Based on the cover alone you could be led to think that what comes next is a fanciful tale of a magical tree that grows presents of all kinds including bicycles but this is not the case.
A trusting Bella does as her Dad suggests and heads out to the garden but she is quickly disappointed when her tiny seed does not produce a bicycle, but a radish instead.
What follows is an unexpected tale of how Bella, using her creativity and problem solving abilities, goes on a trading adventure. Starting with that tiny radish and ending (obviously not a spoiler) with a bicycle.
The joy in this book comes not from the story arc but from the adventures Bella has along the way. The people she meets and the determination she has to reach her goal.
Lellie Lopter has written a clever story empowering children. Yes there is obvious adult assistance throughout, but the final decisions all come down to Bella. It shows the results of patience and hard work without it being a ‘lesson’ or condescending to the reader.
The story is partnered with beautiful illustrations from Italian illustrator, Chiara Franceschetti. Her soft lines and uplifting colour pallet, perfectly set the mood from the first page. Adding to this are her cast of loveable characters that warmly invite you into their storybook world.
Bella Grows a Bicycle is the perfect starting point to discuss issues such as sustainability and recycling. It shows kids that there are various ways to achieve a goal and that being self-reliant can be a good thing. We can’t always run to Mum and Dad to get what we want.
I will just add one small disclaimer though. As encouraging as this book is, I think as a parent I would not be overly happy if my child swapped her roller skates for a cleaned up old pair of sneakers with new laces. Though perhaps that is just another life lesson we have to deal with.
Title: Bella Grows a Bicycle
Author: Lellie Lopter
Illustrator: Chiara Franceschetti
Publisher: Five Mile
Publication Date: 1 May 2026
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781923457720
For ages: 5+
Type: Picture book
