Common Sense Media Review
By Amanda Nojadera
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Endearing illustrated story highlights courage, friendship.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In MAYBE MAYBE MARISOL RAINEY, 8-year-old Marisol is afraid of most things, especially Peppina, the giant magnolia tree in her backyard. But she loves silent films, naming inanimate objects, and spending time with her adventurous best friend, Jada. Jada makes climbing Peppina's branches look easy, but Marisol's scared she'll fall. Can Marisol find the courage to face her fear and climb Peppina?
Is It Any Good?
Erin Entrada Kelly's endearing illustrated chapter book about family, friendship, and courage is perfect for early readers. Kids will love Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey's short chapters, charming illustrations, and relatable characters. They'll also appreciate the sweet, supportive friendship between Marisol and Jada. Marisol may be afraid of many things, but Jada never pushes her best friend to do anything that would make her uncomfortable. Instead, she reassures Marisol that she'll catch her if she falls. As the story progresses, readers will learn what it means to be a good friend and root for Marisol as she finds the courage to face her fears.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about Marisol and Jada's freindship in Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey. How do the girls support each other throughout the story?
Talk about the various kinds of diversity in the novel. Why are diverse representations important in kids' books?
How do the kids demonstrate courage? Why is this an important character strength?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Erin Entrada Kelly
- Genre : Friendship
- Topics : Friendship
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Greenwillow Books
- Publication date : May 4, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 160
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
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