I Made It Home

by Debra I. Thomas

"I Made It Home" is a heartwarming story that captures the essence of courage, kindness, and friends who flutter into our lives when we need them most. When a change of plans leaves young Aubrey finding her own way home, she embarks on an unexpected adventure with her cheerful companions, a butterfly, a bluebird, and a ladybug. Sometimes the smallest friends lead us the furthest. Along the way, she and a frightened little boy learn valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and the magic of kindness. This enchanting tale will delight readers of all ages and remind them that every kind gesture brings us closer to where we belong.

Genres: Audiobook, Childrens

48 pages, Paperback

Published December 6, 2025

Reviews

[Grandma Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aubrey’s first day of first grade turns out to be quite eventful because of her walk home. She unexpectedly has to walk home by herself and is quite nervous about this. She makes new friends along the way. Wonderful narrator. Highly recommend.

I was blessed with an ALC. Thank you NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.

[Michelle (around - catching up!) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Made it Home follows the story of a little girl named Aubrey on her first day at school, in which she unexpectedly finds herself having to make her own way home. We get to meet a host of characters who she encounters on her way, including many of Aubrey's little critter friends and we hear about the adventures that greet them along the way, notably some very brave rescues. This is a sweet and engaging story, with a focus on being courageous and kind, the audiobook narration was also really good. I'd love to see this become a series, I want to read more about Aubrey, Noah and their wildlife friends.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a digital audiobook review copy.

[Nadia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very cute book on a little girls first day at school. Beautiful illustrations to enhance the sweet story. Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for my ARC.

[Khadija · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the
ALC in exchange for an honest review.

This was so adorable 🥰 short , sweet and cute.

The narration did a very good job; she knows very well how to read to children and make them engaged. ❤️

[Sam Seaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Made It Home is a heartwarming and beautifully imagined children’s story that captures the emotions of starting something new while gently guiding young readers through feelings of uncertainty and growth. The journey Aubrey takes is both relatable and inspiring, especially for children navigating their own early school years.

I especially appreciated how my daughter responded to the story. She thoroughly enjoyed it and was able to relate to Aubrey and the other characters, particularly the feelings of nervousness and the importance of helping friends. Seeing her connect with the story and talk about the characters afterward really shows how impactful and accessible the message is.

[Theresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Made It Home
Debra I. Thomas
The first day of school is scary for a young girl but her friends help her through a difficult day. They encourage her to go, and find new friends. They also help her when events change and she has to walk home alone.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for kids, good characters and adventure!

[Melissa Blizzard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Made It Home is such a sweet picture book from an author with so much love in her heart for the characters in this book and the children who inspired them! the characters of Shimmer, Emerald, as well as others will certainly entertain young readers and teach them the importance of empathy and kindness!

[Kayleighreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a beautiful audiobook about a little girls first day at school. It’s beautifully written and the narrators tone and voice complements the story creating a gentle calming flow that’s a joy to listen to.

[Turning Pages Turning Heads · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely short children’s story addressing common anxieties that children have when starting school and how Aubrey overcome them with support from the characters along the way.

Yes, walking home from school at such a young age does not seem realistic from an adults perspective. However, this is for children and I feel a child would take from it the reassuring parts of the story.

Overall a cute little story that could be played at this key point in a child’s life or any other time when they feel unsure.
Thanks to Net Galley for the listen.

[Chelsea Walsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

A heartwarming adventure that turns first-day jitters into a triumph of courage!

Debra I. Thomas’s I Made It Home is an absolute delight and a must-have for every child’s bookshelf. This charming picture book follows young Aubrey on her first day of first grade—a milestone filled with excitement and nervous anticipation. When her usual plans for getting home suddenly change, Aubrey embarks on an unexpected journey that proves even small steps can be big victories.

Why this book is a 5-star gem:
Empowering Themes: The story beautifully reframes bravery, showing that courage grows through kindness. Whether it's helping a shy boy named Noah or rescuing a little squirrel, Aubrey learns that helping others makes scary situations feel a little less frightening.

Magical Companions: The "garden friends"—Dottie the Ladybug, Emerald the Butterfly, and Bella the Bluebird—add a whimsical and supportive touch that young readers will adore.
Perfect for Transitions: This is an ideal resource for social-emotional learning and helping children navigate the uncertain moments of school transitions.

Engaging Storytelling: The writing is gentle and perfectly paced for children ages 4–8, making it a wonderful choice for bedtime or classroom story time.

It’s a heartfelt tribute to the magic of childhood that leaves both parents and kids smiling. Watching Aubrey find her way home with her head held high is a joy-filled experience that will resonate with any little one starting their own big adventure.

[Gee Readssss · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Made it Home is a children’s picture book written by the author Debra I. Thomas, published in December 2025. It beautifully captures the emotional world of young children navigating new experiences, blending excitement with the nervousness of growing up. At its heart, it’s a gentle story about courage, kindness, and the strength found in friendship.

The story follows Aubrey, a lovable young girl whose simple school day turns into an unexpected adventure when her plans to get home change. What feels small to adults becomes overwhelming for her, and the book handles this with warmth and sensitivity.

With the help of her magical garden friends—Dottie, Emerald, and Bella—and a shy boy named Noah, Aubrey learns that courage comes from helping others. The story uses small, meaningful moments to show that bravery isn’t about being fearless, but about acting with kindness despite fear.

Simple yet impactful, the book is perfect for ages 4–8. The vibrant illustrations and easy storytelling keep young readers engaged while subtly teaching empathy, teamwork, and confidence.

Rating: 5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
A heartwarming and empowering picture book that teaches kids courage, kindness, and the beauty of helping others.

Final Verdict: A sweet and uplifting story that proves small acts of kindness can build big courage.

[Tracey Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

As an educator, I love reading picture books I can later use with my dyslexic students, which is what drew me to this book.

Aubrey is starting first grade and is a bit nervous on her first day of school. When her aunt's car breaks down, Aubrey is suddenly tasked with walking home from school alone. Thankfully, her friends Dottie the Ladybug and Emerald the butterfly are there to help her. She befriends a fellow student, Noah, and on the way home, the two have some adventures helping their animal friends and make it home safely.

This is a great book for the 4-8-year-old age range and might be especially helpful to younger children just starting school who may feel some of the same anxiety Aubrey does in the story. The book is also beautifully illustrated with simple yet colorful art that aligns closely with the story.

Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the free digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

#IMadeItHomechildrenbooksbedtimestory #NetGalley.

[RobbyReadsActually · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, and Debra I. Thomas for this ALC in exchange for an honest review.

Book rating: 3
Audio rating: 4
Total: 3.5
Audiobook Release Date: 3/2/2026

My thoughts on the book:
This is a heartwarming children's book that explores the themes of courage and friendship that I think kids will enjoy. As far as the plot, I did find it an odd decision to have the main character walk home alone, even though she was with her animal companions. Having a young child walk home alone could be seen as an unsafe activity. Even if it is trying to foster independence, I think there was a missed opportunity for a teachable moment regarding safety.

My thoughts on the Audio:
I thought the narrator, Rose Velorum, did a great job. I do think that the audio production could have been elevated with some background music and maybe even sound effects. I've listened to a lot of children's books this year and this is the only one that did not have some form of music or sound effects to accompany the narration.

[Claire Smith-Simmons · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley for my copy.

Aubrey worries about making it home from her first day at school when her mum advises her that her Aunt will pick her up from school that day. Unfortunately the plan changes and she has to walk home alone, the start of an adventure! With the help of a boy, Noah, and wildlife friends - ladybirds, birds, butterflies and with a combination of help they reassure her, offering their friendship and kindness to her and encouraging her to be courageous on this unexpected adventure.

It is a wonderful book to help children get ready for their first day at school and the realities of that day. It helps to talk about being excited and all the things that will happen but also helps them to talk about their worries and anxieties. It's a great book for helping to build resilience for when things don't go to plan. It also has lovely themes of kindness, offering friendship, facing fears and being proud of your achievements.

[S.A. Krishnan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet read for kids about overcoming anxiety and making new friends.
Four Point One Stars
Little Aubrey navigates two major milestones on the same day, it is her first day of school and her very first walk home alone. Luckily, she’s not alone and her magical companions, Dottie the Ladybug and Emerald the Butterfly are with her. They guide her every step of the way.
The journey home turns into a lesson in kindness as Aubrey stops to help her friend, Shimmer the Squirrel. She is even able to help a young boy named Noah make new friends.
With its neat illustrations and gentle approach to overcoming back-to-school jitters, and showing empathy for others, this is a good book to be read to young kids to find their courage.
Thank you for the e-Arc Netgalley.
https://ok-readingcorner.blogspot.com...

[Kimberly (Bookblurbist) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley and Debra I Thomas for this advanced copy of I Made it Home.

This was a really sweet and heartwarming story about being brave when faced with unexpected situations. I thought the intension was great and that the characterization was super sweet, but there were a few things that didn't really work for me. For one, I'm not too sure about the plot choice of having a first grader choose to walk home from school because of her aunt's car troubles. That seemed like an interesting choice given the target audience and is arguably an unsafe behavior. There is also many other ways that the main character could have shown braveness and kindness. I also think that some of the more dense passages could have been separated onto more than one page. Some pages covered a lot for emerging readers.

[Reading With Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Made it Home was such a cute children's book that shows you can have courage even when things are scary and tough. However, it can be scary for littles also because it's the first grader's mom was suppose to pick her up and wasn't able to and sent her aunt to pick her up, but also had trouble getting there. Therefore this first grader had to walk home on her first day (adults just need to be ready to have a conversation with their child in case if they wonder if they would get left at school), but the good thing is that she meets some animal friends who help her get home. I like the themes of the story- courage, friendship, first day of school jitters,

I do like the narrator, she helped the book feel cozy and reassuring and not rushed or spoke too fast. If anything she brought emotion to the story by helping the reader feel reassured and comfortable.

Overall, a cute book.

[Tanisha Paul · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.

This was such a short, sweet, and wholesome listen.

The story follows Aubrey, who ends up having to find her way home and goes on a small adventure with tiny companions like a butterfly, a bluebird, and a ladybug. Along the way, she also meets others who need help, and the story focuses a lot on kindness, courage, and helping each other.

It’s very simple and gentle, but that’s what makes it work. The message about how even small acts of kindness can go a long way was really nice, and it feels perfect for younger listeners.

The narration made it easy to stay engaged, and overall it’s just a comforting little audiobook you can finish in one sitting.

[Tiffany Ahmad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aubrey starts off nervous about getting home after her first day of school, relying on her nature friends to help guide the way. Along the journey, she faces a few unexpected obstacles that test her courage.

What I liked most is how the story weaves in kindness, empathy, and a touch of imagination. Aubrey and her friends show up for each other in thoughtful ways, and it all comes together in a way that feels gentle but still meaningful.

There’s also a reminder not to jump to conclusions, especially when Noah realizes the boys he misjudged actually wanted to include him.

Overall, it’s a sweet, heartfelt story about friendship, courage, and seeing the good in others, even in unexpected places.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher for providing this audiobook for review consideration via Netgalley. All opinions are my own.

This is a great story for children going into their first day of Kindergarten or First Grade. Aubrey has to unexpectedly walk home after her first day of school, and she is understandably a little nervous. She meets a friend along the way and shows kindness and courage even though she is scared herself.

The narrator did a fantastic job with the different voices and she was clear and very easy to understand.

I think there could have been an opportunity to talk about safety in regards to walking home alone, but otherwise this was a great audio!

[Theediscerning · Rating 2 out of 5]

A poor effort, unfortunately, as a girl's first day at school (a school from which she's walked back copious times, apparently) is given an extra slice of drama when she, her ladybird friend, her butterfly friend, and other animals that she and seemingly nobody else can talk to, have to help an injured squirrel. Yes it shows charity and to some tiny, tiny extent bravery, but it's not a great story, and what I saw jumped heinously from past to present tense and back. All told this needed a massive injection of extra charm to make up for the naivety and illogicality of it all, and as a result I'd have to say this should be a very low priority purchase.

[Baylie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story completely melted my heart! I’m always searching for books that can entertain my nieces and nephews while also leaving them with something meaningful. And I Made It Home did exactly that!

Aubrey’s journey is heartwarming and filled with gentle lessons about courage, kindness, and friendship. Her tiny friends add such a sweet charm! Plus, the artwork is absolutely beautiful. It truly brought Aubrey’s adventure to life and kept my niece hooked from start to finish!

I would highly recommend picking this one up for anyone with little ones around!

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gave me butterflies in the best way 🦋
I loved this story so much. Aubrey is scared to walk home but guess what she does. She helps a nervous kid, saves a squirrel, and even deals with a spider situation like a total hero. And she does it all with her tiny flying friends cheering her on. It is sweet, it is exciting, and it shows kids that being kind actually makes you braver. This is the kind of story I would read out loud with big voices and dramatic gasps. Total win for storytime. 🌟

[Abigail L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Made It Home is exactly the kind of heart-first children’s book parents and teachers adore 💛

This sweet story follows Aubrey on her first day of school when she ends up walking home and discovers she is braver than she thought. With her butterfly, ladybug, and bluebird friends beside her, she helps a scared boy, rescues a hurt squirrel, and even faces down a spider to save her friend. I loved how the story shows courage growing through kindness, and it left me smiling at the gentle message that helping others helps us too. A comforting and heartwarming read for kids.

[Claire Sylvestre · Rating 4 out of 5]

I Made It Home by Debra I. Thomas, narrated by Rose Velorum is a quite charming book!

When Aubrey starts school but her mother cannot take her there, she makes plan for her auntie to pick her up and take her home. At the end of the day, her aunt is not there so Audrey walks home with her animal friends and along the way they get in all sorts of situations which makes her return home filled with courage, compassion and kindness and Audrey is proud to have made it home safe and sound.

Great story for children 4 to 8.

Thank you NetGalley and the Publisher for this ALC.

[Israel · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful tool for discussing big emotions' I had the pleasure of reading an early copy of I Made It Home, and it is exactly the kind of book I want on my child’s Kindle. Debra I. Thomas has a gift for taking complex feelings of longing and belonging and making them accessible for little ones. The prose is gentle yet engaging, and the 'journey' aspect kept my kids hooked until the very last page. It’s a heartwarming reminder that 'home' is often more than just a place.

[Promise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect for the classroom or library' As an educator, I’m always looking for stories that promote empathy and perseverance. I Made It Home is a standout addition to children's literature. The narrative structure is rhythmic and comforting, making it a great choice for read-alouds. It sparks wonderful conversations about what it means to feel safe and loved. I’ll definitely be recommending this to parents and fellow teachers.

[FaithfulReviewer (Jacqueline) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op, the author and NetGalley for an LRC in return for an honest review.

Short and sweet audiobook aimed at children 4-8 years old, lively narrated by Rose Velorum.

Debra I. Thomas has written a lovely little book that teaches young children valuable lessons about courage, friendship and the magic of kindness.

#IMadeItHome #NetGalley

[Britney Ireland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you #NetGalley and #BookBuzz.net for the read in return of my honest opinion on the book.

This book is well written and illustrated by Debra Thomas.

The first day of school can always be scary for kids, but in this book you see how you can find friends and help people in need.

Super Cute.