Disclosure: I was sent a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. I am working with The Children's Book Review and Rashad Mirzayev to bring you this post.
Kids have many experiences that can make them feel scared or lonely. It takes time and experience to learn how to deal with these moments. Today I am sharing a book that helps teach these lessons in a fun and creative way. The book is Mimi and Ary by Rashad Mirzayev. There is a giveaway at the end of this post.
About the Book:
Mimi & Ary Written by Rashad Mirzayev and Illustrated by Ken SheykhAges: 3-12 | 74 Pages | Publisher: MindStir Media (2025) | ISBN: 978-1966074847
Publisher’s Book Summary: Mimi & Ary is a whimsical and heartfelt story about a curious girl named Mimi and Ary, a wise, protective blue bird who finds her lost in a magical jungle. As they journey together in search of her parents, Ary teaches Mimi life lessons about fear, trust, awareness, and love. Along the way, they meet a glowing ladybug, a majestic horse named Sema, and a witty, misunderstood cat – each adding charm and insight to their adventure.
Through meaningful conversations and shared experiences, Mimi learns to overcome fear, embrace gratitude, and trust herself. The jungle becomes a space of growth, where she gains confidence and forms strong bonds.
“Love is the one thing we’re capable of perceiving that transcends dimensions of time and space.” – Dr. Brand, Interstellar.
Purchase Links:
About the Author:
Rashad Mirzayev is a father, writer, and entrepreneur based in Azerbaijan. Born and raised in Baku, he studied in England, France, and the United States, earning his Bachelor’s degree from City University London & CASS Business School. Over the past decade, he has founded companies across industries, including consumer electronics, education, and technology. He began writing in 2019 and describes himself as “a peaceful warrior holding a flashlight,” sharing his journey of personal growth and entrepreneurship. His debut children’s book, Mimi & Ary, reflects his passion for helping children navigate life’s challenges with courage and wisdom through meaningful storytelling that transcends cultural boundaries.
For more information, check out www.rash.ad.
From Me:
Mimi is lost in a magical jungle and Ary is a bird who wants to help others but also loves to be alone. Ary finds Mimi and becomes very protective of her. He teaches her things like how to make a fire to stay warm and how to find edible food in the wild. He also gives her some tough love about protecting herself and staying with him. He teaches her about love, trust and gratitude. As Mimi and Ary walk in the jungle they come across some other animals. Some are friendly and join them on the walk and others are predators that could hurt Mimi. Mimi's goal is to find her parents and Ary is sure they will find them. Mimi even teaches Ary and his friend, Suma, a lesson on kindness by wanting to include the cat that the others say is not nice. It is a fun book with mindfulness, inspiration and friendship.
The story is sweet and colorful. I love that Ary is an animal guide for Mimi in this magical jungle. I love that he and his friends teach her about life and friendship. They share wisdom and love with her. They also discover some things from Mimi like finding love for the cat who can change. It is a story about trust as well as fear and staying aware of one's own environment as well as love. Each character in the book plays an important role to the story and the wisdom that is shared. It is inspirational and it helps Mimi realize that she can take on some more responsibility and perhaps then her parents will feel she is ready for a pet dog. In the book Ary teaches Mimi to trust him but also to trust herself. There is definitely a bit of a self-discovery journey for Mimi. It is a book that will get kids thinking about their own journeys and perhaps help them grow in new ways. The emphasis on love and trust is wonderful and inspirational. The book shares wonderful messages that kids need to hear. I love that Mimi is out in nature and not on a screen or even reading a book. She gets to explore the magical jungle with its animal residents which adds to the fun and charm of the book. It is the perfect book for a home read or classroom. I can see the class discussion being about the wisdom and lessons learned on the adventure. There is also a free creative activity kit to go with the book.
Giveaway:
Mimi & Ary: Book Giveaway
