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Lemon Bird: Can Help!

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When a small lemon shaped bird and her pumpkin dog friend are lost on their journey home, it doesn't stop them from reaching out and helping all the new friends they meet on their way! A chapter book middle grade novel about friendship and the unlimited power of kindess for fans of Narwhal and Jelly.

Lemon Bird and her new best friend, Pupkin, are lost!

It will take some quick thinking, and the help of those they meet on the way, to help these two friends make it back to their home. It's not long before Lemon Bird and Pupkin realize they can help those in need as well! After all, they may be lost but that doesn't mean they can't be a good friend.

112 pages, Hardcover

First published August 23, 2022

11 people are currently reading
173 people want to read

About the author

Paulina Ganucheau

121 books34 followers

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5 stars
142 (32%)
4 stars
159 (36%)
3 stars
106 (24%)
2 stars
21 (4%)
1 star
7 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
Profile Image for Afi  (WhatAfiReads).
606 reviews428 followers
October 9, 2022
Such a cute read and one that literally just took me out of a reading limbo :')

I was in a very tiring phase of life when this book was graciously given to me from the Times Reads team, and lord this was the CUTEST THING EVER!

Firstly, I would say this book is very suitable for Children at the ages of 4 Years Old and Above as it is a book that is more heavily sided to the graphics than the amount of words of the characters.

I sincerely ADORE AND LOVE THE ARTSTYLE OF THE ARTIST! . Its cute and simple and yet it has so much attention to details! The artist and author had created the story and the animals with shapes like fruits, which for me is super smart in not only enhancing the skills of children for their knowledge, it also somehow creates a learning-based materials especially for children that is the target market for the book. Honestly, even reading this as an adult warms my heart and I just smiled even towards the end of the book.

Whilst the plot is simplistic, I also liked how it really showed the importance of
1) Knowing when to seek for help
2) Always be kind to whoever that you come across with
3) Try to help others as much as you can.

Even with the lack of words, which I'm always impressed with Graphic novels, each of the characters journey and their acts towards each other shows the storyline and how the story is set out to be. It not only sets a good moral value , it also adds depth to the story, as its somewhat written in a storyline that makes you just smile towards the end. The artstyle is the cutest and the colours can stimulate cognitive functions of children, and even set out to be very beneficial reading it as an adult as it serves as a light read that makes you just elated after finishing it.

A story about friendship, the hardships and things that you can go through to make it work, and most of all, of love and accepting of one's weakness.

Biggest thank you again to Times Reads for providing me a copy of this book! It really made my day.
Profile Image for Noelle.
476 reviews4 followers
September 14, 2022
I knew I had to read it when I saw it at my library just because it is SO DARN CUTE! I liked it, however I do have one critique.

I wish there was more background about the universe this is set in. I want to see more information about each fruit animal, the humans that live there, etc. The novel just plops you straight into the world without explanation. But, this critique could be taken lightly just because I’m the kind of person that appreciates lore, and I’m also not the target demographic for this book.

This is a sweet, short middle-grade graphic novel that is bursting with vibrant illustrations and the power of friendship. It’s quick and easy to understand, so this would be a great book for kids who are hesitant to read.
Profile Image for Rod Brown.
7,367 reviews282 followers
September 22, 2023
I liked Paulina Ganucheau's art in Zodiac Starforce Volume 1: By the Power of Astra so I thought I'd try another book of hers that my local library has, but this skewed much too young and was much too saccharine sweet for me.

The art looks nice, and the animal characters that are all weird hybrids of fruit and animals -- Pupkin is a puppy and pumpkin fusion, Keylime is a lime with wings and a beak -- actually do look cute, but the plot was generic, with two characters getting lost and having to find their way back to the farm.

I wouldn't be surprised to see this get picked up for animation or merchandising though based on the visual appeal.
Profile Image for Heather.
1,333 reviews10 followers
Read
August 10, 2022
Lemon bird
Keylime
Pupkin
Strawbunny
Beet-le
Boarnana
Not sure what the cat demon/jack-o-lantern is
Cherry mice
Profile Image for Momo.
19 reviews
December 6, 2025
this is the cutest book I've ever read 🥹🥹🥹😭😭😭
Profile Image for Ms. B.
3,749 reviews77 followers
October 24, 2024
The right colors and cute cover will attract young graphic novel fans. You'll need to read the pictures carefully to know what's happening to Lemon Bird, Pupkin, and Key Lime. Or simply read it a few times (like I did) to understand the themes (beings lost, not understanding another language, atoning for wrongdoing, feeling guilty, kindness towards others).
Profile Image for Eliott.
660 reviews
February 16, 2025
Lemon Bird Can Help!
Overall Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ .5 (3.5/5) or 6.71/10 overall

Characters - 6

Atmosphere - 8

Writing - 7

Plot - 6

Intrigue - 7

Logic - 6

Enjoyment - 7
Profile Image for Barbara.
15k reviews315 followers
January 10, 2023
This graphic novel for young readers features adorable animal protagonists and several important messages. The fact that what the human characters have to say is incomprehensible to readers and the animal protagonists makes it even more appealing since the entire story is told from the animals' perspectives. When Pupkin, a sort of puppy and pumpkin combination, meets Lemon Bird, the two of them become great friends and frolic all over the farm. Pupkin's human owner is getting all the other pupkins ready to be adopted, and the two friends take a nap on a visitor's truck. When they wake up, they are far from home and have no idea how to get back there. Lemon Bird hasn't learned how to fly very well, and another citrus bird--Keylime--taunts the other bird. But even though Keylime might seem to be a bully, he has regrets about his behavior after Yellow Bird saves him from a cat's clutches. If there will be another installment of this story, I hope readers will learn more about these animals and the world in which they live. The idea behind the animal characters is quite creative, most likely to encourage some youngsters to create their own imaginary animals. Not only is Lemon Bird able to help, no matter what the situation is, but Lemon Bird is also a loyal friend.
Profile Image for Melanie.
1,627 reviews379 followers
January 28, 2025
Lemon Bird: Can Help! was an adorable graphic novel following two friends who get lost on their journey home.

After a night playing on the farm ends with a nap in a box in the back of a truck, Lemon Bird and her best friend Pupkin wake up to find themselves left in town with no idea how to get back home. With the help of some friends they make along the way, Lemon Bird and Pupkin set off on their journey home.

The cover of this book caught my attention with the adorable bird illustration and the premise sounded really cute. The art style is wonderful with bright, colorful illustrations and super adorable animals. Pupkin in particular, a pumpkin dog, was extremely cute and I loved the friendship between him and Lemon Bird. On their journey they meet Keylime, another citrus bird like Lemon Bird, who helps them out and I liked how Lemon Bird and Pupkin's kindness helped them open up. The messaging in this graphic novel, being kind and helping others, was a good one and it would be a good story for younger readers.

Overall Lemon Bird: Can Help! was a really cute read and I would highly recommend it if you're looking for a fun read.
Profile Image for Erin.
4,575 reviews56 followers
November 7, 2022
A little thin on plot, but the illustrations just ooze cuteness (the characters are fruit animals). Lemon Bird keeps having to get others out of trouble, but eventually needs to ask for help.
Profile Image for Samantha Larson.
205 reviews
March 12, 2025
Lemon Bird: Can Help! by Paulina Ganucheau is a charming and colorful story that offers a positive message about kindness and helping others. The story follows Lemon Bird, a well-intentioned character who is eager to assist those in need. The illustrations are vibrant and playful, capturing the whimsical nature of the story and making it visually engaging.

The book does a good job of promoting values like teamwork and compassion, which can be great for younger readers to understand. While the plot is relatively simple, it stays focused on the idea of helping others, which is clear and accessible for its intended audience. However, at times the story can feel a bit repetitive, and the lack of deeper conflict may make it less exciting for older readers or those seeking a more complex narrative.

The illustrations, while delightful, can sometimes overwhelm the reader due to their bright and busy nature, making it harder for younger children to focus on the storyline. Despite this, the overall tone remains positive and uplifting, with Lemon Bird’s good intentions shining through.

Overall, Lemon Bird: Can Help! is a fun, feel-good book with a heartwarming message. It’s a solid choice for young readers who are learning about the importance of kindness and helping others, though it may not have the depth some might desire. I would give it 3/5 stars—it's enjoyable, but it leaves room for a bit more development in both story and character.
Profile Image for Sesana.
6,278 reviews329 followers
September 3, 2023
Almost unbearably adorable. All of the animals are, like Lemon Bird, animal/fruit hybrids: pumpkin puppies, cherry mice, etc. And so, so cute. The adorable art is going to appeal to a lot of readers by itself, especially in the target elementary age group. The story and its lessons are also tuned towards that age: Lemon Bird and new friend Keylime (also a citrus bird) learn about when to be helpful and when to be kind and when to be brave. The humans and animals can't understand each other, which doesn't stop them from being kind and loving to each other. The relationship between an elderly woman and her equally elderly boarnana (yes, a banana pig) is particularly touching, especially if you've had an ailing senior pet in your family. I dearly hope that this will be the first in a series of gentle children's graphic novels starring animal/fruits. And maybe a line of merchandise, too. I could use a Lemon Bird sticker.
Profile Image for Ariel.
370 reviews5 followers
April 5, 2024
"Lemon Bird: Can Help!" is such a sweet and heartwarming book! It's all about this adorable lemon-shaped bird and her pumpkin dog friend who get lost on their way home. But instead of feeling sad, they decide to help all the new friends they meet along the way!

I loved reading about Lemon Bird and her friend. They're so brave and kind, even when they're lost themselves. And the best part is, they never give up! They keep spreading kindness wherever they go, and it's really inspiring.

This book is perfect for kids who love stories about friendship and adventure. It's like going on a journey with Lemon Bird and her pumpkin dog friend, and you'll meet all sorts of interesting characters along the way.

If you're a fan of books like "Narwhal and Jelly," you'll definitely love "Lemon Bird: Can Help!" It's full of fun and heart, and it's a reminder that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a big difference.
Profile Image for Stephanie Tournas.
2,730 reviews36 followers
September 8, 2022
Lemon Bird is just what it seems: a bird with the body of a lemon! While trying to figure out how to fly, Lemon Bird finds another farm denizen who’s in trouble: Pupkin, a roly poly puppy with a pumpkin stem, is stuck in the pumpkin patch . Lemon Bird helps Pupkin get untangled, and the two become best buds. Then along comes Keylime – you guessed it, a lime bird. Will Keylime be a friend or foe? And will Lemon Bird ever learn to fly?

This graphic novel is perfect for early elementary school kids – the text is easy and minimal and the deeply colored panels of the Manga-like art carry the action. The gentle tension of the story will appeal to readers who like a cozy read with cute animals. Whenever adults speak, their words are gibberish, creating a bond between the fruit/vegetable animals and the reading child.
Profile Image for Kai.
12 reviews
June 9, 2023
Cute, adorable, love the art, simple but beautiful. What is there to not like? It's a children's graphic novel, it has cute awesome art, they are fruit animals! That is the most adorkable thing ever! The message in it is great and simply easy for kids to understand. As an adult in their early 20s reading this, this made my inner child feel all warm and smiley because this story was just so wholesome and fuzzy and great. Simple great messages and stories don't always have to be overly complicated and have any other messages and undertones to be understandable and enjoyable. That's what other novels and graphic novels are for but when your brain needs a break from that and just needs simple wholesome content to relax and or heal, this is absolutely it. Shoot, I read juvenile graphic novels for fun and to be exposed to the art alone, love love love everything about Lemon Bird.
Profile Image for Nrlhakimin.
105 reviews3 followers
January 25, 2023
I read this book with my son, Hussain today to soothe him while he was down with a fever. Just us 3, cuddling under the blanket, having a laugh reading Lemon Bird and his friends, Pupkin, Key Lime, and Bananaboar, in the journey of finding Pupkin his home.

I’ve always been a fan of using books to spark discussions with Hassan Hussain. There are a lot of moral values about friendships and kindness that can be discussed using this book, even though the dialogues are minimal.

This is a super adorable read for children 4+ and even adults like me can enjoy it. My favourite is how Paulina creatively blends the animals with fruits element. I would recommend this book to those having a reading slump or just in need of some lovely sparks to cheer up your day.
Profile Image for Molly.
3,271 reviews
October 5, 2022
Adorable, adorable. I didn't totally understand the universe, per se; but after reading the Boarnana section, I didn't care as much. Very sweet

But I really don't know if the cat was just a cat? Or an heirloom tomato cat? Cat-ato? If it was a cataloupe, it didn't look like a cantaloupe! Did it have candy corn ears? Cattycorn? That one bothers me.

Also, is a pupkin made of pumpkin, or just resembles one? Does a lemon bird make lemon juice? If a cat-creature ate one, would it be sour? I do still have alot of lingering questions.
Profile Image for Yentl ♥.
352 reviews7 followers
February 8, 2023
This was amazing! I loved it! Lemon Bird and Pupkin get into trouble when they realize they're lost and must find their way home. They are determined to make it back, but will have to face many obstacles. Keylime was a super cute friend they meet. At first the three have a rocky start, but then things start looking up for this little group. The illustrations are absolutely adorable and I love them so much. Also, I hope this becomes a series and so I get to read another one of these cute books.
Profile Image for 0reo Latte.
52 reviews
April 14, 2023
An adorable read featuring lemon bird helping her friend, pupkin, find their way back home.

Seasoned with eye-catching illustrations and a fascinating universe! I absolutely LOVED about this graphic novel. The art looks soft and the color palette is my favorite :)
I just wish we got to explore more of the universe! There were elf people and fruit animals!
Boarnana, Keylime, Lemon bird, Strawbunny.. and lots more! 🍌🍓🍒
A cute story about friendship and forgiveness. Should give it read!
Profile Image for Kathryn.
4,784 reviews
July 18, 2023
Super cute! A lemon bird? A pupkin (yes, that’s a pumpkin puppy)!? Animal adoptions!?!?! Yes, please. The illustrations are adorable, full of kawaii. I used to have little figurines of anthropomorphic fruit in my kitchen – I forget now what they were called, but I thought they were so whimsical and fun. I wish I’d kept them as I am sure my youngest would love them now. This is good for the younger graphic novels crowd, though do note that children sensitive to animal peril might find parts of it upsetting.
Profile Image for Wendyl . Hal.
66 reviews
January 1, 2024
Oh so cute. The art style is absolutely adorable and I loved seeing all the fruitimals (fruit + animal) . They were so cleverly done with great designs.

This is a very simple kids graphic novel, but I wanted to see more of the world. It would've been fun to have a mini series or something similar. I was a little sad to see LB learn to fly at the end. I know. It's a kids' book with a common trope. I just cannot help but to hope for it to be a disability metaphor. My fault.

Overall, super cute book!!
Profile Image for Ann Haefele.
1,622 reviews22 followers
March 21, 2023
Really cute illustrations where fruits and vegetables are portrayed as animals. For example, a pumpkin is a puppy named “pupkin “ and lemon is “lemon bird” . Enjoyable story told mostly in graphic style about the rewards of being helpers. Just wish there had been more of an introduction to the setting as it took me a bit to figure it out. Though maybe it’s just my adult self having trouble as my granddaughters (ages 6 and 10) seemed not to have any problems getting right into the story.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Sisley.
41 reviews
December 6, 2023
This is so cute and prefect for children who are beginning to venture into graphic novels (as well as anyone who just likes super sweet comics whit previous illustrations). As an elementary school librarian, I’m always looking for more graphic novels with lower reading levels. All the kids seem to love reading graphic novels, and who can blame them, but so many are at too high of a reading level for lower grade kids. I’m so excited to have found this!
Profile Image for Matt Glaviano.
1,409 reviews24 followers
September 6, 2022
Lower level graphic novel that falls into the growing category of not quite reader, not quite graphic novel titles.

I will eat my hat if Ganucheau has not read all of K. O'Neil's work. The art has Tea Dragon written all over it.

A cute quick read. High level of visual appeal. I've wasted 10 minutes in worse ways many, many times.

Profile Image for Goth Radio Hour.
430 reviews17 followers
December 20, 2022
Soon as I saw the cover I had to pick it up to read! Lemon bird is the most adorable and meets some pumpkin puppy pals along the way. Wonderful, adorable art! I enjoyed every critter-fruit hybrid in the book.
Very quick read, a lot of the pages are just pictures. I enjoyed the touch that the humans can't communicate with the animals and vice versa, but it all works out in the end.
Profile Image for Ruth.
378 reviews4 followers
January 23, 2023
Really cute concept! Good for fans of very beginner level graphic novels. If you liked The Flower Garden by Renee Kurnilla and Garlic and the Vampire this has some similar vibes (though is a lower reading level than the second one). Sir Ladybug is also a somewhat similar vibe, though not as funny. Low stakes adventure with minimal dialogue and really cute art.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews

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