A Tail Tale

By: Christine Kessides
Illustrated by: Sarah Gledhill
Publisher: Atmosphere Press
Publication Date: January 7, 2025
ISBN: 979-8891324152
Reviewed by: Diana Coyle
Review Date: December 30, 2024

Wally is a new kid at his school and all he wants to do is fit in, but no one seems to want to be his friend in A Tail Tale by Christine Kessides. The other kids don’t offer to play with him in the schoolyard or even sit with him on the bus. As he gets off the bus, he decides to sit by the large tree in front of his house. He decided if those kids weren’t going to be nice to him, then he really didn’t want to be like them. He wanted to be different.

It seemed as soon as he said those words out loud, the craziest thing happened. Out of nowhere, appeared someone dressed in a funny hat and coat with bits of fur and feathers all over him. The man introduces himself to Wally as the Tailor, and explains that he makes tails for all different animals. Since Wally explained he wants to be different, the Tailor feels giving him a tail will do the trick. But while they’re talking, Snake appears and tells Wally that he should reconsider having a tail because when the Tailor gave him a tail, he turned into a snake. Now no one associates with Snake and Wally will continue not having friends. Does Wally take the advice from Snake? Does Wally make friends with Snake? Does he start making friends at school?

This was a very endearing story because readers will empathize with poor Wally because he was new in school and no one wanted to be his friend. Instead of getting to know him, they were rude to him. This story teaches children two lessons. The first is that when you see a new person in school, or joining a club or sport you play, introduce yourself to the new person. Help them feel accepted and part of something together as a group. Second, when someone is mean to you, take that energy and project kindness back to them. Don’t let their negativity tarnish your feelings. By being kind to someone who is being unkind to you, this may very well change that person’s attitude for the better.

The illustrations done by Sarah Gledhill were adorable in revealing Wally’s story. They fit perfectly in telling the author’s story in picture format. Plus, the creativity she entwined in each illustration, which was found on every page throughout this children’s book, was just magical, while she also provided a few humorous things readers will enjoy laughing out loud about when they find them scattered throughout the pages.

Interestingly enough, Kessides first imagined this story when she was a student, but never considered writing and publishing it until years later when her first grandson was born. If you enjoyed this story, rest assured there is a sequel forthcoming.

Quill says: A Tail Tale by Christine Kessides will have its young readers learning a few lessons on how to be a proper friend to new people they meet. It’s an adorably clever story that will have you smiling as you turn the pages. It comes highly recommended!

For more information about A Tail Tale, please visit the author’s website at: christinekessidesauthor.com.