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Reviewer's Choice
The Girl Who Wore Pants
Susanna Isern, author
Esther Gill, illustrator
NubeOcho
9788410074866, $17.99, HC, 36pp
https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Who-Wore-Pants-Egalit%C3%A8/dp/8410074869
Synopsis: Luisa was a brave girl from Puerto Rico who, ever since she was young, fought for what she believed was right and defended women's rights. She lived in a time when women had to wear skirts, even though they were often uncomfortable and did not allow them to move freely. Luisa decided to change things, becoming one of the first women to wear pants in public!
Critique: Based on real events, "The Girl Who Wore Pants" is a picture book celebration of the impact of Luisa Capetillo (who was an activist and change-maker) when she decided to break the strict rules of her time with a simple but revolutionary gesture: putting on pants. A brave act that initiated an important social transformation for the women of her community. While also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99), with its theme of peer pressure and social norms, this hardcover edition of "The Girl Who Wore Pants" by author/storyteller Susanna Isrn and artist/illustrator Esther Gili is especially recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.
Editorial Note #1: Susanna Isern has published over 100 books worldwide, and been translated into over a dozen languages. She has been awarded the Silver Medal in the 2013 Moonbeam Children's Book Awards and her Bogo the Fox Who Wanted Everything, published by NubeOcho, is a Junior Library Guild Selection. She works as children psychologist and writer. (https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/6971228.Susanna_Isern)
Editorial Note #2: Esther Gili (http://www.esthergili.com) was born in Madrid, Spain, in 1981. She studied illustration at Art School No. 10 in Madrid. She worked for a decade illustrating textbooks and regularly collaborated with audiovisual production companies doing work for film and advertising. In 2015 she published Encantadas, her first picture book, written by David Aceituno. And she hasn't stopped since! As well as picture books, Ester illustrates notebooks, bags and agendas made by Cuquiland and also has a collection of puzzles. Her favorite technique is watercolor, so she uses it whenever she can. And a common element in her work is women with character, magic and kindness!
I Know What You Do When I Go to School
Siona Talekar
Story Monsters Press
c/o Story Monsters Ink
https://storymonsters.com/story-monsters-press
9781589853553, $TBA PB, $3.99 Kindle, 36pp
https://www.amazon.com/Know-What-You-When-School-ebook/dp/B0F1CMP16B
Synopsis: "I Know What You Do When I Go to School" is a playful yet heartfelt children's picture book that explores a child's imagination and how they perceive their parents' daily lives.
Originally created when Siona Talekar was just seven years old, "I Know What You Do When I Go to School" is a whimsical and heartfelt story that captures a child's perspective on what their mother does while they're away.
The young narrator imagines her mother indulging in chocolate cake, watching movies, and enjoying a carefree day. However, the reality is quite different -- her mom is actually a pediatric oncologist, working hard to care for children battling cancer.
Now at age thirteen, Siona has refined the book's illustrations and storytelling, creating a beautiful celebration of creativity, family, and love.
Critique: Clearly, young 13 year old author/illustrator Siona Talekar has a great gift for storytelling. An impressively original, wonderfully fun, and truly fascinating read from cover to cover, this edition of "I Know What You Do When I Go to School" from Story Monsters Press is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, Kindergarten, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-9.
Words
Katherine Davis-Gibbon, author
Anne Berry, illustrator
Riverlet Press
https://www.riverletpress.com/words
9781737957690, $23.75, HC, 36pp
https://www.amazon.com/Words-Katherine-Davis-Gibbon/dp/1737957698
Synopsis: A multicultural group of children discovers a park where everyone's words come to life -- and look and behave a lot like kids. Some words are kinder and more inviting, while others are pushy or prickly or odd.
Not every word makes the best first impression, but as they play and share adventures, the children connect more deeply with language. They learn that words have superpowers and grow to love them for their quirks. They see that words make excellent friends, who magically appear when they're needed and perfectly mirror how kids feel.
The more these children bond with language, the more they tap into their inner voice -- and as they dare to give it expression, they gain more respect for the power of words.
Critique: Original, unique, fun and fascinating, "Words" by the team of author/storyteller Katherine Davis-Gibbon and artist/illustrator Anne Berry was justifiably named a Distinguished Favorite in the 2025 Independent Press Awards. Ideal for developing young readers, who will relish the process of sounding out words and spotting those they already know, as well as seeing themselves in this cast of characters, thus developing greater self-awareness and empathy for their peers, as well.
Parents, teachers, librarians, and therapists can use "Words" for social-emotional learning, as it playfully nurtures a love of language while reminding children to treat words with care -- making it an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family, preschool, elementary school, and community library Life Skills picture book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Words" from Riverlet Press is also available in paperback (9781737957676, $10.75).
Editorial Note #1: Katherine Davis-Gibbon is an award-winning children's book author and mother of two. Her first book, My Old Friend, Then, garnered critical praise and awards recognition as a Distinguished Favorite in the 2022 New York City Big Book Awards, a Finalist in the 2022 American Book Fest's Best Book Awards, and a Distinguished Favorite in the 2023 Independent Press Awards. Her new book, Words, has been lauded by multiple editorial outlets and has already been named a Distinguished Favorite in the 2025 Independent Press Awards. (https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/an-interview-with-katherine-davis-gibbon-author-of-words)
Editorial Note #2: Anne Berry (https://www.anne-berry.com) is a professional illustrator based in California. For over ten years, she has created art for children's books, magazines, curricula, greeting cards, and more. She loves the creative process of bringing stories to life through art.
The Social Issues Shelf
My Family Is Special
Anna Rayo, author
Monica Armino, illustrator
Editorial el Pirata
https://www.editorialelpirata.com
9788417210991, $15.00, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/family-special-Childrens-UPPERCASE-diversity/dp/8417210997
Synopsis: Spectacular illustrations by Monica Armino lead children into a unique and original picture book story by Anna Ryan starring many animals, including a hundred-year-old tortoise that invites her friends to her birthday party. Her friends end up being different types of families: a traditional family, a large family, a single parent family, a blended family, a homoparental family, a divorced family, a family without children and an adoptive family.
At the end of the "My Family Is Special", they discover that, all together, they form what the hundred-year-old tortoise considers to be her family. In addition, children can play a game to find a letter and envelope in each one of the illustrations!
Critique: "My Family Is Special" is a very special picture book specifically designed for children aged from 2 to 5 years about family diversity -- traditional families, single parent families, divorced families, reunited families, families with same sex parents. The text is written in upper case, which is ideal for children from the age of 5 years to start learning to read. Fun and informative, this English language edition of "My Family Is Special" from Editorial el Pirata is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, Kindergarten, and community library picture book collections for children ages 3-5.
Editorial Note #1: Monica Armino was born in Madrid in 1983. She studied at Art School 10 and later graduated in Fine Arts from the Complutense University. In addition to children's and young people's illustrations, a field in which she has spent several years publishing books both nationally and internationally, she also works as a character designer and visual artist on films and animated series, for well-known studios including Cartoon Saloon, Zinkia, The Thinklab or Lighthouse Studio. (https://www.advocate-art.com/monica-armino)
Editorial Note #2: Due to a wish to remain anonymous, Anna Rayo is a pseudonym.
Showdown at Recess
Lois Wickstrom, author
Francis Mion, illustrator
Look Under Rocks
c/o Gripper Products
www.lookunderrocks.com
9781954519992, $24.99, HC, 34pp
https://www.amazon.com/Showdown-at-Recess-Lois-Wickstrom/dp/1954519990
Synopsis: The teacher says "You can't always win. You can't always break even. You can't stop playing the game." JoJo always wins the race to the tree. The winner always starts the tetherball game. But, today, someone runs faster than JoJo. The new winner tries to start the tetherball game, but nobody joins. JoJo is a bully and the other kids are afraid of what she'll do. What will happen now?
Critique: A charming and effective approach to the subject of playground bullying for children ages 4-9, "Showdown at Recess" is a choice and recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Life Skills and Conflict Resolution pictre book collections. It should be noted that this hardcover edition of Lois Wickstrom and Francie Mion's "Showdown at Recess" life skills picture book is also available from Look Under Rocks in paperback (9781954519985, $12.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.99).
Editorial Note #1: Editorial Note #1: Lois Wickstrom lives in a world where imaginary playmates are real. She doesn't remember being born, so she finds unbirthdays are more exciting than the official once-a-year date on the calendar. She's taken so many science classes that she believes science is the solution to almost every problem, including the dilemmas in fairy tales. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lois_Wickstrom)
Editorial Note #2: Francie Mion (https://franciemion.wixsite.com/fineart) is an experienced and talented artist whose illustrated children's books are listed at on the Goodreads website at. https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14129065.Francie_Mion
The Environmental Shelf
Conservation Success
Laura Perdew, author
Lex Cornell, illustrator
https://lauraperdew.com
Nomad Press
https://nomadpress.net
9781647411367, $24.95, HC, 128pp
https://www.amazon.com/Conservation-Success-Protecting-Hands-Activities/dp/164741136X
Synopsis: How do we make sure every species on the planet has a chance to thrive?
With the publication of "Conservation Success: Protecting Wild Spaces and Species with Hands-on Science Activities for Kids", young aspiring scientists ages 9-12 will be able to discover different conservation efforts around the world. They will learn about the individuals, scientists, organizations, and countries involved in protecting species, habitats, and our planet!
From returning lynx to the Colorado high country and recovering the population of California condors to turning poachers into wildlife protectors and transforming dumps and golf courses into thriving habitats, these conservation success stories offer hope and inspiration along with scientific explanations on why these efforts work.
There are many ways to approach conservation including restoration, rewilding, reintroduction, recovering species populations, reconnecting habitats, community-based conservation, ecotourism, protections and laws, and, above all, education. Guided by science, these collaborative efforts foster biodiversity and encourage ecosystems to become healthier, stronger, and more resilient.
"Conservation Success", author Laura Perdew investigates the people and the science guiding the initiatives and see how these efforts will inform future conservation and add to the scientific knowledge of our natural world. Plus, young readers might become inspired to take part in conservation efforts in their own part of the world!
Conservation Success includes hands-on activities and critical thinking exercises to help readers gain a deeper understanding of science-based conservation. These activities, a narrative writing style, fun facts, words-to-know, and primary source links combine to take readers on an investigative journey to conservation projects around the world.
Additional materials include a glossary, a list of media for further learning, a selected bibliography, and index. All books are leveled for Guided Reading level and Lexile and align with Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science
Critique: This large format (8 x 0.5 x 10 inches, 1.05 pounds) and illustrated hardcover edition of "Conservation Success: Protecting Wild Spaces and Species With Hands-on Science Activities for Kids" is especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library Environment/Ecology collections for children ages 9-12. Ideal as a textbook for home-schooling and for elementary classroom environmental studies curriculums, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Conservation Success" from Nomad Press is also readily available in paperback (9781647411398, $19.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).
Editorial Note #1: Laura Perdew (www.lauraperdew.com) is an author, writing consultant, and former middle school teacher. She is the author of The Fort (Page Street Kids, 2020) and over 50 books for the education market including Biodiversity: Explore the Diversity of Life on Earth (Nomad Press, 2019) which is on the Booklist editors' list of the Top 10 Books on the Environment & Sustainability for Youth 2020.
Editorial Note #2: Lex Cornell (www.lexcornell.com) is a graduate of The Center for Cartoon Studies. They have illustrated several books for Nomad Press, including the Picture Book Science: Biomes set; Climate Change: The Science Behind Melting Glaciers and Warming Oceans; Rocks and Minerals: Get the Dirt on Geology; and Gender Identity: Beyond Pronouns and Bathrooms.
The Holiday Shelf
The Beat of the Dragon Boat
Christina Matula, author
Nicole Wong, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
https://sleepingbearpress.com
9781534113206, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Beat-Dragon-Boat-Christina-Matula/dp/1534113207
Synopsis: The Chinese Dragon Boat Festival takes place on the fifth day of the fifth month of the lunar calendar, ushering in the start of summer. On the night before the Dragon Boat Festival, a young boy asks his grandfather how the dragon boat races first began. His grandfather tells him that legend has it that the races started in the ancient time of the Dragon King, when every lake and river had a guardian dragon. Dragons symbolize good luck, and have great power, especially over water and weather.
On race day at the harbor, all the boats have a carved dragon head on their bows. As a final touch, to wake up their team's boat, the boy paints in the dragon's eye. But once the race is underway, their team's dragon boat is in last place. How can they wake their dragon?
Critique: Magnificently illustrated with museum quality artwork by illustrator Nicole Wong in full support of author/storyteller's picture book story "The Beat of the Dragon Boat", this hardcover edition from Sleeping Bear Press will prove to be of immense and enduring popularity for family, elementary school, and community library Asian mythology/festival/holiday collections for children ages 5-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Beat of the Dragon Boat" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.04, Amazon).
Editorial Note #1: Christina Matula (https://www.christinamatula.com) is also the author of The Shadow in the Moon, Mixed-Up Mooncakes, and the Holly-Mei middle-grade series. She has an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Hong Kong and now lives in Finland.
Editorial Note #2: Nicole Wong (https://nicole-wong.com) has illustrated more than twenty-five books for children, including Kiyoshi's Walk, Diving Deep, Three Lost Seeds, I'll Be the Water, and No Year of the Cat.
The Cookbook Shelf
Cooking Up Change
Michael Platt, author
Alleanna Harris, illustrator
Magic Cat
c/o Abrams Children's Books
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781419778889, $18.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Cooking-Up-Change-Grandmas-Recipes/dp/1419778889
Synopsis: "Cooking Up Change: Grandma's Recipes from a Year in Black History" by author Michael Platt and illustrator Alleanna Harris is both a celebration of Black history and an invitation for young readers to experience it through the lens of food. With biographies of figures who shaped important events and mouthwatering recipes that carry their essence, "Cooking Up Change" will inspire future leaders with real stories of trailblazers who helped to change the world.
One event per month is highlighted. After sharing the story of a person related to each event (such as Dorothy Height for International Women's Day in March) "Cooking Up Change" deftly pairs each moment with a delectable recipe that carries the essence of the occasion. All the stories and recipes featured are inspired by Michael Platt's grandmother -- the person who guided him in unearthing his Black heritage and moved him to fall in love with cooking.
The recipes comprising "Cooking Up Change" include :
Macaroni and cheese for Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Key lime pie for Black History Month
Deep dish peach cobbler for International Women's Day
Grilled fish for Jackie Robinson Day
Molasses cookies for Memorial Day
Red hibiscus drink for Juneteenth
Apple pie for Independence Day
Potato salad for the Great Migration
Sweet potato pie for Labor Day
Pork chops for Black Poetry Day
Green gumbo for Election Day
Coconut cake for Kwanzaa
Critique: This large format (0.00(w) x 11.00(h) x (d), 1.74 pounds) hardcover edition of "Cooking Up Change: Grandma's Recipes from a Year in Black History" from Magic Cat is as inspiring and fun as it is informative and unique. Also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.09, Amazon), "Cooking Up Change" is an unreservedly recommended pick for family, elementary school, and community library cookbook and Black Studies collections for children ages 8-12.
Editorial Note: Michael Platt is a teen baker, social entrepreneur, and food justice advocate. He has been baking since he was nine years old but has been interested in racial inequality since he first learned about the historic March on Washington at the age of six. Platt began to ask questions about people being mistreated because of the color of their skin, and so set up a baking business in Maryland, Michael's Desserts, with a one-for-one model. Platt appeared as one of the best kid bakers in the country in season 4 of Kids Baking Championship on the Food Network and has been covered by outlets such as CBS Mornings, Good Morning America, CNN, the Washington Post, People.com, Capital Gazette, WUSA9 news, Guideposts, the Rachael Ray Show, and more.
Editorial Note #2: Alleanna Harris (https://www.alleannaharris.com) is an illustrator and artist from New Jersey. She has been drawing for as long as she can remember, and after graduating from the University of Arts, began illustrating children's books. Harris uses her platform to tell stories - ranging from influential Black figures to important Black history milestones -- as a way to inspire readers. In her work, she seeks to create images that are immersive, rich in color, and have a sense of warmth.
The Biography/Memoir Shelf
Walking on Cinders
Judith Elaine Hankes
As the Crow Flies Press
9798301782107, $12.75 pbk / $8.75 Kindle
https://www.amazon.com/Walking-Cinders-Judith-Elaine-Hankes/dp/B0DZTMZWRY
Walking on Cinders features an island dwelling where siblings enjoy crawdad fishing. They consider the nearby river an extension of their home ("...an ever-changing living hallway") and are thoroughly spoiled by their deep connection to vibrant nature... so spoiled that: "How could an uptown house surrounded by a tidy lawn compete with an island home?"
This remark sets the stage for inevitable changes as a trio of siblings (seven-year-old narrator Judy and her brothers, nine-year-old Ted and eleven-year-old Steven) sneak out of the house to follow men who murder in the dead of night. But, this is not what readers may think. Read the story to find out the details.
The "river brats" are thoroughly immersed in the nature surrounding them - so they're in the perfect position to investigate odd behaviors... sometimes with unexpected consequences. Hankes embeds her story with vivid information about this environment and how the Towne family interacts with it. Even at their young ages, the children's' knowledge of nature and the world is exceptional, obtained not from books, but life encounters and reflections:
"Some people like to eat fish. Some people like to eat bullfrog legs."
"But that's what's wrong about it! Frogs have legs and toes. They walk and hop! Fish just swim," I continued to protest.
"And frogs call to one another," Ted added.
As they come of age, they confront disparities between their beloved milieu and those who would exploit it. The family's efforts to survive promotes creativity and innovative problem-solving, whether it be a way of getting drinking water when their island well becomes contaminated, or selling a skunk carcass to a (theoretically) interested buyer for pocket change.
Cemented first by nature and then by human concerns that shake deep convictions, Walking on Cinders is a study in spiritual values, social interactions, and economic poverty as Judy becomes immersed in a wider world than island life alone and is forced to re-examine what makes her life both rich and poor at the same time.
From a shopping expedition which reinforces Judy's mature insights on practical clothing over embellished dresses that are "too frilly and pink" to how she gently deals with well-meaning individuals who view the family's poverty and try to help, Hankes creates outstanding scenes that reinforce perceptions, ideals, and reality:
"My socks aren't dirty. It's just hard for Mama to get them really white. Since the house burned, she has been washing our clothes at a laundromat, and to save money, she puts all the clothes together in the same washing machine. She never uses bleach." Then I looked in Sister Notares' eyes and said, "My mother is a good mother." She looked at me for a few seconds before quietly saying, "Judee. I theenk I hurt your feeleengs. I deedn't meen to."
"I know," I replied. "You're just trying to be kind. Thanks for taking me shopping. I will be very careful with these clothes. I'll only wear them to church."
Libraries seeking stories that don't feature middle-class backdrops of wealth, but explore powerful topics of rural living, poverty, and the true meaning of being rich will find Walking on Cinders simply outstanding. Few young adult books before or since Robert Burch's Queenie Peavy (published in 1966 and now hard to find) have so thoroughly captured rural living; poverty that others may assume but the protagonist does not; and the contrast between rich and poor thinking.
Walking on Cinders is a unique opportunity for all ages to reconsider the perception and roots of wealth in entirely new ways. The food for thought in this story will promote talking points for book club readers of all ages. For this reason, it is recommended for preteen to adult audiences. This wide age range receives much detail about survival processes and concurrent ethical values that contrast choice with necessity.
As suitable for book club discussion as it is for family dialogue or individual contemplation, Walking on Cinders is simply outstanding in its thought-provoking, realistic scenarios and deeper-level inspections of goodwill, struggle, and life's riches.
The Pets Shelf
Dogs Know Stuff!: A Whimsical View of Life
Bob W. Anderson
Independently Published
https://www.bobanderson.org
9798308249924, $19.99, PB, 100pp
https://www.amazon.com/Dogs-Know-Stuff-Whimsical-PREMIUM/dp/B0DVGSTVWS
Synopsis: "Dogs Know Stuff!: A Whimsical View of Life" by Bob W. Anderson is a delightfully illustrated book, a vivid celebration of our beloved canine companions, designed to entertain dog lovers of all ages from 5 or 105!
So, just what do dogs know? A lot! From the silly to the profound, dogs are experts in everything from humor and drama to comfort and protection. Inside "Dogs Know Stuff!: A Whimsical View of Life", you will discover all the surprising things dogs understand -- at least according to our human observations!
We believe dogs know:
Humor and Drama
Vets, Words, and the Meaning of Sounds
Calculus
Dog Power, Trucks, and Motorcycles
Learning, Social Media, and Trash Talk
Dirt, Water, and Bugs
Cats, Mischief, and the magic of "I'm Sorry"
War and Remembering
Helping, Comforting, Protecting, and the true meaning of Love
And, of course, Who They Are!
Packed from cover to cover with charm and wit, "Dogs Know Stuff!: A Whimsical View of Life" will have readers of all ages laughing, nodding in agreement, and marveling at the intelligence and spirit of our four-legged friends!
Critique: Original, fun, informative, and fascinating, "Dogs Know Stuff!: A Whimsical View of Life" by Bob W. Anderson will prove to of special interest to readers with canine companions of their own (or who aspiring to have one!). This trade paperback (8.5 x 0.24 x 8.5 inches, 9.1 ounces) edition of "Dogs Know Stuff!: A Whimsical View of Life" is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal reading lists and community library Pets/Dogs collections.
Editorial Note: Bob W. Anderson (https://www.bobwanderson.com) has won 55 national and international film awards, including two Emmys. He has worked as a writer, producer, director, editor, artist, and special effects designer. His work has been broadcast on ABC, CBS, and HBO, as well as screened at Disney World's EPCOT, the National Gallery of Art, the Creative Artists Agency, and a theme park in Japan. Bob's film work has been distributed in more than 30 countries.
The Wildlife Shelf
Beasts from the Deep
Matt Ralphs, author
Kaley McKean, illustrator
Nosy Crow
https://nosycrow.com
9798887771717, $22.99, HC, 96pp
https://www.amazon.com/Beasts-Deep-Matt-Ralphs/dp/B0DGFW13J2
Synopsis: Did you know that there is a place on Earth that has hardly been explored at all? A place with near-freezing temperatures, crushing water pressure, and total darkness? A place for a magnificent menagerie of monsters that lurk deep down in our oceans ranging from sharks that can live for 500 years, to fish with teeth so long they can't close their mouths.
With the publication of "Beasts from the Deep" young readers will enjoy learning all about anglerfish, giant squid, goblin sharks, coffinfish, barreleyes and many, many more amazing creatures in this stunningly illustrated picture book that will delight, surprise, and inspire on every page. With awe-inspiring artwork from illustrator Kaley McKean and atmospheric, engaging text by author Matt Ralphs (which he created in consultation with marine biologist Dr. Helen Scales and Dr. Roz Wade from the Museum of Zoology, University of Cambridge), "Beasts from the Deep" is a fascinating, 'kid friendly', and unreservedly recommended pick for family, elementary school, and community library Marine Wildlife collections and personal reading lists.
Editorial Note #1: Matt Ralphs (https://www.mattralphswriter.com) is a freelance writer of children's fiction and nonfiction. While working for many years as an editor, he helped other writers create novels, comics, and lavish art books.
Editorial Note #2: Kaley McKean (https://www.kaleymckean.com) is a Canadian illustrator with a BDes in Illustration from the Ontario College of Art and Design. She has worked in children's publishing, editorial, packaging, advertising, and more.
They Work: Honey Bees, Nature's Pollinators
June Smalls, author
Yukari Mishima, illustrator
Familius
www.familius.com
9781641709651, $17.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/They-Work-Honey-Natures-Pollinators/dp/1641709650
Synopsis: She is the queen.
She fought for that position from the moment she broke out of her cell.
Her job is important, but she is not the leader.
A hive is only successful if many, many bees are working.
With the publication of "They Work: Honey Bees, Nature's Pollinators", children can now experience the life cycle of the honey bee up close and personal with this striking picture book from author/storyteller June Smalls (author of She Leads, He Leads, and They Lead) and artist/illustrator Yukari Mishima.
Told in a poetic style along with fun facts on each page for older readers wanting a deeper dive, "They Work" is a beautiful exploration of life inside a beehive, as well as the dangers and predators bees face out in the world -- including humans.
Critique: "They Work: Honey Bees, Nature's Pollinators" is fascinating, informative, and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library Nature/Wildlife picture book collections for children ages 5-8.
Editorial Note #1: June Smalls (https://junesmalls.com) is a children's author of fiction and nonfiction, including Odd Animal ABC's and She Leads: The Elephant Matriarch. She resides in Northern Virginia with her family and an ever-growing assortment of animals.
Editorial Note #2: Yukari Mishima (https://in-my-sketchbook.com/en/top) was born and raised in Hiroshima, Japan. She has always loved to draw and paint pictures. She majored in foreign language courses at university and worked an office job for 10 years after graduation. At the age of 35, she quit the corporate world and decided to pursue her passion and become a freelance illustrator.
Pentro: Horses of the Spoon-Shaped Valley
Michael DiMarco, author
Ekaterina Mironova, illustrator
Via Media Publishing Company
https://www.viamediapublishing.com
9798992243055, $19.95, HC, 36pp
https://www.amazon.com/Pentro-Horses-Spoon-Shaped-Michael-DiMarco/dp/B0DVZNB2CC
Synopsis: "Pentro: Horses of the Spoon-Shaped Valley" by author/storyteller Michael DiMarco and artist/illustrator Ekaterina Mironova is about the balance of nature as illustrated through a breed of horse known as the Pentro. These horses are a rare Italian breed raised on open land year-round in a valley surrounded by mountains. The Pentro have lived in the same area in central Italy for over two thousand years -- which is named after the independent Pentri tribe who fought against the Romans in ancient times.
However, "Pentro: Horses of the Spoon-Shaped Valley" does not focus on the location. The story presented could be set anywhere. It was written so the noble horse could inspire children, sharing their perspective on nature's marvels and the relationship between animals, plants, and humans.
The vastness of the spoon-shaped valley is breathtaking by itself. Hills and high mountains encompass the area, giving a sense of seclusion from the rest of the world. A river traverses its length, nourishing plants and animals, including exotic birds migrating from Africa. Here children can embrace nature to the fullest, eyeing colors of butterflies and flowers and listening to the buzz of insects, croaking frogs, and the greeting horse's neigh.
It takes a lifetime to learn the valley's secrets. For children, it captures their attention and draws them into the joy of discovery. Amid the endless activities of Mother Nature, the valley is somehow overwhelmingly peaceful and brings tranquility to visitors. In this majestic setting, it is the noble Pentro that captivates visitors, young and old - a magnificent animal at work or play, snuggling with the herd or galloping for the sheer joy of its Independence.
The Pentro's beauty and strength is appreciated by locals who have benefitted by their presence. This children's story highlights the horses' valley home and their symbiotic relationship with humans.
Critique: Charming illustrated, inherently interesting, deftly crafted, and impressively original, informatively entertaining, "Pentro: Horses of the Spoon-Shaped Valley" will be of immense appeal to young readers with an interest in horses and their natural environment. While especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library collections for children ages 5-12, it should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Pentro: Horses of the Spoon-Shaped Valley" from the Via Media Publishing Company is also readily available in paperback (9798992243048, $15.99). An additional feature is the inclusion of activity coloring pages following the reading text.
Editorial Note #1: Michael DeMarco received a Master's Degree from Seton Hall University. He founded Via Media Publishing in 1992, publishing a quarterly journal and over eighty books. In recent years, he has been focusing on his own writing, including To Give to the Light - a biographical novella is about family life, surviving world wars, immigrating and adapting to a new culture. Mike has also consulted and appeared in television documentaries that were aired on the Discovery Channel, The History Channel, Arts and Entertainment, and The Learning Channel. He lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Editorial Note #2: Ekaterina Mironova (https://www.behance.net/ekaterinamironova#) is an artist and illustrator whose work is dedicated to bringing stories to life and creating enchanting worlds on the pages of books. She has a deep passion for watercolor techniques, which convey a sense of lightness, warmth, and intricate detail. Additionally, she explores digital art, which opens limitless possibilities for experimentation. Using Photoshop and a graphic tablet, she strives to achieve precise and expressive results.
The Board Book Shelf
My First Book About Charity
Sara Khan, author
Ali Lodge, illustrator
Kube Publishing Ltd
9781835920008, $9.95, Board Book, 28pp
https://www.amazon.com/My-First-Book-About-Charity/dp/1835920004
Synopsis: "My First Book About Charity" is simple but beautiful board book that introduces children to the third pillar of Islam: Zakat as well as other types of charity (sadaqah).
"My First Book About Charity" starts by acknowledging that Allah has given all of us many blessings with some of us having more and others less, and that those with more have an obligation towards the poor and needy. It also mentions some of the different types of charity Muslims can give and answers questions such as why and how much charity should be given.
Critique: With large, colorful illustrations by Ali Lodge, and a carefully written text by Sara Khan that very young children will understand and enjoy, "My First Book About Charity" from Kube Publishing Ltd. will be treasured by children and is unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, Kindergarten, and community library board book collections for ages 2-5.
Editorial Note #1: Sara Khan (https://www.sarakhanauthor.com) is both a successful author and qualified translator. She holds a first-class BA (hons) in Linguistics and Arabic, as well as a MA in Translation and Interpreting Studies both from the University of Manchester. Her postgraduate research focused on Qur'an translation and adaptation for children. Sara aims to build upon her academic background and personal experience to help fill the gap when it comes to presenting Islam to toddlers and young children in an age-appropriate way.
Editorial Note #2: Ali Lodge has always had a passion for drawing and an interest in all things arty and creative. In 2005, she had her first picture book published, and since then she has illustrated many books for children - including books for babies and toddlers, reading series titles, picture books, and novelty books. She creates her illustrations using a variety of media. This includes computer-generated paint techniques, combined with water colour pencils and pastels as well as acrylics, all dependent on the project and the effect needing to be achieved. (https://www.jacketflap.com/profile.asp?member=alilodge)
Egg, Egg, Egg!
Sarah Finan
Post Wave Publishing
9798895090053, $8.99, Board Book, 20pp
https://www.amazon.com/Egg-Sarah-Finan/dp/B0DFW1VD7J
Synopsis: There's only one thing this little baby wants to eat for breakfast -- eggs, eggs, eggs! Boiled, runny, but always yummy.
Critique: With sweet rhyming text, bold, bright artwork and clever die-cuts throughout, "Egg, Egg, Egg!" by author/illustrator Sarah Finan is a lovely, lively, colorful board book that is a joy to read aloud to very young children -- and which can be enjoyed over and over again. It's a perfect treat for little foodies and their loved ones! This sturdy edition of "Egg, Egg, Egg!" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, and community library board book collections for children ages 6 month to 3 years.
Editorial Note: Sarah Finan (https://sarahfinan.carbonmade.com) is a British designer and illustrator, living in Italy. Her first book, Erik the Lone Wolf, published with Two Hoots in 2018, and was long-listed for the Klaus Flugge Prize in 2019. She also won second place in the Macmillan Prize for Illustration 2015 for Yankee Doodle Stanley.
Hush-a-Bye Night: Goodnight Up North
Thelma Lynne Godin, author
Katie Eberts, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
https://sleepingbearpress.com
9781668960837, $9.99, Board Book, 18pp
https://www.amazon.com/Hush-Bye-Night-Goodnight-North/dp/1668960834
Synopsis: As the sun sets up north and the moon begins to rise over the lake, all kinds of creatures ranging from the black bear, to a tumble of fox kits, to a family like yours, begin their nighttime routines. "Hush-a-Bye Night: Goodnight Up North" is lyrical lullaby to up north, and the flora and fauna that call it home It is a beautiful ode to a most beautiful land.
Critique: Through lyrical text by author/storyteller Thelma Lynne Godin and lush art of illustrator Katie Eblerts, "Hush-a-Bye Night: Goodnight Up North" is an utterly charming, entertaining, and 'kid friendly', board book that brings the feeling of an evening up north on the lake and is ideal for parent/child storytime cuddles. While unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, and community library board book collections for children ages 6 month to 5 years, it should be noted that this board book edition of "Hush-a-Bye Night: Goodnight Up North" from Sleeping Bear Press is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.49).
Editorial Note #1: Thelma Lynne Godin (https://www.thelmagodinbooks.com) is also the author of The Hula Hoopin' Queen and How to Dress a Dragon.
Editorial Note #2: Illustrator Katie Eberts (https://www.katieeberts.com) draws and paints traditionally in watercolor, colored pencil, and gouache. This is her first book.
Outside Our Window series
Melina Mangal, author
Stella Lim, illustrator
Free Spirit Publishing
www.freespirit.com
Synopsis: Free Spirit Publishing is a premier publisher of books for children. two new entries into their 'Outside Our Window" series of board books by author/storyteller Melina Mangal and artist/illustrator Stella Lim for children ages 6 months to 4 years are especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, and community library board book collections.
https://www.amazon.com/Birds-Their-Words-Outside-Window/dp/B0D82CS58T
In "Birds Sing Their Words" (9798885544542, $9.99, 24pp), two young children, guided by an adult, take a springtime walk through a city neighborhood, noticing how birds communicate. The sounds of fee-bee and per-chick-a-ree are all around them - alone, in chorus, or call-and-response style. The children learn that our own diverse voices parallel the many songs that birds sing.
https://www.amazon.com/Trees-Stand-Outside-Window-Board/dp/B0D82L7FQ7
In "Trees Stand Tall" (9798885544559, $9.99, 24pp), two young children admire the trees outside their window. When they take the city bus to a family picnic at a park, the children observe and mimic the trees with their cousins. Seeing that the trees stand tall, the children stand tall. Seeing that the branches sway, the children sway and dance too. Rooted in their families, the children too are flexible and strong.
Critique: "Birds Sing Their Words" and "Trees Stand Tall" are part of the Outside Our Window Board Books series, from Free Spirit Publishing which encourages children (especially those in urban neighborhoods) to explore, protect, and delight in nature. Each board book focuses on one feature of the natural world (like birds), one sense (hearing), and one social or emotional learning skill (communication). Each board book also emphasizes community and encourage children and families to explore the natural world around them.
Editorial Note #1: Working at the intersection of nature, literature, and culture, Melina Mangal's writing highlights youth whose voices are rarely heard, and the people and places that inspire them to explore their world. She is the author of short stories and biographies for youth, including The Vast Wonder of the World: Biologist Ernest Everett Just, winner of the Carter G. Woodson Book Award and named an NCSS/CBC Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People. Melina also works as a school library teacher in Minnesota and enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, whether it's in her backyard or hiking in the woods.
Editorial Note #2: Stella Lim (https://stellaillust.com) is Korean Illustrator based in Seoul. She studied Fine Art at SWU in Seoul (BA), and graduated Kingston University (UK) as Master of Communication Design. She has worked with many companies including Candlewick Press(US), Workman Publishing(US), Sourcebooks (US), Florisbooks(UK), KBS (Korean Broadcasting Company) and Naver Corp. The art technique she uses is a mix of traditional drawings and digital paintings using Photoshop.
The Picturebook Shelf
Paloma and the Red Carpet
Carme Lemniscates
Tilbury House
www.tilburyhouse.com
9781668944912, $18.99
https://www.amazon.com/Paloma-Red-Carpet-Carme-Lemniscates-ebook/dp/B0D5N7SB34
Paloma and the Red Carpet tells of Paloma, who arrives at a big, strange building where many children live happily. There, a cozy red carpet invites her to draw, read, learn a new language, and enjoy. When the children discover they'll have to leave their magical refuge because the building is too old, fear replaces their feeling of safety. How can Paloma and her friends adjust to yet another new home, which will never be the same without the magic red carpet?
A fine story of new experiences, discoveries, creativity, and friendship introduces important themes about adaptation and change for young picture book readers. Read-aloud adults will appreciate the story's many discussion points about learning a new language and culture, and changing concepts of safety and home.
Dancing With Our Ancestors
Sara Florence Davidson & Robert Davison, authors
Janine Gibbons, illustrator
HighWater Press
c/o Portage and Main Press
https://www.portageandmainpress.com/HighWater-Press
9781774920244, $21.95, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Dancing-Our-Ancestors-Skada-Stories/dp/1774920247
Synopsis: With the publication of "Dancing With Our Ancestors" author Sara Florence Davidson transports her young readers to the excitement of a potlatch in Hydaburg, Alaska -- her last memory of dancing with her late brother.
Sara feels like she and her brother have always known how to sing the songs and dance the dances of their Native American Haida ancestors. Unlike their father, they were born after the laws that had previously banned their family's cultural practices were changed. The potlatch ban did not exist during their time, so they grew up dancing and singing side by side.
The invitations have been sent. The food has been prepared. The decorations have been hung. And now the day of the potlatch has finally arrived! Guests from all over come to witness this bittersweet but joyful celebration of Haida culture and community.
Written by co-authors Sara and Robert Davidson (the creators of Potlatch as Pedagogy, "Dancing With Our Ancestors" brings the Sk'ad'a Principles to life through the magnificent art of artist/illustrator Janine Gibbons.
Critique: Fun and fascinating, "Dancing With Our Ancestors" is an ideal introduction to a unique feature of Native American Haida culture that was once sought to be suppressed by the white government that sought to control them and integrate them into a white society. Unique and very special, "Dancing With Our Ancestors" is welcome and highly recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library Native American picture book collections for children ages 6-8. It should be noted that this hardcover edition of "Dancing With Our Ancestors" from HighWater Press is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.72, Amazon).
Editorial Note #1: Sara Florence Davidson (https://saraflorence.ca) is a Haida/Settler Assistant Professor in Indigenous Education in the Faculty of Education at Simon Fraser University. Previously, she was an educator working with adolescents in the K-12 system in British Columbia and Yukon Territory. Sara is the co-author of Potlatch as Pedagogy: Learning through Ceremony, which she wrote with her father, and Magical Beings of Haida Gwaii, which she wrote with her stepmother, Terri-Lynn Williams-Davidson.
Editorial Note #2: Robert Davidson (https://www.robertdavidson.ca) is one of the most respected and important contemporary artists in Canada. A Northwest Coast native of Haida descent, he is a master carver of totem poles and masks and works in a variety of other media as a printmaker, painter, and jeweler. A leading figure in the renaissance of Haida art and culture, Robert is best known as an impeccable craftsman whose creative and personal interpretation of traditional Haida form is unparalleled. He has also been recognized with many awards, including being named an Officer to the Order of Canada.
Ellie's Dancing Shoes
Scott Sollers, author
Bryan Janky, illustrator
Mascot Kids
c/o Mascot Books
https://mascotbooks.com
9798891383418, $19.95 Hardcover
https://www.amazon.com/Ellies-Dancing-Shoes-Scott-Sollers/dp/B0DSGKG1JL
Ellie's Dancing Shoes is the picture book story of an eight-year-old who lives in New York City with her parents and French poodle. Her dream is to become a ballerina, but much as she has ambition, she also harbors uncertainties and doubts her talents.
Her dedication to practicing leads her to turn down many invitations to play or enjoy the company of others in favor of her dream, but as much as she strives to reach her lofty goal, Ellie literally continually falls short. It takes some wise, supportive parents to devise just the right form of encouragement to belay Ellie's self-doubts.
Scott Sollers crafts an appealing, realistic, masterful story of dreams, obstacles, and the power of not just positive thinking, but creative encouragement. The magic he creates which gives Ellie the courage to pursue her dreams against all odds also receives strong translation into new approaches as Ellie ages and outgrows the magical lessons that have empowered her.
Elementary-level libraries and parents who pick Ellie's Dancing Shoes for its winning messages of achievement, support, ambition, and insights about failure and success will find this an inviting, inspirational read-aloud. It's as notable for Bryan Janky's appealing illustrations as it is for its important, hard-hitting messages about magic, dreams, and realizing one's goals.
Readers of all ages will find Ellie's Dancing Shoes inspirational, fun, and very uplifting - it's a beacon of light and hope for anyone who tends to doubt their talents or dreams.
How to Get an Alligator Out of the Bathtub
Lynsey Martin, author
Colleen C. Coggins, illustrator
MamaBear Books
https://mamabearbooks.com
9781960616227, $17.95 Hardcover
https://www.amazon.com/How-Get-Alligator-Out-Bathtub/dp/1960616226
How to Get an Alligator Out of the Bathtub holds colorful illustrations by Colleen C. Coggins as it explores a gator dilemma that revolves around a strange bath experience for Peyton and Bennett.
Alistair the alligator has beaten them to the tub. Suddenly the siblings find themselves confronted not by danger, but by a resolute tub-loving gator who won't give up his newfound territory. There are various techniques that can be deployed to help an alligator make a different decision to free up the coveted tub.
As the siblings explore these options, the problem-solving, troubleshooting, and cooperative venture affords many opportunities for read-aloud adults to emphasize any or all of these messages as the whimsical tale unfolds. The alligator is simply too flexible to worry about a lack of food or other amenities. What are the boys to do?
Lynsey Martin spins an upbeat, uplifting, zany yarn that will delight all kinds of picture book readers, from alligator-loving kids to parents looking for important lessons embedded in adventure. With its appealing illustrations, messages, and heartfelt encounters, How to Get an Alligator Out of the Bathtub is highly recommended for elementary-level libraries, read-aloud adults, and anyone interested in entertaining fun that opens the door to bigger-picture thinking.
Live Big With Catch-M
Kat Kronenberg, author
Jomike Tejido, illustrator
www.katkronenberg.com
Greenleaf Book Group Press
https://greenleafbookgroup.com
9798886453416, $16.95
https://www.amazon.com/Live-Big-Catch-M-Loves-Wondrous/dp/B0DZ8X4G6Y
Live Big With Catch-M is a picture book celebration that reviews love's ripple effect in life. It pairs inviting, colorful illustrations by Jomike Tejido with a dialogue created by Kat Kronenberg. Both intersect to engage the young and their adult read-aloud companions in a delightful first-person foray into "spark of love" Catch-M's perceptions of his universe and how he can fit into it.
The first realizations he has about being alone and afraid of the darkness around him lead him to listen to his heart, which advises him to "Believe you're extraordinary!" This lesson grows to embrace his universe as Catch-M learns to "smile big and believe" and absorbs the impact an attitude change can have on everything around him.
Parents of kids who are fearful of many things will find the dialogues about hope, possibility, empowerment, and making a difference in the world via attitude change are highlighted in a seemingly simple story which condenses some big thoughts into a form children can understand - especially with read-aloud encouragement.
Another plus to Live Big With Catch-M lies in how Kronenberg grows her story from a scared little entity's fears to the biggest picture of all - that, "Yes, I can do good by sharing love's wondrous power everywhere." How big that world expands to become is a major attraction in a story that evolves to embed this attitude and realization into other creatures' lives.
Filled with hope, introspection, and, above all, joy and opportunity, Live Big With Catch-M is very highly recommended for read-aloud adults interested in helping children better understand their place in and ultimate impact on the world around them. Its empowering message of hope is a much-needed guiding light to building a more enlightened, positive generation for the future.
The Fierce Little Woman and the Wicked Pirate, second edition
Joy Cowley, author
Miho Satake, illustrator
Gecko Press
www.geckopress.com
9798765671689, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Fierce-Little-Woman-Wicked-Pirate/dp/B0DH2N5Y4Y
Synopsis: The fierce little woman lived in a house at the end of a jetty. She knitted socks in blue and green wool to sell to sailors who had got their feet wet. But when there were no ships at her jetty, she was quite alone.
One stormy day, a pirate came to the house on the jetty. He stood on his toes, and starting tap-tap-tapping on the window...
After a battle of words through the jetty trapdoor, these two windswept heroes find they are suited after all in a warm story of a carefree family.
Critique: An original and entertaining picture book story of female independence and family, "The Fierce Little Woman and the Wicked Pirate" is an original and unconventional love story featuring a strong female lead and a an unusual pirate with a sensitive side. Cleverly written by Joy Cowley (New Zealand's leading children's writer) and beautifully illustrated by Miho Satake (one of Japan's foremost children's illustrators), this newly published second edition of "The Fierce Little Woman and the Wicked Pirate" is a fun read from cover to cover and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections. It should be noted that "The Fierce Little Woman and the Wicked Pirate: 2nd Edition" from Gecko Press is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note #1: Joy Cowley (https://www.joycowley.com) is a celebrated New Zealand writer for children and adults, who has won many awards and honors. These include a New Zealand Arts Foundation Icon Award for lifetime achievement, the Prime Minister's Award for contribution to literature, and shortlisting for the Hans Christian Andersen Award.
Editorial Note #2: Miho Satake (https://harrypotter.fandom.com/wiki/Miho_Satake) is a highly regarded Japanese artist and illustrator known for illustrating the Japanese editions of classic children's books including Diana Wynne Jones and anniversary editions of the Harry Potter series.
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Sea Star
Kathleen Welton, author
Chau Pham, illustrator
Bookfox Press
c/o aka Books
www.akabooks.com
9788899000027, $11.99, PB, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Twinkle-Little-Star-Myrtle-Turtle-ebook/dp/B0F231G31V
Synopsis: When a storm washes sea stars onto the shore, Myrtle the Turtle and Max come to the rescue of their storm tossed friends! Will be able to save all the sea stars in time?
Critique: Fully visualized by the charming and deftly crafted illustrations of Chau Pham, author/storyteller Kathleen Welton's original, imaginative, and fun picture book story is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library sea creature themed picture book collections for children ages 3-9.
Editorial Note #1: Kathleen Welton (https://kathywelton.com) is an award-winning author and publisher with a lifelong passion for literacy. Her books share inspiration and fun adventures where dreams take flight. She celebrates the beauty of beaches, birds, and wildlife while championing a sustainable future through her work.
Editorial Note #2: Chau Pham (https://chauphamillustration.com/home/info) is an illustrator who resides somewhere in Vietnam. Chau is a self-identified introvert by default, but luckily has an open mind about all kind of things and the will to confront new challenges. If not drawing, Chau enjoys writing, stargazing, jogging, gardening, and sometimes taking photos.
Peg Gets Plucky
Jo Renfro, author/illustrator
Beaming Books
https://www.beamingbooks.com
9781506492094, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Peg-Gets-Plucky-Jo-Renfro/dp/1506492096
Synopsis: Peg the chick is bold and ready for adventure. But when she sets off on a hike with the other barnyard animals, she is quickly overwhelmed. Adventures are hard! "I can't do it!" Peg declares. Or can she?
Critique: Peg follows in the footsteps of every kid who has ever gone on a hike -- or a walk around the block. With author Jo Renfro hilarious storytelling voice and adorable illustrations, Peg Gets Plucky is perfect for any kid who's wondered if they have what it takes to keep going on an adventure. "Peg Gets Plucky" is a follow-up to Jo Renfro's picture book story "Peg Gets Crackin'". A fun read from cover to cover, "Pet Gets Plucky" will prove a welcome and enduringly popular pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-7. It should be noted that this hardcover edition of "Peg Gets Plucky" from Beaming Books is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.99).
Editorial Note: Jo Renfro (https://www.jorenfro.com/about) is an author and illustrator based in Colorado. She uses her sense of humor (cultivated from raising three kids, several dogs, numerous cats, and a potbellied pig named Matilda) to create stories that are lighthearted and inspirational.
Me & Lavender
Melody C. Peugh, author
Eve Farb, illustrator
Flash Light Press
www.flashlightpress.com
9781962269230, $18.95, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Me-Lavender-Melody-C-Peugh/dp/196226923X
Synopsis: When Lavender the elephant drops into Ella's bedroom to play, Ella explains that Mommy needs them to stay tidy for an afternoon tea party. But that's a big ask for a little kid. Quiet activities soon escalate to exciting ones -- ending in a magnificent mud-pie mess! Will the playful pair get clean in time for tea?
Critique: All the more impressive when considering that "Me & Lavender" is author/storyteller Melody Peugh's first picture book, and that it is superbly visualized by artist/illustrator Eve Farb, this original, delightful, kid friendly, and fun from cover to cover picture book is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections for children ages 5-7. It should be noted that this hardcover edition of "Me & Lavender" from Flash Light Press is also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note #1: Melody C. Peugh (pronounced Pew) worked at Hallmark Cards and Sears Roebuck, was a Girl Scout leader and 4H leader, and enjoys gardening, hunting fairies with her granddaughters, and broadening young minds.
Editorial Note #2: Eve Farb is a psychologist whose passion is drawing. She has illustrated multiple picture books in Russian, as well as the well-received Clovis Keeps His Cool. (https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22121691.Eve_Farb)
Chalk the Walk
Chelsea Tornetto, author
Laurel Aylesworth, illustrator
Familius
www.familius.com
9781641709682, $17.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Chalk-Walk-Chelsea-Tornetto/dp/1641709685
Synopsis: Faded pavement.
Walls of gray.
Boring city streets?
No way!
"Chalk the Walk" is the story of a pair of adorable siblings as they explore the incredible power of a piece of chalk -- using it to transform the world around them. With people of all ages from their neighborhood coming along, they use their bucket of chalk to make some sidewalk magic.
The rhyming text by Chelsea Tornetto and increasingly colorful illustrations by Laurel Aylesworth make "Chalk the Walk" a true picture book celebration of imagination that encourages young readers to take a piece of sidewalk chalk and join in on the fun!
Critique: An original, fun, and easy read from cover to cover, this hardcover picture book edition of "Chalk the Walk" from Familius will prove to be a welcome and enduringly popular pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 3-5. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Chalk the Walk" by author/storyteller Chelsea Tometto and artist/illustrator Laurel Aylesworth is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.19, Amazon).
Editorial Note #1: Chelsea Tornetto (https://chelseatornetto.com) is a former world geography teacher who has loved writing ever since she was a kid. Her first book, Conquering Content Vocabulary, was published by Scholastic in 2018, but now her passion is picture books. She is the award-winning author of Gardens Are for Growing (Familius 2022) and God Made You Too (WorthyKids 2022), with more titles on the way.
Editorial Note #2: As an introverted kid growing up in Vermont, drawing came naturally to Laurel Aylesworth (https://www.laurelaylesworth.com). Instead of going to the mall like most teenagers, you would find her in her room drawing scenes from Lord of the Rings or copying her favorite characters from Elfquest comics. Later, her career path naturally led to graphic design, but something was missing (namely, elves and magic). She found her calling as an illustrator after becoming a mother and, hence, wading knee-deep in picture books from the library.
Yay!
Jessica Kulekjian, author
Zara Gonzalez Hoang, illustrator
Bloomsbury Children's Books
www.bloomsbury.com
9781547609215, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Yay-Jessica-Kulekjian/dp/1547609214
Synopsis: A joyous picture book celebrating all of life's moments, whether big or small, "Yay!" by author Jessica Kulekjian asks young readers -- What reason to say "yay" will you discover today?
Life is full of moments to celebrate! Whether you win big or learn a tough lesson, get lucky or need to try again, have a big crowd cheering for you or are on your own, say YAY!
Critique: "Yay!" by author/storyteller Jessica Kulekjian and artist/illustrator Zara Gonzalez Hoang is merrily joyful and enthusiasm inspiring picture book is the perfect for little loved ones at graduations, birthdays, or any occasion just meant to say I love you. Charmingly illustrated and carrying an important message about appreciating what life has to offer, "Yay!" is original, unique, special, and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 3-6. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Yay!" from Bloomsbury Children's Books is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note #1: Jessica Kulekjian (www.jessicakulekjian.com) is the author of children's picture books, including First Notes of Spring and Before We Stood Tall: From Small Seed to Mighty Tree. Jessica has an MA in teaching and works at a public charter school, supporting homeschooling families. She can be followed on Instagram @jessicakulekjian, and Twitter @jesskulekjian
Editorial Note #2: Zara Gonzalez Hoang (www.zaralikestodraw.com) is a picture book author and illustrator. She can be followed on Twitter & Instagram @zarprey
Daddy: Live in Concert
Tyler Hilton, author
Eugenia Nobati, illustrator
Familius
www.familius.com
9781641708937, $17.99 HC / $16.19 Kindle, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Daddy-Live-Concert-Tyler-Hilton/dp/164170893X
Synopsis: Who's ready to sing?
Who's ready to play?
Then help me in welcoming DADDY on stage!
Daddy is going to bring the house down with a private concert in the living room. Bring all your stuffed friends to the living room and enjoy the show!
From actor and musician Tyler Hilton comes "Daddy: Live in Concert", providing a sweet window into the mind of a child, Daddy's #1 fan, as her father serenades her with all her favorite nursery rhymes and bedtime songs.
With hilarious illustrations by Eugenia Nobati, Daddy: Live in Concert is a rockin' good time until bedtime.
Critique: Daddy: Live in Concert is a delightful picturebook, highly recommended especially for fathers to read aloud to their children. The quirky illustrations add a lively touch to the heartwarming story of a father providing a special bedtime concert for his young daughter. Daddy: Live in Concert is just plain fun! It should be noted for personal reading lists that Daddy: Live in Concert is also available in a Kindle edition ($16.19).
Editorial Note #1: Tyler James Hilton (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tyler_Hilton) is an American singer-songwriter, actor and author, known for his re-occurring and prominent role on The WB/CW's One Tree Hill as Chris Keller, his role as Elvis Presley in the Johnny Cash biopic Walk the Line, and his professional career in music, which he began in 2000.
Editorial Note #2: Eugenia Nobati was born in 1968, Buenos Aires, Argentina, where she still lives with her family, two cats and a dog. Started as a Graphic Designer in 1990, but in 1997, she decided to dedicate her time exclusively to illustration, mostly to children's books. Eugenia has worked with all kinds of stuff, from postage stamps to packaging to character designs for animation, always in her own style. Over the years, her work has been published in nine countries and more than forty books. (https://www.advocate-art.com/eugenia-nobati)
The Best Garden in the World
Alice Courtley
Ivy Kids Eco
c/o Quarto Group Children's Books
https://quarto.com/category/7/kids-teens
9781836001362, $19.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Best-Garden-World-Alice-Courtley/dp/1836001363
Synopsis: Steve is a city squirrel. He's got style, he's cultured, he knows what he likes. But for a while now he's felt a call to the wild. So Steve packs up his things, says goodbye to city life and moves to the forest.
He's got BIG plans: he's going to build the best garden in the world. He's got his vision in mind, his tools at hand, and his rules for visitors ready. So, why don't the forest folk seem to enjoy his garden as much as he does?
Steve sets off to find out, and with each forest neighbor he meets, Steve discovers that perhaps what he thought was "best" might have been missing a thing or two...
Critique: An original and resonating picture book story about fresh starts, friendship, and gaining new perspectives, "The Best Garden in the World" by author/illustrator Alice Courtley is a lively, splendidly illustrated, and fun read from cover to cover. While an especially recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 3-7, it should be noted that this hardcover edition of "The Best Garden in the World" from Ivy Kids Eco is also readily available in paperback (9781836001355, $14.50) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.77, Amazon).
Editorial Note: Alice Courtley (https://www.alicecourtley.com) is an author and illustrator based in the UK. She studied Children's Book Illustration on the Cambridge School of Art MA, and her work has been recognised for prizes such as the Batsford Prize and featured in exhibitions such as the AOI's 'Inspired to Innovate' in London. Alice's published books include Lost in the City and Waiting for Froggo.
Camp Grandma and Grandpa
Gina Bellisario, author
Chloe Burgett, illustrator
www.ginabellisario.com
Two Lions
c/o Amazon Publishing
9781662521652, $18.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Camp-Grandma-Grandpa-Gina-Bellisario/dp/1662521650
Synopsis: When Leo and Tessa stay overnight with their grandparents, it's anything but the typical visit.
This time, all of their activities have a camp theme -- from a s'mores surprise on the balcony to bathtub fishing. But when they try to sleep in their bedroom tent, they hear a strange noise. Could it be an animal... or maybe it's just Grandpa snoring?
Critique: Original, charming, fun and funny, Grandparents and their grandchildren will especially appreciate and enjoy "Camp Grandma and Grandpa", a playful, warm-hearted picture book story by the team of author/storyteller Gina Bellisario and artist/illustrator Chloe Burgett. While especially recommended as an enduringly popular pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections fo children ages 3-7 years, it should be noted that this hardcover edition of "Camp Grandma and Grandpa" from Two Lions is also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).
Editorial Note #1: Gina Bellisario (www.ginabellisario.com) is the author of many books for children, including Give Back, illustrated by Alicia Mas, and the Ellie Ultra chapter book series. She lives with her family in Illinois.
Editorial Note #2: Chloe Burgett (www.chloebartistry.com) is a children's book illustrator who lived next door to her grandparents growing up. Her titles include the Etta Extraordinaire series, written by Roda Ahmed and Charnaie Gordon, and Cooler than Lemonade, written by Harshita Jerath. Chloe and her partner live in the Great Plains with a cat named Pencil and a yard of native prairie grasses and flowers.
Before She Was My Grandmother
Giselle Potter
Enchanted Lion Books
www.enchantedlion.com
9781592704316, $19.99, HC, 52pp
https://www.amazon.com/Before-She-Was-My-Grandmother/dp/159270431X
Synopsis: Whenever I visit my grandmother Alice, we love sitting together and telling each other stories. My favorite part is when she takes out her box of special things and we pass them back and forth. Each object (a doll, a sketchbook, shells and stones, and more) is a clue to a bigger story: the story of her life before she was my grandmother.
Before she was my grandmother, she too was a young girl, with a life very different from my own. Little by little, the stories she tells and the objects she shares from her memory box reveal the many facets of her life, along with her great spirit, with its many colors and tones.
Written and illustrated by the award-winning picture book maker Giselle Potter, "Before She Was My Grandmother" celebrates strong and loving family connections, as well as the little moments and mementos of childhood that we carry with us all our lives -- and pass on to the next generation. It is also a touching reminder of how every life is so much richer and more multifaceted than any single identity or role.
Critique: Eloquent, elegant, simple, charming, engaging, and a fun read from cover to cover, "Before She Was My Grandmother" by author/illustrator Giselle Potter is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 5-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Before She Was My Grandmother" from Enchanted Lion is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.99).
Editorial Note: Giselle Potter (https://www.gisellepotter.com) is the award-winning illustrator of over 30 books for children, some written by herself and others by such authors as Toni Morrison, Mary Pope Osborne, Ursula Hegi, Mathea Harvey, and Gertrude Stein. She also illustrated a column for The New York Times called "Ties".
When Night Comes Calling
Cynthia Schumerth, author
Sheryl Murray, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
https://sleepingbearpress.com
9781534113367, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Night-Comes-Calling-Cynthia-Schumerth/dp/1534113363
Synopsis: From the night sky with its glorious celestial displays to the nocturnal insects and animals that only venture out in the dark, there's an abundance of activity going on once the sun goes down and the stars come out. Tree frogs chirp their throaty songs, bats soar after buzzing mosquitoes, and a Luna moth flutters on its angel-like wings. But finally, it's time to head back home to a cozy bed, and dream of the next night's outdoor adventure.
Critique: An impressively entertaining rhyming text by author/storyteller Cynthia Schumerth and the lush artwork of illustrator Sheryl Murray bring the wonders of the nocturnal natural world to life with the publication of "When Night Comes Calling". Of special note is the inclusion of back matter that provides information about the celestial objects and the nocturnal creatures featured throughout this outstanding picture book -- as well as an explanation of light pollution and how it affects wildlife. Of special interest to young readers with an interest in astronomy, storytelling with poetry, and the animals of the night time, "When Night Comes Calling" is a unique and especially recommended pick for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for ages 5-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "When Night Comes Calling" from Sleeping Bear Press is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.04, Amazon).
Editorial Note #1: Cynthia Schumerth (www.cynthiaschumerth.com) is an award-winning children's author. Cynthia's debut picture book, Let's Pop, Pop, Popcorn, won the National Horticultural Society's Growing Good Kids Award, and the Maryland Blue Crab Young Readers Award. She is a Published and Listed (PAL) member of the Society of Children's Writer's and Illustrators.
Editorial Note #2: Sheryl Murray (https://www.sherylmurray.com) grew up near Chicago in a lively family of eight kids. There were so many children, her dad converted a big yellow school bus to take them on camping adventures in the wilds of Wisconsin and Michigan every summer. Her family spent many wonderful nights by the campfire, exploring the dark woods, and looking up at the stars. Today Sheryl illustrates books from her studio in Portland, Oregon, near forested trails and mountain meadows perfect for watching meteor showers.
Yasi and Mina's Pomegranate Tree
Nikoo Yahyazadeh, author
Serineh Eliasian. illustrator
Tilbury House, Publishers
https://www.tilburyhouse.com
c/o Sleeping Bear Press
www.tilburyhouse.com
9781534113237, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Yasi-Minas-Pomegranate-Voices-Stories/dp/1534113231
Synopsis: Yasi and her best friend Mina love playing under the pomegranate tree in the courtyard of their apartment building in Tehran. When the air sirens start howling, the girls rush to their homes to safety. Yasi doesn't understand the war with Iraq, but she knows it isn't good. The girls reunite in the morning, but Yasi lets her friend know her family has decided to move to the United States. Mina wishes they could go too. When the girls part, Mina gives Yasi a special gift to help her remember their friendship, their tree, and Tehran.
Critique: Original, charming, heartfelt, entertaining, and deftly dealing with the theme of friendship and separation, "Yasi and Mina's Pomegranate Tree" by author/storyteller Nikoo Yahyazadeh and artist/illustrator Serineh Eliasian is a part of the Tilbury House 'Own Voices, Own Stories' series and is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 5-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardover edition of "Yasi and Mina's Pomegranate Tree" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.45, Amazon).
Editorial Note #1: Part of the Own Voices, Own Stories Collection from Sleeping Bear Press, which are written by new authors from historically marginalized groups with the intention of recognizing and amplifying new and diverse voices with underrepresented perspectives.
Hot in the Pot
Lois Wickstrom, author
Janet King, illustrator
Look Under Rocks
c/o Gripper Products
www.lookunderrocks.com
9781954519930, $24.99, HC, 34pp
https://www.amazon.com/Hot-Pot-Lois-Wickstrom/dp/1954519931
Synopsis: There's a new kid in class, named Squilla Balloo. She's smart. She's popular. She's got to go. There's a book in the library with a magic spell: How to Get Rid of your Enemy. Of course, there's a catch. She needs to get one hair from her enemy. It has to be just one hair. While our heroine is brewing her magic, she invites her enemy to visit -- to obtain that hair. One of her own hairs falls in, too. Now, they must work together to stop the magic before they both disappear!
Critique: Impressively original, and a fun read from cover to cover, "Hot in the Pot" by the storytelling team of author Lois Wickstrom and illustrator Janet King is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 6-8. It should be noted that this hardcover edition of "Hot in the Pot" is also readily available for personal reading lists in paperback (9781954519923, $12.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $1.99).
Editorial Note #1: Lois Wickstrom (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lois_Wickstrom) lives in a world where imaginary playmates are real. She doesn't remember being born, so she finds unbirthdays are more exciting than the official once-a-year date on the calendar. She's taken so many science classes that she believes science is the solution to almost every problem, including the dilemmas in fairy tales.
Editorial Note #2: Janet King was born in a small Tudor village in Berkshire England, she attended Epsom Art College after several years of work and travel. She now lives and works Hampshire where she has created illustrations, cartoons, and simple animation as well as sculpting for giftware. But is now more likely to use her illustrating skills, this being her first love. Some of her work is produced directly in Photoshop. Or at times designing the basic concept and scanning into the computer to develop the work. As well as using conventional materials such as pencil, ink, watercolour and gouache. These illustrations have been used for mainly children's books as well as cartooning for manuals and websites.
Candlewick Press
www.candlewickpress.com
New arrivals from Candlewick Press provide young readers with a wealth of picture books as perfect for read-aloud as they are for library acquisition.
https://www.amazon.com/Faerie-Isle-Traditions-Irelands-Forgotten/dp/1536240710
Sine Quinn's The Faerie Isle (9781536240719, $18.99) gathers tales of Ireland's folklore, featuring exceptionally lovely illustrations by Dermot Flynn that lend well to read-aloud enjoyment. There are leprechauns, shapeshifters, giants, and also facts about Irish folklore that will please a wide age range with vivid tales and a few truths presented in lively language suitable for folk story-telling tradition.
https://www.amazon.com/Fairy-Door-Diaries-Flower-Fairies/dp/1536201421
Megan McDonald's Fairy Door Diaries: Eliza and the Flower Fairies (9781536201420, $17.99) will also lend to either read-aloud or advanced elementary-level pursuit. Lenny Wen's inviting illustrations capture the story of flower fairies who have been cursed. Eliza of the Elves discovers this as she enters their kingdom. The solution is a compendium of flowers that, together, can cure; but "magic is not easy to detect, at first." Eliza must overcome some barriers in order to gather the elements of cure and change in this winning story of botany, magic, and adventure. The flowers are fast losing their scents. Can Witch Hazel help, and can she overcome the Demon Wind to cure them? This fine fairytale will attract a wide age range.
https://www.amazon.com/Search-Carmella-Chloe-Savage/dp/153623897X
Chloe Savage's The Search for Carmella: What Mystery Lurks in the Deep? (9781536238976, $18.99) tells of marine biologist Dr. Rose, who dreams of locating an exceptionally strange creature that is the stuff of legends. As Dr. Rose and pilot Annie enter a submersible vehicle that could bring them to see the legendary Carmella, their journey captures the joy and imagination of exploring strange new undersea worlds, bringing science and fictional drama together with inviting drawings to capture young reader attention.
https://www.amazon.com/Bedtime-Boring-Cheery-Street-Story/dp/153624127X
Georgie Birkett's Bedtime is Boring! (9781536241273, $17.99) returns the Cherry Street characters to a new story in which young frog Cosmo finds life far too busy to sleep when he should. Bedtime is boring! How he figures out that, in order to enjoy the activities of daytime, he'd better sleep, makes for a compelling lesson kids will have fun absorbing as Cosmo and his tired Mommy learn lessons about how to approach bedtime differently.
https://www.amazon.com/Dear-Bookstore-Emily-Arrow/dp/1536210692
Emily Arrow's Dear Bookstore (9781536210699, $17.99) is illustrated by Genevieve Godbout and presents a dialogue between a little girl and the local bookstore she loves. "We're glad you're here!" say all the residents of an inviting book-filled refuge. Kids will absorb the comforts and invitation of a good bookstore via the young reader's welcoming experiences.
https://www.amazon.com/Greedy-Wolf-Timothy-Knapman/dp/1536240699
Timothy Knapman and Jean Jullien's The Greedy Wolf (9781536240696, $18.99) explores just why seven clever goats can fend off a big, hungry wolf, but it takes a twist in retelling the Grimm's "The Wolf and the Seven Young Goats" that readers won't see coming. In this version, home-alone youngsters are too clever to answer the door where a "mailman" claims to have an important delivery, or an ice-cream man is giving away free ice cream. Delightful scenarios will engage both young listeners and read-aloud parents in a zany story of clever young thinkers.
https://www.amazon.com/Rubys-Repair-Caf%C3%A9-Michelle-Worthington/dp/1915167655
Michelle Worthington's Ruby's Repair Cafe (9781915167651, $18.99) receives joyful illustrations by Zoe Bennett as it features a girl who loves to fix things in her Repair Cafe. Facing competition from a new department store's offerings, Ruby sees business fading because everyone wants shiny new things. How can she save her family business? A fine story of a clever girl who demonstrates business sense and savvy about what people really want makes for an engaging story.
All these new picture book titles from Candlewick Press are very highly recommended as library acquisitions and for read-aloud adults seeking high-quality books.
Wm. B. Eerdmans
www.eerdmans.com
These new arrivals from Eerdmans gather stories picture book readers will find diverse and original.
https://www.amazon.com/Adi-Boutanga-Alain-Serge-Dzotap/dp/0802856292
Alain Serge Dzotap and Marc Daniau's Adi of Boutanga: A Story from Cameroon (9780802856296, $18.99) will reach ages 10 and older with the story of thirteen-year-old Cameroonian Adi, who loves her childhood play... until an uncle decides she's now old enough to get married! How can Adi maintain her childhood freedom when a powerful relative has plans for her future as an adult? The first-person narrative offers rich insights into family and women's roles in Cameroon.
https://www.amazon.com/How-Do-You-Eat-Color/dp/0802856381
Mabi David's How Do You Eat Color? (9780802856388, $18.99) will appeal to ages 4-8 with its pairing of engaging color drawings by Yas Doctor with the tale of a boy, a girl, and a chameleon who encounter the amazing fruits and vegetables of their world. The story, translated from Filipino, profiles the foods of the Philippines in an exceptionally colorful way as kids are invited to understand the daily lives and culture of the islands.
https://www.amazon.com/Universe-Rainbows-Multicolored-Spectacular-Curious/dp/0802855717
A Universe of Rainbows: Multicolored Poems for a Multicolored World by Matt Forrest Esenwine (9780802855718, $18.99) will reach kids up to ten years old with poems that portray different kinds of rainbows in life. It contributes to Eerdmans' 'Spectacular STEAM for Curious Readers' series, pairing rainbow science with an artistic inspection profiling poems from a range of contributors, from Marilyn Singer and Nikki Grimes to Janet Wong. The diversity of the people, poems, and situations makes for an exceptional survey that also shines via gorgeous illustrations by Jamey Christoph.
All three of these new Eerdman books for young readers are excellent choices for discriminating elementary-level picture book collections.
New Frontier Publishing
www.newfrontierpublishing.us
New arrivals from New Frontier Publishing are top recommendations for libraries seeking lasting lending value from bright, appealing picture books.
https://www.amazon.com/Just-Time-Kind-Michele-Hornsby/dp/1915641195
Just-In Time to Be Kind by Michele Hornsby and Rizkia Gita (9781915641199, $18.99) tells of superhero kid Justin, whose power is arriving just in time to be kind. His adventures begin at the local grocery store, where he helps an elderly shopper load groceries into her car. Then he makes a trip to the bank, where he observes a homeless man sitting outside it with a cardboard sign and an empty cup. His supportive mother helps him figure out how he can help each person in a wonderful message about kindness, caring, and family interactions that help Justin look around his world to make it better. The message of empowerment and the colorful way in which Justin's life becomes richer because of his superpower will translate to fine discussions between kids and read-aloud adults.
https://www.amazon.com/Fantastic-Frankie-Jess-Rose/dp/1915167337
Jess Rose's Fantastic Frankie (9781915167330, $18.99) tells of a fox who is fabulous, amazing, and fun with his various colorful costumes. Not everyone appreciates him, however. As Frankie tries to make everyone happy, he finds that he only is making himself feel more unhappy, while those who appreciated his originality miss the originally colorful Frankie, even if he was fancy and not very fox-like. Kids and read-aloud adults will appreciate the important message about individuality and pleasing others delivered in this zany story of a creative, sensitive little fox.
https://www.amazon.com/Mountain-Gorilla-Together-Change-World/dp/1915167256
Beverly Jatwani's Gogo The Mountain Gorilla (9781915167255, $18.99) receives fine illustrations by Sawyer Cloud as it explores a mountain gorilla's life. It's one of seven tales of connections between endangered animals and children that spans seven continents. This fourth book in the series tells of Kito, who comes upon a mountain gorilla in the forest and learns to understand it in a way that changes his life. A warm story of rescue and connection evolves which is uplifting and thought-provoking.
https://www.amazon.com/Boo-Loves-Books-Frontier-Titles/dp/1912858800
Kaye Baillie and Tracie Grimwood's Boo Loves Books (9781912858804, $17.99) both celebrates books and reading and tells of a field trip that involves not books, but an animal shelter visit. This worries Phoebe, who frets about reading and doesn't know anything about dogs. Her mandate to read to Big Boo changes her perceptions about what is possible in a tale that will delight read-aloud adults looking for a very different story about literacy and animals/human relationships.
All of these new titles for young readers are fine selections, sporting unique themes and colorful attraction, promising enduring library lending interest.
Penguin Random House
www.penguin.com/kids
New arrivals from Penguin offer picture book readers diverse choices pairing vivid illustrations and compelling writing.
https://www.amazon.com/Girls-Rise-Amanda-Gorman/dp/0593624181
Girls on the Rise by Amanda Gorman (9780593624180, $19.99) is illustrated with appealing, colorful drawings by Loveis Wise as it captures the feeling that girls can be strong and powerful... especially when they work together. Amanda Gorman's poem celebrates and rallies girls' efforts, pairing free verse with reflections suitable for roundtable discussion: "But here's the thing:/When one girl stands up, She is never alone."
https://www.amazon.com/Unstoppable-John-Library-Card-History/dp/059352490X
Pat Zietlow Miller's Unstoppable John: How John Lewis Got His Library Card - and Helped Change History (9780593524909, $18.99) enjoys fine illustration by Jerry Jordan as it explores how one man defied the notion that libraries were only for white people, spending his life advocating for change. During the course of exploring John Lewis's pursuits, young readers receive thought-provoking history, accounts of legal and social challenges, and a biography that reads like dramatic, accessible fiction which ties together many insights about Lewis's life, times, and impact. Collections seeking picture book biographies of early civil rights leaders whose contributions were notable (yet perhaps under-mentioned) will want to add Unstoppable John to their collections.
https://www.amazon.com/Interpreter-Olivia-Abtahi/dp/0593620445
Olivia Abtahi's The Interpreter (9780593620441, $18.99) features colorful, good-size illustrations by Monica Arnaldo as it explores the importance of a bilingual girl charged with helping her Spanish-speaking parents navigate the world around them. Young Cecilia gets tired, sometimes, of being an interpreter. The job holds much responsibility. But, how can she reduce or leave her role? The thought-provoking story introduces a dilemma that will foster communication between adults and children who feel compelled to help them.
https://www.amazon.com/Sharing-Dream-Shelia-P-Moses/dp/0593617290
Sharing the Dream by Sheila P. Moses (9780593617298, $18.99) features art by Keith Mallett, moving through a single day in American history through a child's eyes as she participates in the March on Washington. How she absorbs the words, speeches, and inspiration of civil rights leaders and participants such as Dr. Martin Luther King is the foundation of a thought-provoking celebration of freedom and struggle that will enlighten many young readers.
https://www.amazon.com/Prince-Among-Slaves-N-Senzai/dp/1984816985
N.H. Senzai's Prince Among Slaves: The Remarkable True Story of an African Prince Enslaved in Mississippi, and His Journey Home (9781984816986, $19.99) chronicles the 1700s life of West African Prince Abdulrahman Sori, who was kidnapped from his home and taken to America, where he became a slave. How he was forced to move from the life of an educated scholar fluent in five languages to that of a field worker makes for a gripping story that comes to life for young readers.
All of these new titles for young readers are exceptional choices, highly recommended for libraries interested in increasing their diversity of book subjects at the picture book level.
Simon & Schuster
www.simonandschuster.com
These new arrivals are highly recommended for libraries seeking picture books that will be lasting library standouts for young readers.
https://www.amazon.com/Poo-Pile-Prairie-Tiny-Habitats/dp/1665935022
Amy Hevron's Poo Pile on the Prairie (9781665935029, $19.99) is a "Tiny Habitats" book that looks inside a pile of poo to consider the little plants and creatures that live inside of it. A seasonal examination of the poo pile's evolutionary process is accompanied by attractive, colorful illustrations that invite kids to consider its changing ecology.
https://www.amazon.com/Alpacas-Here-There-Carrie-Tillotson/dp/1665942029
Carrie Tillotson's Alpacas Here, Alpacas There (9781665942027, $19.99) receives bright drawings by Elisa Chavarri as it explores alpacas in their native South American home, as well as in North America. Illustrations follow the daily care and natural history of the alpaca, with contrasting pages highlighting differences between South and North American cultures. Kids will find these comparisons thought-provoking, especially when accompanied by read-aloud parental guidance.
https://www.amazon.com/Mermaids-Are-Worst-Alex-Willan/dp/1665962593
Alex Willan's Mermaids Are the Worst! (9781665962599, $19.99) presents the zany story of mermaids who show up in the middle of Gilbert's goblin getaway, introducing their festivities in a manner that translates to annoyance. How can Gilbert find bliss on the beach with so many active mermaids taking over his world in the 105th Annual Mermaid Tournament of Awesomeness? Read-aloud parents will especially appreciate this fun story's underlying messages about differences, energy levels, expectations, and adaptation.
https://www.amazon.com/Meet-Mini-Mammals-Natural-History-Museum/dp/1665947160
Meet the Mini-Mammals: A Night at the Natural History Museum by Melissa Stewart (9781665947169, $19.99) presents especially notable, outstanding illustrations by Brian Lies as it introduces some of the world's smallest mammals. Which mammal is the tiniest of all? A fun cavalcade of creatures emerges with full-page, gorgeous, colorful illustrations to capture young reader attention.
Each of these new titles are top picks for school and community libraries seeking books that will attract, educate, and entertain young readers.
Sleeping Bear Press
www.sleepingbearpress.com
Newly published, diverse, and intriguing picture books for young readers from Sleeping Bear Press deserve profile and mention in elementary-level libraries and by read-aloud adults. All are exceptionally colorful and compelling.
https://www.amazon.com/Tallulah-Mermaid-Great-Lakes-Pledge/dp/1534113177
Talulah the Mermaid and the Great Lakes Pledge (9781534113176, $18.99) will reach ages 4-8 with its special celebration of Great Lakes creatures, where Tallulah the mermaid will be honored as the Great Lakes Mermaid. She takes the pledge, but finds it involves a learning curve about environmental dangers, natural history, and tasks she must undertake to keep everything connected and healthy. Brooke O'Neill's appealing drawings of mermaids and animals creates a lively interplay between message and image.
https://www.amazon.com/Seasons-Farm-Chelsea-Tornetto/dp/1534113061
Chelsea Tornetto's Seasons on the Farm (9781534113060, $18.99) receives uplifting, colorful illustrations by Karen Bunting as it follows life on the farm over four seasons, examining different types of work and how it is incorporated into daily and seasonal chores. Rhyming text reinforces the appeal, enhancing read-aloud experiences: Days grow longer, corn grows tall. Tailgates can do more than haul.
https://www.amazon.com/This-Crew-That-Builds-School/dp/1534113193
Sherry Fellores's This is the Crew That Builds Our School (9781534113190, $18.99) is especially bright and bubbly, featuring colorful animal drawings by Sam Caldwell that reinforce a rollicking rhyme about building a school. The animal illustrations make the projects even more engaging and fun; while the rhymes describe how things work together ("This is the way the power comes, ROLL and TWIST, CHECK THE LIST!").
https://www.amazon.com/Today-Brain-Dinosaur-Voices-Stories/dp/1534113541
Kyla and Jedidiah Mora's Today My Brain is a Dinosaur (9781534113541, $18.99) reviews what it feels like to live with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergencies. Illustrated by Mette Engell, it follows a young boy who wishes he could be like all the other boys. One day he may feel like a fearsome dinosaur; the next, he may be fielding a storm of inner turmoil. How the boy channels these feelings to face the world in the best possible way makes for a story of understanding for all young readers.
https://www.amazon.com/Pine-Cone-Regrown-Species-Thrives/dp/1534112960
Elisa Boxer's Pine Cone Regrown: How One Species Thrives After Fire (9781534112964, $18.99) enjoys engaging illustrations by Kevin and Kristen Howdeshell as it shows how a pine cone survives a forest fire, and how life can regrow from devastation. Lovely art and simple language capture forest ecology before and after the fire, making for a beautiful story that will appeal to a wide age range.
All of these new titles from Sleeping Bear Press are fine picks that promise lasting library lending value and attractive read-aloud choices for young readers.
The Bilingual Shelf
Baby's First Cherokee
Brad Wagnon, author
Beth Anderson, illustrator
7th Generation
c/o The Book Publishing Company
www.BookPubCo.com
9781570674273, $11.95, Board Book, 16pp
https://www.amazon.com/Babys-First-Cherokee-English/dp/1570674272
Synopsis: "Baby's First Cherokee" is a beautifully illustrated bilingual (English-Cherokee) board book that introduces toddlers and young children to the Cherokee syllabary. The thirteen colorful illustrations by Beth Anderson draw children into the picture on every page. The object in each picture is named in Cherokee, along with the Cherokee pronunciation of the word, and the name of the object in English by Brad Wagnon.
Critique: Original, special, informative and fun, "Baby's First Cherokee" is a unique and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, and community library Native American board book collections for children ages 6 months to 2 years.
Editorial Note #1: Brad Wagnon, author, and storyteller is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. He taught Cherokee history, culture, and language at Tahlequah High School for ten years. Brad has a degree from Northeastern State University in Criminal Justice and Native American Studies. Brad works for Cherokee Nation Emergency Management as the Community Preparedness Coordinator. He has a passion for sharing Cherokee History and Culture with future generations and has authored four Cherokee children's books based on traditional Cherokee stories: How the World Was Made: A Cherokee Story, The Land of the Great Turtles, and The First Fire: A Cherokee Story.
Editorial Note #2: Beth Anderson is a Cherokee Nation citizen and a contemporary visual artist. Her work is influenced by her culture, her love of materials and handmade objects, and her relationship with nature. Beth holds a BFA in sculpture from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas, and is certified by the Cherokee Nation Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO). She is a member of the US Department of Interior's Indian Arts and Crafts Board and is a board member and the Social Media Chair of the Southeastern Indian Artists Association.
How the World Was Made
Brad Wagnon, author
Alex Stephenson, illustrator
7th Generation
c/o The Book Publishing Company
www.BookPubCo.com
9781939053374, $14.95, PB, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/How-World-Made-Cherokee-English/dp/1939053374
Synopsis: How the World Was Made is a traditional Cherokee creation story. It takes place during a time when animals did many of the things that people can do. When the earth was young, the animals lived on a rock above it, and the earth was covered with water. The animals needed more room, but where could they find it?
Critique: Presented in a bilingual (English/Cherokee) format, "How the World Was Made" by author/storyteller Brad Wagnon and artist/illustrator Alex Stephenson, retells the traditional Cherokee folktale about how the earth was created, while teaching the valuable lesson that even the smallest creature can make a big difference. This paperback edition of "How the World Was Made" is perfect for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Native American Studies and Bilingual Picture Book collections for children ages 3-5..
Editorial Note #1: Brad Wagnon is a lifelong resident of the Gideon community and a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. He taught Cherokee history, culture and language at Tahlequah High School in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, for 10 years. Brad currently works for Cherokee Nation Community and Cultural Outreach as a technical assistance specialist. He trains community leaders how to better serve their communities and manage nonprofits.
Editorial Note: Alex Stephenson is a therapist, author and artist. As a licensed professional counselor, he has served as a therapist for the Cherokee Nation since 2014. Alex has written and illustrated books on friendship, acceptance, anxiety and compassion with the goal of helping children and parents discuss difficult topics more comfortably.
laget hiyt toxwum / Herring to Huckleberries
Osil (Betty Wilson), author
Prashant Miranda, illustrator
HighWater Press
c/o Portage and Main Press
https://www.portageandmainpress.com/HighWater-Press
9781774921180, $21.95, HC, 44pp
https://www.amazon.com/laget-hiyt-toxwum-Herring-Huckleberries/dp/1774921189
Synopsis: It's Osil's favourite time of year! When the seasons change and the weather grows warm, the herring return to the waters of the Tla'amin Nation, located on the southwest coast of British Columbia. For Osil and her grandparents, their arrival is the beginning of a full year of harvesting traditional foods provided by the sea and land. Together they fish, pick berries, and dig for clams. Everything tastes so good. And the best part is that there is enough for everyone to share!
Young readers will connect with the land as they explore traditional Indigenous ways of gathering food in "laget hiyt toxwum / Herring to Huckleberries", a beautifully illustrated, bilingual picture book written in the Comox language and English. Drawn from the childhood memories of Osil (Betty Wilson), "laget hiyt toxwum / Herring to Huckleberries" is sure to charm its readers (as well as their parents and teachers!). "laget hiyt toxwum / Herring to Huckleberries" includes a glossary and pronunciation guide, a map, and illustrations and descriptions of the traditional foods mentioned in the story.
Critique: Original, unique, informative, fun and fascinating from cover to cover, "laget hiyt toxwum / Herring to Huckleberries" is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, elementary school, and community library Native American and Bilingual picture book collections for children ages 6-8. It should be noted that this hardcover edition from HighWater Press is also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.00).
Editorial Note #1: Osil (Betty Wilson) has lived in her community of Tla'amin, British Columbia, her entire life. Throughout her 25-year teaching career, she worked extensively to revitalize the Comox language, and continues to work as part of a team that is archiving Comox language words and phrases so they are not lost. She enjoys weaving traditional cedar-root baskets and hopes to become a master in this art.
Editorial Note #2: Prashant Miranda grew up in Bangalore and studied at India's National Institute of Design. After moving to Canada in 1999, he designed children's animated shows for TV in Toronto. He now spends his time in the rainforests on the west coast of Canada, where he travels and documents his life through his watercolour journals, animates films, teaches visual art, illustrates children's books, and paints murals.
The Elementary Fiction Shelf
The Adventures of Beatrice Bubbles
Evan Krachman, author
Allison Posternock, illustrator
Precocity Press
https://www.precocitypress.com
9798992055238, $19.95 Paperback
https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Beatrice-Bubbles-happens-Laparopicus/dp/B0DSJXTRF4
The Adventures of Beatrice Bubbles is a dazzling celebration of imagination, invention, and the unexpected twists that come with good intentions. This whimsical picture book follows a lonely, disheartened little girl and her magical, inventive imaginary friend who crafts a delightful surprise that "makes her heart sing." But as with any great adventure, surprises don't always go as planned!
Blending heartwarming themes of kindness with a fantastical journey fueled by creative ingenuity, this story showcases the transformative power of thinking outside the box - sometimes quite literally, in the case of a bubble-powered adventure! "The Adventures of Beatrice Bubbles" brims with clever wordplay, humor, and a touch of zany chaos, proving that a bit of creativity can turn even the most unexpected detours into something extraordinary.
Allison Posternock's vibrant, expressive illustrations bring this bubbling world to life, making the adventure even more enchanting. While young readers will delight in the colorful escapades, an adult's read-aloud touch will help weave together the playful language and the deeper meaning behind Beatrice's magical journey. And speaking of playful language, the book is full of inventive, lyrical prose that dances off the page:
"Stanley called the Piggle
and told him his story, in not much glory.
A Piggle, you ask? Part Pig, Part Smart,
sometimes too tart, he can fix any old thing
that goes bing!"
Zany, thought-provoking, and bursting with creative energy, The Adventures of Beatrice Bubbles is a must-read for parents, educators, and libraries looking for a delightfully original tale that celebrates the power of imagination, invention, and unexpected discoveries.
The Middle Grade Fiction Shelf
Willy and Stone Fox
Robert Tate Miller, author
Nicole Neidhardt, illustrator
Tilbury House, Publishers
https://www.tilburyhouse.com
c/o Sleeping Bear Press
www.tilburyhouse.com
9780884489726, $16.99, HC, 96pp
https://www.amazon.com/Willy-Stone-Robert-Tate-Miller/dp/0884489728
Synopsis: "Willy and Stone Fox" by Robert Tate Miller is the thrilling sequel to his novel, "Stone Fox". It has been two years since Willy competed in that fateful National Dogsled Race. Two years since he lost his dog, Searchlight. Two years since Stone Fox stood up and made sure Willy won the race, Willy carrying Searchlight over the finish line while Stone Fox held the other racers at bay. And now, Stone Fox needs Willy's help to save his land and his family. But can Willy race again? And without Searchlight?
Critique: A fun read from cover to cover, "Willy and Stone Fox" once again showcases the late Robert Tate Miller's genuine flair for an original, distinctive, and reader engaging narrative storytelling style. Nicely illustrated with B/W images by Nicole Neidhardt, "Willy and Stone Fox" is a perfect pick for elementary school, middle school, and community library dog-themed action adventure collections for young readers ages 8-12. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Willy and Stone Fox" from Tilbury House Publishing is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.14, Amazon).
Editorial Note #1: Robert Tate Miller (May 04, 1962 - July 11, 2023) was a talented author and screenwriter, as well as a faculty member at the Berkeley Hall School in Los Angeles, California. (www.goodreads.com/author/show/856302.Robert_Tate_Miller)
Editorial Note: Nicole Neidhardt is Dine (Navajo) of Kiiyaa'aanii clan. She grew up and now lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Tewa territory. She has a Master of Fine Arts and works in a variety of media, including book illustration, mylar stenciling, installation, and mural painting and design. (https://nicoleneidhardt.com)
The Burning Season
Caroline Starr Rose
Nancy Paulsen Books
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
https://www.penguin.com
9780593617939, $17.99, HC, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Burning-Season-Caroline-Starr-Rose/dp/0593617932
Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Opal has a secret: she's deathly afraid of fire. Still Opal is preparing to become a fourth-generation wildfire lookout on Wolf Mountain, deep in the New Mexico wilderness. She, Mom, and Gran live at ten thousand feet in a single room at the top of a fire tower. They are responsible for spotting any hint of smoke before it becomes an uncontrollable blaze.
Instead of training for the lonely life of a lookout, Opal wishes she could be starting seventh grade in Silver City, attending real classes with kids her own age and even going to afterschool clubs like FFA. But Wolf Mountain has other ideas.
When Mom makes the long trek to town for supplies and Gran goes missing, Opal is the only one to spot a tell-tale spiral of smoke moving up the mountainside. She'll have to be braver than she's ever been as she heads into the woods, beyond Wolf Ridge's old blackened burn scar, to face down a fire on her own.
But when a fire is what took her father away, and Opal herself knows the sting of smoke and lick of flames, how can she be brave enough when it really counts?
Critique: Riveting, original, deftly written, emotionally engaging, and a fascinating read from start to finish, "The Burning Season" by author/storyteller Caroline Starr Rose will be of particular interest to the fans of coming-of-age stories set in an unusual place and circumstance. An ideal and unreservedly recommended pick for middle school and community library Contemporary General Fiction collections for young readers ages 10-13, it should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "The Burning Season" from Nancy Paulsen Books is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Editorial Note: Caroline Starr Rose (https://carolinestarrrose.com) is an author whose books have been ALA-ALSC Notable, Junior Library Guild, ABA New Voices, Kids' Indie Next, Amazon's Best Books of the Month for Kids, and Bank Street College of Education Best Books selections. In addition, her books have been nominated for almost two dozen state award lists.
Dinosaur Land
Diane Green
DCG Books
www.DCGBooks.com
9798301536069, $10.99
https://www.amazon.com/Dinosaur-Land-Diane-Green/dp/B0DPHYMNVX
Dinosaur Land presents a short read (under 50 pages) for preteens interested in adventure, nonstop action, and a plot that attracts on many levels. 12-year-old foster kid Tommy is being placed in yet another new home. His tendency to irritate his foster families keeps him on the move... it's not inadvertent, but carefully planned: "Tomorrow, the new parent was supposed to take him. He might as well sleep and get some energy to be a terror." This time, he's placed with a zany old man he calls "Grandpa" (not affectionately).
The elder's circumstances prove anything but dry and predictable. This foster family is different. As Tommy interacts with the old man and learns surprising new lessons, he unexpectedly becomes an accepted, valued member of the household, learning important lessons that prepare him for life in unexpected ways.
There's a dinosaur on the lawn, a fellow snobby foster kid whose attitude rankles similarly to how Tommy acts towards others, and surprising encounters with dinosaurs that keep him (and his foster father) literally on the run: "A pounding sound echoed through the trees. It was like a herd of elephants -- or something even bigger. Tommy's heart thundered in his chest as he watched. The leaves on the trees shook, and the birds flew overhead as if to escape something terrible. Then he saw them -- two dinosaurs, alive, moving toward them, as real as he was.
"Time to skedaddle," Grandpa whispered. He took off running. Tommy thought for a second, looked back, and sprinted after Grandpa.
"Won't come near the house. Afraid of humans they are."
'Braveheart' Tomkins wasn't ever going out in those woods again."
Diane Green is a master of the unexpected, keeping the pace fast and her characters realistic. She creates ironic scenes that add wry humor into the mix of dinosaur confrontations and bigger-picture thinking about the rocky road towards maturity. Kids who enjoy fast-paced adventures will find plenty of unexpected twists and turns in Dinosaur Land. But as they view life through young, jaded Tommy's eyes, they will learn that events aren't always boringly predictable. Nor are people.
Colorful characters give the story sharp definition, compelling psychological attraction, and thoroughly engrossing encounters. Dinosaur Land's brevity is attractive to reluctant readers, who will find the story also provides a lesson in how much succinct writing, when masterfully done, can prove a major attraction.
Especially recommended for foster children and families, who can enjoy reading about and discussing Tommy's progress together, Dinosaur Land is an important tale of not just adventure, but realization about family, life connections, and developing new perspective.
The Young Adult Fiction Shelf
Sentient Being
Jay VanLandingham
www.jayvanlandingham.com
Climb That Mountain Press
9798985251586, $19.99
https://www.amazon.com/Sentient-Being-Jay-Vanlandingham/dp/B0F575S4PZ
Sentient Being concludes the Sentient trilogy with a bang; so if no prior familiarity with Jay VanLandingham's books exist, run, don't walk, to read them. Readers become immersed in a 2040 scenario in which America is fractured and chaos reigns.
Bray Hoffman and her companions face the daunting challenge of finding a new place to call home in a world of division and revised definitions of control and rule. The terrorism and slaughter that emerged from the Embedicare takeover has rippled into new possibilities as well as new impossibilities in this story. Bray traverses this environment estranged from her mother, separated from familiar support systems and life, and in prison. She hardly seems in any position to defy or create anything. Think again.
VanLandingham poses a situation so repressive and authoritarian that minor Bray would seem at the mercy of all kinds of forces well beyond her control... and yet, her options expand the more she refuses to bow to what seems inevitable. Bray and her companions Bertan and Kage each have a stake in the outcomes that emerge from various struggles around them. And so they engage on the one level that unites their efforts -- a belief in human connection rather than division. VanLandingham illustrates not only how this mandate comes to life, but how young adults facing a dystopian world can figure out ways to survive and cast their own hopes and values into society.
This imparts much food for thought along the way as young adults enjoy fast-paced confrontations, unexpected diversions in purpose and experience, a dystopian world that does not seem all that distant from modern times, and characters whose concerns and reactions simmer with realistic engagement. Thought-provoking interactions at different levels and between seemingly disparate players in the game of survival will spark not just interest, but discussions in many a reading group and young adult classroom:
"But we're human. We understand when we're causing suffering."
"Yeah, I know. I guess what bothers me is when someone tries to tell me what they think I should or shouldn't do based on their own moral code, without respect for my own values, which may differ. I want us to be able to have a difference of opinion and have that be okay."
Libraries seeing excitement over the previous books in the sci-fi young adult Sentient series will want to add this book to their collections. Young adults seeking an interconnected exploration of personal empowerment, proactive thinking, and human connection will find Sentient Being's swift action and compelling dilemmas lead to a satisfying crescendo of emotional and political discovery.
Quite simply, it's a page-turner of thought-provoking insights about the nature of humanity and human struggle.
Call of the Owl Woman: A Novel of Ancient Peru
K. M. Huber
https://kmhuber.com
Sparkhouse
https://gosparkpress.com
9781684633043, 272pp
https://www.amazon.com/Call-Owl-Woman-Novel-Ancient/dp/1684633044
Synopsis: In sixth-century Peru, the Nasca people have flourished for centuries, their faith and ingenuity keeping the desert valleys green in a land where water is scarce. But a prolonged drought now fuels dangerous unrest. Cunning sorcerers and brutal priests vie for control, and Water Guardians like Patya's father, who refuse to favor the powerful, are under attack.
Devastated by her grandmother's sudden death, fifteen-year-old Patya retreats into dance and music. She does not want to become a healer like the long lineage of women in her family before her. Even her grandmother had hinted she was born for something else. But, in the wake of a deadly earthquake, Patya must not only help the healers, she must do things she never thought possible. As she begins to conquer her self-doubts and trust her own sense of justice, she will also have to outwit men of power to keep her little brother from being sacrificed by religious extremists at the coming solstice.
As Patya begins to realize and grow into her own power, she also discovers her grandmother's secret legacy and prepares to step into an unexpected destiny.
Critique: Original, fascinating, deftly scripted, reader engaging, and a solidly entertaining novel from start to finish, "Call of the Owl Woman" by K. M. Huber is an extraordinary work of historical fiction that is raised by its author to an impressive level of literary excellence that will hold a special appeal to young readers with an interest in magical realism, coming of age tales, and an ancient Peruvian fantasy. While especially and unreservedly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library Historical Fiction & Fantasy collections for young readers ages 13-18, it should be noted for personal reading lists that this paperback edition of "Call of the Owl Woman" from SparkPress is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).
Editorial Note: K. M. Huber (https://kmhuber.com) grew up in the Pacific Northwest climbing trees, wandering in the mountains, wondering about the world, and writing poems. Unforeseen winds carried her to a new life in New York City, chance introduced her to her future husband, and before long another wind blew them together to the stark desert coast of his homeland, Peru. There, she fell under the enchantment of mystical inland Andean peaks, magical valleys, timeless tales and colorful traditions. She currently resides in Maryville, Tennessee with her husband and dog, still zooms with her Lima writer's group, and enjoys being close to mountains again.
A Colonial Stew
Diane Green
DCG Books
www.DCGBooks.com
9798334783034, $9.99
https://www.amazon.com/Colonial-Stew-Humorous-Account-Colonies/dp/B0DBZHS1BL
A Colonial Stew: A Humorous Account of Life in the Colonies presents an engrossing survey of colonial life that uses the "stew" metaphor and its ingredients to draw disparate experiences together. This will reach young adult to adult audiences with vivid portrait of life in the diverse colonies of Massachusetts Bay and New Sweden in the 17th Century. Green's attention to developing different backgrounds, experiences, and personalities creates a satisfyingly uncommon intersection of special interests and experiences which illustrate daily life in these colonies.
The collection opens with "Please Pass the Peas," in which Aquilla Spencer and Sarah Briggs move from England to the American colony for new opportunities. At the same time, mixed-race African princess Rebecca Chase becomes involved with her stepmother's pea-growing business and Aquilla's son Mindwell. Rebecca's experience of being sold and coming to terms with a vastly revised life is but one facet of the ongoing struggles the colonists experience as they move through the days facing unfamiliar environments and challenges. Mindwell's roving eye leaves Rebecca in a vulnerable position as the story moves in unforeseen directions.
As pestilence, passion, and peas drives the couple into further dilemmas with a few easy resolutions, readers receive a full-bodied experience of the social, political, and lifestyle challenges of Colonial times. Each chapter segues into another facet of colony life, representing vivid tumultuous experiences as the fledgling colonies forge ahead and life changes. Diane Green's "stew" holds many captivating ingredients: history, humor, interwoven life experiences, and love, as well as struggle.
Young people seeking short, easily to digest historical pieces representing discoveries that illustrate the forging of Colony life will find A Colonial Stew's special blend of wry wit and daily life experiences to be a truly compelling read. The history featured throughout cements disparate relationships in a strange new land, doing so in a thought-provoking manner most historical reviews of the times don't address: "In her brief introduction to the colony's bounty, Rebecca had made great strides in developing delicious meals from tomatoes. You might not realize this vegetable was considered poisonous in the northern colonies and only used for decoration in Rebecca's previous abode. Tomatoes were never cultivated as a major crop, but Rebecca's combination of tomatoes with cheese, peppers, potatoes, and eggplant drew praise from His Rightful Lord Governor of New Sweden."
With its lively probe and attention to detail, A Colonial Stew gathers all the ingredients for a warm read flavored with historical detail, fast-paced action, and thought-provoking, realistic scenarios. It reaches out to draw all ages into a compelling mix of opportunity, humor, and social and political reflection.
Everything is Poison
Joy McCullough
Dutton Books For Young Readers
c/o Penguin
www.penguinteen.com
9780593855874, $19.99
https://www.amazon.com/Everything-Poison-Joy-McCullough/dp/0593855876
In Everything is Poison, Carmela Tofana has a long-held dream of becoming part of her mother's apothecary in 17th century Rome. Finally, at age sixteen, she's allowed into the inner sanctum. But her lessons on potions and perils reveals a darker side of apothecary that leads her to realize that life and death medicine runs dangerously close together. As she uncovers a secret which introduces new revelations about her life and world, Carmela struggles to reconcile her heart's dreams with new truths. Young adults looking for engrossing stories of young women who navigate dangerous adult territory will relish the intrigue and insights packed into Everything is Poison.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
The Dragon's Apprentice
James Riley
Labyrinth Road
c/o Random House Children's Books
rhcbooks.com
9780593813171 $18.99 hc
9780593813188 $9.99 pbk / $9.99 Kindle
https://www.amazon.com/Dragons-Apprentice-James-Riley/dp/0593813189
The first book of a mirthful new fantasy series, The Dragon's Apprentice will especially appeal to young readers ages 8-12. Ciara is a twelve-year-old girl who accidentally summons Scorch, a very disgruntled dragon, with whom she strikes a deal in order to learn the magic she needs to save her mother. But only the Emperor is allowed to learn magic; if anyone else were to wield magic powers, then an army of monsters would be unleashed on the world - or so everyone is told. Perhaps the common belief is not so true after all, but using magic could still draw the wrath of the Warden's soldiers! Will Ciara's village ever be free of the Emperor and his Warden? Can the extremely cranky Scorch be persuaded to help? The Dragon's Apprentice is a wonderful, (mostly) lighthearted adventure, highly recommended especially for middle grade dragon fans and public and school library children's fantasy collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that The Dragon's Apprentice is also available in a Kindle edition ($9.99).
The Activity Shelf
Out at Home: A Choose Your Path Baseball Book
Lisa M. Bolt Simons
https://lisamboltsimons.com
Lake 7 Creative
https://lake7creative.com
9781940647180, $20.00, PB, 160pp
https://www.amazon.com/Out-Home-Choose-Your-Baseball/dp/1940647185
Synopsis: "Out at Home: A Choose Your Path Baseball Book" by Lisa M. Bolt Simons is not like any other baseball themed sports book. With its 'Choose Your Own Adventure', you are the main character, and life's not easy. You've been in and out of foster care for much of your life. At least you have baseball. It's the one thing that keeps you in school and out of trouble.
But will you stick with the team when your living situation changes for the worse? And with a new kid in town who also plays shortstop, does the team even need you?
With an interactive format, your choices affect the story's outcome. Plus, it's a game within a game: Collect points for your decisions in order to upgrade your character's baseball skills!
Critique: In a Choose Your Own Adventure format that allows kids to read "Out at Home" again and again, this fun and original work of fiction delivers hours of pleasure and is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library collections for ages 9-13. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Out at Home" from Lake 7 Creative is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).
Editorial Note: Lisa M. Bolt Simons (https://lisamboltsimons.com) has been a teacher for more than 20 years, and she's been a writer for as long as she can remember. She has written more than 20 nonfiction children's books, as well as a history book, Faribault Woolen Mill: Both her nonfiction and fiction works have been recognized with various accolades. A mom of twins, Jeri and Anthony, Lisa was a busy sports mom for over a decade.
The Blue Dog and the White Horse: The Best of Friends
Haven Lindsey, author
Emily Hurst Pritchett, illustrator
Brandylane Publishers
www.brandylanepublishers.com
9781962416993, $15.95, PB, 43pp
https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Dog-White-Horse-Friends/dp/1962416992
Synopsis: What happens when Gracie, a small "blue" dog, befriends Max, a big white horse? Despite all outward differences, these two become inseparable!
Young Gracie learns to be confident and unafraid, and aging Max learns that he still has purpose.
In "The Blue Dog and the White Horse: The Best of Friends", young readers will enjoy joining this unlikely pair on real-life adventures as they build bonds of love and trust while navigating excitement, illness, danger, uncertainty, and even great loss together.
In this heartwarming collection of true stories, Gracie, Max, and their community of friends face many of the same emotions and circumstances as people. Their experiences and lessons in courage, compassion, communication, and connection are sure to resonate with children, adults, and families everywhere! A downloadable activity book included!
Critique: Simply stated, "The Blue Dog and the White Horse: The Best of Friends" by author/storyteller Haven Lindsey and artist/illustrator Emily Pritchett is an original, clever and fun read from cover to cover. This paperback edition is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library pet-themed picture book collections for young readers ages 7-10.
Editorial Note #1: Haven Lindsey (https://4havensake.com) is a writer and content strategist who helps people and brands cut through the noise with clear, meaningful storytelling. Once navigating her own path through loss and uncertainty, she now brings empathy, insight, and clarity to everything she writes -- from websites and blogs to books and articles. Whether writing for individuals or organizations, Haven believes the right words can make a real difference.
Editorial Note #2: Emily Hurst Pritchett (https://emilypritchettart.com) is a lifelong fantasy fan who loves making the magic of fantasy a little more real with her art. Emily started her professional artistic career in the Illustration program at Brigham Young University. Emily has worked on art and visual development for fantasy and gaming outlets, including art in Pathways Magazine, and character illustration for The Glass Cannon and The Critshow podcast. Outside the fantasy genre, Emily spends much of her professional time illustrating for children's books and young adult novels. She has illustrated nine published children's books and five middle-grade book covers, with more on the way.
The Graphic Novel Shelf
Surviving the City, volume 1
Tasha Spillett, author
Natasha Donovan & Donovan Yaciuk, illustrators
HighWater Press
https://www.portageandmainpress.com/HighWater-Press
9781553797562, $18.95, PB, 56pp
https://www.amazon.com/Surviving-City-Debwe-Tasha-Spillett/dp/1553797566
Synopsis: Miikwan and Dez are best friends. Miikwan is Anishinaabe; Dez is Inninew. Together, the teens navigate the challenges of growing up in an urban landscape -- they're so close, they even completed their Berry Fast together.
However, when Dez's grandmother becomes too sick, Dez is told she can't stay with her anymore. With the threat of a group home looming, Dez can't bring herself to go home and disappears. Miikwan is devastated, and the wound of her missing mother resurfaces.
Will Dez's community find her before it's too late? Will Miikwan be able to cope if they don't?
Critique: The first of a planned graphic novel trilogy, "Surviving the City" volume 1 by the team of author/storyteller Tasha Spillett and co-illustrators Natasha Donovan and Donovan Yaciuk have deftly crafted a riveting and compelling story that will hold a very special appeal to young readers with a suspenseful coming-of-age story with a Native American element. While also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99), this paperback edition of "Surviving the City" is an imaginative and entertaining pick for middle school, highschool, and community library graphic novel collections for teen and YA readers ages 12-18.
Editorial Note #1: Tasha Spillett, PhD, draws her strength from both her Inninew and Trinidadian bloodlines. She is a celebrated Afro-Indigenous educator, poet, and emerging scholar. Tasha is most heart-tied to contributing to community-led work that centres on land and water defence, and the protection of Indigenous women and girls. Her books include the award-winning graphic novel series Surviving the City and the celebrated children's book, I Sang You Down from the Stars.
Editorial Note #2: Natasha Donovan is a Metis illustrator originally from Vancouver, British Columbia. Her sequential work has been published in This Place: 150 Years Retold, Wonderful Women of History, and Thomas King's graphic novel Borders. She is the illustrator of the award-winning Surviving the City graphic novel series and Mothers of Xsan children's book series, as well as Classified: The Secret Career of Mary Golda Ross, Cherokee Aerospace Engineer.
Editorial Note #3: Donovan Yaciuk has colored books published by Marvel, DC, Dark Horse comics, and HighWater Press including the A Girl Called Echo and The Reckoner Rises series, as well as select stories in This Place: 150 Years Retold. Donovan holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts (Honours) from the University of Manitoba.
Visions of the Crow: Dreams, volume 1
Wanda John-Kehewin, author
Nicole Marie Burton & Kielamel Sibal, illustrators
HighWater Press
c/o Portage and Main Press
https://www.portageandmainpress.com/HighWater-Press
9781774920459, $21.95, PB, 80pp
https://www.amazon.com/Visions-Crow-Dreams-1/dp/177492045X
Synopsis: Damon Quinn just wants to get through his senior year unscathed. His mom struggles with alcohol and is barely coping with the day-to-day. Marcus and his cronies at school are forever causing Damon trouble. The new girl, Journey, won't mind her own business. To make matters worse, now a mysterious crow is following him everywhere.
After he is seized by a waking dream in the middle of a busy street, Damon is forced to confront his mom with some hard questions: Why haven't I met my dad? Where did we come from? Who am I?
Damon must look within himself, mend the bond with his mother, and rely on new friends to find the answers he so desperately needs. Traveling through time and space, Damon will have to go back before he can move forward.
Critique: Deftly blending elements of Native American culture with domestic problems, peer group issues, and science fiction/fantasy, "Visions of the Crow: Dreams" is a riveting good read from start to finish and highly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library Graphic Novel collections for young readers ages 12-18. It should be noted that this paperback edition of "Visions fo the Crow: Dreams" from HighWater Press is also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.00).
Editorial Note #1: Wanda John-Kehewin is a Cree writer who uses her work to understand and respond to the near destruction of First Nations cultures, languages, and traditions. When she first arrived in Vancouver on a Greyhound bus, she was a pregnant nineteen-year-old carrying little more than a bag of chips, a bottle of pop, thirty dollars, and hope. After many years traveling (well, mostly stumbling) along her healing journey, she now writes to stand in her truth and to share that truth openly. A published poet and fiction author, her first novel for young adults, Hopeless in Hope, won the Sheila A. Egoff Children's Literature Prize.
Editorial Note #2: Nicole Marie Burton is an illustrator and art director living on unceaded Algonquin land. Born in the US and now based in Ontario, they are a founding member of the Ad Astra Comix publishing collective and currently co-run Petroglyph, a comic art studio specializing in collaborations with scholars, unions, and non-profits. In addition to a number of shorter works, their published books include The Boy Who Walked Backwards, Wonder Drug, Enemy Alien, and The Beast: Making a Living on a Dying Planet.
Editorial Note #3: Kielamel "Kiela" Sibal is a Filipino Canadian letterer, graphic designer, cartoonist, writer, and illustrator. She is passionately curious about the craft of different storytelling methods, from comics and video games to film and illustration. Born in Pampanga, Philippines, Kiela currently conducts her sparkling antics of wizardry in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
Low Orbit
Kazmir Lee
Top Shelf Productions
c/o IDW
www.idwpublishing.com
9781603095525, $24.99, PB, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Low-Orbit-Kazimir-Lee/dp/1603095527
Synopsis: Fifteen-year-old Azar feels stuck. Her mom's job forced them to move to Vermont, where Azar doesn't know anyone. Her only friends are the next-door neighbors: an aging sci-fi writer and his nonbinary teen, Tristan, fellow misfits in the small-town community.
For a while, Azar can escape her troubles by disappearing into the pages of her kindly neighbor's epic novel, The Exiles of Overworld. But when her queerness throws her life out of balance, Azar realizes some secrets can't be escaped forever. Somewhere in the abandoned malls, lakes, and comic conventions that fill her new life, Azar fights to find herself.
What else will she discover?
Critique: An original and deftly crafted LGBTQ coming-of-age story impressively presented in a graphic novel format, "Low Orbit" by Kazimir Lee is an reader resonating, emotionally engaging, memorably entertaining, and an inherently fascinating read from start to finish. Also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99), this unique paperback edition (6 x 1.06 x 9 inches, 1.57 pounds) is unreservedly recommended for personal, school, and community library YA Graphic Novel collections for young readers ages 13-17.
Editorial Note: Kazimir Lee (https://kazimirlee.com) has lived for almost equal amounts of time in Malaysia, the UK, and the US. Kazimir now reside in Brooklyn and enjoys queer subtext, parenthood, ghost stories, and karaoke.
Coven
Soman Chainani, author
Joel Gennari, illustrator
HarperAlley
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9780062979698, $26.99, HC, 272pp
https://www.amazon.com/Coven-Soman-Chainani/dp/0062979698
Synopsis: Hester, Anadil, and Dot are legendary across the Endless Woods as vigilante detectives and protectors of the peace. The famed trio are not only talented witches but also ride-or-die friends who've never left a case unsolved.
That is, until the Coven answers a call for help from a mysterious new world -- Red Isle, where the Light and Dark Lands are on the brink of all-out war, each blaming the other for a grim spree of deaths. Now the Coven must work together and unmask the killer before Red Isle tears itself apart. Little do they know: The real enemy might be hiding in plain sight...
From author/storyteller Soman Chainani and artist/illustrator Joel Gennari comes "Coven", offering the reader an extraordinary graphic fantasy novel experience that explores how, even in our darkest moments, the truest of friends can bring us back into the light.
Critique: Original, deftly crafted, vividly illustrated, "Coven" is a fun read from cover to cover and an ideal, unreservedly recommended pick for middle school, highschool, and community library Fantasy & Graphic Novel collections for young readers ages 8-18. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of Soman Chainani and Joel Gennari's "Coven" from HarperAlley is also available in paperback (9780062979681, $15.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).
Editorial Note #1: Soman Chainani's six novels comprising the School for Good and Evil series each made the New York Times bestseller list. The series has sold over 4.5 million copies, has been translated into 33 languages, and has been adapted into a film by Netflix that debuted at #1 in over 80 countries. His collection of retold fairy tales, Beasts and Beauty: Dangerous Tales, was also an instant New York Times bestseller and is in development to be a television series from Sony 3000. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soman_Chainani)
Editorial Note #2: Joel Gennari (https://www.joelgennari.com) has illustrated over forty educational children's books, textbooks, and the educational comic book series Power Coders. In addition to his career as an illustrator, he is also an Emmy-winning puppet builder for the Jim Henson Company. He has worked on such shows as Sesame Street and Fraggle Rock and even built puppets for the HBO hit series We're Here.
The Music CD Shelf
Laurie Berkner Greatest Hits
Laurie Berkner
https://laurieberkner.com
Kidz Bop
$10.49 CD / $12.49 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/Laurie-Berkner-Greatest-Hits-Band/dp/B0DYYTRVNQ
Available in both CD and MP3 formats, Laurie Berkner Greatest Hits collects 28 of beloved children's musician Laurie Berkner's most beloved songs, spanning the 90's to the modern day, into one album. A wonderful compilation for young people and the young at heart, Laurie Berkner Greatest Hits is sure to be a hit for family car trips, rainy day fun, or children's parties. Highly recommended especially for public and school library children's music collections, Laurie Berkner Greatest Hits also makes an excellent gift for children's birthdays! The tracks are We Are The Dinosaurs; The Goldfish; Waiting For The Elevator; Bumblebee (Buzz Buzz); Fast And Slow (The Rabbit And The Turtle); Rocketship Run; Chipmunk At The Gas Pump; I'm Gonna Catch You; I Know A Chicken; Walking With The Penguins; The Airplane Song; Pig On Her Head; Victor Vito; Onyx The Octopus; Song In My Tummy; Under A Shady Tree; Monster Boogie; Let's Make A Shape; Drive My Car; Superhero; BOOTS; I'm A Mess; Clean It Up; My Bunny Goes Hop; I Really Love To Dance; When I Wake Up Today; Mahalo; and Moon Moon Moon. 68 min.
The African-American Studies Shelf
Inventions to Count On
Dana Marie Miroballi, author
Sawyer Cloud, illustrator
Abrams Appleseed
c/o Abrams Children's Books
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781419769962, $18.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Inventions-Count-Celebration-Inventors-Picture/dp/1419769960
Synopsis: One heater keeps a family warm / Sheltered from the winter storm. // Two phones bridge a thousand miles / Bringing laughter, joy, and smiles.
From traffic lights to ice cream scoopers to fire trucks, there are so many different ways that Black inventors changed history.
"Inventions to Count On: A Celebration of Black Inventors" follows a bustling modern-day family as they get ready for a beloved family member's 100th birthday. Woven into their activities are ten inventions that positively impact their daily lives as they prepare for the celebration.
With simple, rhyming text by author/storyteller Dana Marie Miroballi and charming illustrations by artist Sawyer Cloud, "Inventions to Count On: A Celebration of Black Inventors" rescues from an undeserved obscurity a number forgotten African-American pioneers, including Alice H. Parker, Garrett Morgan, Anna M. Mangin, Joseph Winters, Alfred L. Cralle, Sarah Boone, Jan Ernst Matzeliger, and Alexander Miles, as well as honoring celebrated inventors like James West, who developed the tiny microphone still used in cell phones today, and Granville T. Woods, who invented third rail technology for trains.
Critique: An essential and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Black History/Biography collections, it should be noted that this hardcover edition of "Inventions to Count On: A Celebration of Black Inventors" from Abrams Appleseed is also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.09, Amazon).
Editorial Note #1: Dana Marie Miroballi (https://www.danamiroballi.com) is a speech-language pathologist and former teacher. She grew up in Germany, served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Uzbekistan, and now lives in Chicago with her family. Miroballi began writing at an early age and is the author of If My Hair Had a Voice. Working in schools and becoming a parent inspired her to create books that celebrate cultural diversity and educate children about overlooked people and events in Black history. One of her favorite inventions is Alfred L. Cralle's ice cream scooper because she enjoys hot fudge sundaes all year round.
Editorial Note #2: Sawyer Cloud (https://www.sawyer.cloud) is a self-taught artist from the island of Madagascar. She has illustrated more than 35 children's books and is constantly looking for new stories to tell. Her long list of goals includes traveling around the world and writing her own books for children. Passionate and curious by nature, Cloud believes in the power of big dreams and loves discovering new things in life, such as the inventions in this book! One of her favorites is Sarah Boone's improved ironing board because it makes her think about her mom, who never misses an ironing session every afternoon just before tea time.
The LGBTQ Studies Shelf
Like That Eleanor: The Amazing Power of Being an Ally
Lee Wind, author
Kelly Mangan, illustrator
Cardinal Rule Press
www.CardinalRulePress.com
c/o Quarto Group Children's Books
www.quartoknows.com
9781945369735, $18.95, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Like-That-Eleanor-Amazing-Power/dp/1945369736
Synopsis: What can you do when you see unfair things happening to other people?
Eleanor's not sure, but she wants to make things more fair, like her namesake Eleanor Roosevelt.
Robin's excluded from a boys-only soccer game. Bryce is left out of a girls-only conversation. And nonbinary Star can't even use the same bathrooms as everyone else.
Eleanor collects friends but doesn't know how to help. But when their teacher leaves Star out of a classroom game, Eleanor stands up for her friend by sitting down in just the right spot... And that changes everything. Like THAT Eleanor.
Critique: With a critically important social justice message and them, "Like That Eleanor: The Amazing Power of Being an Ally" by author/storyteller Lee Wind and artist/illustrator Kelly Mangan is timely, entertaining, and thoroughly 'kid friendly'. This hardcover edition of "Like That Eleanor: The Amazing Power of Being an Ally" from Cardinal Rule Press is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library LGBTQ Studies, Life Skills, and Friendship themed picture book collections for children ages 5-7.
Editorial Note #1: Lee Wind (https://www.leewind.org) writes the books that would have changed his life as a young Gay Jewish kid -- and he's always looking for ways to be a better ally! Researching Eleanor Roosevelt for his nonfiction No Way, They Were Gay? inspired Lee so much that it sparked the idea for this picture book. Lee is also authored picture books Love of the Half-Eaten Peach and Red and Green and Blue and White. He runs the popular blog I'm Here. I'm Queer. What the Hell Do I Read? -- words his younger self only dreamed of saying. Lee lives in LA with husband of more than 25 yrs and their daughter.
Editorial Note #2: Kelly Mangan (https://www.authorkellymangan.com) is self-described as 'a queer, neurodiverse author and illustrator of picture books and middle grade stories'. Though originally from the south, he now resides in snowy Vermont with his partner and two kids.
The Native American Studies Shelf
The Cherokee Syllabary
Brad Wagnon, author
Beth Anderson, illustrator
7th Generation
c/o The Book Publishing Company
www.BookPubCo.com
9781570674228, $17.95, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Cherokee-Syllabary-%E1%8F%A3%E1%8E%B3%E1%8E%A9-%E1%8F%97%E1%8E%AA%E1%8F%AA%E1%8E%B5-%E1%8F%A7%E1%8F%83%E1%8F%B4%E1%8E%A9/dp/1570674221
Synopsis: "The Cherokee Syllabary: An Illustrated Key to the Cherokee Language" is an effective tool for parents and educators seeking to introduce Cherokee children to the syllabary of their native language. Adults as well can appreciate the simplicity of the format to help become familiar with their Native speech.
On each page spread, there is a beautiful illustration by Beth Anderson of a syllabary character, a Cherokee word that contains the character, how to pronounce the word in Cherokee, and the word in English. Along the bottom of a page is a row of syllabary characters and their pronunciation by Brad Wagnon.
The concept for the illustrations was influenced by medieval illuminated manuscripts. The intent is to allow people of all ages to learn, appreciate and celebrate the historic Cherokee language that was created in written form by Sequoyah in 1891. "The Cherokee Syllabary:
Critique: "An Illustrated Key to the Cherokee Language" from 7th Generation is a valuable and unique bilingual resource which is thoroughly 'reader friendly' in organization and presentation -- making it unreservedly recommended for families, schools and libraries seeking to add multicultural diversity to their homeschooling and elementary school classroom Native American Studies curriculums, as well as their bilingual language instructional reference collections for children ages 6-8.
Editorial Note #1: Brad Wagnon, author, and storyteller is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. He taught Cherokee history, culture, and language at Tahlequah High School for ten years. Brad has a degree from Northeastern State University in Criminal Justice and Native American Studies. Brad works for Cherokee Nation Emergency Management as the Community Preparedness Coordinator. He has a passion for sharing Cherokee History and Culture with future generations and has authored four Cherokee children's books based on traditional Cherokee stories: How the World Was Made: A Cherokee Story, The Land of the Great Turtles, and The First Fire: A Cherokee Story.
Editorial Note #2: Beth Anderson is a Cherokee Nation citizen and a contemporary visual artist. Her work is influenced by her culture, her love of materials and handmade objects, and her relationship with nature. Beth holds a BFA in sculpture from Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches, Texas, and is certified by the Cherokee Nation Tribal Employment Rights Office (TERO). She is a member of the US Department of Interior's Indian Arts and Crafts Board and is a board member and the Social Media Chair of the Southeastern Indian Artists Association.
The First Fire: A Cherokee Story
Brad Wagnon, author
Alex Stephenson, illustrator
7th Generation
c/o The Book Publishing Company
www.BookPubCo.com
9781939053275, $14.95, PB, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/First-Fire-Cherokee-Story/dp/1939053277
Synopsis: "The First Fire: A Cherokee Story" by storyteller Brad Wagnon and illustrator Alex Stephenson takes place in a time in the ancient past when animals could do many of the things that people do. The Creator gave the animals the world to live on, but they were without a source for heat at night. Great Thunder and his sons saw the plight of the animals so he sent lightning down to strike a tree. The tree burst into flames but the tree was on an island.
Many animals tried to bring the fire over the water to the shore, but they were all unsuccessful. Then one small creature, Water Spider, volunteered. Curious, the animals said to her "We know you could get there safely, but how would you bring the fire back without getting burned?" In the end, Water Spider was successful and to this day the water spider is revered in Cherokee culture.
Critique: Authentic, engaging, and a fun read from cover to cover, this bilingual (English-Cherokee" paperback edition of "The First Fire: A Cherokee Story" will prove an immediate and enduringly welcome pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Native American Folklore and Bilingual Picture Book collections for children ages 3-5. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this paperback edition of "The First Fire: A Cherokee Story" from 7th Generation is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note #1: Brad Wagnon is a lifelong resident of the Gideon community and a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. He taught Cherokee history, culture and language at Tahlequah High School in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, for 10 years. Brad currently works for Cherokee Nation Community and Cultural Outreach as a technical assistance specialist. He trains community leaders how to better serve their communities and manage nonprofits.
Editorial Note: Alex Stephenson is a therapist, author and artist. As a licensed professional counselor, he has served as a therapist for the Cherokee Nation since 2014. Alex has written and illustrated books on friendship, acceptance, anxiety and compassion with the goal of helping children and parents discuss difficult topics more comfortably.
The Land of the Great Turtles
Brad Wagnon, author
Alex Stephenson, illustrator
7th Generation
c/o The Book Publishing Company
www.BookPubCo.com
9781939053350, $14.95, PB, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Land-Great-Turtles-Cherokee-English/dp/1939053358
The Creator gave the Cherokee people a beautiful island with everything they could ever need. It came with only one rule: They must take care of the land and the animals living there. But what happens when the children decide to play with the turtles instead of tending to their responsibilities?
Critique: "The Land of the Great Turtles" is an authentic Cherokee origin story that introduces the reader to Cherokee beliefs and values. Written in both Cherokee and English, "The Land of the Great Turtles will familiarizes children ages 3-5 with the Cherokee syllabary and language -- making it highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Native American Folklore and Bilingual Picture Book collections.
Editorial Note #1: Brad Wagnon is a lifelong resident of the Gideon community and a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. He taught Cherokee history, culture and language at Tahlequah High School in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, for 10 years. Brad currently works for Cherokee Nation Community and Cultural Outreach as a technical assistance specialist. He trains community leaders how to better serve their communities and manage nonprofits.
Editorial Note: Alex Stephenson is a therapist, author and artist. As a licensed professional counselor, he has served as a therapist for the Cherokee Nation since 2014. Alex has written and illustrated books on friendship, acceptance, anxiety and compassion with the goal of helping children and parents discuss difficult topics more comfortably.
The Judaic Shelf
Ruby Finkelman Finds the Real Magic
Mike King, author
Shahar Kober, illustrator
Collective Book Studio
https://thecollectivebook.studio
9781685559281, $18.95, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Ruby-Finkelman-Finds-Real-Magic/dp/168555928X
Synopsis: "Ruby Finkelman Finds the Real Magic" by author/storyteller Mike King and artist/illustrator Shahar Kober, is a whimsical and heartwarming picture book that resonates with the universal theme of doing the right thing.
Set in the picturesque village of Kvellville, where kindness and respect are the norms, we meet Ruby Finkelman - a spirited and strong-willed young girl whose world is turned upside down when she decides to stop brushing her teeth. This seemingly small act sets off a chain of events, impacting the entire town. As Kvellville's harmony begins to unravel, Ruby confronts the consequences of her actions and realizes her power to make things right.
Critique: Original, fun and funny, "Ruby Finkelman Finds the Real Magic" is a wonderfully charming and entertaining celebration of Jewish values, along with a universal lesson in responsibility and making positive contributions to our world. Clever, unique, and enjoyable from start to finish, "Ruby Finkelman Finds the Real Magic", with its deft presentation in support of cultural values, is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library 'life skills' themed picture book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Ruby Finkelman Finds the Real Magic" from The Collective Book Studio is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99).
Editorial Note #1: "Dr. Mike" King (www.mikekingwrites.com), a pediatric dentist and comedian, charms young patients with humor and magic. He's penned children's books Ruby Finkelman Finds the Real Magic, Flossopher and the Brushing Trees and Enamel the Camel, as well as the touching Dad Spelled Backward, detailing his path to fatherhood.
Editorial Note #2: Shahar Kober (www.skober.com) is an award-winning illustrator who has illustrated over 70 children's books including work by former Children's Laureate Michael Mopurgo, Israel's national poet Hayim Bialik and award-winning children's author Adam Lehrhaupt. His illustrations have been exhibited internationally. He lives in Israel near Haifa where he teaches at The Haifa University School of Design.
The Sports Shelf
The Totally Awesome World of Caitlin Clark
Sara Weiss
becker&mayer! kids
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
www.quartoknows.com
9780760396834, $14.99, PB, 128pp
https://www.amazon.com/Totally-Awesome-World-Caitlin-Clark/dp/0760396833
Synopsis: Are you a basketball superfan? Do you want to dive into the life of one of the greatest players? From the Totally Awesome World series for middle-grade readers, "The Totally Awesome World of Caitlin Clark: Learn All There Is to Know about Your Favorite All-Star" by Sara Weiss covers all the major highlights of Caitlin Clark's career on and off the basketball court. Perfect for a Caitlin Clark fan or basketball fanatic, this is the go-to sports biography guide to one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
Even though Caitlin has already accomplished so much -- she's just getting started! In "The Totally Awesome World of Caitlin Clark", young readers will learn about:
Caitlin's early life and her first successes on the court
Her dazzling college basketball career at the University of Iowa
Her current stats in the WNBA as a point guard with the Indiana Fever
Her pursuits off the court, including her love of golf, her business endeavors, and her philanthropic efforts
"The Totally Awesome World of Caitlin Clark" is packed from cover to cover with fun facts, basketball stats, and thought-provoking questions for young readers -- and sure to inspire any young basketball fan to live their own totally awesome life.
Critique: Nicely illustrated throughout, exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "The Totally Awesome World of Caitlin Clark: Learn All There Is to Know about Your Favorite All-Star" is an ideal and unreservedly recommended pick for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library Sports Biography collections for children ages 8-12. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this paperback edition of "The Totally Awesome World of Caitlin Clark: Learn All There Is to Know about Your Favorite All-Star" from becker&mayer! kids is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.24, Amazon).
Editorial Note: Sara Weiss (https://saraweisswriter.com) holds an MFA from Sarah Lawrence College. She is the author of A Frenchie Life, A Labrador Life, A Golden Life, and The Totally Awesome Life of Caitlin Clark. Her writing has appeared in journals and magazines such as Literary Mama, Mom Egg Review, Mutha, Lilith, Waterwheel Review, Bustle, and Brain Child, among others. She has also written audio scripts for Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls and works as a college writing consultant.
The Folktale/Fairytale Shelf
An Illustrated Treasury of Dragon Tales
Theresa Breslin, author
Kate Leiper, illustrator
Floris Books
www.florisbooks.co.uk
9781782509103, $24.99, HC, 168pp
https://www.amazon.com/Illustrated-Treasury-Dragon-Tales-Stories/dp/1782509100
Synopsis: With her latest dragon-based anthology, "An Illustrated Treasury of Dragon Tales: Stories from Around the World" author/storyteller Theresa Breslin invites young readers to let their imagination take flight and discover thrilling tales of dragons around the world in this collection of dragon tales -- each of which is magnificently illustrated by the museum quality artwork of Kate Leiper.
Young readers can battle a serpent dragon with Thor, meet a dragon god from Mexico, dive underwater with a Japanese dragon princess and share in so many more of the adventures brought to them by Carnegie Medal-award-winning author Theresa Breslin as she expertly retells exciting stories inspired by dragon myths and legends from around the globe.
Critique: A large format (8.6 x 0.8 x 11 inches, 2.2 pounds), hardcover compendium of dragon stories drawn from China, Scotland, Egypt, Poland, Mexico, Scandinavia, Greece, Japan and India, "An Illustrated Treasury of Dragon Tales: Stories from Around the World" from Floris Books is a fun read from cover to cover -- and especially recommended for personal, family, elementary school, middle school, and community library dragon themed Multicultural Tales & Myths collections for young readers ages 6-12.
Editorial Note #1: Theresa Breslin O.B.E. is a prolific and critically acclaimed children's author from Scotland and winner of the prestigious Carnegie Medal. Her books include An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales, An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures, An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Castle Legends and An Illustrated Treasury of Dragon Tales. (https://www.theresabreslin.com)
Editorial Note #2: Kate Leiper (www.scottishillustrators.com/kate-leiper) is a fine artist and illustrator based in Edinburgh, Scotland, who has been longlisted for the Kate Greenaway Award. She is the co-creator of An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Folk and Fairy Tales, An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Mythical Creatures, An Illustrated Treasury of Scottish Castle Legends and An Illustrated Treasury of Dragon Tales alongside Theresa Breslin.
The Self-Help Shelf
The Life Guide for Teens
Ran D. Aubar, MD
Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group
www.rowman.com
9781538191415, $30.00, HC, 280pp
https://www.amazon.com/Life-Guide-Teens-Harnessing-Confident/dp/1538191415
Synopsis: Today's generation of teenagers are living in a world no one could have imagined just a couple decades ago. It's a world of social media and an endless flow of information (and disinformation). Teens and young adults are also more likely to be lonely, depressed, stressed out, and diagnosed with mental health issues than any generation before them. But they can learn to take control of their own wellness -- and Dr. Ran Anbar gives them the tools to do just that.
With the publication of "The Life Guide for Teens: Harnessing Your Inner Power to be Healthy, Happy, and Confident", Dr. Anbar uses clear, empowering terms to take a deep dive into the most prevalent wellness concerns for teens. He guides his young readers through such topics as anxiety, relationships, sleep, making tough decisions, and communicating effectively with easy-to-implement tools and advice from experts and teens who've been there. Throughout, he offers encouragement, reassurance, and strength to teens who are struggling, showing them how they can develop a positive, healthy self-image and promote self-care.
Dr. Anbar has helped thousands of teens work through their personal challenges, not by solving their problems for them, but by helping them learn to tap into their inner wisdom, strength, and resilience. With 180 actionable tools teens can use on their personal journey to wellness, "The Life Guide for Teens" is an invaluable resource for anyone wanting to feel calm, capable, and confident.
Critique: Timely, practical, instructive, inspiring, exceptionally well written, and 'user friendly' organization and presentation, "The Life Guide for Teens: Harnessing Your Inner Power to be Healthy, Happy, and Confident" by Dr. Ran Anbar is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, middle school, high school, and community library Teen/YA Mental Health, Popular Psychology, and Adolescent Counseling collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "The Life Guide for Teens: Harnessing Your Inner Power to be Healthy, Happy, and Confident" from Rowman & Littlefield is also readiy available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.39, Amazon).
Editorial Note: Ran D. Anbar, MD, FAAP, is board certified in both pediatric pulmonology and general pediatrics. He offers counseling and hypnosis services at Center Point Medicine in La Jolla, California, and in Syracuse, New York. Dr. Anbar is the author of the acclaimed Changing Children's Lives with Hypnosis: A Journey to the Center (Rowman & Littlefield, 2021), as well as a regular columnist for Psychology Today Online. Dr. Anbar is the founder of Center Point Medicine, serving the mission of making mental health care more accessible for children. He lives in California.
Books in Series
The Bangle Bombers Blast Banks
Steve Frederick
Thunderbolt Stories, Inc
https://www.thunderboltstories.com
9781732385351, $11.99 PB, $3.99 Kindle, 168pp
https://www.thunderboltstories.com/shop
Have you ever dreamed of becoming a superhero? Most of us have. But what if one day, you found that a ring discovered in a box of cereal would actually give you super powers? Enabling you to fly across the city? Bringing you into contact with evil criminals?
"The Bangle Bombers Blast Banks" is the third book in author Steve Frederick's 'Cockroach the Superhero' series and continues the adventures of eleven-year-old Kyle Alexander after he finds a magic ring inside a specially-marked box of cereal. The problem is that Kyle is rather clumsy, afraid of fights and heights, and fearful of flights.
This time the bad guys are a group of bank robbers who hit the Bank of Umerika and then disappear leaving only a single bangle left on the floor. Plus there is another superhero that attacks him! And then there is Kyle's grandmother who is suspicious of Kyle's strange behavior and might just discover his secret identity as The Cockroach!
Critique: A clever deftly crafted, and fun read from cover to cover, "The Bangle Bombers Blast Banks" by author Steve Frederick will hold immense appeal for young readers with an interest in teenage action-adventure superhero stories. This paperback edition of "The Bangle Bombers Blast Banks" from Thunderbolt Stories is especially and unreservedly recommended for elementary school, middle school, and community library collections for young readers ages 8-14. Also highly recommended are the first two novels in the "Cockroach the Superhero" series, "Breakfast of Superheroes" (9781732385320, $11.99 PB, $3.99 Kindle) and "The Secrets of the Superhero's Ring" (9781732385375, $11.99 PB, $3.99 Kindle).
Suzie Housley's Bookshelf
I Love Dogs! A Tribute to Man's Best Friend
James Weagley
Kindle Direct Publishing
https://www.faithnwellness.com
9798307023020, Kindle, $2.99, $10.99 PB, 250 pages
https://www.faithnwellness.com/i-am-pleased-to-announce-my-new-book-i-love-dogs-a-tribute-to-mans-bet-friend
Synopsis: I Love Dogs! A Tribute to Man's Best Friend is a perfect example of how a pet can bring peace and harmony into one's life. This enchanting children's book invites young readers on an adventure through the wonderful world of dogs, celebrating our unique bonds with our furry companions.
With vibrant pictures that leap off the page and engaging text that captivates the imagination, I Love Dogs! A Tribute to Man's Best Friend is not just a book; it's an invitation to explore the diverse universe of dog breeds and their charming characteristics.
As children turn each page, they will discover fascinating facts about various dog breeds, enriching their understanding of these beloved animals. This knowledge not only fosters a sense of empathy and responsibility toward pet ownership but also empowers young readers with a deeper understanding of the world of dogs and the joy they bring.
Critique: I Love Dogs! A Tribute to Man's Best Friend is a delightful book serves as a charming introduction to the world of our furry friends, filled with captivating visuals and engaging educational content that makes learning about dogs both fun and enriching.
For parents and educators, this book is not just a story; it's an opportunity to cultivate a love for animals in children, teaching them about responsible pet care and the joy that comes from sharing our lives with dogs.
James Weagley has written a beautiful testament to this belief of the love of a dog. It invites readers on a journey filled with warmth and compassion. With his carefully chosen descriptive language and heartwarming real-life photographs, Wegley captures the essence of our furry, loveable friends in a way that resonates deeply with both young and old.
This book is more than just a collection of stories and images; it is a tool for parents and educators eager to nurture a love for animals in children. It provides insights into pet care, fostering empathy and responsibility among young readers. As they turn each page, children will not only learn about the diverse lives of animals but also about the importance of kindness and understanding in their interactions with them.
Imagine the joy of sharing this experience as a family, exploring the magic of animal companionship together. With each chapter, readers will embark on an adventure that ignites curiosity and inspires a lifelong respect for man's best friend!
Editorial Note: Recommended ages baby to young adult.
Sigi The Brave Dachshund
Maria Ritter, author
Matthew Ritter, illustrator
Spaetzle Press
9798218598730, Kindle, $3.99, $16.99 PB, 32 pages
https://www.amazon.com/Sigi-Brave-Dachshund-Maria-Ritter/dp/B0DVC6X3TZ
Synopsis: Sigi the Brave Dachshund is a heartwarming tale that celebrates courage, self-discovery, and the unique strengths found within us all. Set against the enchanting backdrop of the Black Forest, the story follows Sigi, a spirited Dachshund who, despite being the smallest animal on the farm, takes his role as a protector of his family seriously.
Because larger animals often underestimated and teased him, Sigi's journey started when a German Shepherd went missing and someone gave him the mission of finding her. Guided by new friends and his intimate knowledge of the forest, Sigi embarks on an adventure that challenges his self-doubt and showcases his unwavering courage.
Critique: Sigi the Brave Dachshund has truly captured this reviewer's heart. With its charming narrative and beautifully crafted illustrations, the story comes to life most delightfully. It's a book that leaves a lasting impression - one that children and adults alike will treasure for years to come.
Maria Ritter shows her exceptional talent as an author in Sigi the Brave Dachshund. Paired with Matthew Ritter's captivating illustrations, this book is truly a masterpiece. From the very first page, the story enchanted me, and I firmly believe it has the potential to be an award-winning book.
Editorial Note: Recommended for ages 8-19 years old.
Colorsss
Deborah A. Hutchinson, PhD
Peanut Butter Publishing
https://peanutbutterpublishing.com
9781598493788, $18.95 PB, 32 pages
https://www.amazon.com/Colorsss-Deborah-Hutchinson/dp/1598493787
Synopsis: Colorsss invites children on a vibrant journey through the natural world, exploring the amazing colors found in snakes! While most people imagine snakes as green or brown, nature has a few surprises: some are bright blue, even pink! These unexpected colors will surely pique your curiosity and make you want to explore more. Surprisingly, they appear in every color of the rainbow!
This book uncovers the fascinating reasons behind the brilliant colors and bold patterns found in the animal kingdom. After admiring these rainbow-hued reptiles, readers can explore bonus pages to learn how snakes use their colors, patterns, venom, and poison to survive and thrive in the wild.
Critique: Colorsss delivers a vibrant and educational journey into the world of snakes - their dazzling colors, remarkable traits, and the wonders of their natural habitats. From beginning to end, it offers fascinating insights that illuminate the richness of the animal kingdom.
Deborah A. Hutchinson, PhD, has crafted an educational book that draws readers into the captivating world of snakes. With vibrant imagery and fascinating facts, each page bursts to life - sparking curiosity and leaving children inspired to discover even more about these incredible creatures.
Another Side of Sunshine
Kay DiBianca
Elk Lake Publishing, Inc.
https://elklakepublishinginc.com
9798891343672, $14.99 PB / $8.99 Kindle, 329 pages, Ages 9-12
https://www.amazon.com/Another-Sunshine-Joanie-Detective-Agency/dp/B0F7LYKCNZ
Synopsis: Embark on an exhilarating treasure hunt with ten-year-old Reen Penterson, who has put aside her summer plans of writing a bestselling novel to delve into the thrilling world of hidden treasures in her university town!
With dreams of wealth and fame sparking their imagination, Reen and her spirited nine-year-old cousin, Joanie, join forces to form the R&J Detective Agency. Their partnership promises an adventure brimming with mystery, excitement, and discovery.
As the duo races against other young treasure hunters, including the cunning Alicia Allgood, they follow the cryptic clues left by the enigmatic "Mr. Shadow." Their journey takes them through the hallowed halls of the Bellevue University library, where they navigate through dictionaries, microfiche machines, and the Dewey Decimal System. Each clue leads them deeper into a world of secrets, from hidden treasures in a sundial to the wonders of local flora, showcasing their teamwork and determination.
Yet, the thrill of adventure turns to tension when Reen's rival, Alicia Allgood, steals their hard-earned solution. In Mr. Shadow's universe, nothing is as it seems. It's a race against time and clever foes, where Reen and Joanie's creativity, resilience, and the power of collaboration shine as they reclaim their treasure, proving that teamwork can uncover even the most elusive of hidden gems.
Critique: Another Side of Sunshine is a delightful invitation for young readers to embark on a thrilling journey filled with a captivating mystery. This book encourages children to discover the world's wonders, sparking their imagination and sense of adventure.
Kay DiBianca has set the groundwork required to make a mystery lover out of anyone! Parents can envision their child diving into the pages of this story, their eyes wide with excitement as they uncover secrets and solve puzzles alongside the characters. This book fosters a love for reading and opens the doorway to discovering a new love of the mystery genre world!
Editorial Note: Discover the enchanting world of literature designed for children aged 8-12, where each page becomes a gateway for exploration and imagination! With the extraordinary talent of author Kay DiBianca, your young readers will embark on thrilling journeys that entertain and educate.
DiBianca's impressive accolades, including honors from the Illumination Awards, Eric Hoffer Awards, and the prestigious Memphis Public Libraries Richard Wright Literary Awards, highlight her commitment to crafting stories that resonate with young minds.
As a proud member of the American Christian Fiction Writers and Sisters in Crime, Kay brings a wealth of experience and authenticity to her writing. She also engages with fellow authors through her insightful blog and contributions to the Kill Zone Blog, ensuring her narratives are both relevant and captivating, and that they speak to the experiences and interests of young readers.
Old Bad Sally: Monkeying Around at the Zoo
Connie Park, author
Chad Thompson, illustrator
Proving Press
https://www.provingpress.com
9781633378742, Kindle $15.99, $22.99 HB, 42 pages
https://www.amazon.com/Old-Bad-Sally-Monkeying-Around/dp/1633378748
Synopsis: Old Bad Sally: Monkeying Around at the Zoo is a captivating and whimsical tale that delights readers of all ages. Join the mischievous Old Bad Sally as she sets off on a playful escapade through the Zoo, where her bold decision to release the monkeys sparks a series of amusing and heartwarming adventures. This enchanting story is more than just entertainment - it's a powerful tool to ignite young imaginations and inspire a lasting sense of joy, curiosity, and wonder.
Critique: Old Bad Sally: Monkeying Around at the Zoo invites readers into a world of cheerful mischief and lighthearted fun, making it a delightful addition to children's literature. Old Bad Sally's spirited personality brings each page to life, leaving smiles and laughter in her wake.
Connie Park showcases her storytelling talent with vibrant prose and imaginative pacing, perfectly complemented by captivating illustrations. This charming picture book is not just a delightful read - it's a story destined to become a treasured favorite, a shared joy in any family's library.
Bursting with humor and heart, Old Bad Sally will captivate young readers as they follow her antics, encouraging a love of stories and the magic they hold.
Editorial Notes: Recommended for children ages 4 to 10.
Half-Truths
Carol Baldwin
Monarch Educational Services, L.L.C
https://monarcheducationalservices.com
9781957656854, Kindle $9.99, $15.99 PB, 314 pages
https://www.amazon.com/Half-Truths-Carol-Baldwin/dp/1957656859
Synopsis: In Half-Truths, Carol Baldwin masterfully weaves a narrative that transcends time, inviting young readers to explore the intricate tapestry of 1950s North Carolina. At the heart of this interesting tale is Kate Dinsmore, a spirited 15-year-old aspiring to become a journalist. Her journey, filled with the challenges of her family's modest means and the hope of her move to her affluent grandparents' home in Charlotte, is one that many young readers can relate to. However, the world she enters is one of stark contrasts, where societal expectations loom large, and the unspoken truths of her lineage surface.
Through her growing friendship with Lillian, the maid who becomes both confidante and kin, Kate's journey is not just about ambition; it's a profound exploration of identity and belonging. This novel is a valuable resource for educators and parents interested in literature that addresses social issues. It invites readers to reflect on the complexities of race, privilege, and the often-painful quest for authenticity as they unearth family secrets that intertwine their fates. Baldwin tackles these themes with sensitivity and insight, encouraging a dialogue about the realities of our past and the courage required to challenge the status quo.
Critique: Half-Truths is more than just a story; it is a call to action for young minds to question, to seek the truth, and to forge their paths amidst the half-truths that life presents. This book promises to resonate deeply with readers, inspiring them to confront their truths and understand the world around them with greater clarity and compassion. It's a powerful reminder that they can shape their own narratives and make a difference in the world.
Carol Baldwin has skillfully woven a tapestry of storytelling that resonates deeply with readers. Her latest work is a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of friendship, a theme that is universally experienced, and the societal pressures that often threaten to unravel it.
The characters she has brought to life are not merely figures on a page but embody grace, resilience, and authenticity. As they navigate the tumultuous waters of societal expectations, their unwavering bond becomes a beacon of hope and inspiration.
This story invites us to reflect on our relationships and the strength found in unity, reminding us that genuine friendship can withstand even the harshest storms. Prepare to be captivated by Baldwin's poignant prose and the profound messages that linger long after turning the last page.
Suzie Housley, Senior Reviewer
https://housleysliteraryservices.com
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Look! What is That?
Tristan Mori
Twirl
c/o Chronicle Books
https://www.chroniclebooks.com
9782408056018, $16.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
It doesn't get more adorable than this fun and interactive board book with pull tabs. Mouse, Bear, Rabbit, Bird, Pig, and Wolf are all trying to figure out who the odd-looking creature is: it has no beak or feathers or fur, what can it be? Engaging, educational, and endearing with inviting illustrations... everything to keep your little ones entertained and eager to read it again. (Ages Baby-3)
Koshi: Dragons of Diversity
Ginny Hendricksen, author
Marci Cheary, illustrator
Independently Published
https://www.thekoshibooks.com
9798873460533, $12.50
Dr. Dawn Menge
Reviewer
If you love dragons, this is the book for you. It's filled with many different kinds of dragons of all shapes, sizes, and colors. These dragons are like people. We are all different, but we play well together. My favorite dragon is Ursula the Unicyclist. This is a unique book introducing the concept that the world is filled with diversity but that we can all be cooperative and play/work together. (Ages Baby-5)
Macie and the Magic Veggies
Peter Contardo
https://petercontardoauthor.com
MindStir Media
https://mindstirmedia.com
9781962987066, $13.99
Laura Pereira, ESL Teacher
Reviewer
This book is absolutely beautiful. The story is engaging and educational. The illustrations are bright and colorful. The author includes engaging questions for parents/guardians to ask their children at the end! As a mother of young children and a teacher to English Language Learners, I love the way the book is set up to provide deeper learning opportunities. I am definitely buying this for my home and classroom! (Ages 2-5)
The Smallest Bird: A Friendship Story
Joy Belin, author
Sarah Hwang, illustrator
Margaret Ferguson Books
c/o Holiday House
https://holidayhouse.com/book-imprint/margaret-ferguson-books
9780823456994, $18.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
This whimsical picture book is about a young child who wants to make friends with a little bird. The author instructs the reader how to gain the bird's trust by making yourself look small, giving him snacks and singing him a song. Gentle prose and playful art combine for a special picture book for young nature lovers. (Ages 3-7)
God's Little Astronomer
Tina Cho, author
Marta Alvarez Miguens, illustrator
Waterbrook
https://waterbrookmultnomah.com
9780593579411, $12.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
Author Tina Cho offers an informative and enlightening connection between science and religion in this wonderful introduction to our universe. From planets, stars, and the sun, to asteroids, meteoroids, and the moon, youngsters will learn new words, facts, and concepts. A faith-based book that's bound to get your little ones interested in the solar system. (Ages 3-7)
If I Was a Horse
Sophie Blackall
Little, Brown
https://www.littlebrown.com
9780316510981, $18.99
Kimberly Waters
Reviewer
The imagination of a child runs wild as he thinks about what it would be like to be a horse. How he would run through a field, be on a team, and take his sister to school are just a few activities he would encounter. The fun illustrations and creative thoughts make the reader wish and dream about their own what-ifs. (Ages 3-8)
We Are Free, You and Me
Colin Kaepernick, Nessa Diab, Gladys Jose
Scholastic
https://www.scholastic.com
9781339042947, $18.99
Dr. Dawn Menge
Reviewer
"Every child has the right to be free... the right to reach... and the right to dream." If your child is looking for affirmations on becoming themselves and breaking from societal molds, they will appreciate reading this book. The adults or children who strive to limit other's freedoms will benefit from understanding that all children have rights in our world too. (Ages 3-8)
A Day with Papa Leroy: The Dance Lesson
E. F. House
Archway
https://www.archwaypublishing.com
9781665710114, $22.95
Kimberly Waters
Reviewer
A sweet book about the relationship between Papa Leroy and his granddaughter. It's a joy to see a grandpa pass down his dancing skills to his grandchild. When his granddaughter grows up and has a son, she teaches him, and the legacy continues on and on. The moral of the story - spend time with your grandparents - you'll appreciate the memories! (Ages 4-8)
The Digger and the Dark
Joseph Kuefler
HarperCollins
https://www.harpercollins.com
9780063237933, $19.99
Kimberly Waters
Reviewer
A friendly bulldozer takes on the role of leading the other machinery at work every day, making sure they get ready for a good night's sleep when they're finished. But two pesky raccoons change those plans and sleep is not in the picture. The author's creative dialogue gives a fun touch of personification to machinery that is normally deemed 'not human.' This is an enjoyable story about helping each other, even if it is a little inconvenient. (Ages 4-8)
Apli'kmuj's Journey
Braelyn Cyr
Monster House
https://monsterhousepublishing.com
9781777854232, $22.95
Kimberly Waters
Reviewer
A sweet bunny journeys by himself many miles to a gathering far away. Each time he gets lost, he asks an animal friend which way to go. As he gets closer, he still fears that he won't make it in time until the wind and the plants give him clues about where to go. He learns that listening to good friends and following his heart and instincts enable him to arrive at his destination. (Ages 4-8)
The Easter Gator
Kathy Olsen Thibodeaux, author
Mary Beth Hebert, illustrator
Thib-Co Books
https://www.thibcobooks.com
ISBN TBA $25.00
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
After mosquitos attack the Easter Rabbit near a Louisiana bayou, he stops all deliveries to Acadiana. But then one Louisiana gator takes over candy and egg duties so kids will have their Easter delights. This rhyming story includes definitions of Cajun words on many pages as it teaches children about some of the traditions of Acadiana. (Ages 4-8)
No, Nancy, No! A Dog Chase in New York
Alice Tait
Walker Books
http://www.walker.co.uk
c/o Candlewick Press
www.candlewickpress.com
9781536232714, $18.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
Take a tour of New York City with little Nancy and her dachshund named Roger, in the newest No, Nancy, No! book. The pair are visiting the city when they see Candy, the canine Broadway star of Dogs: The Musical, but when she runs off, they set out on an interactive adventure to bring her back. With an amazing amount of lift-the-flaps in all shapes and sizes, a fold-out map, and a creative pop-up, readers are given dazzling details as they follow the duo through big city traffic and a parade, to the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty. (Ages 4-8)
Cassini's Mission
Katie Venit, author
Julia Blattman, illustrator
MIT Kids Press
https://mitkidspress.com
c/o Candlewick Press
https://www.candlewick.com
9781536232325, $18.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Explore outer space with Cassini, a real spacecraft that was designed to explore Saturn and its moons. The story is certainly interesting, and it is complimented by many colorful and expressive illustrations. This book should find its way to the shelf of any future space explorer. (Ages 4-8)
Winston Travels to America
Diane Clarcq and Landon Gaboury
Mascot Kids
https://mascotbooks.com
9798891381155, $19.95
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
The author sneaks a bit of American history in this tale, as Grandpa Winston tells his story of going to the New World when he was young. His adventure captivates his grandkittens, from boarding the ship and taking on the task of keeping little critters from eating the food to arriving in America and working other jobs. Delightful illustrations and some questions in the back complete this engaging story. (Ages 4-8)
Larry the Lobster Has Lupus
Dharma Khanh Le
Independently Published
https://www.youthinautoimmunity.com
9798858790624, $10.00
Dr. Dawn Menge
Reviewer
Larry has Lupus and has trouble sometimes in his life. This is a wonderful book that will help explain to your child this disease. It is especially helpful if you have someone who deals with this on a daily basis. I loved that the author used a lobster for the main character. (Ages 4-9)
Rainbow Magic Special Edition: Emma the Easter Fairy
Daisy Meadows
Silver Dolphin Books
https://www.silverdolphinbooks.com
9781667202396, $7.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
The Rainbow Magic series is back with a special collection of three books and a bonus activity of locating hidden letters to figure out an Easter word. Emma the Easter Fairy paints three special eggs every Easter, but this year the Easter bunny disappears, the eggs are rotten, and the chocolate is melting. Can friends Kirsty and Rachel help track down the culprit and solve the mystery? A series of books that can be a dazzling addition to your Easter festivities. (Ages 6-8)
The Memory Cake
Caroline L. Perry, author
Jen Bricking, illustrator
Holiday House
https://holidayhouse.com
9780823456468, $18.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
When a young girl visits her Nanna in Malta (a tiny island in the Mediterranean), they mix a special cake that Nanna calls her memory cake. They make it once a year to commemorate the ending of a WWII bombing campaign by Germany and Italy. While the two work together, Nanna shares the story of how, against all odds, the small island survived the onslaught. The book is based on a true story. Author Caroline L. Perry includes a recipe for her Nanna's memory cake at the end of the book. (Ages 6-8)
Sky & Ty: Dinomite!
Steve Breen
Pixel+Ink
https://www.pixelandinkbooks.com
c/o Holiday House
https://holidayhouse.com
9781645952176, $14.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
This is the second book in the Sky & Ty series. Sky is a cowgirl, and TY is a T. Rex. In this most recent edition, Sky and Ty help deliver the mail, in a type of wacky pony-express style. The book is written as a graphic novel, making it appealing for young readers who like a good story but don't want to just read picture books. (Ages 6-9)
Miss Cat: The Case of the Curious Canary
Joelle Jolivet and Jean-Luc Fromental
Thames & Hudson
https://thamesandhudson.com
9780500660263, $12.95
Mark Graham
Reviewer
Sad, old Mr. Maximus comes to see Miss Cat at the old dairy she uses as an office. Someone has kidnapped his canary, Harry, his pride and joy. Mr. Maximus begs the detective to help find him. Follow the investigations of Miss Cat as she tries to crack the case of a missing canary in a thrilling Scandi noir-esque graphic novel. This is quite an introductory way to get kids to read other genres of literature. (Ages 6-9)
A Field Guide to Spring
Gabby Dawnay, author
Dorien Brouwers, illustrator
Thames & Hudson
https://thamesandhudson.com
9780500653517, $14.95
Mark Graham
Reviewer
Hunt for seedlings, squelch around in the mud, identify birds' eggs, and build your own nest. Discover how tadpoles transform into frogs and why rainbows appear in the sky. Featuring lyrical poems, hands-on crafts and activities, scientific facts, and identifier pages to help children find different plants and animals, this is a terrific guide to a beautiful season. (Ages 6-9)
Danny the Ducky and Gilly the Goose
Dushka Petkovich
https://duckiesandfriends.com
Bumblebee Books
c/o Olympia Publishers
https://olympiapublishers.com/book/danny-the-ducky-and-gilly-the-goose
9781839346132, $8.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
When Danny the Ducky is orphaned, he learns how to survive with the help of Gilly the Goose. The tale is set in a park on Long Island where author Dushka Petkovich has spent a lot of time. It is based on a true story of a duck and a goose whom Petkovich observed in the park. Its message is a good one. (Ages 6-10)
King & Kayla and the Case of the Escape Artist
Dori Hillestad Butler, author
Nancy Meyers, illustrator
Peachtree
https://www.peachtreebooks.com
9781682637005, $15.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
This is the newest installment of the King & Kayla series. In this book, Kayla must solve the mystery of how aptly-named Houdini escapes from his doggy daycare. By making careful observations, Kayla is able to determine Houdini's escape route. This is an easy-to-read chapter book with likable characters, an interesting storyline, and short sentences and chapters. (Ages 7-9)
Camp Prodigy
Caroline Palmer
Athenium Books for Young Readers
c/o Simon and Schuster
https://www.simonandschuster.com
9781665930376, $12.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
Tate Seong dreams of being a professional violinist, but lacks the confidence to come out as nonbinary to their family, to be assertive with their friends, and to attempt a solo. At a summer orchestra camp, they run into Eli, who has major performance anxieties. Can the two kids figure out how to conquer the pressures, achieve their goals, and overcome their anxieties? A captivating story with visually appealing digital artwork. (Ages 8-12)
The Griffin's Boy
Sarah L. Thomson, author
Anna Catala, illustrator
Peachtree
https://www.peachtreebooks.com
9781682637661, $17.99
Dr. Dawn Menge
Reviewer
A wonderful, fanciful story etched with the Griffin who is now part of the royal menagerie. Follow along as Princess Lyss devotes her time to her magical creatures instead of her studies. Magical creatures and mystery abound in this lighthearted whodunit fantasy. (Ages 8-12)
Montgomery Bonbon: Mystery at the Manor
Alasdair Beckett-King, author
Claire Powell, illustrator
Candlewick
http://www.candlewick.com
9781536241693, $9.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Montgomery Bonbon has been given the task of delivering a package to Adderstone Manor. What she thought would be a routine assignment turns into something much more than that. Although this is the third book in the series, I was not familiar with the exploits of Montgomery Bonbon. However, the author did a good job of providing a backstory to fill in the blanks of who Bonbon is and what she has done in the past. The book is filled with cartoon-like illustrations, a delightfully odd cast of characters, and an entertaining storyline. (Ages 9-12)
Keystone Species
Laura Perdew, author
Micah Rauch, illustrator
https://lauraperdew.com
Nomad Press
https://nomadpress.net
9781647411206, $22.95
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Author Laura Perdew provides readers with a plethora of information about several different ecosystems and how individual species (the keystone species) affect the health and well-being of those systems and our planet. Readers will learn about the importance of wolves and sharks and bees and other creatures that keep our planet healthy. The author has included hands-on activities that relate to the subject matter of each chapter in the book. (Ages 9-12)
Not Nothing
Gayle Forman
https://www.gayleforman.com
Aladdin
c/o Simon & Schuster
https://www.simonandschuster.com
9781665943284, $8.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
This chapter book is supposedly one story, but other stories are woven into the narrative. The two seemingly unrelated stories combine to form one narrative about second chances and making the most of your opportunities in life. In doing so, author Gayle Forman covers a lot of different relevant topics and issues. An excellent book that should be read by all. (Ages 10+)
The Metamorphosis of Bunny Baxter
Barbara Carroll Roberts
Margaret Ferguson Books
c/o Holiday House
https://holidayhouse.com
9780823458561, $18.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
Bunny Baxter is starting a new middle school, away from her best friend and where she doesn't know anyone. She's tall with flaming red hair, has social anxiety, and loves insects... all of which makes her stand out, especially on her first day when she trips on the steps and causes a student pile-up, then lands in the principal's office after causing a scene at lunch. Her solution: get into trouble, get kicked out, and get to go to the other middle school with her best friend. Will her plan work? And does she really want it to? (Ages 10-14)
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
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