TOVA’S SWEET SOLUTION
written by Melissa Taylor
illustrated by Aurélie Lise-Anne
published by Red Comet Press
(April 21, 2026)

ISBN: 9781636551906

Tova’s Sweet Solution is a heartfelt and deliciously sweet story about creativity, resilience, food allergies, and the magic of family.

Tova loves everything about her family’s bakery—the warmth, the smells, the cinnalove scones.

But when a painful tummy ache leads to an unexpected food allergy diagnosis, Tova learns she can no longer enjoy her favorite treats made with honeygrain.

Crushed but determined, Tova’s family rallies around her with hugs, songs, and a whole lot of “bakestorming.” But none of their new recipes taste quite right . . . until Tova and her squirrel sidekick, Biscuit, stumble upon a surprise ingredient that leads to the Toviest Tova-size idea ever!

Bursting with playful language, cozy charm, and a dash of culinary creativity, this story celebrates perseverance, problem-solving, and the loving support of a family that always bakes together—no matter what. Perfect for readers who love baking, bold ideas, and stories that fill both the heart and tummy with joy. 

Tova’s Sweet Solution is an empowering, playful story with made-up foods and growth mindset that is sure to build empathy and understanding for kids with food allergies.

Who is this picture book for?

Parents and caregivers of kids with food allergies, kids with food allergies, friends of kids with food allergies.

What is Tova’s Sweet Solution about?

When Tova learns she’s allergic to her favorite bakery treats, her family bakestorms with new ingredients, but the treats taste yucky. Discouraged but not defeated, Tova and her squirrel Biscuit discover a surprising solution!

Why should you read Tova’s Sweet Solution with kids?

The story builds empathy and understanding.

The story will introduce the concept of food allergies and make kids with food allergies feel seen and understood.

Readers will love the tasty wordplay, loving family, and a main character with grit and growth mindset.

Featured Reviews of Tova’s Sweet Solution

“This adorable picture book would be a good choice for any picture book collection, particularly those needing titles about food allergies.” – School Library Journal

“This is such a gentle, relatable introduction to food allergies—honoring the big feelings that come with change while showing kids they can adapt, create, and still find joy.⁠” – Picture Book Recommendations, Charlotte Offsay

“I applaud the author, Melissa Taylor—an allergy mom herself—for her efforts to highlight this important issue and present it in a way that children will understand and enjoy. I recommend TOVA’S SWEET SOLUTION to families navigating food allergies who might benefit from feeling seen. It’s also a wonderful choice for anyone hoping to encourage empathy in this area.” – Reading for Sanity

“This thoughtful story gently honors the disappointment that comes with dietary restrictions while celebrating problem-solving, acceptance, and unconditional family support. Playful language makes it a joy to read aloud, and Lise-Anne Aurélie’s charming artwork fills every page with warmth, color, and encouragement.⁠ Perfect for children with food sensitivities and the people who love them, this is a story about being seen, adapting with courage, and finding sweetness in unexpected places.⁠” – The Children’s Book Review, Bianca Shultze

“A book about solving problems through creativity.” – Betsy Bird, Fuse 8

 “The playful language and original ingredients used in the kitchen of this charming world, matched with fun, vibrant illustrations, are sure to delight readers and bakers of all ages!” – Saki Tanaka, children’s book author and illustrator

“Children will love the inventive words and onomatopoeia throughout. Perfect for fun read-alouds at home, schools, and libraries.” – Carmela Coyle LaVigne, children’s book author

“An adorable story that is sure to resonate with readers dealing with food allergies and sensitivities, as well as all lovers of baked goods.” – Andrea Wang, Newbery award-winning children’s book author

“This sweet picture book shows the struggles and frustrations of dealing with a food allergy in a way that will be relatable to all children. The empowering message shows Tova figuring out the solution herself, with the support of her family. Highly recommended for grades K & up.” – Yapha Mason, children’s librarian at BookBreak

“Serves up success!” – Kirkus