Book Review All Are Welcome (An All Are Welcome Book)

In a world where differences often divide us, All Are Welcome by Alexandra Penfold and illustrated by Suzanne Kaufman is a radiant beacon of inclusivity, kindness, and joy. This picture book, perfect for young readers and adults alike, wraps you in a warm embrace of acceptance, reminding us that every child—regardless of background, ability, or culture—deserves to feel valued.

From the moment you open its pages, the vibrant illustrations and rhythmic prose invite you into a school where diversity isn’t just tolerated—it’s celebrated. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or simply someone who believes in the power of kindness, this book is a must-read.

All Are Welcome doesn’t follow a traditional plot with conflict and resolution. Instead, it unfolds like a lyrical day-in-the-life snapshot of a diverse elementary school. The story begins with children arriving in the morning, each from different cultural, racial, and religious backgrounds.

We see them learning together, playing together, and sharing meals—each moment reinforcing the message that everyone belongs. The book highlights small but powerful interactions: a child in a wheelchair joining a game, a girl in a hijab laughing with friends, and families gathering for a multicultural potluck.

The absence of a rigid storyline works beautifully here. Instead of forcing a lesson, Penfold and Kaufman let the illustrations and gentle repetition ("All are welcome here") speak for themselves.

While the book doesn’t focus on individual characters, the collective representation is its strength. Each child depicted is unique:

• Cultural Diversity: Kids wear kimonos, hijabs, yarmulkes, and dashikis.
• Abilities & Differences: A child with a prosthetic leg plays alongside others; a boy with glasses reads quietly.
• Family Structures: Same-sex parents, single parents, and multi-generational families are all present.

What makes this book special is that no child is singled out as "different." Instead, their differences are woven naturally into the fabric of the story, making inclusivity feel effortless.

Penfold’s writing is deliberately simple, using short, rhythmic lines that make it perfect for read-aloud sessions:

"No matter how you start your day, / What you wear when you play, / Or if you come from far away, / All are welcome here."

The repetition of "All are welcome here" acts like a comforting refrain, reinforcing the book’s core message. The text is sparse, allowing Kaufman’s illustrations to carry much of the storytelling.

At its heart, All Are Welcome is about:

1. Inclusivity & Belonging – The book normalizes diversity, showing kids that their uniqueness is something to celebrate.
2. Community & Friendship – The school becomes a microcosm of the world, where cooperation and kindness prevail.
3. Empathy & Acceptance – By depicting everyday interactions, it subtly teaches children to embrace others without judgment.

What makes this book stand out is that it doesn’t preach. Instead, it shows inclusivity in action, making the lesson feel organic rather than forced.

Reading All Are Welcome feels like stepping into a utopian version of the world we wish existed—one where no child is excluded, where differences are met with curiosity rather than fear.

As an adult, I found myself emotional at how beautifully it captures the innocence of childhood before biases set in. For children, it’s a mirror (seeing themselves represented) and a window (learning about others).

This book stands alongside other beloved inclusive children’s books like:

• The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson – Focuses on overcoming the fear of being different.
• We’re All Wonders by R.J. Palacio – Teaches empathy through a child with facial differences.
• Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña – Celebrates finding beauty in everyday diversity.

While these books are excellent, All Are Welcome stands out for its sheer joy and lack of conflict. It doesn’t dwell on the challenges of being different—it simply celebrates difference.

✅ Gorgeous, Detailed Illustrations – Kaufman’s artwork is bursting with color and life, making every page a delight.
✅ Universal Appeal – Works for kids as young as 3 but resonates with older readers too.
✅ Perfect for Classrooms – Teachers can use it to foster discussions about diversity.

❌ Lacks a Traditional Plot – Some readers might prefer a stronger narrative.
❌ Text Is Very Simple – While effective, those looking for deeper storytelling may want more.

• Parents looking for books that teach kindness and acceptance.
• Teachers & Educators who want to create an inclusive classroom environment.
• Librarians seeking diverse books for young readers.
• Gift-Givers – Perfect for baby showers, birthdays, or back-to-school presents.

A few standout lines:

"In our classroom safe and true, / You are welcomed, you are loved, you are you."

"Gather now, let’s all take part. / We’ll play music, we’ll make art."

These lines, paired with the illustrations, create a visceral sense of warmth and belonging.

Published in 2018, All Are Welcome arrived at a time of growing conversations about representation in children’s literature. Movements like We Need Diverse Books have pushed for more inclusive stories, and this book is a shining example of that mission.

It’s also a response to rising xenophobia and division, offering a counter-narrative where diversity is strength.

All Are Welcome is more than a book—it’s a movement in picture book form. Its message is timeless, its illustrations are breathtaking, and its impact is profound. Whether you’re reading it to a child or revisiting it yourself, it’s a reminder that kindness and acceptance can (and should) be the foundation of our communities.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

• How does this book compare to other inclusive children’s books you’ve read?
• Which illustration resonated with you the most, and why?
• How can we apply the message of All Are Welcome in real-life classrooms and communities?

Have you read All Are Welcome? Share your thoughts in the comments! 📚💛

Get this book on Amazon

For more great reviews and book recommendations, visit Books By Order.

For more great reviews, visit Book Book Owl.