Review: Ben's Library

Elissa has a very real, very big problem!

She’s already read every single book on her shelf. Can it be that she’s run out of books?

Thank goodness for the school library.

On her way home, piled high with borrowed books, Elissa is moving as slow as a snail and reconsidering her decision to try and carry such a load.

But, it’s books, so she perseveres.

Nearly home, Elissa notices a dog she’s never seen before. When she stops to pat it, and then looks up, she also notices her new neighbour’s little street library. And then she notices Ben.

Ben’s Library is a delightful, quiet story that not only celebrates books and the joy of reading, but also highlights to the power of ‘what if?’

What if Elissa hadn’t run out of books? Would she have still needed to borrow so many from the school library?

What if Elissa hadn’t borrowed so many books? Would she have been walking so slowly?

Would she have noticed the dog?

Would she have, instead, walked straight past the little street library without noticing it?

What if she had enough books of her own? Would Elissa have made a new friend?

Joanna Bartel’s illustrations complement Amani Uduman’s words perfectly, adding little nuances of expression and the happiness found in books and new friendships.

If you’re after a gentle story that explores the serendipitous moments in our lives, Ben’s Library will not disappoint.

Title: Ben’s Library
Author: Amani Uduman
Illustrator: Joanna Bartel
Publisher: New Frontier Publishing $26.99
Publication Date: 11 June 2026
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781923331150
For ages: 3 – 6
Type: Picture Book