Cloudette by Tom Lichtenheld is a charming and uplifting story about a little cloud with big dreams. The titular character, Cloudette, is smaller than all the other clouds in the sky, which leads her to feel somewhat left out when it comes to cloud responsibilities, like making big storms or producing rainbows. However, instead of giving up, Cloudette embarks on a journey to find out how she can make a difference despite her small size, and in the process, she discovers that even the littlest clouds can do great things.
What makes Cloudette stand out is its empowering message about self-worth and perseverance. Lichtenheld delicately tackles themes of self-discovery and finding one’s place in the world, making the book highly relatable for young readers who may sometimes feel overshadowed or insignificant. Cloudette’s determination to contribute, despite her small stature, sends a powerful message to children: you don’t have to be big to make a big difference.
The illustrations in Cloudette are whimsical and vibrant, with Lichtenheld’s characteristic lightheartedness. The personified clouds are playful and expressive, adding humor and warmth to the narrative. The soft, billowy clouds contrast with the bright, detailed backdrops, creating a visually engaging experience for readers. Each page is thoughtfully crafted, making the illustrations just as important to the storytelling as the text itself. Lichtenheld’s ability to convey emotion through these simple yet effective drawings helps children connect with Cloudette’s journey.
As Cloudette searches for her purpose, she tries to join the larger clouds in their storm-making, but they all seem to have their own important jobs, leaving her feeling a little lost. However, instead of feeling defeated, Cloudette keeps going, looking for the right opportunity to prove her worth. Her persistence pays off when she finds a tiny garden in need of rain. In this quiet, touching moment, Cloudette realizes that she doesn’t need to create a huge storm to make an impact—her small shower is just as important.
This story works well as a metaphor for children about how they might feel in a world that often values size or outward strength, but Cloudette teaches that even small actions can have a meaningful impact. The moment Cloudette finally brings rain to the garden is a beautifully simple but powerful reminder that everyone has something valuable to contribute, no matter how small they are. This message resonates with children and adults alike, offering a heartening reminder about the value of persistence and individuality.
Cloudette is a delightful read for young children, especially for those who may sometimes feel a bit overlooked. Lichtenheld’s playful illustrations and heartfelt story make this book a perfect choice for parents and educators looking to share a meaningful, encouraging story with their children. It’s a feel-good, confidence-boosting book that celebrates the uniqueness of every individual, reminding us that no matter how small, we all have the potential to make a big difference.
Questions to ask while reading:
- How does Cloudette feel about being small at the beginning of the story?
- What are some of the ways Cloudette tries to make herself bigger?
- How does Cloudette’s small size end up being an advantage in the end?
Cloudette on Amazon
More books by Tom Lichtenheld:
Duck Rabbit