“The best time to have tea is whenever you want tea.” In Justin’s Tea Party by Karen Clark, Justin felt unhappy because his sister, Lily, went to Hannah’s weekly tea parties for girls. He liked drinking tea, so he had a practice tea party and invited his favorite toys. It was a disaster because the toys misbehaved and broke his rules, and Amos disliked tea. Justin was sad until his mother explained that tea parties don’t have to be fancy and not everyone likes tea. He hosted another party for boys. This was fun because Justin didn’t make many rules like before. They played games and he didn’t get upset because Shiloh disliked tea. His tea party was a success, so he hosted a few more and invited more boys. Girls now wanted to come, including Lily.

Justin’s Tea Party is a delightful picture book for young readers by Karen Clark. Although Justin felt glum because he couldn’t attend an all-girls tea party, he didn’t allow it to ruin his mood and hosted his own tea party. I like the story’s theme because it’s amusing while teaching children about formal and informal tea parties, and when it’s okay to make rules. Justin learned that people aren’t fond of the same foods. I liked these segments a lot. The story is wonderfully written and has lovely illustrations by Jamie Charles. Young readers will adore Justin’s Tea Party. It’s a picture book I recommend for young readers.

Justin's Tea Party, written by Karen Clark and illustrated by Jamie Charles, is an adorably fun and thought-provoking story for children of all ages. Justin has been denied attendance at Hannah's fancy tea party. Hannah, a friend of Justin's sister, is adamant that tea parties are for girls only. However, Justin decides to host his own tea party. Since he has never done this, Justin's first get-together is with his toys: Spike, the dinosaur; Amos the bear; and Sir Cooper, the knight. Shenanigans ensue as the toys struggle to be cordial with each other and follow the rules Justin set out for the tea party. This upsets Justin. Fortunately, his mom cheers him up by showing him that tea parties don't need fancy rules. Justin is ready to invite his friends to a festive tea party.

Justin's Tea Party by Karen Clark was an enjoyable reading experience. I am confident that children will also enjoy Clark's work and the accompanying beautiful illustrations. Clark's simple language sprinkled with onomatopoeia is fun and easy to read. The plot, throwing your own party due to rejection, is relatable. Moreover, this storyline lends itself to commenting on themes such as sexism and discrimination in general. Justin is a lovable and genuine character: he is quick to express his feelings and is sensitive to the feelings of others. I loved how the mood of the parties changed after Justin took his mom's advice. I highly recommend Justin's Tea Party to all young readers.