Reviews

-Triplet Mama From Reedsy Discovery

Laggie and Grillo: The Sea Glass Mystery by Phyllis Schwartz, illustrated by Siski Kalla, is a beautifully written and visually stunning children’s book that feels truly timeless. From the very first page, the illustrations stand out. They are vibrant, detailed, and full of charm, perfectly complementing the story’s sense of wonder and curiosity. The artwork alone makes this a book children will want to return to again and again.

The story follows Yoshi, a curious and adventurous fifth grader who explores her local beach in search of treasures. Her love for discovery is infectious, and her small animal companions add a delightful layer of humor and warmth. These supporting characters are both cute and engaging, enhancing the overall reading experience. One of the strengths of the book is how well it balances a classic, almost nostalgic feel with modern touches. Yoshi uses technology as part of her research, which reflects how children learn today without taking away from the story’s timeless quality. It is a thoughtful detail that shows the author understands her audience. Yoshi’s poetic nature is another highlight. Inspired by her supportive parents, she views the world with a sense of beauty and imagination. Lines like describing sea glass as “nature’s jewels” or “mermaid’s tears” capture that wonder and reinforce her creative voice. Her parents’ encouragement adds a positive and nurturing dynamic that strengthens the story’s emotional core.

The book also includes educational and interactive elements, such as learning about sea glass and even a fun cookie recipe, which adds an extra layer of enjoyment for young readers. Laggie and Grillo: The Sea Glass Mystery feels like a return to the kind of children’s books that stay with you long after reading. It is charming, engaging, and filled with heart, making it a fantastic addition to any young reader’s collection


-Susan Brady Konig, author of Why Animals Sleep So Close to the Road and other lies I tell my children

“Magical treasures are at the gleaming heart of Laggie and Grillo: The Sea Glass Mystery, by children’s author Phyllis Schwartz with illustrations by award-winning artist Siski Kalla."

"A sparkly discovery at the beach leads young Yoshi and her cute critter friends to solve The Sea Glass Mystery. Their adventures highlight the connections we can make in nature, with family and others, through curiosity, kindness and imagination. Like a day at the shore searching for sea glass, this latest book from Phyllis Schwartz is sure to delight families and young readers."


-Tiffany Spitzer, producer and mom to Deacon

 “A delightful read with a darling cast of characters. Phyllis captures the essence of beloved Encinitas beach in a creative tale that’s sure to delight readers of all ages. A true coastal treasure.”


—Lisa Fyfe, mom and author of “How are you feeling? ”

“Laggie, Grillo, and Yoshi are a delightful trio of detectives, as we follow them to the beach in search of answers to the Sea Glass Mystery. Phyllis Schwartz incorporates whimsy with intrigue and real learning to guide kids along this fun adventure. Yoshi’s curiosity and determination turn a simple day at the shore into an exciting day of discovery. As the trio uncovers a sparkling history, kids are reminded that the best mysteries are often hidden right beneath our toes. It is a beautifully illustrated book, and a perfect read for every young explorer.

The Sea Glass Mystery is a fun and enriching addition to your summer reading collection and can inspire kids to look for adventure next time they are at the beach! I highly recommend!”


—Casey Martin, Educator and Father

"Phyllis Schwartz delights us with a wonderful story containing many lessons; beautifully illustrated by Siski Kalla.  She tells a story about a young girl trying to solve a mystery and includes lessons on language, writing, geography, and good moral character.  My daughters loved to see the main character doing a good deed for others and learning about sea glass in all of its beauty.  They also enjoyed hearing about it through the lens of Laggie and Grillo.  A fantastic story perfect for any bedtime. "

 
—Marvel Harrison, PhD Former WNMU Mimbres Press Publishing Director

"Dip your toe into this beach adventure and you will end up diving right in! Delightful, intriguing, and beautifully illustrated. Join Laggie and Grillo for a plunge into a mystery that will pique everyone's curiosity!"


—Meg Bouher, Retired Child Therapist
"Phyllis Schwartz’s fourth children’s book, Laggie and Grillo: A Sea Glass Mystery, is an enchanting story set in the author’s home seaside town, Encinitas, California. It begins as a mother and her daughter, Yoshi, share their love of their special beach while searching for shells and sea glass. The story develops as they find a pretty jewel and, with the help of her parents and beloved “pets”, Yoshi sets out to learn how the precious gem washed ashore.
 
With rhyming language that’s both educational and imaginative, the reader joins in a tale that explores sea life and the history of ships and past explorers. Yoshi’s curiosity uncovers the mystery of how the jewel washed up on their beloved seashore and leads to a happy ending.
 
As a mother and former child therapist I am a huge fan of Phyllis Schwartz’s children’s books. The illustrations are joyful and her books tell a stories of children finding ingenious and creative solutions with the help of family, friends and some diverse and wonderful creatures. As with her previous books, her characters explore solutions to life events with respect, humor and a large amount of fun.