Some picture books feel instantly familiar—in the best possible way. Just Another Perfect Day is one of those warm, wonderfully chaotic family stories that makes parents nod knowingly while kids giggle at every page. Written by lifestyle personality Jillian Harris and her partner Justin Pasutto, and beautifully illustrated by Morgan Goble, this book is a heartfelt celebration of imperfect days and the joy that can still be found within them.
Jillian Harris is a Canadian television personality, designer, and lifestyle creator known for her warm, family-centered storytelling and her passion for home, food, and décor. She brings her signature mix of heart and humor to this book, drawing inspiration from real-life moments with her children. Justin Pasutto is an entrepreneur, former pro athlete, and co-star of the popular YouTube series “The Jilly Academy.” As a father and partner, he contributes his down-to-earth perspective and playful energy to the story, helping craft a narrative that feels authentically family-driven. https://jillianharris.com/
The story follows a family whose morning starts with the kind of small disasters parents know all too well: alarm clocks that don’t go off, kids waking up grumpy or disheveled, pets causing chaos, and breakfast turning into a bit of a mess. As the day unfolds, each member of the family hits their own bump in the road—ruined artwork, wrong lunches packed, fried computers, runaway lawn mowers, tears at school pickup, and even a dinner delivery sent to the wrong address. It’s a comedy of errors told in rhythmic, playful verse that keeps young readers engaged while offering parents a relatable wink.
What makes the story shine is its emotional honesty. Harris and Pasutto capture that universal truth of parenting: sometimes things go sideways, and then they keep going sideways. Yet as the family reconnects—through a spontaneous dance party, making dinner together, sharing giggles over the day’s disasters, and winding down with bubbles, snuggles, and bedtime rituals—the tone shifts from frustration to gratitude. The message, both simple and profound, rings through clearly: a day doesn’t have to be perfect to be wonderful, as long as you’re together. You can purchase the book at https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/721244/just-another-perfect-day-by-jillian-harris-and-justin-pasutto-with-kara-kootstra-illustrated-by-morgan-goble/9781774882528 or win a copy in our Giveaway section.
Goble’s illustrations elevate the entire experience. Her artwork is expressive, contemporary, and bursting with movement. Every spread is full of life: messy bedrooms, dramatic splashes, tangled pets, and heartfelt family moments. Kids will love exploring the visual details, while adults will appreciate how the illustrations balance humor with softness. Goble captures the energy of a real family—chaotic, loving, and beautifully human. Morgan Goble is an illustrator born in 1996, celebrated for her expressive, dynamic artwork. Her style blends charm, whimsy, and emotional depth—perfectly bringing the Harris-Pasutto family’s adventures to life on the page. https://www.morgangoble.ca/
This book is especially lovely for families with young children who may need reassurance that bad moments don’t make a bad day—or that even grown-ups have days where nothing seems to go right. It’s also perfect for bedtime, because the story ends on a calming, cozy note, reminding children that love anchors everything. The day winds down in this chaotic household with everyone pitching in to make a lovely spaghetti dinner. Author Jillian provides her family favourite Garden Bolognese in our Recipe section.
Just Another Perfect Day is a charming, relatable read that encourages families to embrace the imperfect. It’s fun, heartfelt, and uplifting—an ideal addition to any child’s home library.
Contents and images used with permission by Penguin Kids, an imprint of Penguin Canada, a division of Penguin Random House Canada Limited. All rights reserved. https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/721244/just-another-perfect-day-by-jillian-harris-and-justin-pasutto-with-kara-kootstra-illustrated-by-morgan-goble/9781774882528