Mama’s Wedding

Mama’s Wedding is a tender, beautifully layered picture book about big changes, blended families, and the quiet courage it takes to embrace something new. When Ruby and her little sister Cindy wake up to a surprise - a special note from Mama asking them to be her flower girls - the excitement of the day begins. As Cindy bounces with joy, Ruby moves more slowly, her heart full of questions.

Through rehearsals and dresses, paper flowers and wedding vows, Ruby navigates the bittersweet feelings of seeing her family change. With the gentle support of Granny, the warmth of Daddy Daniel’s love, and the quiet kindness of Alex, Mama’s new husband, Ruby discovers that love doesn’t disappear. It can grow in the most surprisingly beautiful way.

This book is perfect for families experiencing change, and is a heartfelt celebration of new beginnings, complex emotions, and the many forms love can take. A touching read for children and parents alike, filled with empathy, hope, and the magic of becoming a new family.

"A gorgeous, nuanced picture book about blended families and new milestones."

— The Guardian's Children's and teens roundup - the best new picture books and novels

"Working in gouache, colored pencil, and pastel, Yuen has crafted softly expressive illustrations that empathically enhance the thoughtful words on the page—Ruby’s resonating concern for Daddy Daniel, Granny’s quiet support, Ruby’s flower-making memories with Alex, the clear sororal bond between Ruby and Cindy, the photos and pictures that capture the past and hint at wonderful new beginnings. All characters appear to be of East Asian ethnicity; a single wedding guest is cued white. An affecting, gentle celebration of new marriage, a not unfamiliar, life-changing event for many young children."

— Kirkus Reviews

"A wonderful prompt for discussions around blended families, remarriage and celebrations, Mama’s Wedding is a superb addition to any primary bookshelf."

— Books for Topics 

"Through beautiful, expressive illustrations and a thoughtful, sensitive and engaging text, rising star Circle Yuen tells a story that will have special relevance for many young people."

— LoveReading4Kids, Book of the Month and Star Book

"Big changes and blended families are at the heart of this tender, beautifully illustrated story."

— Inclusive Books for Children

"Families experiencing remarriage or the blending of households, as well as social-emotional collections, will appreciate the themes of familial love and acceptance."

— Booklist

This soft, pastel-illustrated picture book about blended families and navigating difficult feelings is sensitive and thoughtful, acknowledging that children can feel unsure about the big changes in life, even when the adults are happy about them.

–– BookTrust