She's a Fixer Upper, written by Christian Blood and illustrated by Nina Gvozdeva, is a children's picture book about a father and son as they work together on a large-scale project. The book begins with a crossed-over “For Sale” sign that stands between the pair and a dilapidated house, signaling the ownership of the property to the father and his young son. The house, which is depicted in full-color hand-sketched artistry, is most definitely a “fixer-upper.” As each stage of the work is finished, the father reassures his son that it will all be completed soon. Until then, the sights and sounds of the refurbishment come to life alongside the bonding of a family of two with a united goal. The narrative is lyrical with a rhythmic tune that is really very well done.

She's a Fixer Upper is a wonderful little book that does well in blending a theme of teamwork that includes the father, son, and others they have hired from the community, and the hard work often required to make big changes in circumstances that seem impossible. One thing that really stood out to me was how Christian Blood describes that all the people who come in for jobs that need to be done, such as the plumber and the gas man, are professionals. It's a bit of a rarity in kid-lit to have anyone but the unrealistically super helpful neighbors who donate their skills working alongside the family fixing things up. Blood shows that these jobs require professionals and in that capacity it is assumed they are being paid as skilled workers, as well they should be. Nina Gvozdeva is a powerhouse of talent with illustrations that embrace realism and a sense of whimsy, making the duo of author and artist a perfect match in a pleasing little book.

Outstanding illustrations will draw children into She’s a Fixer Upper, and the story will keep them reading. Written in rhyme, author Christian Blood introduces children to the various tradespeople required to fix up or build a house. Children will learn about plumbers who get water flowing, electricians who can fix lights, the gas man who fixes the boiler, and joiners or carpenters to fix cabinets. The pages are filled with beautiful artwork created by illustrator Nina Gvozdeva. She has a distinctive, animated style that children will enjoy. I loved the illustrations of the father and his son working together to repair an old, rundown house and revive it to its original grandeur. Children who enjoy fixing things will especially enjoy this book. I found this book interesting with a subtle educational theme flowing throughout the book.

She’s a Fixer Upper is a wonderful book to showcase all the tradespeople required to build a house and the role they play in fixing up this old, worn-down house. Children who like the television show Bob the Builder will love to read this construction book—alone or with a parent. Children love hearing the rhythm or music of rhyming words and author Christian Blood manages to find the right words. Teachers and parents will like this construction book which introduces children to the skilled trades, the terminology, and all the different people required to maintain a house. Illustrator Nina Gvozdeva provides simple but effective artwork for this beautiful children’s picture book.