Book Review: 'The Boy and His Higher Self' and 'My First Day of School' by Ricardo Santa Cruz PLUS A Giveaway! #FollowYourHeartBeYourself ~

This post is sponsored by Ricardo Santa Cruz. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal views.

ABOUT THE BOOKS

The Boy and His Higher Self

Written by Ricardo Santa Cruz

Illustrated by Yuko Kondo

Ages: 4-8 | 38 Pages

Publisher: Mascot Kids (2026) | ISBN: 979-8-99068-351-8

Publisher’s Book Summary: And have you always been here right by my side? I have always been with you, living inside. Have you ever listened to the little voice inside your head? What does it say to you? The Boy and His Higher Self is the story of a boy who discovers and learns to trust his higher self, a presence that has always been with him. Dedicated to the inner child and higher self within young children and adults alike, this book offers guidance and tools to help children overcome feelings of insecurity and sadness and gain self-confidence and positivity.

My First Day of School

Written by Ricardo Santa Cruz

Illustrated by Yuko Kondo

Ages: 4-8 | 38 Pages

Publisher: Mascot Kids (2026) | ISBN: 979-8990683501

Publisher’s Book Summary: I’m afraid to be myself and don’t know if I can. Relax and remember to be yourself. There’s no need to try to be someone else. My First Day of School, the second book in a series dedicated to the inner child and higher self, tells the story of a boy on his first day of school. Nervous about making new friends and being accepted by his peers, he confides his insecurities in his higher self. With insight and guidance, his higher self shares with him that having the courage to be your authentic self inspires others to do the same and create a positive environment.

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Bookshop.org

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ricardo Santa Cruz currently lives in Xala, located on the Pacific Coast of Mexico, a project of which he is a co-founding partner. All proceeds from The Boy and His Higher Self will be given to The Xala Foundation, aimed at helping to educate and bring opportunities to marginalized communities from the region. You can learn more at theboyandhishigherself.com and thexalafoundation.org.

MY REVIEW

Book Review: The Boy and His Higher Self & My First Day of School
By Ricardo Santa Cruz | Illustrated by Yuko Kondo | Published by Mascot Kids

I absolutely adored The Boy and His Higher Self and its wonderful companion title, My First Day of School, by Ricardo Santa Cruz. These heartwarming picture books are filled with meaningful life lessons that young readers can easily understand while encouraging confidence, kindness, self-awareness, and emotional growth. They are the kind of stories that spark important conversations between parents and children and that leave a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.

One of my favorite aspects of both books is the incredible artwork by Yuko Kondo. The illustrations are simply so cool! Every page bursts with vibrant colors, expressive characters, and imaginative details that bring each story beautifully to life. The artwork perfectly complements the messages in the books and keeps little readers engaged from beginning to end.

The Boy and His Higher Self gently introduces children to the idea of listening to their inner voice and making thoughtful choices, while My First Day of School captures all the excitement, curiosity, and nervousness that comes with starting a brand-new adventure. Together, they make a fantastic pair that helps children build confidence while embracing new experiences.

These books have earned a permanent place in my children’s reading collection. I truly loved every moment spent reading them, and I know they’ll be favorites that we’ll revisit again and again. I will say that I absolutely love the positive vibes I get from each of these books and I know that my kids do too. My youngest has asked several times to read both of these books before bed….and that speaks volumes. I adore them so much and will be purchasing copies as gifts for my God Daughter and even a few nieces and nephews too as they make a great gift for young readers. So……whether you’re looking for a thoughtful gift, a classroom read-aloud, or meaningful additions to your family’s bookshelf, I highly recommend both titles!

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, August 4, 2026
The Children’s Book Review
Tour Kick-Off for The Boy and His Higher Self and My First Day of School

Thursday, August 6, 2026
The Starlit Path
Book Review of My First Day of School

Friday, August 7, 2026
The Fairview Review
Book Review of My First Day of School

Monday, August 10, 2026
Deliciously Savvy
Book Review of The Boy and His Higher Self and My First Day of School

Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Country Mamas With Kids
Book Review of The Boy and His Higher Self and My First Day of School

Thursday, August 13, 2026
icefairy’s Treasure Chest
Book Review of The Boy and His Higher Self and My First Day of School

Friday, August 14, 2026
@nissa_the.bookworm
Book Review of The Boy and His Higher Self and My First Day of School

Monday, August 17, 2026
Me Two Books
Author Interview with Ricardo Santa Cruz

Tuesday, August 18, 2026
Life Skills 2 Learn
Book Review of The Boy and His Higher Self

Thursday, August 20, 2026
Confessions of a Book Addict
Book Spotlight on The Boy and His Higher Self and My First Day of School

Friday, August 21, 2026
Q&As with Deborah Kalb
Author Interview with Ricardo Santa Cruz

Monday, August 24, 2026
Crafty Moms Share
Book Review of The Boy and His Higher Self

Tuesday, August 25, 2026
@meghenslittlelibrary
Book Review of The Boy and His Higher Self

Thursday, August 27, 2026
Cover Lover Book Review
Book Review of The Boy and His Higher Self and My First Day of School

NOW TO THE GIVEAWAY!

Readers who follow along on this virtual book tour will have the chance to win one of three book sets, each featuring both The Boy and His Higher Self and My First Day of School.