That's Not a Cupcake!

A laugh-out-loud father-daughter picture book for ages 2-6, filled with silly surprises, heartwarming moments, and a twist ending that will have families shouting, "That's not a cupcake!" When a little girl says, "Jinx! You owe me a cupcake!" she's expecting something sweet. But Dad has other ideas… and none of them involve frosting. Instead, he serves up a watch, a goldfish, and even a rhinoceros—each sillier than the last. With every page turn, kids will giggle, point, and gleefully join in on the refrain: "That's not a cupcake!" Written by Kevin Russell and illustrated by his daughter Ryan Russell, this delightful picture book was inspired by a real-life breakfast table moment that became a treasured family joke. Now, it's been brought to life through Ryan's vibrant, whimsical watercolor illustrations, each lovingly hand-painted to capture the humor and heart of the story. Why kids (and parents) will love it: 🧁 Interactive fun - Young readers can shout the repeating phrase on every page 😂 Laugh-out-loud moments - From watches to rhinos, the surprises never stop 🎨 Whimsical watercolor art - Created by a talented teen artist 💙 Family connection - Celebrates the joy of reading and laughing together Perfect for: Bedtime stories that end with big smiles Classroom read-alouds and library story hours Building early literacy skills through repetition and engagement Parents, grandparents, and caregivers looking for funny books for kids ages 2-6 With its playful storytelling, joyful illustrations, and heartfelt origins, That's Not a Cupcake! is more than just a book—it's a shared moment of connection, imagination, and pure delight. Whether you're a parent looking to add some laughter to bedtime, a grandparent searching for the perfect gift, or a teacher wanting to spark joy in the classroom, this book is a sweet (and silly) treat you'll reach for again and again.