Of all the things from my childhood that I’ve held onto, one of the most cherished is Marie Y. Moss’s Hello Kitty’s Little Book of Big Ideas: A Girl’s Guide to Brains, Beauty, Fashion, Friendships & Fun!

Shot on iPhone 14: Title cover of *Hello Kitty’s Little Book of Big Ideas: A Girl’s Guide to Brains, Beauty, Fashion, Frienships, & Fun!*

I was seven when I first got it, and it instantly became (and still remains) the cutest book I’ve ever owned. Beyond its visual appeal, this book offered playful, yet practical tips on everything in a girl’s life: education, fashion, self-care, home design, cooking, friendship, and travel.

I had no idea just how much this little cutesy guide would influence me, but its impact is still seen in my life today. Out of all the chapters, three in particular influenced me the most: “Witty Kitty,” “Style File,” and “Pretty Kitty.”

Witty Kitty

“Witty Kitty” focuses on using your brain proactively, with tips for studying, creating a productive environment, and staying engaged in learning. I appreciate that this chapter makes being smart a cool characteristic and teaches you how to nurture it.

My favorite line, “Hello Kitty’s philosophy is that every day presents an opportunity to learn something new and interesting,” became the foundation of my entire educational journey and a core value in my daily life. This mindset helped me approach the toughest subjects in elementary and graduate school as opportunities instead of obstacles.

Style File

“Style File” focuses on discovering your unique sense of style, with tips for dressing according to your mood, building a closet of essentials, and styling on a budget.

I love that it mentions thrifting! As I’ve mentioned in a previous blog, my love of thrifting began early and I realize this chapter deserves credit for that.

My favorite line, “Creating a personal style should never be an expensive project,” is a reminder that true style comes from confidence, not cost. After all, you wear the clothes, not the other way around.

Pretty Kitty

“Pretty Kitty” focuses on self-care, with tips for beauty basics, at-home pampering, exercise, healthy eating, and rest.

These practices still influence my daily routines, whether it’s having a makeup bag full of cosmetics that make me feel beautiful to using skincare products that make my skin happy and getting at least seven hours of sleep every night.

My favorite line, “Hello Kitty knows that when you feel confident and happy on the inside, you will glow on the outside, too,” is a reminder that self-care is as much about feeling good as it is about looking good.

Hello Kitty + Me: A Life of Cute Influence

Witty Kitty

Style File

Pretty Kitty

My Cool-Girl Accessories