book properly so my experience of reading it was a little obscured, but I would definitely buy this for my 3 year old son as a paperback.
August 3, 2025
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.
Love this ABC book, which uses words like ambitious, fussy, judgemental, and quiet. There are tons of great vocabulary words in the book that young readers may be unfamiliar with, which is a great learning opportunity.
Learning about emotions our very important for young children. Knowing how to express their emotions will help them learn to control them.
Would definitely recommend this!
Love this ABC book, which uses words like ambitious, fussy, judgemental, and quiet. There are tons of great vocabulary words in the book that young readers may be unfamiliar with, which is a great learning opportunity.
Learning about emotions our very important for young children. Knowing how to express their emotions will help them learn to control them.
Would definitely recommend this!
October 30, 2025
As the book says, we don't have control over the words people use to describe us, but we can spin those labels positively (for example, a worry wart is good at avoiding trouble). This ABC book uses an adjective for each letter and a short poem redefining or rethinking the adjective. The illustrations are whimsical and fun, following the vibe of each letter/word, and show a fairly diverse group of people.
May 9, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this arc copy!
This book was wonderful! I thought it was so amazing how McKenzie does turn negatives into positives. This is helpful for children labelled as these things to view their strengths as well as for adults to remain open-minded and empathetic towards a child that might be a bit challenging. This book inspired me to be more empathetic and had me feeling more confident about my own "flaws".
This book was wonderful! I thought it was so amazing how McKenzie does turn negatives into positives. This is helpful for children labelled as these things to view their strengths as well as for adults to remain open-minded and empathetic towards a child that might be a bit challenging. This book inspired me to be more empathetic and had me feeling more confident about my own "flaws".
May 25, 2025
I really liked the idea of this book and I think the author's word choices were great! I've never read another ABC book quite like this one, and I deeply appreciated this book's uniqueness.
However, I do still have two critiques to make.
1. The title doesn't exactly match the book. I can definitely see where the author was going with this, but it is a bit misleading. It comes off as an angry child yelling about which toys are theirs, if that makes sense.
2. I felt like the cohesion of this book was a bit spotty. Various ideas connected at one point in the book, but then that kind of went out the window a few pages later. I believe that what would be beneficial here is making the central theme of the book blatantly clear. This is a book intended for a younger audience, and it's important to make sure that everything makes sense and that the points get across.
Other than those two things, though, I enjoyed reading this book and, with a few small edits, I think a lot of other readers will as well.
However, I do still have two critiques to make.
1. The title doesn't exactly match the book. I can definitely see where the author was going with this, but it is a bit misleading. It comes off as an angry child yelling about which toys are theirs, if that makes sense.
2. I felt like the cohesion of this book was a bit spotty. Various ideas connected at one point in the book, but then that kind of went out the window a few pages later. I believe that what would be beneficial here is making the central theme of the book blatantly clear. This is a book intended for a younger audience, and it's important to make sure that everything makes sense and that the points get across.
Other than those two things, though, I enjoyed reading this book and, with a few small edits, I think a lot of other readers will as well.
May 12, 2025
Book Review: These ABCs Belong to Me! by Alicia McKenzie
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Alicia McKenzie’s These ABCs Belong to Me! is a refreshing and empowering children’s book that reimagines the traditional alphabet book by transforming stigmatized words into affirmations of self-worth. The book’s core strength lies in its ability to address complex social and emotional themes—such as identity, resilience, and self-acceptance—in a way that is accessible and engaging for young readers. McKenzie’s approach is both innovative and necessary, offering a tool for parents and educators to foster conversations about positivity and empowerment.
The book’s structure follows the familiar ABC format but subverts expectations by associating each letter with words or phrases that children might encounter as labels or challenges (e.g., “A for Authentic,” “B for Brave”). McKenzie’s prose is simple yet impactful, ensuring clarity for its target audience while leaving room for deeper discussion. The illustrations (though not detailed in the review copy) are described as vibrant and complementary, enhancing the book’s message of celebration and inclusivity.
One of the book’s standout features is its refusal to shy away from difficult topics. By reclaiming language often used negatively, McKenzie encourages children to reframe their understanding of themselves and others. This aligns with contemporary educational movements focused on social-emotional learning (SEL) and anti-bullying. However, the book could benefit from additional backmatter, such as discussion questions or activities, to further support caregivers in extending its lessons beyond the page.
While the concept is executed with warmth and creativity, the pacing occasionally feels uneven, with some letters receiving more nuanced treatment than others. A tighter balance between consistency and depth would elevate the book’s impact. Nonetheless, These ABCs Belong to Me! is a valuable addition to children’s literature, particularly for its bold approach to fostering self-esteem and empathy.
Final Thoughts:
McKenzie’s debut is a commendable effort that fills a gap in children’s books addressing self-perception and societal labels. Its strengths far outweigh its minor flaws, making it a recommended read for families and classrooms alike.
Acknowledgments:
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Alicia McKenzie, for providing an advance copy of These ABCs Belong to Me! in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Alicia McKenzie’s These ABCs Belong to Me! is a refreshing and empowering children’s book that reimagines the traditional alphabet book by transforming stigmatized words into affirmations of self-worth. The book’s core strength lies in its ability to address complex social and emotional themes—such as identity, resilience, and self-acceptance—in a way that is accessible and engaging for young readers. McKenzie’s approach is both innovative and necessary, offering a tool for parents and educators to foster conversations about positivity and empowerment.
The book’s structure follows the familiar ABC format but subverts expectations by associating each letter with words or phrases that children might encounter as labels or challenges (e.g., “A for Authentic,” “B for Brave”). McKenzie’s prose is simple yet impactful, ensuring clarity for its target audience while leaving room for deeper discussion. The illustrations (though not detailed in the review copy) are described as vibrant and complementary, enhancing the book’s message of celebration and inclusivity.
One of the book’s standout features is its refusal to shy away from difficult topics. By reclaiming language often used negatively, McKenzie encourages children to reframe their understanding of themselves and others. This aligns with contemporary educational movements focused on social-emotional learning (SEL) and anti-bullying. However, the book could benefit from additional backmatter, such as discussion questions or activities, to further support caregivers in extending its lessons beyond the page.
While the concept is executed with warmth and creativity, the pacing occasionally feels uneven, with some letters receiving more nuanced treatment than others. A tighter balance between consistency and depth would elevate the book’s impact. Nonetheless, These ABCs Belong to Me! is a valuable addition to children’s literature, particularly for its bold approach to fostering self-esteem and empathy.
Final Thoughts:
McKenzie’s debut is a commendable effort that fills a gap in children’s books addressing self-perception and societal labels. Its strengths far outweigh its minor flaws, making it a recommended read for families and classrooms alike.
Acknowledgments:
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Alicia McKenzie, for providing an advance copy of These ABCs Belong to Me! in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2025
*These ABCs Belong to Me!* by Alicia McKenzie is a puzzling and ultimately disappointing picture book. While the illustrations are visually appealing and show care in their design, the book’s overall message and structure are deeply flawed. Many pages use white text on very light backgrounds, making them hard to read. More importantly, the tone throughout is overwhelmingly negative. Each letter of the alphabet is tied to words with harsh or discouraging connotations, creating a long string of negative messages that fill nearly the entire book.
The intended message seems to be that we can choose how we define ourselves, regardless of what others say. However, this theme is only addressed on the final page, and by then it feels like too little, too late. After spending the vast majority of the book reinforcing negative labels, one page of vague encouragement does not feel adequate or convincing. I worry that young readers could absorb the negativity without fully grasping the intended lesson. This book is unlikely to be revisited and is difficult to recommend. I would rate it 1 out of 5 stars. I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley and The Collective Book Studio.
The intended message seems to be that we can choose how we define ourselves, regardless of what others say. However, this theme is only addressed on the final page, and by then it feels like too little, too late. After spending the vast majority of the book reinforcing negative labels, one page of vague encouragement does not feel adequate or convincing. I worry that young readers could absorb the negativity without fully grasping the intended lesson. This book is unlikely to be revisited and is difficult to recommend. I would rate it 1 out of 5 stars. I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley and The Collective Book Studio.
June 6, 2025
These ABCs Belong to Me! by Alicia McKenzie and illustrated by Sarah Demonteverde, is a wonderful alphabet book that takes what are widely considered to be negative personal attributes in children and turns them into positives instead.
McKenzie deftly takes various character traits commonly criticized - such as being bossy, nosy, or quiet - and turns them on their heads, illustrating alongside stunningly colourful pictures by Demonteverde how children can turn those traits into positive actions. While some of the instances in this alphabet of turning negative to positive traits are a bit of a stretch, the general idea is an intriguing one. To add to the lessons, the children depicted in the illustrations are from diverse groups as well, always a plus in a picture book.
The book features lessons that many adults could do well to learn, and this book is sure to be a treasured one on the bookshelves of many families when it is released.
I'm happy to have had a chance to read the advance readers' copy of #TheseABCsBelongtoMe courtesy of #NetGalley.
McKenzie deftly takes various character traits commonly criticized - such as being bossy, nosy, or quiet - and turns them on their heads, illustrating alongside stunningly colourful pictures by Demonteverde how children can turn those traits into positive actions. While some of the instances in this alphabet of turning negative to positive traits are a bit of a stretch, the general idea is an intriguing one. To add to the lessons, the children depicted in the illustrations are from diverse groups as well, always a plus in a picture book.
The book features lessons that many adults could do well to learn, and this book is sure to be a treasured one on the bookshelves of many families when it is released.
I'm happy to have had a chance to read the advance readers' copy of #TheseABCsBelongtoMe courtesy of #NetGalley.
October 13, 2025
🌈These ABCs Belong to Me! Is a wonderful children’s picture book focused on the ABCs of how others may describe us - and how we can choose to take the positive out of the words, even if they don’t necessarily feel positive. Children can hear a lot of words used to describe them and their behavior without knowing exactly what those words mean, and this book could help kids to break down their thoughts and feelings into a more helpful and positive outlook. I liked the illustrations, the words chosen, and the note at the back of the book that reminds us that we get to write our own stories, and that our self-talk is critical to success. Growing up with ADHD, I often heard a lot of these words about me. Messy, forgetful, chaotic, loud, etc. Those words may not have felt as negative if I knew at the time that those qualities were not always negative. I think this book holds a powerful message that kids of all ages and backgrounds will appreciate. Would definitely recommend to any school or class library, as well as home library!
🌈Perfect for ages 2-6 or so.
🌈Perfect for ages 2-6 or so.
May 8, 2025
These ABCs Belong to Me, written by Alicia McKenzie and illustrated by Sarah Demonteverde goes through the alphabet and talks about different descriptiove traits that can apply to children and individuals, I liked this book because it looked at some emotions that are seen in a negative way and how they can actually be positive, and also showed a diverse variety of characters in the book. I wasn’t sure how I felt at first about some of the “negative” descriptive words that were being used but I realize now that is kind of the point. Children are often told that they might be bossy, extra, or a know it all, (just to name a few!) and it is important for them to know that this isn’t always a bad thing. Sometimes these traits or characteristics help us to be the people that we are!
Thank you to NetGalley and to the author, publisher, and narrator of this book for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and to the author, publisher, and narrator of this book for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2025
A powerful and hopefully helpful way to flip the 'negative' adjectives that a child may be called. Bossy, obnoxious, timid, the list goes on of words that might stick in a child's mind and shape the way they feel about themselves. As the author writes in their end notes, this book is a way of flipping that script. With each letter of the alphabet, a new 'negative' word is transformed into a more positive thought: 'lazy' becomes restorative, 'explosive' becomes deeply emotional, 'picky' becomes discerning, etc.
I think this will be helpful for children learning about not just themselves, but others as well. 'Negative' traits they may see in a friend can be reinterpreted here to help them better understand others.
While the rhyming sometimes feels a bit off (as many kids' books do), I have to say that the illustrations are bright, vibrant, and engaging! Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I think this will be helpful for children learning about not just themselves, but others as well. 'Negative' traits they may see in a friend can be reinterpreted here to help them better understand others.
While the rhyming sometimes feels a bit off (as many kids' books do), I have to say that the illustrations are bright, vibrant, and engaging! Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 17, 2025
Thoughts:
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is a great book. As a kid who was called bossy and a know-it-all (although often in jest) enough to make me shy and quiet as a teen, I think rebranding these terms in a positive light to help children feel more confident in their own assertiveness. Having an A-Z meant that so many often used negatively terms are able to be made better and show just how positive these words can actually be in the right context. Hopefully this can help the next generation from becoming more shy and withdrawn than those before them were by the negative use of such words.
Favourite Quote:
“While I have no control over the words that are spoken I'm shaping a new narrative and will not feel broken. I'll remember that our words can build us up and empower So, plant a seed of good vibes and watch them flower.”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This is a great book. As a kid who was called bossy and a know-it-all (although often in jest) enough to make me shy and quiet as a teen, I think rebranding these terms in a positive light to help children feel more confident in their own assertiveness. Having an A-Z meant that so many often used negatively terms are able to be made better and show just how positive these words can actually be in the right context. Hopefully this can help the next generation from becoming more shy and withdrawn than those before them were by the negative use of such words.
Favourite Quote:
“While I have no control over the words that are spoken I'm shaping a new narrative and will not feel broken. I'll remember that our words can build us up and empower So, plant a seed of good vibes and watch them flower.”
May 27, 2025
These ABCs Belong to Me! by Alicia McKenzie, illustrated by Sarah Demonteverde, is a picture book that uses the alphabet to promote self-identity. For example, letter F focuses on appearance and suggests good grooming habits. However, the book's examples might be difficult for young children to grasp and could send mixed messages. The core message of the book is positive but not clearly explained until the end. This book may be more suitable for an older child who is already dealing with the relevant issues. Each page may need to be explained to avoid confusing the child.
Sarah Demonteverde’s illustrations are vibrant and varied, depicting children from different backgrounds with enthusiasm. The artwork is lively, but some pages may seem crowded for younger readers. This book would be best for ages 5-8, particularly for classroom discussions on self-esteem or parents encouraging positive self-talk. Thank you to NetGalley for this advanced ARC. I would rate this book 3/5.
Sarah Demonteverde’s illustrations are vibrant and varied, depicting children from different backgrounds with enthusiasm. The artwork is lively, but some pages may seem crowded for younger readers. This book would be best for ages 5-8, particularly for classroom discussions on self-esteem or parents encouraging positive self-talk. Thank you to NetGalley for this advanced ARC. I would rate this book 3/5.
May 31, 2025
Inspired by a parent's journey and growth with an impetus to help guide youngsters to grow up confident and able to face themselves and any challenges, this alphabet rhymes its way with encouraging words and illustrations.
The illustrations by Sarah DeMonteverde are simple, brightly colorful, imaginative and FUN. Well suited for reading alone or WITH someone of any age, including ESL, and great for gifting to everyone, but especially to a school, waiting room, or your local public library!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital Galley on Thorium PDF from The Collective Book Studio via NetGalley. Pub Date Sep 30, 2025 *****review
#TheseABCsBelongtoMe by Alicia McKenzie and @ilandtuitles @thecollectivebookstudio #NetGalley
#kidlit #kidsbookstagram #kidsbooks #childrensbooks #bookstagram #booksforkids #picturebook @childrensbookcouncil @goodreads #picturebookart #illustration #wordscanempower
The illustrations by Sarah DeMonteverde are simple, brightly colorful, imaginative and FUN. Well suited for reading alone or WITH someone of any age, including ESL, and great for gifting to everyone, but especially to a school, waiting room, or your local public library!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital Galley on Thorium PDF from The Collective Book Studio via NetGalley. Pub Date Sep 30, 2025 *****review
#TheseABCsBelongtoMe by Alicia McKenzie and @ilandtuitles @thecollectivebookstudio #NetGalley
#kidlit #kidsbookstagram #kidsbooks #childrensbooks #bookstagram #booksforkids #picturebook @childrensbookcouncil @goodreads #picturebookart #illustration #wordscanempower
October 22, 2025
This book was amazing. I was so happy to share it with my little ones. Encouraging and well written. In this story our everyday ABC words that can be discouraging and often used to be mean. In this book however they are transformed into inspirational and uplifting words. Once we think of words in a different way we find a whole new outlook on things. Our family loved see the creative and fascinating new ways to use the words. Words like Messy, Explosive and Stubborn are shown to us in a positive way. The illustrations are colorful and diverse, everyone will find themselves in this story.
As a parent I loved this book. It really encourages our little ones to see that their personalities are great, and that they should embrace who they are.
The positivity that our children need.
Enjoy with your family.
As a parent I loved this book. It really encourages our little ones to see that their personalities are great, and that they should embrace who they are.
The positivity that our children need.
Enjoy with your family.
May 14, 2025
This is a children's books that highlights many words we use everyday to describe others, children especially. These words are often stigmatized and seen as negative. This books takes these words and makes them positive and powerful, giving them a new perspective that doesn't seem like a bad thing! It provides openness and acceptance for being described as "bossy" or "extra" and shows how these can be positive and that when they may get to a point where these qualities are negative and hurting others it is not spiteful and that we can be these things and be open for feedback from others and that is ok. I would definitely give this book to friends with children and buy it for my own children one day!
November 13, 2025
These ABCs Belong to Me! is a beautiful story featuring many diverse and vibrant illustrations. The ABCs are something that is important for all young kids to learn in their native language. Not only does Alicia McKenzie use this story to teach about the ABCs, but also teaches the reader how to be confident in themself. McKenzie rewrites the narrative by taking a negative conversation and turning it into a moment of encouraging self-positivity.
These ABCs Belong to Me! is going to make a perfect addition to my classroom library! I can't wait to share this story with my students and other kids in my life!
Thank you to Net Galley and The Collective Book Studio for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced copy.
These ABCs Belong to Me! is going to make a perfect addition to my classroom library! I can't wait to share this story with my students and other kids in my life!
Thank you to Net Galley and The Collective Book Studio for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced copy.
July 17, 2025
I love A-Z books. I enjoy and anticipate what does each letter represents (specially letter "X"). This one could be included in my best list. Love hoe the author flips the script of what words of others which sometimes are mean to a positive and encouraging trait kids should have. It's a rhyming book but the texts are a bit long so this is for older kids. Also I do look forward to the art and how those letters of the alphabet blends with what word does it stands for. It has hits and misses but the entire book is still awesome.
August 7, 2025
Hmmm… An A-Z built of four-line rhymes for every letter, that aims to justify all the quirks of character we have, and to rinse any of the negative out of them. This is fine with some of the words chosen (Zany, Quiet, etc) but when it comes to others (Grumpy, Nosy, Stubborn and the rest of the dwarves) it can't always succeed in turning them on their head and into a positive attribute. Lively artwork, but I don't see this as being something that's actually for the junior reader attracted to it – this felt like being directed more to the adult book-buyer, and I wouldn't ever be one of them.
May 16, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for this review copy.
These ABCs Belong to Me is a wonderful addition to my "all about me" unit. This will foster all kinds of wonderful conversation about our differences and help explain some of our personality traits. I appreciate how the author pointed out the positive attributes of some words people hear about their behavior. Typically those words are said in a negative voice but this book shows the opposite.
These ABCs Belong to Me is a wonderful addition to my "all about me" unit. This will foster all kinds of wonderful conversation about our differences and help explain some of our personality traits. I appreciate how the author pointed out the positive attributes of some words people hear about their behavior. Typically those words are said in a negative voice but this book shows the opposite.
March 7, 2026
I thought that this was an excellent ABC book to read! It was easy to read and understand, the words picked and the meanings were perfect, my daughter does use most of these on and off so it really helped reading it with her to turn what could be a negative in to a positive where possible. I loved that the book rhymed too which was a lovely surprise. The illustrations in the book were great, they were nice, bright and colourful. It is 5 stars from me for this one - very highly recommended!
May 19, 2025
This was a really good read. I liked that it was different. Usually when I see children's books that are titled with "ABC'S", it would usually say something like "A is for apple, B is for ball, C is for Cat....." and so on. Simple words. This book was different. Geared more towards reality and explanations of why. It was refreshing.
September 3, 2025
This is a pretty lovely book about turning the negative words used against us into positive traits. the only one that really doesn't work for me is U is for Ugly, but the rest are pretty solid.
December 11, 2025
What a creative way to teach children the alphabet along with inspiring conversations about feelings, ambitions, empathy and more. Vibrant and creative illustrations too!
December 22, 2025
A wonderful alphabet book! I love the positive twist put on these typically negative personal attributes. The illustrations were stunning. A great children's book with a great message.
May 25, 2025
These ABCs Belong to Me! teaches kids to take back the power of negative words that may be directed towards them. Each word has a little rhyme written about it and an accompanying illustration. The illustrations really capture the meaning or feeling of each word. The author, Alicia McKenzie, is a mother of 5 and she was inspired to write the book by her children's various personality traits. I think this will be great for elementary school children who are trying to learn about their feelings.
I was provided with a free copy of this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
I was provided with a free copy of this book by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
September 28, 2025
Alicia McKenzie has followed the trend of us ABC format in a book for older kids. The title sounds like a preschool book. But this book actually explores negative labels and looks at a character trait from a positive point of view. Each page starts with the familiar A is for ... abouttype phrase for ambitious, bossy, clumsy or some other negative trait. The four line poem that follows explains that trait in a positive light. For example, being bossy means you are a natural leader. Unfortunately, the book does not make it the point clear until the afterward. If the author's note had been at the beginning of the book , than the attempt to promote a positive self concept for kids with negative labels would have been more clear. Parents and teachers should read that note aloud first and the share the book with kids. Overall this book would be very useful for any kid and help them see themselves in a better light.
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