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 Albert’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.

"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