Livy Lou Lovely Loves to Speak Review: Finding the Courage to Speak

"Livy Lou had no idea what she was supposed to say until she heard, 'Use your heart, be yourself, and make people's day.'" 

Livy Lou Lovely Loves to Speak by Sally Lou Loveman is a heartwarming picture book about courage, confidence, and discovering your own voice. 

The story follows Livy Lou Lovely, a young girl who struggles with the fear of speaking in front of others. Like many children, Livy Lou feels nervous and unsure when it comes to public speaking. Everything begins to change when she attends a television show with her mom. Faced with a new and exciting experience, Livy Lou makes a brave decision: she relies on her inner voice and chases her dreams. That simple choice becomes the moment she begins to discover her voice. 

What makes this story meaningful is how relatable Livy Lou’s experience is. Many children feel shy or anxious about speaking up, whether in class, at home, or in front of a crowd. Livy Lou starts just like any other child, scared and hesitant, but her journey shows that courage often begins with one small decision. 

The book delivers a beautiful message: everyone feels nervous at first, but our choices can change how we see ourselves and the world around us. By learning to listen to her inner voice, Livy Lou becomes an example of how embracing new challenges can open doors to confidence and self-expression. 

Another highlight of the book is its beautiful illustrations by Srimalie Bassani. They are colorful and lively without feeling overwhelming, perfectly complementing the story and helping bring Livy Lou’s journey to life. The artwork keeps young readers engaged while supporting the emotional tone of the story. 

Overall, Livy Lou Lovely Loves to Speak is a wholesome and encouraging picture book that educates bravery, growth, and self-belief. It is especially perfect for children who need an extra push to speak up or build confidence. Parents and teachers can utilize this story to reassure children that they are not alone in their fears and that those feelings can change. 

This book is a wonderful reminder that sometimes all it takes is a little courage and a willingness to say "yes". 

Thank you to Amplify Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an opportunity to read this book.