"Maybe Just Ask Me!" – A Heartfelt Lesson in Curiosity, Kindness, and Confidence
- Kim Bartosch
- 3 hours ago
- 4 min read
When a book makes you pause, reflect, and smile—all in under 32 pages—you know it's something special. Maybe Just Ask Me! by Katie Mazeika, published by Beach Lane Books, is one of those gems. Sent to me by Simon & Schuster for review (thank you!), this powerful picture book has instantly earned a permanent place in my “must-recommend” list. Even more special? I’ll be giving away my copy to share this goodness with someone else—because this is a story that needs to be in every home, classroom, and library.
About the book:
Book Title: Maybe Just Ask Me!
Author & Illustrator: Katie Mazeika
Publisher: Beach Lane Books
Release Date: April 22, 2025
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Synopsis:
Based on the author’s own childhood experience, this clever and heartfelt picture book follows a young girl who wants to bring discussion of her disability into the open, exploring themes of acknowledging and celebrating differences.
Mazie wears an eyepatch and a head scarf, and on her first day at a new school she’s prepared for her classmates to wonder why. And they do, but no one talks to her about it. Instead, wild rumors fly around the classroom that she’s a pirate or a dragon burned off her hair! Mazie doesn’t mind explaining her disability, but can she find the courage to tell the other kids to just ask her?
My Review of "Maybe Just Ask Me!" by Katie Mazeika
We often teach children not to stare, not to ask, not to point when they encounter someone who looks “different.” It comes from a place of kindness—an effort to protect the privacy of others. But sometimes, those good intentions result in awkward silences, side glances, or whispered curiosities. And that’s where Katie Mazeika’s Maybe Just Ask Me! steps in with empathy, clarity, and heart.
The story follows a confident little girl who wears an eye patch. As she goes about her day, children around her whisper or stare, wondering why. Some make up elaborate (and hilariously outlandish) stories—perhaps she’s a pirate? A spy? A superhero undercover? Her calm and wise reply? “Maybe you could just ask me.”
🖌️ Gorgeous Illustrations That Speak Volumes
Katie Mazeika’s artwork is vibrant, warm, and deeply expressive. She perfectly captures the energy of childhood curiosity and the beauty of individuality. Each spread draws you into the protagonist’s world, making it easy for kids (and adults!) to relate and connect.
The illustrations do more than complement the story—they enhance it. Each imaginative theory other children dream up comes to life on the page in full color and fun. These visual storytelling moments spark joy while also delivering important messages without feeling heavy-handed.
💡 What Makes This Book Stand Out
What struck me most about Maybe Just Ask Me! is its refreshing take on how we address visible disabilities. The message isn’t just for children with disabilities—it’s for everyone. It invites conversation, encourages empathy, and challenges the idea that avoiding questions is always the kind thing to do.
By centering the story around a child who takes ownership of her story and offers a better way forward—just ask!—Mazeika empowers both the kids who are often the subject of questions and those who are full of questions themselves.
It’s a gentle yet bold call to rethink the way we teach kids about differences. And it leaves readers with a message that’s simple but powerful: respect is rooted in listening, not assuming.
🧒 Who This Book Is For
I would recommend Maybe Just Ask Me! to:
Parents looking to spark thoughtful conversations with their children
Teachers building inclusive, empathetic classrooms
Librarians curating shelves that reflect all kinds of experiences
Kids with disabilities who want to feel seen, confident, and proud
Kids without disabilities who are still learning how to engage with others respectfully
Honestly, this book belongs everywhere. It’s a gift to both children and the adults guiding them.
💖 Final Thoughts
Maybe Just Ask Me! is a joyful, funny, and compassionate story that opens the door for better communication and greater acceptance. It’s the kind of book that invites questions, answers them kindly, and leaves kids feeling braver, kinder, and more curious in the best way.
If you’re looking to diversify your bookshelf with stories that matter—and ones that spark meaningful conversations—this is absolutely the book to pick up next.
💫 And as mentioned, I’ll be giving away my copy to spread the love! Stay tuned for details on how to enter. Trust me—you’ll want to share this one too.
About the author:
Katie Mazeika (she/her/hers) is an author and illustrator with a BFA from the Columbus College of Art and Design. Her work focuses on uplifting disabled and neurodivergent voices. When she isn’t in the studio, she likes to spend time at the theater, in her garden, or getting lost in a good book. She is the creator of picture book biographies including Annette Feels Free and Beulah Has a Hunch!. She lives in Ohio with her family and two dogs.
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