Praise
This children’s book has several fun aspects that combine to make it one of a kind. First, I love the fact that the author has owned and operated a funnel cake booth at a state fair for decades. Talk about writing what you know! By reading the book, my family and I felt like we got a true behind-the-scenes look into the business. Second, I love how the story engages the young characters in realistic and meaningful ways. The main character and his friend make active, age-appropriate contributions within a larger team to help bring joy to the booth’s visitors. Third, the book weaves in some physics, some philosophy, and some funnel cake history, too. This book is a treat for families with young children to enjoy together.
After years of hearing about the State Fair of Texas- one of the largest and longest running fairs in the nation, I was excited to read a story about a family-run funnel cake business that brings both the consumers and the employees joy. Every rhyming stanza is a delight as you learn about the process of making funnel cakes and the book's theme, "Each person has a mission, help your team." Such a great message! We watch as Cosmo takes action, bringing his own magic to the business. The last pages of the book detail the "science behind the magic," teaching children about physics, analogies, and more. As a classroom teacher, I plan to share this book with my students, inspiring them to have agency, think creatively, and to write poetically. This book is an absolute treasure!
Cosmo’s Flying Funnel Cakes by Allyson Jannotta is a delightful and heartwarming children’s book that delivers powerful life lessons in a fun and engaging way. At its core, the story teaches the value of perseverance, creativity, and the importance of finding ways to contribute even when traditional roles seem out of reach. Through Cosmo’s imaginative adventure with a magician, young readers learn that determination and thinking outside the box can lead to magical solutions.
This book is not only entertaining but also educational, making it a perfect read-aloud choice for both parents and teachers. The rhythmic prose and whimsical illustrations capture the attention of children, sparking their imagination and encouraging active listening. As a read-aloud book, Cosmo’s Flying Funnel Cakes fosters a sense of togetherness, providing an opportunity for adults to engage in meaningful discussions with children about problem-solving and teamwork.
Overall, this book would be a great addition to any home or classroom library, bringing both fun and important life lessons to young readers.