Picture books for preschoolers aren’t just about colorful illustrations and simple words—they’re foundational tools that shape how young children understand emotions, relationships, and the world around them. Sigal Adler’s Nicey and Nasty: “EGGS WITH LEGS” (Book 1 in the Emotions Books for Kids series) is a charming, thought-provoking addition to the genre, blending whimsy with meaningful lessons about kindness, empathy, and self-awareness.
If you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver searching for a book that entertains while nurturing emotional intelligence, this review will break down why EGGS WITH LEGS might be the perfect fit for your little one’s bookshelf.
Without giving away too much, EGGS WITH LEGS introduces two main characters: Nicey and Nasty, who are—as their names suggest—polar opposites in temperament. The story unfolds in a playful, imaginative setting where eggs (with legs!) navigate everyday challenges, showcasing how their differing attitudes affect their experiences and relationships.
Nicey approaches life with kindness, patience, and a willingness to help others, while Nasty is grumpy, selfish, and often dismissive. Through a series of lighthearted yet meaningful encounters, the book illustrates the consequences of their behaviors—not in a heavy-handed moralizing way, but through engaging scenarios that young children can easily grasp.
The narrative avoids being overly simplistic, instead offering subtle moments where kids can reflect on how actions shape friendships and happiness.
Nicey is the kind of character every parent hopes their child emulates—warm, considerate, and resilient. What makes Nicey stand out is that their kindness isn’t portrayed as naive or passive; instead, it’s a strength that leads to positive outcomes. Adler does an excellent job of showing that being “nice” isn’t about being a pushover but about making intentional, caring choices.
Nasty, on the other hand, is the classic grump—but with depth. While their behavior is initially off-putting, the book cleverly avoids villainizing them. Instead, Nasty serves as a mirror for moments when children (and even adults!) might feel frustrated or unwilling to cooperate. The character’s arc provides a gentle lesson in how negativity can isolate us—and how change is always possible.
The dynamic between Nicey and Nasty is the heart of the book, making it a great conversation starter about emotions and social interactions.
Adler’s writing is clear, rhythmic, and engaging, perfectly suited for preschoolers (ages 3-5). The sentences are short and repetitive in a way that reinforces comprehension without feeling monotonous. The use of rhyme and playful language keeps the story lively, making it ideal for read-aloud sessions.
The illustrations (though I won’t describe them in detail to avoid spoilers) complement the text beautifully, adding visual humor and emotional cues that help young readers interpret the characters’ feelings. The art style is vibrant and expressive, ensuring that even non-readers can follow along by “reading” the pictures.
At its core, EGGS WITH LEGS is about:
Unlike some preschool books that spell out morals explicitly, Adler trusts young readers to absorb these lessons through the story’s flow—a refreshing approach that respects children’s cognitive abilities.
Reading EGGS WITH LEGS with my own child was a joy. The contrast between Nicey and Nasty sparked immediate reactions—my little one giggled at Nasty’s antics but also noticed how their behavior led to loneliness. The book’s interactive potential is huge: we paused to discuss, “How would you feel if someone acted like Nasty?” or “What could Nasty do differently?”
It’s rare to find a book that balances entertainment and emotional learning so seamlessly. Even after multiple reads, the story held up, proving its staying power.
Fans of The Pout-Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen or Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang will appreciate EGGS WITH LEGS for its similar blend of humor and emotional depth. However, Adler’s book stands out for its focus on direct behavioral contrasts (Nicey vs. Nasty) rather than a single character’s emotional journey.
It’s also a great companion to My Mouth Is a Volcano! by Julia Cook, as both books tackle self-regulation in kid-friendly ways.
✅ Engaging, relatable characters that kids instantly connect with.
✅ Subtle yet effective emotional lessons—no heavy-handed preaching.
✅ Playful language and illustrations that hold attention.
✅ Great re-read value—new details emerge with each reading.
❌ Some parents might prefer more explicit discussion prompts (though this can be easily supplemented).
❌ The rhyming scheme occasionally feels forced, but this is a minor nitpick.
This book is perfect for:
It’s especially useful for children struggling with sharing, kindness, or frustration—the story provides a non-judgmental way to discuss these behaviors.
While I won’t quote the entire book, here’s a snippet that captures its charm:
“Nicey shared without a fuss,
While Nasty griped and made a muss.”
The rhythm and simplicity make lines like these stick in young minds.
While EGGS WITH LEGS doesn’t delve into specific cultural themes, its universal message of kindness transcends backgrounds. In an era where emotional intelligence is increasingly valued in early education, Adler’s book is a timely resource.
Nicey and Nasty: “EGGS WITH LEGS” is a winning combination of fun and substance, making it a standout in preschool literature. Sigal Adler has crafted a story that’s as entertaining as it is instructive—a rare feat in children’s books.
Whether you’re looking for a bedtime story, a classroom tool, or just a way to spark meaningful conversations with your child, this book delivers.
🔗 Get the Book: Amazon
Drop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your experiences with this delightful book!
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