Chivares and the Toothy Surprise!

Chivares and the Toothy Surprise!

Khadidja Mhamdioua, author and illustrator

Reading age: 3-7 years

Book Dimensions: 8x5x0.08x8.5

31 Pages

Available at Amazon

Pub. Date: May 17, 2026

ISBN #979-8257944215 (paperback) $9.99

File Size: 7.4 MB

(eBook) - $2.99

Review by Christina Francine

Chivares and the Toothy Surprise is a charming and gentle exploration of a common childhood milestone—losing a tooth.

The story goes on a journey that is emotionally resonant and developmentally appropriate for preschoolers. The prose is simple yet effective and maintains a pace that is ideal for a read-aloud session with toddlers or young elementary students.

Key theme: Curiosity-approaching "surprises" with wonder rather than fear.

M’hamdioua’s dual role as author and illustrator ensures a seamless marriage between the text and visuals. The illustrations use soft water-paint-like colors and rounded shapes to emphasize the "sweetness" of the science-fantasy elements that appear throughout the journey.

M’hamdioua deftly utilizes sensory details and strategic onomatopoeia throughout the narrative. The inclusion of precise sound words—such as tap-tap, ACHOO! and PUURRRRR—adds a layer of texture to Chivares's journey. This auditory punctuation creates a rhythm that mimics physical actions, keeping the gentleness from being too flat.

Excellent for interactive reading; parents can use the "surprise" element to engage children in discussions about their own dental milestones.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): A strong choice for teachers focusing on transition and managing minor anxieties.

Chivares and the Toothy Surprise, Khadidja M’hamdioua delivers a heartwarming and visually engaging story that turns a common childhood milestone into a magical adventure. Perfectly paced for the 3–6 age range, this book is an essential tool for parents and educators looking to navigate the 'surprises' of growing up with comfort and joy. A must-read for anyone with a little one about to lose their first tooth or a mature family member about to get false teeth!