Reviews

goodreads:

John

July 7, 2025

Our parenting book club often focuses on social emotional growth, but rarely have we come across a children’s story that held such poetic grace and rich allegory. A Gumdrop Tale stirred something in each of us. We discussed the parallels to modern society, the dangers of sowing division, and the incredible importance of listening to even the smallest voices like the Rainbow Gumdrop.

One parent said it perfectly: “This book teaches kids the skills most adults still struggle with. The imagery of the melting mountain, the chaotic storm, and the healing umbrella circle what an unforgettable metaphor for restoration. This is a storybook that feels like a fable, a warning, and a balm, all at once.

goodreads

Hanah Abel

July 4, 2025

Russell’s A Gumdrop Tale is a radiant parable tucked into a whimsical candy coated world. While it looks like a sweet children's tale, it offers layered insights into human behavior, community, and emotional maturity. The Grey Gumdrop’s manipulation is eerily resonant with real-life toxicity, while the innocent Rainbow Gumdrop serves as a heartwarming beacon of clarity and hope. The prose is simple, poetic, and rich with visual delight Sugar Mountain practically sparkles off the page. This isn’t just a bedtime story; it’s a conversation starter for parents and educators on emotional intelligence, social responsibility, and the power of listening.

Amazon.com

5 stars The Deeper You Read, the More Meaning You Will Uncover

December 15, 2024

This is the tale of a utopian society written for ages 7 and above. Everyone lives in harmony on Sugar Mountain until the day a stranger arrives. He plants seeds of doubt and negativity which leads the people to turn against one another. Will the people find a way to rebuild their happy, peaceful society?

The story reminds me of what happens in today’s society, whether it’s in the schools or various organization or even within neighborhoods. Dynamics among various groups change when new individuals join the group. Before long, issues of trust, acceptance, and unity creep in. It’s how one deals with awareness and conflict with open conversations, that will lead to resolution. We need to take the time to listen and learn from each other.

Customer Reviews

I received my copy of The Day It Rained on Sugar Mountain and highly recommend it to anyone who has children or works with children. It is a beautiful story of friendship, cooperation, conflict resolution and fostering positivity and respect for others. The gumdrop characters are beautifully represented in the illustrations and will be very relatable to young readers. As a retired primary teacher, I would have loved to have been able to share this amazing story with my students. I will be passing it on to my daughter-in-law to use in her class with her students. Congratulations Rachel on the publication of this most remarkable story!

Cyndy K.

Yes! It is that easy!!

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