READERS’ FAVORITE, 5 STARS, DIANA LOPEZ

We all have traits that distinguish us, elements that contribute to our identity. These distinctive aspects are valuable because they reaffirm who we are. However, sometimes we need to remember this. Kimberley Lovato shows us this concept in Pisa Loves Bella: A Towering Tale of Kindness. In the city of Pisa, Italy, you will find the famous Leaning Tower, Bella. She has a cheerful personality and enjoys observing the families and individuals who come to see her. One day, a group of children criticizes her appearance and inclination. At night, when everyone is asleep, Bella tries to straighten up to please people, and when she achieves this, she causes concern among the inhabitants of Pisa. It is not until Mayor Luigi talks to her that she understands the importance of being herself and staying authentic.

I loved Pisa Loves Bella: A Towering Tale of Kindness for its attention to detail. The narrative is composed of melodious rhymes and short sentences, perfect for children who are learning to read. At the end, there is a small glossary with Italian expressions to learn a little more about Italian culture. Kimberley Lovato also considers the educational aspect by sharing factual information about the Leaning Tower and its construction. The illustrations are beautiful, with vibrant colors and many elements that capture the picturesque essence of the city of Pisa. Bella is charming in her kindness, while Mayor Luigi exemplifies support and goodness. Kimberley presents various ideas, such as the fascination of visiting new places and living together in harmony. Pisa Loves Bella: A Towering Tale of Kindness is a fun story that will reinforce young readers' confidence and values.

THE CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW

In Pisa Loves Bella: A Towering Tale of Kindness, author Kimberley Lovato and illustrator Barbara Bongini collaborate to deliver a heartwarming narrative centered around Bella, the famed Leaning Tower of Pisa, and her journey towards self-acceptance amidst societal expectations.

The narrative unfolds through Bella’s perspective, offering readers a unique glimpse into the emotional world of an iconic architectural wonder. Bella’s initial pride in her distinctive tilt is challenged when she overhears hurtful comments about her appearance. Struggling with her confidence, Bella embarks on a transformative journey of self-discovery, ultimately learning to embrace her uniqueness with the support of Mayor Luigi and the community of Pisa.

Through vivid illustrations and poetic storytelling, Lovato and Bongini explore themes of kindness, friendship, self-acceptance, confidence, and pride in a manner accessible to young readers. Lovato’s zippy rhymes and Bongini’s vibrant and cheery illustrations capture the essence of Pisa’s charm and Bella’s endearing personality. The use of Italian expressions adds an authentic touch to the narrative, enhancing the cultural richness of the story—complete with a glossary at the back of the book and a little backmatter on the tower itself.

Pisa Loves Bella delivers a timeless lesson in celebrating individuality and extending compassion to others. Through Bella’s transformation, readers of all ages are reminded of the importance of resilience and self-love. With its engaging storytelling and universal themes, this book is a welcome addition to children’s literature, offering a delightful journey through the picturesque city of Pisa.

INDIEREADER, JAMES WEISKITTEL, IR APPROVED, 4.7 OUT OF 5 STARS

Kimberley Lovato’s PISA LOVES BELLA: A Towering Tale of Kindness invites young readers to take an inspirational trip into the whimsical world of Bella (otherwise known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa). The story opens with Bella proudly introducing herself as a bell tower “eight stories high.” Bella explains that visitors have embraced her for hundreds of years—slanted posture and all. That is until a hurtful encounter sends Bella into a tailspin of self-doubt. Bella tries her best to “fix” herself, but, through her efforts to please everyone, she winds up pleasing no one. Fortunately, with the aid of a supportive friend, Bella soon learns the enduring value of self-acceptance.

Some children’s books are meant to entertain. Others teach valuable life lessons, or offer insight into other cultures. Kimberley Lovato’s PISA LOVES BELLA: A Towering Tale of Kindness is the rare example of a book that does all of the above. Bella’s journey may seem like playful fun, but Lovato subtly tackles the complexities of self-esteem in a way that never feels heavy-handed. Lovato has skillfully crafted a safe place for young readers to explore and discover. Bella’s encounters demonstrate empathy, understanding, and resilience—themes that will resonate with readers young and old.

While Lovato has written professionally for years (for the New York Times, National Geographic Traveler, etc.), PISA LOVES BELLA is her debut children’s title, and an impressive one at that. Bella’s narrative is told through clever rhyming couplets that inspire a sing-songy cadence when read aloud: “For hundreds of years, I have tipped with delight, My warm, friendly smile, Making visits just right.” From the page count (forty-two) to the judicious use of “big” words, PISA LOVES BELLA is a perfect fit for a learning-to-read audience (ages 4-8).

Of course, eye-catching visuals are essential when it comes to children’s books. In this regard, Barbara Bongini’s illustrative work is a cut above. Bella’s story is delivered in captivating, full-page illustrations rendered in bold, vibrant colors. In fact, the book’s visual format provides its only notable issue: the combination of a small font over Bongini’s dynamic designs makes for an occasionally tricky read.

That admittedly minor gripe aside, PISA LOVES BELLA is a joy to read (and re-read). Drawing upon her experience as a travel writer, Lovato takes every opportunity to include nods to Italian culture—drawing upon words, iconography, and landmarks. Italian imagery and lines like “Per favore, get cozy—sit on the square” and “Grazie for listening, my story is through” are sure to inspire some Q&A sessions. The inclusion of post-text reference materials (including a map and a glossary) is a thoughtful bonus as well.

Combining an engaging narrative, an enduring life lesson, and captivating illustrations, Kimberley Lovato’s PISA LOVES BELLA: A Towering Tale of Kindness is as fun to read aloud as it is to look at.

Synopsis: Welcome to Pisa, where Bella, the bell tower, stands tall and proud. For centuries, the famous tower has defied gravity with her famous tilt, but one day, Bella overhears hurtful words about her appearance that shatter her confidence. With a heavy heart, Bella makes a significant change, leaving the residents of Pisa and visitors from around the world worried about their beloved historical monument.

But fear not, for Pisa loves Bella just the way she is! This uplifting rhyming tale, filled with joyful art and Italian expressions, teaches us the importance of kindness towards others and ourselves. Bella's journey of self-acceptance is a celebration of our unique qualities and a reminder to embrace what makes us different.

 So come along and experience the sweet taste of spumoni as we follow Bella's inspiring story of self-love and acceptance. Pisa Loves Bella is a heartfelt and memorable tale that will warm your heart and leave you with a smile.

Critique: Pisa Loves Bella is a heartwarming tale that will take readers worldwide to Pisa, Italy, while teaching important life lessons about self-acceptance and kindness towards others. Talented author Kimberley Lovato has written an exceptional book filled with the artist's bright and colorful illustrations that perfectly capture the essence of a memorable read. I highly recommend this book to parents looking for a fun and engaging story to share with their children. Kimberley Lovato and Barbara Bongini have done an outstanding job with this book, which will leave a lasting impression. Although Pisa Loves Bella is suggested reading for children 4-8 years old, the story is beautifully told and will appeal to all ages.

NETGALLEY REVIEWS

Keyanna Butler, Librarian: 5 out of 5 STARS
Pisa Loves Bella is a fun and engaging picture book for all ages. Bella is a famous tower that has always been a little imperfect, marked by the way she leans to one side. After overhearing people commenting on her uniqueness in a not-so-nice way, Bella becomes self-conscious and wants to change. But with the help of Pisa, she realizes she’s perfect just the way she is. This title is beautifully illustrated, and the story is the perfect opening to bring awareness to how we’re all different and all worthy. I loved it and would definitely recommend it to every classroom and library!

Rebecca Jones, Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
I recently moved to Italy but have sadly yet to visit Pisa, I loved the look of this little Italian children's story about their leaning tower. A lovely rhyming story about the damage of harsh words, with a message to focus on the positives and self-love, this beautifully illustrated story is perfect for children. The illustrations were super bright and engaging, perfect for the style and content. I loved the inclusion of some of the easier and more well-known Italian words/phrases to teach a little bit of Italian and make it feel even more authentic since Bella (the tower) is the narrating character. The glossary at the end that translated and explained the Italian bits was good too. I also really liked the fact there was a little section at the end with more information at the Leaning Tower of Pisa. There was info in there I didn't know and will teach the kids a little more about the tower on top of the nice story and its message.

Catherine Johnson, Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
I adored this book and I think children will love it too. This book teaches children about kindness and acceptance. The illustrations are well-designed and eye-catching. The story was written creatively. By this I mean, it's not just straightforward saying to be nice and accept others. The characters guide readers into learning about kindness and accepting others as they are.

Casey Tomlin, Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
This was such a cute book to read and I definitely want to read it to my nieces and nephews! The art was so colorful, bright, and beamed happiness. This children’s book follows the story of Bella, a bell tower, in Pisa who becomes sad when people say mean things about Bella’s appearance. This causes Bella to become very upset huffing and puffing until Bella undergoes a huge transformation. Now Bella sees things from a new perspective, much higher than before, where Bella can now appreciate rainbows, sunsets, stars, and more! After this transformation everyone worries they will not see Bella, the leaning tower, the same anymore and Bella learns to love who she is flaws and all. I think the overall message of this story was to become accepting of one’s self and to watch what you say to others. This is very important for kids to learn at a young age!

Tina C., Librarian: 5 out of 5 STARS
What a sweet book about being kind and acceptance. Pisa has been a place many people have loved going to until one day she hears four meanies talk badly about her tilt. She decides to straighten up and then she realizes how much people loved her tilt. We only hear the negative sometimes. It is important to focus on the positives. Good job enforcing this.

Resting reviewing, Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
This book captures the reader from the front cover. This is a lovely children's book that shows them other places in the world such as Italy and all of the amazing things they can see such as the leaning tower of Pisa. What I liked about this book was the tower changed because of others and I hope the message behind this to children will show them don't change yourself for anyone, because you are amazing and people love you how you are. The colours, the illustrations and the rhyme element of the story definitely makes this a great read for children/ parents👍

Melissa O., Educator: 5 out of 5 STARS
My niece and I enjoyed the rhymes and illustrations all while learning about the Leaning Tower of Pisa. I explained what some of the Italian phrases meant and after we finished reading, we looked the Leaning Tower of Pisa up so that she was able to see what it looked like in real life. It was a cute story and might help to get kids excited about seeing other parts of the world.

Daphne D., Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
I love this book: the message is beautiful and very clear throughout the story (and pictures), the pictures are so well drawn and the Italian details are so good! I love how the story is sweet, there's lots of details in the drawings and at the end there's actual history and information about the tower. I highly recommend!

LaShanda C., Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
What a cute book about the Leaning Tower of Pisa! The author used it to showcase acts of kindness as Bella explored Pisa. The story was really cute, and my nephew enjoyed it as we read it together.

Aurelia L., Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
I read this book to my little sister and at the end of it, I asked her what she thought of it. She said it was “amazing” and “incredible”.
The illustrations in this book were very pretty, and the plot was pretty solid. Bella was a good character. We liked how she changed herself after hearing those mean comments, but then realized she was amazing just the way she was.
This story teaches kids a very important lesson: Don’t change yourself for a couple of mean people, because there are people who love you just the way you are, and they matter more than the people who don’t appreciate your true self. At the end of the day, the best person to be is yourself.

Piper P., Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
"Pisa Loves Bella" by Kimberly Lovato is a delightful journey through the charming streets of Pisa, Italy, intertwined with a heartwarming tale of friendship and adventure. Lovato's vivid storytelling and evocative descriptions transport readers to the enchanting city, creating a sensory experience that feels like a stroll through the cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. At the heart of the story is the endearing friendship between Pisa, the iconic leaning tower, and Bella, a curious and adventurous pigeon. Lovato beautifully personifies these landmarks, giving them personalities and emotions that make them relatable and lovable. The dynamic between the stoic Pisa and the free-spirited Bella adds a layer of charm and humor to the narrative. The narrative not only captures the essence of Pisa's cultural significance but also weaves in a tale of courage, self-discovery, and the power of friendship. As Bella embarks on her journey to explore Pisa, readers are treated to a blend of historical facts and imaginative storytelling, making the book both educational and entertaining. Lovato's prose is engaging and accessible, making "Pisa Loves Bella" a perfect read for both children and adults. The accompanying illustrations enhance the story, providing visual appeal and bringing the characters to life in a way that is sure to captivate readers of all ages.

Whether you're a travel enthusiast, a lover of charming tales, or simply someone looking for a heartwarming read, "Pisa Loves Bella" is a delightful choice. Kimberly Lovato has crafted a unique and enchanting story that celebrates the magic of friendship and the timeless allure of one of Italy's most iconic landmarks.

Becca J., Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
My daughters are avid bookworms, so am always looking for new things for them to devour. My 7 year old daughter described it as joyful and romantic and my 4 year old loved the illustrations. I enjoyed reading this with them.

Vanessa S., Reviewer: 4 out of 5 STARS
Such a cute book! We are hoping to visit Pisa this year and this book was fab to get my daughter excited. She loved the pictures and the rhyming ❤

Lindsey P., Reviewer: 4 out of 5 STARS
My nephew loves rhyming stories and really enjoyed this one. It was a lot of fun to see the leaning tower of piza featured in a story. He loved it.

Lauren Warwick, Reviewer: 4 out fo 5 STARS
Meet Bella the bell tower as she shares her story with the people of Pisa. This is a thought provoking tale showing the importance of being kind and how you should never change yourself for other people. Individuality is a gift. What a powerful message that is conveyed in this book. Be kind. This is a lesson that will never get old and I felt the way it was expressed in this book was creative and engaging. I also found the history around the tower and the glossary to be a brilliant touch.

LeaBeth Y., Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
This was the CUTEST story! 💖 I also read this story to my girls! They really enjoyed it and loved the lesson it taught! I throughly enjoy stories that teach a lesson, and this book encourages speaking words of love & life over everyone instead of unkind words. I also enjoyed how this book does three things: teaches geography, teaches children a new language, and teaches a moral lesson! Great book! Another 5 star read, and my kids agree!

Beril Ece K., Educator): 5 out of 5 STARS
Step into the enchanting world of Pisa with 'Pisa Loves Bella,' a heartwarming tale narrated by Bella, the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. The story unfolds with Bella's pride in her distinctive tilt, which has stood for centuries. However, when faced with hurtful comments about her appearance, Bella decides to make a significant change, leaving the people of Pisa and visitors concerned about the future of their beloved landmark.

In this uplifting rhyming adventure, the book beautifully captures the themes of kindness and self-acceptance, all while being splashed with joyful art, memorable rhymes, and authentic Italian expressions. 'Pisa Loves Bella' is not just a celebration of a world-famous monument but also a charming reminder about embracing uniqueness and treating others with compassion. This delightful story, as sweet as spumoni, will resonate with readers of all ages, spreading a message of love and acceptance.

Tracy W., Reviewer: 4 out of 5 STARS
Think of Pisa, and you immediately think Leaning Tower of, at least I do. People take photos of the famous landmark at all hours of the day and night, and everyone loves it. Or do they? What would happen if the Tower itself could hear the comments both good and bad? Well ...

This is the story of exactly that. It's about what happens to start things off and how, eventually, a mistake is rectified. Told in verse with beautiful bright and cheerful illustrations, it is a fun way to make younger children realise how words can hurt, however big and strong you look. There is also a glossary to help with pronunciation. I enjoyed it very much.

Marissa C., Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
I loved the message of this book. You have to love yourself the way you are, flaws and all, and you are also loved by others! This was a cute way to share that message with children as well as introduce them to this wonder of Pisa that they may otherwise not have heard of.

Lauren P., Reviewer: 4 out of 5 STARS
Pisa Loves Bella is a super cute children’s story about the Leaning Tower of Pisa and how mean words can hurt. I loved the small bits of history and teaching Italian (it was perfect for my four year old!). The social emotional messaging was perfectly fine. It made sense with the story and didn’t seem to have been awkwardly added in like an afterthought like most SEL books we read. As a mom of girls that doesn’t want them to grow up and be “mean girls” -I appreciated the message of kind words and how words can hurt and change how others view themselves. I also appreciated the subtle body image messaging. Overall, great book that we will add to our shelf to read again and again.

Daphne D., Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
I love this book: the message is beautiful and very clear throughout the story (and pictures), the pictures are so well drawn and the Italian details are so good! I love how the story is sweet, there's lots of details in the drawings and at the end there's actual history and information about the tower. I highly recommend.

Liefs een Lezer, Reviewer: 4 out of 5 STARS
What a cute book! I loved the colorful illustrations and the use of (small) italian words. It tells you a little about the history of the tower, but this story also comes with a message: be yourself. I loved it!

Susan Fryman, Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
A very cute story. It reminds us how we shouldn’t take mean words to heart and to be ourselves. I learned quite a bit about the leaning tower of Pisa. Adorable story and illustrations. I received a free advance reader copy, and I am submitting my review voluntarily.

Michelle Heegaard, Reviewer: 5 out of 5 STARS
This book surprised me. It turned out to a very adorable tale about self-acceptance and had a lot of disability representation as well. It was truly adorable and I would 100% buy this for my child's library, if I had a child.