BOOK REVIEW
Reviewed by Christine Nguyen for Readers' Favorite
A Bee in a Matchbox by Cynthia Zordich is a children’s book about an unlikely friendship between a dog and a bee. One day, a dog encountered a bee buzzing around and was scared. The big black dog had been warned about bees. The bee saw the dog and was also scared. The bee had been warned about dogs. The bee flew at the dog to scare it away, but instead, they played and had fun together. The dog accidentally hurt the bee. Chuckie, the dog, ran to his owner for help. The owner got a matchbox and placed the bee in it. Chuckie stood by the matchbox to protect the bee for days. They both realized that they could have been playing with each other, but they were taught to be afraid of each other. They learned that they could accept each other’s differences to become best friends.
Author Cynthia Zordich writes a heartwarming and tender book for young readers to teach them a valuable lesson about acceptance and love. Her writing style is simple but very effective in teaching children an important message at an early age. I was further engaged by the wonderful and vibrant illustrations by Anna DeMalo that captured the personalities of Chuckie and the bee. DeMalo’s many colorful and detailed depictions of Chuckie were so beautifully realistic. Children and adults alike will be captivated by A Bee in a Matchbox and the magic surrounding how Chuckie and the bee became best friends. Overall, a great children's book with a relevant message!
“5.0 out of 5 stars
Great new story line - not your same old!
Reviewed in the United States on January 9, 2024
I loved this book! It based on a true story which I could never have even dreamt up! And the lessons that come with it are so relevant! If we could all be a little more open to difference, our world would be such a lovely accepting place!”
Cynthia Zordich, wife of former NFL Safety and current coach Michael Zordich, Co-Author of When The Clock Runs Out, Founder of Thread and Editor of The Playbook - takes an accidental turn and writes a children’s book.
It was an early summer evening, when Zordich noticed her son Alex’s dog Chuckie, a 120 lb. playful Italian Mastiff, galloping and leaping on the hardwood floor. Stopping to watch, Zordich realized Chuckie was playing with a bee. When Chuckie’s paw grazed the wing of the bee, chaos ensued. The events of that night played over and over again in Zordich’s mind. The next morning, it all came spilling out - like a little gift.
“A bee in a matchbox tells the story of an unlikely friendship unfolding right before your eyes,” said Zordich. “It is playful and courageous and has a message that I am all too happy to share.”
A Bee in a Matchbox is published by Pegasus Publishers and is available at Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, Walmart.com and Pegasuspublishers.com
To schedule a book a signing, reading or interview please contact l.holding@pegasuspublishers.com or cynthiazordich@nflthread.net
For bulk purchases for your nonprofit, school or library please contact l.holding@pegasuspublishers.com or cynthiazordich@nflthread.net
If you are a book shop or retail store visit Ingram Content Group to purchase bulk at wholesale prices
If you are media click A Bee in a Matchbox for the review copy.
A Bee in a Matchbox Press Release.
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A Bee in a Matchbox was illustrated by Anna DeMalo. Anna added her light, color and imagination in bringing our story to life. She was a pleasure to work with, a true collaborator and now a friend. If you have a children’s book in your soul, I suggest that you contact Anna. The world deserves your story - and as my friend Juliet always says - stories connect us!
Thank you Anna, and thank you to my sister Tina Toscani for finding Anna!
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Upcoming Signings and Readings
“Beautiful Message... This children’s book beautifully conveys the message that despite our differences, we can learn to coexist and support one another. It emphasizes the importance of diversity and teaches children to embrace and celebrate the unique qualities of those around us around them. The book is a gentle reminder that our differences are what make us special, and by learning from each other, we can create a more inclusive and nurturing world. With its engaging illustrations and simple yet profound narrative, this book is a valuable resource for parents and educators to introduce the concepts of unity and diversity to young minds”
“A Perfect Story For The Times!
This is a precious book about an unlikely friendship and is a tale that is particularly poignant in the times we are living.
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“My Son Loved This Story! Beautifully Done!! More children’s books like this please!! It was perfectly written and beautifully illustrated. My 6 year old loved it so much. I can see us reading this for years.”
“Such A Special Book
This is such a special book! So heartfelt and sweet!”
“A beautiful and original story that involves children of all ages. There is a beautiful message of friendship, courage and love towards all animals of all kinds. The colorful designs encourage visual engagement in younger babies (like my 4-month-old twins).
Just an amazing book! You are going to love it!!”
“This book was so touching and unlike any other kids book that we have read. It teaches kindness and compassion and it’s encouraged to find friendship in situations that are not “the norm”. Highly recommend.”
As featured in The Pittsburgh Post Gazette “Good Person” Sunday Edition …. 'A Bee in a Matchbox': Penn Hills native's children's book captures an 'unlikely friendship'
