Children’s Book Review: Anything by Rebecca Stead

ANYTHING
By: Rebecca Stead
Illustrated by: Gracey Zhang
Published: April 29, 2025
Publisher: Chronicle Kids
Fiction

A girl and her dad have moved into apartment 3B. Unfortunately, it just doesn’t feel the same as their old apartment. To celebrate moving in, Dad has gotten a cake with one candle, and the daughter can make three wishes. But, what should she wish for? “Anything,” Daddy said.

Since she misses their old apartment, she is sad that her room is different, so she wishes for a rainbow in it. She also doesn’t like the bathtub or the nighttime noises. As her dad comforts her, she realizes that home is anywhere they are together.

This book can comfort kids with any kind of change or loss. Even though the story doesn’t state why the girl and her dad had to move, it could be due to divorce, a job change, or various other reasons. The reason doesn’t matter, but how the girl copes with this big change in her life does. The simple pen-drawn illustrations show a just-moved-in apartment with boxes and personal items strewn about. The illustrations exaggerate the girl’s wishes like a huge slice of pizza, which will make kids giggle.

For kids who need help adjusting to a change in their routine or life, ANYTHING can be a comforting read. It’s also rare that there are books that celebrate the relationships between fathers and daughters. This story encompasses a parent’s love for their child and the dream to give them everything they wish for…even when maybe you can’t.

To purchase a copy of ANYTHING, click HERE.

Add a rainbow to your child’s wall, HERE.

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Thanks to the publisher for sending a copy of this book for this review. This review is my honest opinion. If you choose to purchase through the above links, I may receive a small commission without you having to pay a cent more for your purchase.