Aloe Vera's Special Gift by Jeanette Gil is a sweet story for young readers. It is about a simple plant, Aloe Vera, that feels envious of all the flashy, colourful, sweet-smelling flowers, surrounded by bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies, while Aloe Veras are avoided by all the little creatures in the meadow. One day, Bunny Rabbit jumps on Aloe Vera by accident and is hurt by the prickly leaves. However, the soothing gel oozing out of Aloe Vera’s broken leaf makes Bunny Rabbit feel much better. This incident is followed by others where scrapes, sunburn, insect bites, and other mishaps are healed by the soothing gel from Aloe Vera’s broken leaves. After all these events, Aloe Vera did not feel jealous anymore and, when autumn and winter put an end to the sweet smells and colourful display of all the flowers, Aloe Vera realized what a special plant it was.

This is a very important lesson for young children to learn. Reading this story helps them realize that surface glitter is not the most important gift to possess, and what’s really important is the hidden qualities we have inside. The author did a superb job of explaining this simple truth. Readers know about cuts, scrapes, and insect bites, and what a relief soothing creams can bring, so the lesson is reinforced with personal experience. This story helps focus their minds on real values and boosts their self-confidence, making them proud of their inner strengths and qualities. The illustrations by Tania Ortiz are superb; even without the narration, they demonstrate the message young children need to absorb. I very highly recommend Aloe Vera's Special Gift by Jeanette Gil to parents who want to bring their kids up with important values.

Do you ever feel like you’re not very special? In Aloe Vera’s Special Gift by Jeanette Gil, that’s exactly what a green plant feels. Aloe Vera watches as insects and critters visit the flowers around her daily. She doesn’t have pretty petals or a scent that draws others, but she soon discovers she does have something no one else has: the ability to help others. After meeting some animal friends like a bunny and a bird, she finds a way to help them when they are hurt. Will she ever feel special, or is she destined to feel down forever? This touching children’s story invites young readers to think about what makes them unique and how their inner gifts can brighten the world.

As an educator, I have seen so many children wonder what makes them special. I think reading Aloe Vera’s Special Gift by Jeanette Gil will help them to see themselves differently. In a classroom, this book can spark meaningful discussions on talents, emotions, and empathy. It could even be extended by having students draw a self-portrait showing what makes them unique. I also appreciate how the language used is simple enough for all readers to understand. Tania Ortiz’s bright, colorful illustrations keep children engaged from beginning to end. As Dr. Seuss once said, “Why fit in when you were born to stand out?” This story beautifully encapsulates that message by reminding children that their uniqueness is something to be celebrated, not hidden. It encourages them to shine with confidence and share their special gifts with the world.