Bella and Chantey: Mama Wants a Blue Mushroom by Jane E. Ruth is a children’s picture book that begins with Mamacita Sofia’s birthday. Mama Sofia wants nothing more in the world than a particular blue mushroom hidden in the depths of the mushroom forest. The potential dangers of the mushroom forest leave Bella looking for ideas as to how she could find the blue mushroom safely. Luckily, her best friend Chantey is willing to lend a hand in guiding her into the forest. Follow Bella and Chantey on their exciting journey into the mysterious forest as they search for the special birthday present for Mama Sofia.

Bella and Chantey by Jane E. Ruth is an excellent children’s picture book featuring important life lessons and educational facts on mushrooms. I loved that this book teaches the significance of helping one another when in need, the importance of working together as a team, as well as the value of perseverance in the face of obstacles that arise along the way. I also appreciate that this story showcases creative ways to overcome the problems that Bella and Chantey came across when traveling into the mushroom forest. Not only does this tale offer valuable lessons for young readers, but it also includes bilingual texts (English and Spanish), along with some interesting mushroom facts, making this an educational book that is fun for children and adults. The illustrations were also bright and exciting, creating the perfect atmosphere that depicted the essence of the story.

It all started when Bella’s mother, Sophia, wanted a Blue Milk mushroom for her birthday, and Bella was determined to fulfill her birthday wish, even if it meant going into the magical rainforest. Bella and her parrot friend, Chantey, journey into the mushroom forest and prepare for different challenges to get Bella’s mother’s gift. Will they succeed? Bella and Chantey is a bilingual children’s book by Jane E. Ruth, and the illustrations are beautifully done by Cesar Melendez. It tells the story of what a daughter is willing to do to make sure her mother is happy. It also shows the interesting history of Spain. Bella and Chantey give amazing facts about mushrooms and their health benefits.

One of the things I enjoyed while reading Bella and Chantey is the bilingual nature of the book. It can be read and enjoyed by English and Spanish-speaking people. The colorful illustrations presented the story beautifully. The language used is very simple and can serve as a source for improving the vocabulary of children. The omniscient point of view in creates more room for children to expand their imaginative horizons. The facts about mushrooms provide a learning opportunity for both children and adults. Above all, the lessons to be learned from Bella and Chantey are innumerable. Bella’s willingness to go to any lengths for her mother shows the value of love, family, determination, hard work, and focus. It’s a value that little children can absorb. Jane E. Ruth did amazingly well in Bella and Chantey and deserves all the necessary accolades.