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Reviewed by Demetria Head for Readers' Favorite
Ellie Mae Explores Hometown by Ellen Matis follows a bright and curious little girl who spends a full day learning things about her small town. With her map in hand, Ellie Mae notices how her hometown is far more than just bricks and roads—it’s alive with stories, sounds, and people who make it special. She sees people gathering for a parade, a local vendor selling fresh produce (and tempting whoopee pies), and children playing in the park as a train whistles by. She passes the old courthouse, listens to a local townsman sharing stories of the town’s history, and sees familiar faces at the coffeehouse where she gets hot cocoa. At the library, she returns her books and finds a cozy corner to read a new one, ending her day watching fireworks light up the night sky at the grand evening feast. Through her eyes, readers see how home can be filled with wonder, heart, and community.
Ellen Matis has created a story that is nostalgic yet timeless, reminding readers that some of life’s best adventures begin right outside their front doors. Ellie Mae’s journey beautifully captures the spirit of small-town life with its warmth, rhythm, and shared sense of belonging. Angie Bowman’s illustrations are charming and expressive, and enhance each page with cozy details. The pacing is gentle, and the scenes are relatable, making it easy to engage young readers. It celebrates the pride of the community in a way that feels empowering. Much like Matt de la Peña’s Last Stop on Market Street or Kate DiCamillo’s Bink & Gollie, Ellie Mae Explores Hometown offers a perfect blend of warmth and discovery, showing that home is not just where you live—it’s where your heart truly belongs.
