Parents' Guide to Harlem Honey: The Adventures of a Curious Kid

Harlem Honey book cover: Two illustrated children with brown skin holding ice cream, a cityscape in the background

Common Sense Media Review

Diondra K. Brown By Diondra K. Brown , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 4+

Sweet story about how curiosity can open up your world.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 4+?

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Parent and Kid Reviews

What's the Story?

HARLEM HONEY: THE ADVENTURES OF A CURIOUS KID tells the story of Moses, a young boy who misses his home in Texas after his family moves to Harlem in New York City. His only friends are his dog, Lotus-May, and his bird, JoJo. However, with some encouragement from his parents, Moses begins to open his mind and explore his new neighborhood. He soon becomes friends with his neighbor, Laila, who introduces him to her mother, Mrs. Louise, and their rooftop bee farm. Together, the new friends spread joy throughout the neighborhood by delivering jars of honey. Moses quickly falls in love with Harlem as he visits special places like Sylvia's Restaurant and the Apollo Theater. In the end, he realizes that Harlem is truly his home. End pages provide a short history of Harlem and well-known Harlem sites, including those Moses visits in the book, as well as fun facts and famous Harlem residents.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

This is a fun read for the whole family, especially if you love or live in Harlem! Harlem Honey: The Adventures of a Curious Kid is a relatable story about feeling uneasy in a new environment but learning to embrace kindness and curiosity to open up your heart and mind. The book's warm illustrations wonderfully convey the joy and character that Harlem has to offer. Moses' canine and bird companions are fun for young readers to spot on each page.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how in Harlem Honey: The Adventures of a Curious Kid, Moses is feeling sad about leaving behind his family and friends in Texas and doesn't like Harlem when he arrives. Have you ever had to move to a new place? How did it make you feel?

  • Curiosity helped Moses fall in love with Harlem. How can curiosity help you learn more about and appreciate your neighborhood?

  • Have you ever been to Harlem in New York City? Did you visit the places Moses stops at in the book? What did you discover there?

Book Details

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Harlem Honey book cover: Two illustrated children with brown skin holding ice cream, a cityscape in the background

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