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Reviewer's Choice
Freedom Pancakes for Ukraine
Janice Cohn, author
Yana Holubiatnikova, illustrator
Le Chambon Press
9798989163588, $29.99, HC, 46pp
https://www.amazon.com/Freedom-Pancakes-Ukraine-Janice-Cohn/dp/B0DLJ261SV
Synopsis: Young Artem lives in Ukraine and, when war breaks out, his father stays to fight for freedom while Artem and his mother flee to safety by train into neighboring Poland. Struggling with sadness and confusion, Artem worries about his father and his own future. But he finds strength and hope in the kindness of Paolo, a volunteer with World Central Kitchen, who provides him with warm meals and comforting words.
In an interconnecting storyline, Hannah, a young girl in the United States, is concerned about the plight of Ukrainian children. Determined to make a difference, she finds a way to counter her own feelings of helplessness and offer support, proving that it's possible to have an impact, even from afar.
As children today often absorb narratives of violence and fear from the news, it is important to offer them stories about the powerful antidote of goodness and courage, and to inspire them-no matter how overwhelmed they may feel-to create change in the world around them one step at a time. At a time when the world is witnessing heartbreaking images from war zones, "Freedom Pancakes for Ukraine" reminds us of the resilience of the human spirit while showing us that helping others helps ourselves.
With the publication of "Freedom Pancakes for Ukraine", Dr. Janice Cohn delivers a moving story that explores the power of kindness and compassion in the face of war. Beautifully illustrated by Ukrainian artist Yana Holubiatnikova, this very special picture book takes children on an emotional journey from war-torn Ukraine to the heart of a compassionate volunteer in Poland -- and even across the ocean to a girl in the United States.
Critique: Original, unique, memorable, emotionally engaging, "Freedom Pancakes for Ukraine" is a compelling, inspiring, and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections for children ages 1-12. A much needed response to the tragedy of the current Russian/Ukrainian conflict and what children are exposed to through the news media, it should be noted personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Freedom Pancakes for Ukraine" from Le Chambon Press is also readily available in paperback (9798989163571, $19.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note #1: Dr. Janice Cohn (www.drjanicecohn.com) is a psychotherapist who specializes in helping adults and children cope with grief, loss, and life transitions. Her former newspaper column for the Family Times section of The Washington Times, which focused on raising compassionate children, ran for over two years and reached approximately half a million people. She is a former presidential faculty appointee to the Columbia University Continuing Education Seminar on Death and Dying, and former chairperson of the Multidisciplinary Bereavement Committee of Newark Beth Israel Medical Center.
Editorial Note #2: Yana Holubiatnikova's beautiful and haunting artwork illuminates "Freedom Pancakes for Ukraine". Yana is Ukrainian and, astonishingly, created each of the book's watercolor paintings while working in a war zone. She lives in Kherson, Ukraine, the realities of the Russian invasion and ongoing war never far from her mind. During the Russian occupation of her home town, she was forced to forage for food for herself, her young son, and her pets while never missing a day of painting in her studio. As fighting continues, her life remains difficult and uncertain. (https://www.freedompancakesforukraine.com/about-the-illustrator)
The Holiday Shelf
Let's Celebrate Korean New Year!
Michelle W. Park, author
Hyewon Yum, illustrator
Random House Children's Books
https://www.rhcbooks.com
9790593567302, $14.95, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Lets-Celebrate-Korean-New-Year/dp/0593567307
Synopsis: Madeleine and Eloise are getting ready for their family's Lunar New Year party, and there's so much to do before the guests arrive! From putting on colorful outfits called hanboks and making Korean dumplings called mandoo, to setting up yutnori, a traditional board game, Madeleine shows her younger sister how to prepare for the holiday.
But when Madeleine forgets to write a poem to share with the family, Eloise offers to help -- and the girls realize that although each tradition is special, what matters most is spending the day together.
"Let's Celebrate Korean New Year!" is festive picture book and a perfect way for young readers to learn about Korean New Year traditions, and features a glossary of Korean terms at the back, the author's own mandoo recipe, and a craft activity to create your very own charae-sang tablescape!
Critique: Charmingly illustrated by the artistry of Hyewon Yum is full support of the fun and informative story by Michelle W. Park, "Let's Celebrate Korean New Year!" is a very special and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Holiday Picture Book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Let's Celebrate Korean New Year!" from Random House Books for Young Readers is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99).
Editorial Note #1: Michelle W. Park is an Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist who is currently a correspondent at NBC. Let's Celebrate Korean New Year is her debut picture book. When she's not writing or appearing on TV, she loves preparing delicious and nutritious meals for her daughters Madeleine and Eloise.
Editorial Note #2: Hyewon Yum is the author and illustrator of many picture books, including Lion Needs A Haircut and Grandpa Across the Ocean. Her book Saturday is Swimming Day was named a Charlotte Zolotow Award Honor and Mom, It's My First Day of Kindergarten! received the Ezra Jack Keats New Illustrator Award. Hyewon was born and grew up in Seoul, Korea. Now she lives with her family in Brooklyn, New York.
Why We Eat Fried Peanuts
Zed Zha, author
Sian James, illustrator
www.zedzha.com
becker&mayer! kids
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
www.quartoknows.com
9790760395523, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Why-Eat-Fried-Peanuts-Celebration/dp/0760395527
Synopsis: In the pages of "Why We Eat Fried Peanuts", children will thoroughly enjoy joining Meng, a Chinese American girl, as she prepares for the Lunar New Year festivities with her family and discovers the significance of ancestral stories and the history behind the Mandarin language and traditional foods eaten during the holiday.
Meng's father shares with her the family story of tai nai nai, Meng's great-grandmother, and a very important ancestor for the family. Tai nai nai's brave act of courage many years ago inspired generations after and teaches valuable lessons that every child can learn from today.
Along the way, see how food plays an important role in the festivities and why one food (peanuts) is an important snack. The simple recipe for fried peanuts at the end of the story provides a fun, easy way to include the Lunar New Year in your annually celebrated holidays.
Rich with vibrant and joyful illustrations, "Why We Eat Fried Peanuts" honours the concept of ancestry, a pillar of Chinese culture that is remembered during the Lunar New Year celebrations. Through this engaging story, children will discover the rich history and culture of the Chinese Lunar New Year and learn how to apply the values of strength and courage all year round.
Critique: The original and collaborative work of author/storyteller Zed Zha and artist/illustrator Sian James, "Why We Eat Fried Peanuts: A Celebration of Family and Lunar New Year Traditions" is an especially and strongly recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library Holiday themed picture book collections for children ages 6-11. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Why We Eat Fried Peanuts" from becker&mayer! kids is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.04).
Editorial Note #1: Zed Zha (www.zedzha.com) is a board-certified family physician. As a Chinese American, she is passionate about telling stories about ancestry and traditions. In November 2023, she was selected as one of the five storytellers by the Nocturnists and Bellevue Literary Review for a live storytelling show in the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theater, New York City, which will be included in a podcast and documentary film. Her introspective, vulnerable, and humorous style of narrative nonfiction shines in her original Tai Nai Nai ("great-grandmother") story, on which her first children's book is based.
Editorial Note #2: Sian James (www.sianjamesillustration.com) was born in Hong Kong and has been drawing ever since she could pick up a pencil. Having lived a previous life as an archaeologist, she likes to combine her passions for nature, history, and art to tell stories from the mundane to the magical. She lives in Cambridge, England, with her husband, daughter, and two cats.
We're Going on an Egg Hunt
Goldie Hawk, author
Angie Rozelaar, illustrator
Nosy Crow
https://nosycrow.com
9798887771298, $8.99, Board Book, 24pp
https://www.amazon.com/Were-Going-Egg-Hunt/dp/B0D6W4G8L5
Synopsis: Three children are off on a hunt for the perfect Easter egg! But first they must get past the flapping hens, hungry bunnies, and hopping frogs. And then... what a surprise to find TEN big eggs in the garden! And now it's time for the Easter parade!
This springtime story has zingy neon ink throughout and is filled with cute characters and Easter surprises! Repeated phrases and sound words make this interactive picture book great for sharing with the whole family.
Critique: A fun read for children ages 2-5, "We're Going on an Egg Hunt" by author/storyteller Goldie Hawk and artist/illustrator Angie Rozelaar is unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, Kindergarten, and community library board book collections for Easter. It should be noted that "We're Going on an Egg Hunt" is also available in a hardcover picture book edition (9798887771304, $17.99) and in a paperback format (9791805130420, $15.99).
The Social Issues Shelf
Reach!
Lisa Gammon Olson, author
Lauren Rutledge, illustrator
www.lisagammonolson.com
Independently Published
9798218047405, $21.99, HC, 34pp
https://www.amazon.com/Reach-Lisa-Gammon-Olson/dp/B0B9LQXRK7
Synopsis: "Reach!" is the story of nine babies of all ethnicities who grow up on a balance beam high above the clouds. Their unconditional love for each other will be tested when outside influences and arguments are introduced into their innocent world.
"Reach!" demonstrates how and why, as a society, we have become so polarized in our social, cultural, political beliefs that it's imperative we find ways to start a civil conversation to begin to bring balance back... for the good of our communities, our country, our world.... and our children.
Critique: Original, unique, told in verse, thoroughly 'kid friendly' in organization and presentation, "Reach!" 4-10 by author/storyteller Lisa Gammon Olson and artist/illustrator Lauren Rutledge is a timely and urgently recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections dealing with the themes of prejudice, racism, and intolerance for children ages . It should be noted for personal reading lists that his hardcover edition of "Reach!" is also available in paperback (9798218048068, $12.99).
Editorial Note: Lisa Gammon Olson (https://lisagammonolson.com) is an award-winning author with 7 books published with Eifrig Publishing. Reach! is her 8th book. Instilling the love of reading while promoting kindness, empathy and respect for our planet, one book at a time.
The Biography Shelf
King: A Life
Jonathan Eig
Farrar, Straus & Giroux
www.fsgbooks.com
9790374393106, $19.99, HC, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/King-Young-Adult-Yohuru-Williams/dp/0374393109
Synopsis: Often regarded as more of a myth and legend than a man, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was many things throughout his storied life: student, activist, preacher, dreamer, father, husband. From his Atlanta childhood centered in the historically Black neighborhood of Sweet Auburn to his precipitous rise as a civil rights leader on the streets of Birmingham, Selma, and Montgomery, Dr. King would go on to become one of the most recognizable, influential, and controversial persons of the twentieth century.
This Young Adult edition of "King: A Life" is a fast-paced and immersive adaptation of Jonathan Eig's groundbreaking biography. Young readers will meet a Dr. King like no other: a committed radical whose demands for racial and economic justice remain as urgent today as they were in his lifetime, a minister wrestling with his human frailties and dark moods, a citizen hunted by his own government.
The inspiring and special edition of "King: A Life" also highlights author Jonathan Eig's never-before-seen research (including recently declassified FBI documents) while reaffirming and recontextualizing the lasting effects and implications of MLK's work for the present day. Adapted by National Book Award nominated co-authors Yohuru Williams and Michael G. Long, this biography for a new generation is a nuanced, unprecedented portrayal of a man who truly shook the world.
Critique: Simply stated, this very special edition of "King: A Life" is a timely and unreservedly recommended addition to family, middle school, highschool, and community library African-American Biography/Memoir collections and Black History Month curriculum studies lists. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this YA edition of "King: A Life" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).
Editorial Note #1: Jonathan Eig is a former senior writer for The Wall Street Journal. He is the New York Times bestselling author of several books, including Ali: A Life, Luckiest Man: The Life and Death of Lou Gehrig, and Opening Day: The Story of Jackie Robinson's First Season. Ken Burns calls him "a master storyteller," and Eig's books have been listed among the best of the year by The Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Sports Illustrated, and Slate. He lives in Chicago with his wife and children.
Editorial Note #2: Yohuru Williams is a professor of history and founding director of the Racial Justice Initiative at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota. A regular contributor to a variety of media programming on CNN and History, he is the author of numerous books, including Teaching US History Beyond the Textbook, Call Him Jack: The Story of Jackie Robinson, Black Freedom Fighter, and More Than a Dream: The Radical March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. The former chief historian of the Jackie Robinson Foundation, he appeared in Ken Burns's Jackie Robinson and was one of the hosts of Sound Smart, the History Channel's popular YouTube program. His educational videos on civil rights, social movements, and other historic events have garnered over 1 million views. He lives in Minnesota.
Editorial Note #3: Michael G. Long has a Ph.D. from Emory University and is the author or editor of numerous books on nonviolent protest, civil rights, and LGBTQ+ rights. His books for children include Call Him Jack: The Story of Jackie Robinson, Black Freedom Fighter; and the picture book Unstoppable: How Bayard Rustin Organized the March on Washington. Twitter: @MichaelGLong2
The Girl Who Tested the Waters: Ellen Swallow, Environmental Scientist
Patricia Danielle, author
Junyi Wu, illustrator
MIT Kids Press
c/o Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9791536230055, $18.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Who-Tested-Waters-Environmental/dp/1536230057
Synopsis: Ellen Swallow found a friend in nature and a lifelong love of science as a child exploring the woods around her family's home. She was a voracious learner with an interest in chemistry, and continuing her education at the newly established Massachusetts Institute of Technology seemed a good fit.
But in 1871, many believed that women belonged in the home, not in schools dedicated to the study of science. Ellen thought, why not both? She believed science could help solve the problems of everyday life, including the pollution she observed in Boston, so when offered the chance to study the city's water systems, she seized it. What she found would change the way we think about clean water.
In her lifetime, Ellen pioneered science education for women, advocated for a healthier environment, and helped develop the field of ecology. "The Girl Who Tested the Waters", with its engaging text and soft, inviting illustrations, portrays a woman ahead of her time and her tireless efforts to bring about change for good. Curious young readers can find more in the back matter, including a time line, an author's note, source notes, and a bibliography.
Critique: A fun and informative read from start to finish, "The Girl Who Tested the Waters: Ellen Swallow, Environmental Scientist" is the collaborative work of author/storyteller Patricia Daniele and artist/illustrator Junyi Wu. A very special and unreservedly recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library biography picture book collections for children ages 5-8, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of young readers with an interest in Women's History/Biographies and Environment/Ecology/Chemistry that this hardcover edition of "The Girl Who Tested the Waters: Ellen Swallow, Environmental Scientist" from MIT Kids Press is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note #1: Patricia Daniele is an avid reader who likes to dig into and write stories about can-do people who have dared to overcome obstacles and have succeeded and inspired others. The Girl Who Tested the Waters is her debut picture book.
Editorial Note #2: Junyi Wu (https://www.junyiwu.art) is the illustrator of several books, including the Newbery Honor Books Elf Dog and Owl Head by M. T. Anderson and Scary Stories for Young Foxes by Christian McKay Heidicker; Two Bicycles in Beijing by Teresa Robeson; and Beatrix Potter, Scientist by Lindsay H. Metcalf.
A Little Golden Book Biography
Golden Books
c/o Random House Children's Books
https://www.rhcbooks.com
www.goldenbooks.com
Synopsis: Little Golden Books is a premier publisher of books for young children. One of their publication series, 'A Little Golden Book Biography' is dedicated to introducing men and women of achievement to very young readers ages 4-8.
https://www.amazon.com/Maya-Angelou-Little-Golden-Biography/dp/0593648374
"Maya Angelou" -- Anne Wynter, author / Courtney Lovell, illustrator (9780593648377, $5.99 HC, $5.99 Kindle, 24pp)
Maya Angelou is the acclaimed poet, lecturer, activist, and author of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.
https://www.amazon.com/Jimmy-Carter-Little-Golden-Biography/dp/0593898346
"Jimmy Carter" -- Michael Joosten, author / Jim Starr, illustrator (9780593898345, $5.99 HC, $5.99 Kindle, 24pp)
Jimmy Carter was the 39th president of the United States and Nobel Peace Prize recipient from Plains, Georgia, who continued to help people well into his nineties by building houses with Habitat for Humanity. Passing away at age 100 he was also the longest living American president.
https://www.amazon.com/Selena-Little-Golden-Book-Biography/dp/0593808371
"Selena" -- Maria Correa, author / Paula Zamudio, illustrator (9780593808375, $5.99 HC, $5.99 Kindle, 24pp)
Selena Quintanilla is the Grammy Award winning Mexican-American singer who became known as the beloved icon of Tejano music and culture. This Little Golden Books biogrpahy is an inspiring read-aloud for young children ages 4-8, as well as their parents and grandparents who are fans.
Critique: These three new additions to this simply outstanding and inspiring biography series from Little Golden Books are especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections for young children.
Editorial Note: Little Golden Books is an American series of children's books, published since 1942. The Poky Little Puppy, the eighth release in the series, is the top-selling children's book of all time in the United States. Many other Little Golden Books have become bestsellers, including Tootle, Scuffy the Tugboat, The Little Red Hen, Doctor Dan the Bandage Man, and their American Presidents series (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Little_Golden_Books).
The American History Shelf
The ABCs of Women's History
Rio Cortez, author
Lauren Semmer, illustrator
Workman Publishing Company
c/o Hachette
https://www.hachettebookgroup.com
9791523523290, $18.99, HC, 64pp
https://www.amazon.com/ABCs-Womens-History/dp/1523523298
Synopsis: In a beautiful picture book format author/storyteller Rio Cortez and artist/illustrator Lauren Semmer celebrate all the joys, challenges, and historic forward movement of women's history in the United States, with a special focus on the Black women, brown women, transwomen, and others who make change happen with "The ABCs of Women's History" from the Workman Publishing Company.
"The ABCs of Women's History" introduces young readers to women artists, activists and allies, as well as Civil Rights, Women's Choice, and Freedom Fighters, headliners, labor leaders -- and librarians!
It's about historic moments for women such as Kamala Harris being sworn in as the first African-American and first Asian-American Vice President of the United States; Title IX passing through Congress; Seneca Falls, where the first women's rights convention was held; the Riot Grrrls movement; and so much more.
Additionally, "The ABCs of Women's History" is a story of persistence. It's a story of pride. And it's a story of progress. This is a history that celebrates the disruptors, the dreamers, the determined, and the do-it-yourself-ers who continue to inspire the next generation of women to build a brighter, better tomorrow.
Critique: A fun and informative read from cover to cover, "The ABCs of Women's History" is impressively informative, inspiring, and a welcome, recommended addition to family, elementary school, middle school, and community library Women's History picture book collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "The ABCs of Women's History" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Editorial Note #1: Rio Cortez (www.riocortez.com/about) is a writer and Pushcart-nominated poet who has received fellowships from Poet's House, Cave Canem, and CantoMundo foundations. Her work has appeared or is forthcoming in the Los Angeles Review of Books, The Miami Rail, and Mother Magazine, among others.
Editorial Note 32: Lauren Semmer (www.laurensemmer.com) is an artist, children's book illustrator, and designer. She studied drawing at St. Paul College of Visual Arts and art history at New York University. Lauren's bright and charming work is featured on everything from kid's wall art to children's apparel.
The Board Book Shelf
I Cannot Find My Belly Button!
Eva Treistman, author
Allison Black, illustrator
Workman Kids
c/o Hachette
https://www.hachettebookgroup.com
9791523529643, $9.99, Board Book, 26pp
https://www.amazon.com/Cannot-Find-My-Belly-Button/dp/1523529644
Synopsis: "I Cannot Find My Belly Button!" by author/storyteller Eva Treistman and artist/illustrator Allison Black is a fun read-aloud board book that teaches young children about their bodies while searching for the ever-elusive belly button.
I can find my eyes
I can find my nose
I can find my fingers
And can find my toes
I cannot find my belly button
There's a hole where it goes!
Follow along with this playful read-aloud as a child looks everywhere for their belly button but can't seem to find it! Until big sister comes to reveal the big secret: some are "innies" and some are "outies"! "I Cannot Find My Belly Button" is a great way to practice naming all of the parts of the body while having some silly, rhyming fun.
Critique: Certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library board book collections for children ages 3-7, "I Cannot Find My Belly Button" is an especially and unreservedly recommended acquisition choice.
Editorial Note #1: Eva Treistman has had a passion for storytelling and rhyme since she could speak. She has published various poems in Highlights on the road to caring for her father with Alzheimer's and having her own special needs child, and she has finally arrived in a place where she can focus on publishing.
Editorial Note #2: Allison Black (www.allisonblackillustration.com) is an illustrator and designer specializing in cute and colorful creations.
Why, Mommy? Why?
Tamara Girardi, author
Olga Skomorokhova, illustrator
Familius
www.familius.com
9791641708746, $9.99 Board Book, $9.99 Kindle, 16pp
https://www.amazon.com/Why-Mommy-Tamara-Girardi/dp/1641708743
Synopsis: Why are you so strong, Mommy?
Why? So I can scoop you up into the biggest, best bear hugs.
Why do you brush your teeth, Mommy?
Why? So I can smile bright whenever you need it.
Why is every kid's favorite word -- but what if instead of growing impatient, Mommy Bear uses each new question to show her love for her inquisitive cub. From Tamara Girardi (author of Why, Daddy? Why?) and artist/illustrator Olga Skomorokhova, comes a new list of "whys" and new ways to say "Because I love you".
Critique: Charmingly illustrated in a colorful cartoon type fashion that fully supports a fun text, "Why, Mommy? Why?" is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, and community library board book collections for children ages 1-3.
Editorial Note #1: Dr. Tamara Girardi (www.tamaragirardi.com) writes books for children and teens. Her published titles include the Amazon Editor's Pick Why, Daddy? Why?, upcoming companion title Why, Mommy? Why? and six YA titles in the Iron Valley and Carnivalesque series. Tamara is also a college English professor, a researcher, and a motivational speaker.
Editorial Note #2: Olga Skomorokhova specializes in editorial and book illustrations and other commissioned and personal projects. Olga is inspired by her travels and the people around; thus, you can see a lot of botanical, architectural, and animalistic topics in her art. She experiments with many different techniques and utilizes various materials to achieve the desired effect. (https://childrensillustrators.com/OlgaSkomorokhova/portfolio)
Aqua's Adventure
Nabeela Alidina
Ariascape Publishing LLC
https://www.aquasadventure.com
9798988379904, $14.99 Board Book, $8.99 Kindle, 20pp
https://www.amazon.com/Aquas-Adventure-Deep-Rolling-River/dp/B0CNTGJPFR
Synopsis: "Aqua's Adventure" by author/storyteller Nabeela Alidina follows the journey of Aqua, a water droplet, as she transforms from a droplet to a river and a snowflake, and back again. Through her adventures, Aqua learns the importance of water and the many forms it takes, and how to cherish and protect it.
"Aqua's Adventure" is beautifully illustrated throughout with vibrant colors and intricate details that bring Aqua's world to life. The story is engaging and relatable, making it easy for children to connect with Aqua's journey and learn from her experiences.
"Aqua's Adventure" also includes a helpful guide for parents, with tips on how to engage children in discussions about water conservation and sustainability. "Aqua's Adventure" will inspire children to appreciate the value of water and inspire them to take action to protect it for future generations.
Critique: Also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99), this "Aqua's Adventure" board book is a fun way for parents and caregivers to teach informative and thoroughly 'kid friendly' lessons about the nature of water, its resilience, conservation, and it's power of transformation. This board book edition of Nabeela Alidina's "Aqua's Adventure" from Ariascape Publishing is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections for children ages 3-8. It should be noted by parents that there is an Aqua's Adventure" coloring book available: "Aqua's Adventure from the Deep Blue Sea to the Rolling River - Coloring Book for Kids" (9798988379911, $12.99, Ages 2-8).
Editorial Note: Originally from Africa, Nabeela Alidina is an avid nature enthusiast. Her profound connection with the extraordinary beauty surrounding us brings solace, inspiration, and a sense of belonging. In embracing nature, she discovers a reciprocal love that fuels her commitment to cherish the wonders surrounding us, turning each moment into a heartfelt celebration of the beauty around her. Aqua's adventure was inspired by the majestic landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, where the beauty of nature serves as an influential muse for her enchanting journey.
I See You Play
Deborah Farmer Kris, author
Jane Masseg, illustrator
Free Spirit Publishing
www.freespirit.com
9798885540797, $9.99, Board Book, 24pp
https://www.amazon.com/See-You-Play-Board-Books/dp/B0D829DP65
Synopsis: Dressing-up, dancing, painting, splashing. In "I See You Play", a caregiver notices and celebrates how toddlers do the important work of exploring their world through play. This board book engages little ones with rhyming text and bouncy rhythm, while guiding adults in how to validate and encourage children's play.
Critique: A part of the 'I See You Board Books' series from Free Spirit Publishing, "I See You Plane" by author/storyteller Deborah Farmer Kris and artist/illustrator Jane Massey features a set of twins and takes place over the course of a few hours in a toddler's daily routine. Fun and 'kid friendly' from start to finish, "I See You Play" from Free Spirit Publishing will prove a welcome and popular pick for family, daycare center, preschool, and community library board book collections for children ages 1-3.
Editorial Note #1: Deborah Farmer Kris is the author of Raising Awe-Seekers: How the Science of Wonder Helps Our Kids Thrive, the I See You board book series, and the All the Time picture book series. She is a child development expert and parent educator serving as a columnist and consultant for PBS KIDS, and she writes for NPR's MindShift and other national publications. Over the course of her career, Deborah has taught almost every grade K-12, served as a school administrator, directed leadership institutes, and presented to hundreds of parents and educators around the United States. (https://www.parenthood365.com)
Editorial Note #2: Jane Massey (https://www.janemassey.co.uk) studied graphic design at Kingston University and worked for agencies in London and Hong Kong before choosing to focus on illustration. As well as illustrating over 60 children's books, she's created artwork for packaging, stationary, and advertising. One of her sketches was recently engraved on a telecommunications satellite that was launched into space. Jane lives and works in Hove on the South Coast of England. You can see more of her work on Instagram @janemasseyillustration
The Picturebook Shelf
Kate the Earthling
Kate Shooltz, author
Winona Kieslich, illustrator
Kate the Earthling LLC
https://www.katetheearthling.com
9798990587700, $19.99, HC, 36pp
https://www.amazon.com/Kate-Earthling-Shooltz/dp/B0DGRTG1KR
Synopsis: Kate is a little girl who has just moved and is feeling a little sad and lonely. Her new town is unfamiliar and she misses her friends and her old house. But a walk through the woods turns into a nature adventure with new friends and Kate learns she's been at home all along.
Critique: With the publication of "Kate the Earthling", author/storyteller Kate Shooltz and artist/illustrator Winona Kieslich tells the charming picture book story of one little girl's discovery that we are all Earthlings. A fun read from start to finish, "Kate the Earthling" also provides young readers with an invaluable lesson about the importance of taking care of the Earth -- not only for themselves but for all the creatures that live on it with us. Original, entertaining, and memorable, "Kate the Earthling" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library nature themed picture book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted that this hardcover edition of "Kate the Earthling" is also readily available for personal reading lists in paperback (9798990587724, $14.99).
Editorial Note #1: Kate Shooltz (www.katetheearthling.com) is a moss artist and children's book author fostering connections with the Earth. Through her artwork and children's stories she hopes to share the magic of nature with people of all ages.
Editorial Note #2: Winona Kieslich (www.behance.net/winonakieslich#) is a digital illustrator from Germany who travels around the world with her art creating iPad. She enjoys creating new and whimsical characters, which tend to be magical, silky and joyful. Her art focuses on children's book illustrations and character designs.
Friends Forever
Mary Murphy
Happy Yak
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
www.quartoknows.com
9790711294141, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Friends-Forever-Mary-Murphy/dp/0711294143
Synopsis: I'm going out to play,
Please, will you come too?
Everything is better
When I do it with you!
Two adorable monkeys laugh, play, and look out for each other in this sweet and uplifting picture book. With eye-catching, bright artwork, adorable characters, and simple, bouncy text, "Friends Forever" is suffused with author/illustrator Mary Murphy's trademark playful humor and heart.
Critique: Original, charming, delightful, and a thoroughly fun read from start to finish, this hardcover edition of Mary Murphy's "Friends Forever" from Happy Yak is especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, and community library picture book collections for children ages 1-3. It should be noted that "Friends Forever" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.99).
Editorial Note: Mary Murphy (www.marymurphy.ie/home) is a Dublin-based author-illustrator of over 40 books; from board books for babies to fiction for children. With an advanced diploma in Visual Communications, Mary harnesses the power of pictures and words to develop both the eyesight and speech of babies and children as they grow. In Children's Books Ireland's 2018 campaign to mark the centenary of women's suffrage in Ireland, Mary was one of twenty 'Bold Girls' celebrated for having made 'an exceptional contribution to the canon of Irish children's literature'.
Our Tree
Jessica Meserve
Tiger Tales
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9791664300620, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Our-Tree-Jessica-Meserve/dp/1664300627
Synopsis: A squirrel named Little Red is delighted when he discovers a beautiful tree -- and he wants to keep it all to himself! But he soon realizes he is not alone in the tree. Birds stop by to rest on its branches during a long flight. An elephant uses the tree's rough bark to scratch its back. And with all of the other animals, bugs, and birds that call the tree home, it's just too noisy for Little Red! He decides to set out to find ANOTHER tree, just for himself -- but when he has a scary run-in with a leopard, Little Red learns the value of sharing, community, tolerance, and friends who have your back.
Critique: A fun read with an important message about the value of community, "Our Tree" by gifted storytelling author and illustrator Jessica Meserve is an ideal and highly 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 "Our Tree" from Tiger Tales is also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).
Editorial Note: Jessica Meserve (www.jessicameserve.com) has loved drawing and painting for as long as she can remember. Growing up, Jessica was inspired by her mom's paintings and love of making things. With lots of lovely art materials around her to use; Jessica would sit at their dining room table on rainy days trying to paint the Beatrix Potter figures that she collected. Jessica lives in Hitchin, Hertfordshire, England.
I Have Three Cats...
Michelle Sumovich, author
Laura Park, illustrator
Dial Books
c/o Penguin Group USA
https://www.penguin.com
9790593112717, $18.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Have-Three-Cats/dp/0593112717
Synopsis: "I have three cats -- Big, Little, and Middle -- in charge of my backyard. But that one over there? She's not mine. Not at all."
When a new cat appears in her backyard, a young girl isn't sure what to do. The new kitty is a little smelly and covered in fleas -- who would want a cat like that? Besides she already has three cats, and they're not too keen on this newcomer either.
But day by day and season by season, the new cat comes back, and the girl and her kitties warm to the new furry face in their yard. Before they know it, the new cat isn't so new -- she's part of the family.
Critique: An impressively original and thoroughly charming picture book story by author/storyteller Michelle Sumovich and artist/illustrator Laura Parks, "I Have Three Cats..." is a fun read from start to finish. Of particular appeal to young readers with an interest in cats and kittens, "I Have Three Cats..." from Dial Books is especially and unreservedly recommended as an enduringly popular pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community/public library picture book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "I Have Three Cats..." is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Editorial Note #1: Michelle Sumovich (https://www.michellesumovich.com) has a background working in bookstores and library program development for young children, as well as years of experience writing lyrics and music for children and adults.
Editorial Note #2: Laura Park (www.singingbones.com) is a cartoonist and the illustrator of two series, Middle School and I Funny; the picture books Abner & Ian Get Right-Side Up and Digestion! The Musical and many other books for young people. She is an American living in France.
The Curious Little Snail
Ashley M. Young
Crystal Publishing LLC
9791942624363, $16.39, PB, 36pp (Ages 4-8)
https://www.amazon.com/Curious-Little-Snail-Ashley-Young/dp/1942624360
A magical premise opens the picture book The Curious Little Snail: Did you know that if you are very still and listen closely, snails will tell you the secrets of the universe?
Deep in a forest, young snail Serena and her father search for answers to some of their questions about life. Exceptionally appealing illustrations provide attractive embellishment as the introduction makes the case for a snail's slow movement through and subsequent consideration of life.
This approach teaches young listeners and readers the finer art of slowing down and reserving time for contemplation rather than coveting nonstop action. The atmosphere of adventure and learning that evolves from this pace is anything but slow and dull, reflecting unhurried yet vibrant insights. How can a snail have adventures while moving so leisurely through life?
Ashley M. Young explores many facets of what constitutes an adventure, whether observing life's "amazing secrets" or cultivating patience. Read-aloud parents who choose The Curious Little Snail will ideally consider it a starting point for all kinds of interactive conversations with the very young about subjects ranging from understanding and appreciating scientific investigations to the value of cultivating curiosity and asking questions about life.
Elementary-level libraries will appreciate a growth-oriented guide which firmly marries action and adventure with unexpected insights, and will find the appealing illustrations and gentle explorations perfect for top recommendation to young picture book audiences and read-aloud parents seeking interactive opportunities from adventure stories.
Is a Book a Box for Words?
Harriet Ziefert and Merce Gali
Red Comet Press
www.redcometpress.com
9781636551258, $18.99 HC, $17.00 Kindle, 34 pp (Ages 5-9)
https://www.amazon.com/Book-Box-Words-Harriet-Ziefert/dp/1636551254
Is a Book a Box for Words? is a picture book exploration of boxes and their uses. It pairs a thought-provoking survey by Harriet Ziefert with the engaging illustrations of renowned Spanish book illustrator Merce Gali. Simple, one-sentence descriptions of boxes and their design, usage, and differences accompany illustrations that celebrate the diversity of the box. Read-aloud parents who might initially think that a focus on boxes will be boring will be delighted by the lively, colorful box explorations that expands their use and value in imaginative, fun ways.
Open Me... I'm a Dog!
Art Spiegelman
Toon Books
c/o Astra Books for Young Readers
www.astrapublishing.com
9781662665486, $18.99 HC, 32pp (Ages 5-7)
https://www.amazon.com/Open-Me-Dog-Art-Spiegelman/dp/1662665482
Open Me... I'm a Dog! blends words and images in the lively picture book exploration of a puppy who claims to literally walk from the pages of this book. A child might think this is just a book, but the puppy refutes this notion with a creative discussion of a wizard's curse, the perils of chewing up a witch's best broom, and a series of transformations that includes meeting a 'magic maiden of the mountain' who "sang like a bird and smelled like a fish." Read-aloud adults will find it just as whimsical and fun as their young listeners, while libraries will appreciate Open Me... I'm a Dog!'s colorful, wonderfully creative plot.
The Soul of the Violin
Nivola Uya
Cuento de Luz
www.cuentodeluz.com
9788419464705, $19.95, HC, 32pp (Ages 4-8)
https://www.amazon.com/Soul-Violin-N%C3%ADvola-%C3%9Aya/dp/8419464708
The Soul of the Violin is inspired by the true story of Gaspar Borchardt, a violin maker. Here, he embarks on an adventure prompted by a search for an special tree for instrument-making. Not just any instrument, either... an exceptional one. His journey is filled with music, magic, and a quest that involves a forest's nature and inhabitants as it evolves themes of trust, patience, and perseverance. Exceptionally lovely full-page illustrations mark a gorgeous biography that simmers with nature, melody, and an appreciation of the world. These elements will lead read-aloud parents, elementary-level libraries, and picture book readers to appreciate The Soul of the Violin's extraordinary celebratory story.
Penguin
www.penguin.com/kids
New picture book arrivals from Penguin give young readers engaging stories paired with superior, colorful illustrations.
https://www.amazon.com/Roof-Stephanie-Ellen-Sy/dp/0593697057
Stephanie Ellen Sy's A roof! (9780593697054, $18.99) receives fine illustrations by Daniel Tingcungco and tells of a community that bands together after a storm tears a roof off a house. Young Maya and her Tatay are determined to return the roof to its owners, and Tatay packs it up for delivery. What kind of a roof can be packed up and toted? A thin metal roof, typical of Philippines homes. As Maya and her Tatay embark on a very long journey, many helping hands aid them in their endeavor to return the roof to a family that might be cold, and missing it. Solid lessons about helping and community involvement are imparted during the course of an appealing journey that read-aloud adults will find especially valuable not just for its messages on helping others, but its portrait of the Philippines.
https://www.amazon.com/How-Be-Witch-Gabrielle-Balkan/dp/0593751191
Gabrielle Balkan and Shana Gozansky's How to Be a Witch (9780593751190, $19.99) features engaging art by Carmen Saldana as it considers what makes a witch a witch. Contrary to young peoples' beliefs, a witch might not be all bad. All it might take is loving others, to bring magic alive in the world. This engaging picture book covers the not-so-negative personality of a witch in an appealing manner containing many subliminal messages that read-aloud adults can profile to young listeners.
Oliver Jeffers offers Where to Hide a Star (9760593622247, $22.99) to both prior fans of the tales of boy and penguin and newcomers who will appreciate boy's vivid game of hide-and-seek with his friends Penguin and the star. The star isn't very good at hiding, though, and can always be found. How can he participate in such a game? A gentle story of friendships, differences, and play presents fun for picture book readers and listeners.
https://www.amazon.com/Fail-bration-Brad-Montague/dp/0593697146
Brad and Kristi Montague's Fail-A-Bration! (9780593697146, $18.99) celebrates those who try and fail, offering a lively and supportive survey of various kinds of failures as it explores why a "standing ovation" should be given to those who pick themselves back up to try again. Whether it's making mistakes, failing to do art or baking, presenting the wrong gift to a friend, or incurring the laughter of those who think they'd know or do better, the story encourages kids to understand that "failing is part of a process. It helps to remember you're not done." This is a message many an adult would do well to heed, themselves, making the picture book not just warm and celebratory, but worthy of the entire family's thought-provoking discussion.
All of these new titles from Penguin are fine recommendations for elementary-level libraries and read-aloud parents alike.
Simon & Schuster
www.simonandschuster.com
New arrivals from Simon and Schuster represent top-notch recommendations for elementary-level libraries, read-aloud parents, and picture book readers who look for vivid blends of plot and illustration.
https://www.amazon.com/Cozy-Home-Three-Half-Stories/dp/166593042X
Ame Dyckman and Mark Teague present three friends who enjoy life in the "Bat, Cat & Rat" series. The Cozy Home (9781665930420, $17.99), the first book in the series, follows the three into a new living situation as they unpack, find their special (and sometimes unexpected) places in the new house, and face disparities in jokes and funny choices.
https://www.amazon.com/Vacation-Three-Half-Stories/dp/1665930446
Vacation by the same authors (9781665930444, $17.99) presents three-and-a-half new adventures that follow the trio when they decide to vacation together. Once again, differences and similarities highlight attractions and possible problems in friendship that adults can easily use to guide young listeners. The introductory lessons about relationship-building, acceptance, and different ways of viewing life are embedded into these exceptional, fun, whimsical tales.
https://www.amazon.com/Mabel-Wants-Friend-Ariel-Bernstein/dp/1665940409
Ariel Bernstein's Mable Wants a Friend (9781665940405, $18.99) receives engaging illustrations by Marc Rosenthal as it explores how a girl who always gets what she wants meets Chester, who doesn't always agree with how she succeeds. The two have a disagreement that leads Mabel to think that they shouldn't be friends... but Chester's appeal has won him a place in her life. She only has to enact some personal changes to find a revised role acceptable not only to him, but to herself. Read-aloud parents will especially enjoy the opportunity to cover subtler nuances of relationship-building than is featured most picture books about disparate friendships.
https://www.amazon.com/Just-Try-Phil-Lil-Book/dp/1665942630
Phil & Lily Rosenthal's Just Try It! (9781665942638, $18.99) will reach ages 4-8 with its story of father Phil and his stubborn daughter Lil. Phil's motto about food is "just try it!" But Lil knows in advance what her likes are... so why should she taste something new that she just KNOWS she won't enjoy? The father-daughter connection is as strongly presented as Phil's motivation for encouraging his daughter to be flexible and open to trying new things. The plot will especially engage food-reluctant kids and parents who also want to encourage them to reach out and experience new tastes and opportunities in life.
https://www.amazon.com/Not-My-Cat-Stacey-Patton/dp/1665927968
Stacey Patton's Not My Cat (9781665927963, $18.99) receives inviting illustrations by Acamy Schleikorn and is based on a true story, lending it added appeal for ages 4-8. Staceypants lives in a lovely house and keeps it exceptionally clean. When she finds a scruffy stray cat on her fence, Staceypants is not inclined to take him in. She well knows that cats cause disruption and even need a messy litter box - so she knows she doesn't want a cat. It may take repeat visits for the cat to win her heart, but eventually it does... so when it vanishes, Staceypants experiences an epiphany that young readers will find especially relatable. Read-aloud parents will find Not My Cat a particularly winning tale of connection and discovery.
https://www.amazon.com/Grown-Love-Valeria-Wicker/dp/166594708X
Valeria Wicker's Grown With Love (9781665947084, $18.99) tells of young green thumb grower Oliver, who helps his neighbors with their own plant problems... except for Mrs. Kroftombottom, who apparently has a black thumb. Despite his best efforts, everything he tries to grow for her dies. When he attempts to remedy this bleak situation, he uncovers more insights about her life that is likely to effect a greater change than just being able to support other living things. Libraries and parents will appreciate this lively story of growth that operates on several levels of discovery.
https://www.amazon.com/You-Are-Sleepy-Mark-Teague/dp/1665940743
You Are Not Sleepy! by Mark Teague (9781665940740, $18.99) tells of a sleepless pig who tries everything to fall asleep, from combating too much light to facing scary darkness. A host of problems evolve over getting to sleep, from moths that are attracted to the light to building a bed so warm that others in the house want to join him. What is a sleepless pig to do? Kids receive a fun story of an increasingly zany situation in a tale steeped in hilarious moments of problem-solving and new dilemmas.
All of these new titles from Simon & Schuster are highly recommended picks for personal picture book collections and elementary-level libraries alike.
The Elementary Fiction Shelf
Planet of the Cats
Hans Ness
https://hansness.com
Zira Press
9798988037156, $19.95 Hardcover/$11.99 Paperback/$6.99 ebook
https://hansness.com/book_rpc.php
Rolo on the Planet of the Cats continues the adventures of Rolo who grew up as a pet on an alien planet in the first book, Rolo the Pet Earthling. Here Rolo discovers the mythical planet Earth, in search of his ancestors, only to find that the cats have overthrown the hoomans and claimed the planet as their own.
Rolo flees the pound, only to find his adventure further expanded by his meeting with Ailey, who offers to help Rolo locate his people if he will help her flee Earth and its cat overlords. In short order there appears a fortune-telling elephant, a friendly one-eyed alley cat, and all kinds of encounters that place Rolo and Ailey in dangerous situations packed with tension, from locating the magical Zorx key and stowing away on a ship to confronting dangerous cats. Illustrator Sofia Komarenko captures the action with colorful drawings peppered throughout, which kids will appreciate.
Hans Ness takes the time to inject play and humor into the story, creating important moments of creative comic relief: "En garde!" yelled Rolo, standing on a table, thrusting a long banana-fish toward Ailey. (A banana-fish is a meat-fruit shaped like a long banana, with an outer peel of silvery scales and tasty meat inside.) Ailey, too, was on the table, wielding a long fish in one hand and a pan-shield in the other.
This nicely supplements more serious conversations about family, heritage, and the special challenges Rolo and Ailey face as they search out a place in the universe: After a moment, he said quietly, "I never really knew my parents. That was pretty normal for earthlings back on Blorx. Things are so different here - I'm still trying to figure it out." The result is a rollicking ride between a daring escape from cat overlords, an adventure to the lost hooman city, a developing friendship, and the tale of a "stray earthling" seeking a new home.
Libraries seeking a fun, zany sci-fi adventure for advanced elementary to middle grade readers will find Planet of the Cats a winner, whether it's chosen as a stand-alone adventure or as a vivid companion to the first Rolo alien world saga.
The Middle Grade Fiction Shelf
I Taught Benjamin Franklin How to Drive
Ann K. Morris
Brandylane Publishers
www.brandylanepublishers.com
9791962416658, $15.95, PB, 128pp
https://www.amazon.com/Taught-Benjamin-Franklin-How-Drive/dp/1962416658
Synopsis: Life for 12-year-old Luke Adams is tough, and it's about to get weird, too. His mother died when he was 10, his dad is a workaholic, and Benjamin Franklin just traveled to his backyard from 1783 Paris.
Luke wants more than anything to help his dad become the family man he used to be. He also wants to keep his bully, Hunter Lyons, from convincing their middle school to cancel all of the art classes. And, as if that's not enough, now that Benjamin Franklin is standing in his living room - wearing tights, short pants, and a ruffly white shirt, no less - Luke has to find a way to get him back to Paris in time to sign the treaty that ends the American Revolution.
With a little wisdom from Ben and a lot of determination, Luke tries hard to solve his problems. He helps out in his dad's Italian bistro, sells Ben's valuable coins at an antique show, sketches a one hundred-dollar bill, and even finds the courage to speak in front of a packed audience of middle schoolers.
Oh, and he teaches Ben all about the modern world. He even teaches Ben how to drive!
Critique: A fun read from start to finish, author Ann K. Morris has created an original and wonderfully whimsical story that will be throughout enjoyed by children ages 10-12. While especially and unreservedly recommended for elementary school, middle school, and community library collections for young readers, it should be noted for personal reading lists that this paperback edition of "I Taught Benjamin Franklin How to Drive" from Brandylane Publishers is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).
Editorial Note: Ann Kay Morris (https://www.annkmorris.com) writes middle grade and young adult novels. Her first young adult novel, THIN, was published in 2022. Originally from Kansas, Ann earned a B.A. in English and psychology from the University of Kansas, an M.A. in journalism from the University of Iowa, and a B.S. in education from the University of Saint Mary. As a professional writer for 13 years, Ann wrote articles for newspapers and magazines, as well as the book Leawood: A Portrait in Time, a history of Leawood, Kansas. In 2003, Ann switched from writing to teaching writing. She worked as a middle school English teacher in Kansas and Colorado for 15 years.
Blue: When Hiding Isn't Safe Anymore
Caroline Allen
Our Street Books
c/o Collective Ink Books
https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com
9791803416922, $15.95, PB, 232pp
https://www.amazon.com/Blue-When-Hiding-Anymore-Novel/dp/1803416920
Synopsis: In a time of windstorms and wildfires, Blue is a huge tree growing in an ancient forest. Blue's best friend is Maisie-Grace, a girl with a terrible, beautiful secret. Not only can Maisie talk to trees, she has dreams and visions that come true, a 'gift' she has to hide from everybody.
One day, Maisie dreams of loggers coming to cut down her beloved forest. A series of events propels her from the woods, where she has been home schooled her entire life, to a middle school she doesn't know. There she makes unlikely friends with JAX, a paraplegic artist, and Macon, an animal-loving farm girl. The three girls venture into the forest where they get to know the trees, and eventually themselves.
Can they save the forest from being silenced? Will Maisie-Grace come out of hiding and tell people all that she sees? Will she let them silence her, too?
Critique: Novelist Caroline Allen seems to have a natural gift for creating the kinds of stories that young readers will find to be as emotionally engaging as they are original and entertaining. With an environmental awareness theme that is 'reader compelling' from first page to last, "Blue: When Hiding Isn't Safe Anymore" is especially and unreservedly recommended for elementary school, middle school, and community library fantasy fiction collections for young reader ages 8-14. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this paperback edition of "Blue: When Hiding Isn't Safe Anymore" from Our Street Books is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99).
Editorial Note: Caroline Allen (https://carolineallen.com) is a novelist, visual artist, and book coach who lives by the core values of creativity, authenticity, purpose, and contribution. My five novels: Earth, Air, Fire Water, Ether are about one woman in search of her mystical purpose. The first three won Independent Publishers awards, and the fourth is currently being considered for the same award.
Mountain Upside Down
Sara Ryan
Dutton Books for Young Readers
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
https://www.penguin.com
9790593699515, $17.99, HC, 240pp
https://www.amazon.com/Mountain-Upside-Down-Sara-Ryan/dp/0593699513
Synopsis: Alex Eager lives in Faillin, OR with her grandmother, a retired librarian. Life should be great for Alex, since she finally worked up the courage to ask her best friend PJ if they could be more than friends and she said yes. But their new relationship will have to be long distance, because PJ is moving.
On top of that, Alex is worried that something is wrong with her increasingly forgetful grandmother. And to make matters worse, Faillin is holding a referendum on library funding, and things aren't looking good. Will anything good for Alex ever last?
"Mountain Upside Down" is the story of a thirteen-year-old girl finding her place in her family and her community. It's a queer-positive story that doesn't center coming out. It's a story of a library's role in a community that doesn't feature book banning. And it's a story of long-held family secrets and resentment that focuses not on final resolution but learning how to communicate again.
Critique: Thoughtful and thought-provoking, deftly crafted, emotionally engaging, and thoroughly 'kid friendly' and appropriate for young readers ages 10-13, "Mountain Upside Down" is an inherently fascinating novel and one that deals with the themes of death/dying, LGBTQ issues, and multigenerational family life. Unreservedly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library Contemporary Fiction collections for young readers, it should be noted that this hardcover edition of author Sara Ryan's "Mountain Upside Down" from Dutton Books is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Editorial Note: Sara Ryan (https://sararyan.com) is the author of the graphic novel Bad Houses with art by Carla Speed McNeil, young adult novels The Rules for Hearts and Empress of the World, and various comics, short stories, and essays. She is on the faculty of the MFA in Writing for Children and Young Adults program at Vermont College of Fine Arts.
The Young Adult Fiction Shelf
The Knowing
Kimberly Patton
https://kimpatton.com
Highlander Press
https://highlanderpressbooks.com
9791956442380, $21.99, PB, 332pp
https://www.amazon.com/Knowing-Kimberly-Patton/dp/1956442383
Synopsis: Suddenly, as her sixteenth birthday approaches, Lottie Jacobs starts having nightmares. And that's when strange things begin to happen.
As the midnight hour to her birthday arrives, a magical veil dissipates, revealing to Lottie that she has been under a strong cloaking spell protecting her from an evil presence. In her pursuit to discover why she needed protection, she is caught up in a harrowing world of magic where she is the target of a vengeful enemy.
But she's not fighting evil alone. Lottie realizes she has powerful allies in an ancient coven with a history linked to the dawn of ages. They're hiding a secret that Lottie is bound to, blood and bone.
Can they vanquish the evil coming for Lottie before it's too late?
Critique: A deftly crafted, impressively original, and fun read from start to finish, "The Knowing" by novelist Kimberly Patton will be particularly appreciated by readers with an interest in a coming of age and an action/adventure story that is skillfully blended with fantasy elements in the form of magical realism, witchcraft and wizardry. While also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99), this paperback edition of "The Knowing" from Highlander Press is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Kimberly Patton (https://kimpatton.com) is an author, podcast host, wife, adoptive and foster mama.
Spliced Up
Kelli Price
https://kellipriceauthor.wordpress.com
Mystic Publishers
https://www.themysticpublishers.com
9791957374888, $27.95, HC, 390pp
https://www.amazon.com/Spliced-Up-Kelli-Price/dp/1957374888
Synopsis: The modern technology of Splicing can fix anything -- if you can afford it.
Avall's best friend is dying from a genetic disease but can't afford to be spliced. Dr. Cutler offers to do it for free if Avall goes to a summer camp where underprivileged teens can earn treatment, dollar by dollar. It sounds too good to be true -- until Avall finds herself at a sketchy camp pitted against other campers in risky challenges. Avall must find a way to earn her friend's treatment before time runs out.
Critique: Original, skillfully written, an a compelling read from start to finish, "Spiced Up" is an all too believable extrapolation of a medical industry driven by the profit motive. Author Kelli Price provides a completely engaging and narrative driven story that is particularly and especially recommended for young readers ages 12-16 with an interest in Genetics & Medicine. While an appropriate pick for middle school, highschool, and community library Science Fiction collections, it should be noted that this hardcover edition of "Spiced Up" from Mystic Publishers is also available in paperback (9791957374062, $19.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.95).
Editorial Note: Kelli Price (https://kellipriceauthor.wordpress.com) grew up climbing the red rocks of southern Utah. She received her degree in school psychology from BYU and she enjoys helping kids discover solutions to their problems. When she's not working as a school psychologist, she's busy creating problems for the kids in her books to solve. Fortunately, she believes in true love, happy endings, and redemption for all people - real or imagined. Kelli enjoys riding bikes with friends, eating good food in all its delicious forms, and forcing her family to go on outdoor adventures with her.
Hoofbeats and Heartbeats: Memories of Joe and Prince
Judith Elaine Hankes
As the Crow Flies Publishing
9798326402493, $11.95 Paperback/$8.50 ebook, 166pp (Ages 9-18)
https://www.amazon.com/Hoofbeats-Heartbeats-Memories-Joe-Prince/dp/B0D7MBXRZN
Preteens who are horse crazy (as well as many a teenager) and who seek age-appropriate biographies of horses don't have a lot to choose from. There's plenty of fiction on the market, but Hoofbeats and Heartbeats: Memories of Joe and Prince reaches nonfiction readers with real-world encounters, experiences, and events surrounding an ordinary country girl's love for two average horses. These horses aren't the usual thoroughbreds so typical of horse stories, but everyday Joes who plod through life in the company of their young mistress author. Judith Elaine Hankes first received sixteen-year-old Joe as a gift when she was twelve, then bought Prince when she was fourteen. Evocative scenes documenting her experiences training and working with horses draw horse enthusiasts from the memoir's opening lines:
When winter turned to spring and spring warmed to planting season, a neighbor plowed a nearby cornfield. On a late spring day, I rode Joe and led Prince to this field. Prince was two years old and had never been ridden. Deep furrows made walking a little difficult for both of them. That's what I wanted. My plan was to slip from Joe onto Prince's back. If Prince bucked and threw me off, the furrows would soften my fall. Hankes's family helps her make a home for her horses as she cares for them through snowy winter months, learning about horse maintenance and equipment.
Young readers learn alongside her as she saddles up for an adventure in companionship that also delivers lessons about honesty, kindness during gentling, handling accidents, and more. These underlying lessons form the crux of the story as it moves between relationship-building and animal care to translating these experiences into building friendships with and caring for human beings.
Because these lessons, couched in the first-person immediacy of a memoir format, are delivered so subtly and are so thoroughly entwined with horse care, readers almost subconsciously receive important messages about reactions to life and the kinds of choices that make a difference.
Elementary-level libraries and adults directing young reader attention to horse books thus have in their hands a treasure that is far more than the usual account of racing or showing a thoroughbred, but explores galloping into life with skill sets that begin in the stable and move outward to better others' lives.
The LGBTQ Fiction Shelf
You Don't See Me
Chris Ricketts
Little Island Books
https://www.littleisland.ie
9791915071552, $11.99, PB, 296pp
https://www.amazon.com/You-Dont-See-Chris-Ricketts/dp/1915071550
Synopsis: Ros has finally found Eddy, the girlfriend they've always wanted. But Ros can't tell her the truth: that they are trans, and want to live in a male body.
At a party Ros's classmates "discover" they're a lesbian -- but that's not the true story. As Ros's life gets ever harder to navigate, a new friendship with a boy changes everything and Ros confides in him. Once the truth is out, things take on a momentum that Ros can't control.
Ros is surprised that their school turns out to be supportive of their identity. But what's the next move? And what will happen when Eddy finds out?
Critique: With its transgender theme, Chris Ricketts, the author of You Don't See Me", has crafted an intellectually challenging and emotionally engage original novel that will be of special and particular interest to young readers ages 14-18 who are interested in an LGBTQ approach to relationships, dating, and sex. Entertaining, fascinating, and thoroughly age appropriate for teen readers, "You Don't See Me" is explicitly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library LGBTQ fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this paperback edition of "You Don't See Me" is also readily available from Little Island Books in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.39).
Editorial Note: Chris Rickettes is a non-binary writer who lives in Dublin, Ireland, with their long term partner, and a feisty little mini Schnauzer called Oti. Being non-binary has been a lifelong battle to be seen for the whole person, rather than the outer skin. Chris's interest in alternative medicine, especially shamanism, has stemmed from a search for modalities that can heal at a deeper level. They are a qualified shamanic practitioner and Reiki Master. Chris has written fiction for adults and an autobiography. However, Chris has worked in education for most of their career and finds writing for the young adult audience a way of using all their experience in the classroom. (www.goodreads.com/author/show/14984166.Chris_Ricketts)
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
The Lost Ones
Johan Rundberg, author
Eva Apelqvist, translator
Amazon Crossing Kids
9791662525940, $17.99, HC, 222pp
https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Ones-Moonwind-Mysteries/dp/166252594X
Synopsis: It's summer in 1880 Stockholm, and the city bakes in the heat -- but the heat on twelve-year-old Mika is lifting. After lying low following the dramatic blast at the jail, Mika's relieved to learn her name is finally cleared. And it's not a moment too soon because Detective Hoff has a perplexing case involving the disappearance of a local teen. The girl's wealthy family wants to make sure things stay quiet. Why would a girl who has everything want to run away? And why is her family so afraid to go public?
Then Tekla reaches out to Mika with a truly chilling discovery at a construction site in the city -- a discovery that might hit a little too close to home for Mika. Could it be the work of the Dark Angel?
As the summer heats up, Mika will make some tough choices as she works to uncover these mysteries, including the biggest mystery of all: her own family.
Critique: Young fans of historical mystery/adventure will especially appreciate author Johan Rundberg's suspense thriller of a novel, "The Lost Ones". A deftly crafted, original, and fun read from start to finish, "The Lost Ones" follows further adventures of Mika and Detective Hoff in novelist Johan Rundberg's thrilling new installment of the Moonwind Mysteries series! Ably translated into English for an American readership by Eva Apelqvist, "The Lost Ones" is especially and unreservedly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library Mystery/Suspense collections for young readers ages 14-16. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "The Lost Ones" from Amazon Crossing Kids is also readily available in paperback (9791662525957, $9.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99).
Editori7al Note #1: Johan Rundberg is an award-winning author of children's books who lives in Stockholm. He has written picture books, early readers, and middle grade. In 2021, he was awarded Sweden's most prestigious literary prize, the August Prize, in the children's and YA category for Nattkorpen, the original edition of The Night Raven, the first book in the Moonwind Mysteries series. The Night Raven was a Kirkus Best Book of the Year and was short-listed for the Global Literature in Libraries Initiative Translated YA Book Prize. Both The Night Raven and its sequel, The Queen of Thieves, were Junior Library Guild selections.
Editorial Note #2: Eva Apelqvist has been working as a Swedish translator for more than twenty years. She grew up in Sweden and now lives in Minnesota. She recently translated the young adult novel Fire From the Sky, written by Moa Backe Åstot, which was named a Printz Honor Book (only the second translated book to have received this honor), was short-listed for the Global Literature in Libraries Initiative Translated YA Book Prize, and was named one of the best young adult books of the year by the Cooperative Children's Book Center. She is also a published children's author in Sweden.
Montgomery Bonbon: Death at the Lighthouse
Alasdair Beckett-King, author
Claire Powell, illustrator
Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9791536241648, $18.99, HC, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Montgomery-Bonbon-Death-at-Lighthouse/dp/1536241644
Synopsis: Bonnie Montgomery is finally getting a vacation from cracking cases as her alter ego, Montgomery Bonbon. But something terribly fishy happens the moment she and Grampa Banks arrive on Odde Island -- and it's not just the smell of the harbor.
There's been a mysterious death at the lighthouse, and what everyone assumed was an accident is setting Bonbon's mustache all aquiver: something is Highly Suspicious. When a second death takes place, Bonnie is sure the two are connected. But can she solve this case alone, or will she need double the detectives to solve double the murders?
Critique: A fun and thoroughly 'kid friendly' cozy mystery for ages 9-12, author Alasdair Beckett-King's new novel, "Montgomery Bonbon: Death at the Lighthouse" from the Candlewick Press will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular pick for personal reading lists, as well as elementary school, middle school, and community library Mystery/Suspense collections for young readers. It should be noted that "Montgomery Bonbon: Death at the Lighthouse" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9791536241655, $9.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).
Editorial Note: Half-Scottish, Alasdair James Beckett-King is a successful English stand-up comedian, video game writer, and actor from Durham, England. He won the 2017 Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year, and Chortle's Breakthrough Comedian of the Year in 2023. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alasdair_Beckett-King)
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
The God Squad: Thunder and Pomp
Devan B. Deyerin and Kara Rubinstein Deyerin
www.DeyerinStorytellers.com
Austin Macauley Publishers
https://www.austinmacauley.com
9798889100843, $27.70 Hardcover/$17.19 Paperback/$4.50 ebook, 259pp (Ages 15-17)
https://www.amazon.com/God-Squad-Thunder-Pomp/dp/B0CW7BLTGQ
Teens and young adults who choose The God Squad: Thunder and Pomp for its promise of fantasy and action will find the story replete with monsters, adventure, and schemes that introduce new confrontations and choices to the Clarke brothers.
From the start, Devan B. Deyerin and Kara Rubinstein Deyerin create intrigue over a castle visit and the meeting of two adversarial gods who reluctantly join together for a common cause: He'd conveniently neglected to tell her she'd permanently damaged his treasured Tablets of Destiny. The two continued to work together because they shared a mutual goal - the destruction of humans. Once he and the other gods were restored to their rightful place, he would never have to see her again, much less stoop to working with her. Their plan to cause chaos and havoc in the humans' world is working. Their plot to pair Zeus with a Vessel and their interest in making Matthew (or Miles John Clarke) such a Vessel introduces intriguing dilemmas to the story before Matthew's perspective even begins in Chapter Two.
Matthew's special gift of seeing monsters gives him a perspective about the underlying impact of his ability on struggles which evolve from his life: Something about seeing fantastical creatures nobody else can tends to make you ready to expect anything, and willing to take all but the craziest things in stride. It occurred to Matthew that one of the cruel ironies of life as two runaways was that the creatures were the least of his problems. Given the choice between dealing with a person or a creature, Matthew would pick the latter nine times out of ten, even if they were trying to eat you. At least creatures were simple, you immediately knew where you stood with them.
As interactions evolve between humans, monsters, and gods emerge, a host of characters, from the lovely Freya (who is "useful for managing gods") to Nick/Quiang, whose human/god pairing results in a beneficial symbiosis that introduces further complexity into conflicts, the drama and action. These are nicely supported by unexpected alliances and dilemmas that rise from humans, gods, and monsters that often reside in the gray space between good and evil. Underlying all these encounters is a drive for purpose, a sense of place and belonging, and connections between siblings and shifting events that introduce new worldviews and promises, as well as problems, to their lives.
Libraries and young adults that venture into the world created in The God Squad: Thunder and Pomp will find its action fast-paced, its characters well developed, and its interactions between parents, kids, and higher-level thinking to be thoroughly absorbing. All these elements result in a fantasy that is more than a cut above the usual action-packed adventure, offering insights on relationships and choices that will provoke thought and discussion among teen readers.
Admins: Simulation's End
David Horn
www.davidhornauthor.com
Independently Published
9798988543053, $12.99 Paperback/$4.99 ebook, 317pp (Ages 14-18)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJ5YBW5D
What if everything you knew about reality and your life wasn't the truth? When a group of teens stumbles on an old shack and a secret that proves to them that their lives are simulations in someone else's hands, not only are their worldviews shaken, but their relationships and abilities are placed under the microscope.
The tale opens with Joey, who awakens to realize he's been in a bad car accident. They're in the middle of nowhere. His brother and his friends may be dead. Joey and his quasi-girlfriend Lana are survivors charged with finding help. But the help they find is beyond anything they ever could have predicted.
David Horn's story takes many unexpected twists and turns, from the accident's unexpected results to a journey into a milieu in which each young adult is challenged to reinvent their perception of reality, family, and the world. Who will they become? Part of the special attraction of this unfolding saga lies in the fact that their identities not only become mercurial, but spin into new directions. These reveal some dark undercurrents as new powers foster dangerous decisions and outcomes that venture well into fantastic realms of discovery.
The story embraces concepts of Sims, Guardians, Admins, and other entities that the group confronts as they step into extraordinary situations and hone reactions not always in their best interests. Horn is especially adept at juxtaposing the relationship quandaries that stem from this evolutionary process, impacting both individuals and the group as a whole as decisions are made.
First-person insights solidify this disparate group's ongoing challenges: Should we do what the guy with the gun is asking? I just want to go back to my old life. This was a mistake. The action and tension are nicely developed - but it's the unpredictable nature of this story's startling revelations that keep it thoroughly engrossing, especially for young adults looking for more than formula writing and predictable outcomes.
Changing viewpoints between Joey, Lana, and each of the characters keep the dynamics and psychology believable and fluctuating as events are considered in different ways by each of the characters. Chapter headings make it easy to follow these transitions between perspectives. Even the controllers (who aren't always actually in control of these situations) enjoy their moments of fame: Sierra is a very angry girl. So angry. But I got what I needed, with some effort. I need to research this dragon and its implications to the program. The bank robbery is minor compared to the dragon. The Board might not even notice the robbery, except for that deleted police officer. I could probably reinstate his code. But how to fix a global event and return the religion percentages to previous levels.
Libraries and readers seeking sci-fi which operates on a different level than most, is filled with thought-provoking insights on empowerment, control, and the nature of reality and life, and presents dynamic clashes and encounters that maintain reader interest in a range of fluctuating scenarios will relish Admins: Simulation's End foray into uncharted territory.
The Hat Diaries: Discover the Portal
Nadine Haruni
Speaking Volumes, LLC
https://speakingvolumes.us
9798890221391, $16.95, PB, 266pp
https://www.amazon.com/HAT-DIARIESTM-Discover-Portal-Diaries/dp/B0DC1TGKT7
Synopsis: Ryan Rigbee diligently records his adventures (real and imaginary) in his diary. These adventures involve a mysterious portal to an elsewhere and elsewhen. The adventures also teach important life lessons. But there's a catch -- in his desire to include others in his portal adventures he overlooks the dangers that those adventures are subject to for himself and his friends.
Critique: While "The Secret Life of Ryan Rigbee" is the first book in The Hat Diaries trilogy, "Discover the Portal" is the second book in author Nadine Haruni's deftly crafted 'The Hat Diaries' trilogy. A riveting and fun read from start to finish, "Discover the Portal" is a true roller coaster of a read continuing Ryan Rigbee's adventures and one that will hold tremendous appeal to young readers with an interest in action packed fantasy novels. "Discover the Portal" is especially and unreservedly recommended for K-12 school library and community library Fantasy Fiction collections for ages 7-18. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Discover the Portal" is also available from Amazon and Speaking Volumes, LLC in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99)
Editorial Note: Nadine Haruni (www.nadineharuni.com) is also the author of the Freeda the Frog children's books. The Freeda the Frog books focus on acceptance for every type of family and comfort children as they experience real-life situations.
Georgie Summers and the Scribes of Scatterplot
Isaac Rudansky
Greenleaf Book Group Press
www.greenleafbookgroup.com
9798886453164, $16.95, HC, 392pp
https://www.amazon.com/Georgie-Summers-Scribes-Scatterplot-Novel/dp/B0DCD5Y4S6
Synopsis: When twelve-year-old Georgie Summers isn't cooking dinner for his sick dad or trying to survive middle school bullies, you'll find him in his backyard, slingshot in hand, nailing soda cans from 200 feet out... probably the only sixth grader who could pull off a shot like that.
Sure, life for Georgie was a little lonely, but at least it made sense.
That is, until a terrifying man (dressed in shiny black boots and with bugs crawling out of a hole in his neck) climbs through a portal in midair and kidnaps Georgie's father. Where did this man come from? Why was he looking for an ancient fountain pen? What secrets has Georgie's father been keeping from him?
Completely alone and not to mention scared out of his wits, Georgie quickly teams up with two unlikely allies: Apurva Aluwhalia, an aspiring astronomer and just about the prettiest girl in school (in all of New York as far as Georgie is concerned), and Roscoe Harris, a self-proclaimed YouTube sensation with a whopping fourteen bored subscribers. But hey, big dreams, right?
Together, they stumble into Scatterplot, a hidden realm where mysterious Scribes record the memories of everyone on Earth. Without the Scribes, people would forget everything... they'd lose their minds. Literally.
As the adventure grows increasingly dangerous, Georgie uncovers the evil Flint Eldritch's plan to destroy those very memories, erasing everyone Georgie has ever loved.
Armed with nothing but courage, friendship, and a magical but extremely dangerous pen, Georgie must race against time to save not just his dad... but the minds of everyone on Earth!
Critique: An original action/adventure fantasy and a fun read from start to finish, it is all the more impressive when considering that "Georgie Summers and the Scribes of Scatterplot" is author Isaac Rudansky's debut as a novelist. Deftly crafted, riveting, and unreservedly recommended for dedicated fantasy fans, "Georgie Summers and the Scribes of Scatterplot" is a perfect pick for elementary school, middle school, and community library Fantasy Fiction collections for young readers ages 8-14. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Georgie Summers and the Scribes of Scatterplot" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99).
Editorial Note: Isaac Rudansky (www.GeorgieSummers.com) once got suspended in seventh grade for turning in a short story instead of a Social Studies report (he thought it was pretty funny, but his teacher thought it was pretty dark), but he never stopped writing. After earning his master's in industrial psychology, Isaac founded AdVenture Media, an award-winning advertising agency with fifty employees across three US offices. He's written campaigns for clients like AMC Networks, Hearst, Sports Illustrated, Forbes Magazine, Asurion, Corning Glass, Hanes, Nasdaq, and many others. He writes for industry-leading publications and has given workshops at marketing events around the world.
The Poetry Shelf
Water Songs
Mandy Ross, author
Sam Rudd, illustrator
Child's Play
www.childs-play.com
9791786289070, $19.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Water-Songs-Mandy-Ross/dp/1786289075
Synopsis: "Water for life!" is a children's picture book comprising a true cascade of poems.
Following on from the success of her children's book "Tree Whispers", author/poet Mandy Ross has turned her attention to the diverse voices of water. Beautifully illustrated by the artistry of Sam Rudd, "Water for Life!" is Mandy's carefully crafted and truly memory collection of haunting and lyrical songs. In the pages of "Water for Life!", our relationship with water is celebrated in its many forms (playful, industrious, productive, life-giving). With a strong environmental message, "Water for Life!" will be a source of fascination and inspiration for young readers.
Critique: Fully supported by the charming imagery of illustrator Sam Rudd, this hardcover edition of free verse by author/poet Mandy Ross, "Water for Life!" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picturebook poetry collections for children ages 3-6. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Water for Life!" from Child's Play is also available in paperback (9791786289063, $14.99).
Editorial Note #1: Mandy Ross (https://www.mandyross.co.uk) worked for Shelter and London Underground, and as a teacher with children and adults, before she started work in children's publishing. She has written lots of books for children of all ages, including Peekaboo Baby! which was shortlisted for the Sainsbury's Baby Book Award. She lives in Birmingham England with her partner and her son.
Editorial Note #2: Sam Rudd (https://www.samrudd.co.uk) is a freelance illustrator and surface pattern designer living in Ribble Valley in the UK. After studying Fine Art at University, Sam spent twenty years working as in-house designer at a greetings card company. Sam's artwork is mostly digital; created in Illustrator, Procreate and Photoshop, mixed with hand painted elements.
Getting Much Worse
T. A. McKeon
Independently Published
9798343663662, $19.98, PB, 169pp
https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Much-Worse-T-McKeon/dp/B0DNTWJCQQ
Synopsis: In the poetry of T. A. McKeon, the traditional barriers that all too frequently preclude young people from appreciating and embracing the world of verse are deftly avoided while the mental and emotional engaging qualities of language that only poetry can best express.
Touching those places in us that mostly stay silent in everyday conversation, the resonance of McKeon's word smithing is amplified as each poem is enhanced with a unique artwork for it as created by a group of ten independent artists.
Offering young readers a uniquely multi-sensory experience that bridges the gap between the written and the visual, T. A. McKeon's distinctive poetic style (and the diversity of his subject matter) creates a welcoming structure which sets them on a memorable and inspiring journey of the heart, mind and spirit.
Critique: Deftly crafted by a master of verse, the poetry and illustrations comprising T. A. McKeon's "Getting Much Worse" is one of those collections of original verse that will linger in the mind and memory long after the book itself as been finished and set back upon the shelf. Exceptional in organization and presentation, "Getting Much Worse" is especially and unreservedly recommended for highschool and community library American Poetry collections for young readers ages 16-18. It should be noted for personal reading lists of teens and young adults with an interest in poetry that this paperback edition of "Getting Much Worse" is also currently available in a digital book format (Kindle, $1.99, Amazon).
Editorial Note: Thomas Andrew McKeon is a self-taught poet from the south of England. Unbound by formal poetic education, he strives to write accessible verse that resonates with readers from all walks of life. His goal is to introduce poetry to those who may not typically engage with the form, offering a fresh perspective and a relatable voice.
When not crafting his own verses, Tom delves into the arcane, exploring ancient texts and experimenting with the occult. He also enjoys the simpler pleasures of life, such as resisting the allure of excessive alcohol consumption.
The Graphic Novel Shelf
Catians: Volume 1
Cortney Cameron, et al.
https://www.crcameron.com
Tenkatt Press
https://www.tenkatt.com
9798218499228, $21.95, PB, 140pp
https://www.amazon.com/Catians-1-Cortney-Cameron/dp/B0DKP7CXRJ
Synopsis: Cats have been disappearing in the wake of a ravenous monster borne of forbidden magic, and three teens are tasked with stopping the onslaught. Spirited from their homes in the Appalachian hills, Chicago suburbs, and California Bay Area, hardworking Riley, gamer Alex, and book smart Sidney find themselves talking to cats in the Florida Keys, granted magical powers, and asked to save the world. Assisted by a motley cast of purr machines, from the stout-slinging King of the Cats to the falconry aficionado Master Cat, the trio embarks on a global quest, battling villains from real-life cat folktales in order to recapture an ancient cat god's powerful relics. Along the way, they must cultivate their powers to control the elements, ally with a secret order of wizard-historians, juggle jobs, deal with parents, make sure the cat's food bowl is still full... and maybe, just maybe, learn to work together.
Volume 1 of "Catians" from Tenkatt Press includes Issues 1 to 5 with over 130 full color pages!
Issue 1: Stray cat Felix leads a happy life skimming milk from his human friend Rose's convenient store, until the local protection racket turns violent. To save Rose's life, Felix breaks his vows and shares an ancient secret. Unfortunately, Rose uses her newfound knowledge to mix revenge and forbidden magic, unleashing a monstrous abomination that forces the mysterious Council of Cats to launch a global quest for the Relics of the divine Great Cat.
Issue 2: Cats are disappearing in the wake of a monster borne of forbidden magic, and the Council of Cats task three teenagers with stopping the onslaught. Spirited from their homes in the Appalachian hills, Chicago suburbs, and California Bay Area, hardworking Riley, gamer Alex, and booksmart Sidney find themselves talking to cats in the Keys, granted magical powers, and asked to save the world. Meanwhile, a sword-wielding apprentice learns the creature's next move and must warn the cats.
Issue 3: From their secret island in the Florida Keys, the Council drafts Riley, Sidney and Alex into the ranks of the Guardians: humans granted magic by divine feline Relics. As the teens grapple with their new responsibility to stop an amorphous monster, sword-wielding wizard Ian crashlands at the island with an urgent warning... too late. While the Council scrambles to keep the enemy at bay, Ian transports the teens to safety at Tildrum's Pub, where the King of the Cats dispenses magic-laced stouts and life advice to her loyal patrons.
Issue 4: Amid the magic-laced stouts of her enchanted pub, the King of the Cats challenges Riley, Sidney and Alex to take their first steps toward mastering the magical powers needed to right a deadly wrong. But when a dire message interrupts their training, the teens must head home, turning to their feline pals to help them channel their new abilities while juggling parents, video games, and sleep. Meanwhile, the King investigates the enemy's location - and picks up far more than she bargained for.
Issue 5: The King of the Cats unbinds a centuries-old spell sealing the grave of a maniacal wizard who long ago stole the relic needed to stop a grave threat. The wizard refuses to hand it over, however, forcing Riley, Sidney and Alex to push their fledgling magical and teamwork abilities to the limit to save themselves and their cats, much less the world... a struggle complicated by the wizard's warning that the cats might have secrets of their own.
Critique: The collaborative work of author Courtney Cameron, illustrator Isaac Anderson, and seven others, this graphic novel edition of "Catians: Volume 1" from Tenkatt Press is impressively original and will prove to be of immense appeal to readers with an interest in fantasy, mystery, and action/adventure presented in a graphic novel format. A fun read from start to finish, "Catians: Volume 1" is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, highschool, community, and college/university library Graphic Novel collections for teenage and young adult readers ages 16-18.
Editorial Note: Cortney Cameron (https://www.crcameron.com) is a geoscientist, nature therapy instructor, author, and songwriter based in southern Oregon.
The Wildlife Shelf
Frog Butts and Toad Warts? Fascinating Frog Facts
Jessica Lee Anderson, author
Bob Ferguson, photographer
AO Press
9791964078137, $19.99, HC, 34pp
https://www.amazon.com/Frog-Butts-Warts-Fascinating-Facts/dp/196407813X
Synopsis: Thousands of frog and toad species can be found all over the world (except Antarctica)! These diverse amphibians have amazing adaptations and strange features that help them survive a variety of conditions from dry deserts to frozen landscapes. And yes, some frog and toad species look like they have warts and even butts. Hop on over to read about these fascinating animals!
"Frog Butts and Toad Warts? Fascinating Frog Facts" is an animal fact book that is ideal for families with kids ages 4-10 or a gift for a frog enthusiast at any age. Bob Ferguson's amazing, vibrant photographs keep readers of all ages engaged, building upon their natural curiosity and interest in frogs!
Critique: Informative and fully 'kid friendly' in organization and presentation, "Frog Butts and Toad Warts? Fascinating Frog Facts" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Wildlife picture book collections for children. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of Jessica Lee Anderson's "Frog Butts and Toad Warts? Fascinating Frog Facts" is also readily available from AO Press in paperback (9791964078120, $10.00) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.99).
Editorial Note #1: Jessica Lee Anderson (www.jessicaleeanderson.com) is the author of over 75 books for young readers including the NAOMI NASH chapter book series.
Editorial Note #2: Bob Ferguson is a naturalist with a compulsion to be outdoors. Wildlife conservation through entertainment, education, fundraising, and fieldwork is his mission and purpose in life. His organization, Fascinature, has donated six figures to saving land in the world's most biodiverse spaces. He even has a frog named after him! You can find him on Instagram @bob_ferguson_fascinature or sign up for his newsletter at fascinature.live
The Folktale/Fairytale Shelf
Wisdom Stories of Tibet
Laura Burges & Lama Chonam, authors
Wen Hsu, illustrator
Bala Kids
c/o Shambhala Publications, Inc.
www.shambhala.com
9791645471561, $19.95, HC, 144pp
https://www.amazon.com/Wisdom-Stories-Tibet-Adventure-Bravery/dp/164547156X
Synopsis: From the magical mountains and valleys of Tibet, "Wisdom Stories of Tibet: Tales of Magic, Adventure, and Bravery " is a compendium of Buddhist-themed folk tales for kids that offer a captivating view into the lore and wisdom of Tibetan culture and tradition.
Buddhism and its profound effect on Tibet's people and culture is reflected in these stories, each of which is imbued with life lessons for all ages. Threaded through these tales are the teachings of the Buddha and the special quality and relationship that Tibetans have with the mountains, trees, rocks, rivers, and sky.
The collection features tales of renowned Tibetan Buddhist figures such as:
Songsten Gampo, the king known as the reincarnation of the Buddha of Compassion, and how even a small creature like a mouse can have a big impact on the world.
Yeshe Tsogyal, the Mother of Tibet whose teachings have guided generations on the path of love and insight.
Gesar of Ling, the 12th-century super-human warrior king of Tibet, a shining inspiration for overcoming life's obstacles.
Guru Rinpoche, also known as Padmasambhava, the great teacher who brought the teachings of Buddhism to Tibet.
The stunningly detailed and vibrant illustrations by Wen Hsu bring these stories magically to life -- making them as vivid and evocative to us today as they have been for generations of Tibetans. Recounted with humor and cleverness, the stories feature animals and archers, spirits and deities, bodhisattvas and dakinis, lamas and rulers, heroes and heroines -- and highlight the mystical power of the natural world.
Critique: Of immense value and appeal for young readers with an interest in legends, myths, folklore, and fairy tales from a Tibetan Buddhist cultural history, "Wisdom Stories of Tibet: Tales of Magic, Adventure, and Bravery" is a fun and memorable read from cover to cover. This unique collection of fourteen authentic Tibetan stories is informatively enhanced for the young reader's benefit with the inclusion of a four page Glossary. While this hardcover edition of "Wisdom Stories of Tibet: Tales of Magic, Adventure, and Bravery" from Bala Kids is also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99), it will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school, middle school, and community library Mythology/Folklore/Fairy Tale collections for young readers ages 6-12.
Editorial Note #1: Laura Burges (Ryuko Eitai) is a lay-entrusted Buddhist teacher in the Soto Zen tradition. She received monastic training at Tassajara Zen Mountain Center and lectures, teaches classes, and leads retreats at San Francisco Zen Center and other practice centers in Northern California. Her book, Buddhist Stories for Kids won Gold in the Moonbeam Children's Book Awards in 2023.Her children's books have been translated into several different languages.
Editorial Note #2: Lama Chonam (short for Choying Namgyal), was born in Golog, Tibet, where he lived the life of a nomad as a young boy. In his teens, he began his Buddhist studies under many great teachers, in particular the great Dzogchen Master Khenpo Munsel. In 1992, he was invited to the United States, where he has been living ever since. He is a cofounder of the Light of Berotsana Translation Group, within which he teaches and translates, and he resides at Tashi Choling Buddhist Center.
Editorial Note #3: Wen Hsu is a Taiwanese-Costa Rican illustrator. She has a wide range of styles working with papercuts, ink, watercolor, textiles, and digital art. She has illustrated stories for children in Guatemala, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, India, Japan, Korea, and China. (https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4905140.Wen_Hsu)
The Mythology Shelf
Japanese Yokai
Fleur Daugey, author
Sande Thommen, illustrator
Tuttle Publishing
www.tuttlepublishing.com
9794805318911, $16.99, HC, 48pp
https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Yokai-Monsters-Mythical-Creatures/dp/4805318910
Synopsis: Yokai are a class of supernatural entities and spirits in Japanese folklore. Some Japanese commentators argue that the word yokai has taken on multiple different meanings particular to a Japanese context, including referring to a large number of uniquely Japanese creatures. (Wikipedia)
Stories about yokai are used in Japan to explain mysterious and magical events. These mythical creatures give a name and a form to the strange and uncanny things happening all around us.
"Japanese Yokai: Explore the Magical World of Monsters, Demons and Mythical Creatures" by author/storyteller Fleur Daugey and artist/illustrator Sande Thommen is a colorful guide in picture book format that provides a funny, fast and slightly spooky introduction to the stars of the Japanese yokai world.
Introducing 30 wild and supernatural creatures from Japanese mythology and folklore, "Japanese Yokai includes:
The Kitsune, a freaky fox with paranormal powers
The Kasa-obake, a one-eyed one-legged umbrella with a long, slithery tongue
Kurokamikiri, a shaggy bearlike beast that sneaks up on you and cuts your hair
Nuppeppo, a flabby, wrinkly blob that lives in graveyards and smells of rotten meat
Hanako, a bathroom-dwelling ghost girl
And many more!
Yokai are out there, lurking among us -- creating mischief and mayhem, or in some cases helping us or just having fun. With "Japanese Yokai", the next time something eerie or strange happens, you will know who (or what) is responsible!
Critique: This large format (8.7 x 0.4 x 11.1 inches, 1.1 pounds) hardcover edition of "Japanese Yokai: Explore the Magical World of Monsters, Demons and Mythical Creatures" from Tuttle Publishing is a fun and informative read from start to finish -- and unreservedly recommended for family, K-12 school, and community library Japanese mythology and folklore picture book collections for young readers ages 8-18.
Editorial Note #1: Fleur Daugey trained in psychology and ethology, working at several NGOs before turning to writing. She has published numerous books for young people, including Animals of Japan, Animal Dads and The Love Lives of Animals.
Editorial Note #2: Sande Thommen (www.sandrinethommen.com) studied at the Ecole Estienne in Paris then entered the illustration workshop at the Ecole Superieure des Arts Decoratifs in Strasbourg. He has illustrated numerous works for children including Animals of Japan, Globe-Trotting Birds and Waking Volcanoes.
The Christian Shelf
Moses and the Ten Commandments
Demi
World Wisdom
www.worldwisdom.com
9791957670096, $19.95, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Moses-Ten-Commandments-Demi/dp/1957670096
Synopsis: The Bible tells us that "the Lord spoke to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend" (Exodus 33:11). Born into captivity in Egypt, Moses was hidden among the bulrushes of the Nile River to escape the sentence of death upon Hebrew infants. Discovered by the Pharaoh's daughter, he was adopted by her and brought up in the royal palace.
The Lord, however, would later instruct Moses to lead his people the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt, across the Red Sea, and into the Sinai Desert. And it was on Mount Sinai, amid thunder and lightning, fire and clouds of smoke, that the Lord would speak to Moses and reveal the Ten Commandments, which were "written with the finger of God" (Exodus 31:18) upon two tablets of stone. After wandering with his people in the desert for forty years, Moses would finally die on Mount Nebo, within sight of Canaan, the Promised Land.
In "Moses and the Ten Commandments", award-winning children's author, Demi, recounts the dramatic story of Moses -- prophet, liberator, and lawgiver to his people the Israelites.
Critique: Impressively illustrated with her distinctive art style as an illustrator, Demi's new picture book, "Moses and the Ten Commandments" from World Wisdom is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, Sunday School, and community library collections for children ages 4-8.
Editorial Note: Demi (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Demi_(author)) is the award-winning author of over 300 bestselling children's books, including Jesus, Mary, Saint Francis of Assisi, The Wisdom of Solomon, and The Psalms of King David. Demi won a Fulbright Scholarship to India, and in addition she represented the U.S. at the First International Children's Book Conference in Beijing, China, in 1992.
The Virtuepops
Frances Angelina
Story Merchant
www.virtuepopsineducationandmore.study
Synopsis: From Frances Angelina, (the author of the "What is Paradise?" series and the "What is Paradise?" series), comes "The Virtuepops", a new three volume series for working with children in terms of Early Childhood Education, Emotional Self-Help, and presented with an action-adventure context that will prove to be a fun read for young children ages 4-10.
https://www.amazon.com/Virtuepops-Virtue-COVID-19-Stress-Suffering/dp/1970157674
Volume 1: "The Virtuepops: How to Value Virtue amid COVID-19, Stress, and Suffering" (9781970157673, $20.99 HC, $4.99 Kindle, 368pp)
With "The Virtuepops: How to Value Virtue amid COVID-19, Stress, and Suffering", children will learn that virtues are simply good feelings and emotions that we all need to have inner peace and happy hope. This is a life skills book that can open locked doors for self-help, and helping others, by exercising the victorious virtues. The Virtuepops' mannerisms ideally embrace faith, charity, patience, justice, love, perseverance, respect, and humility.
The "How-to non-fiction" section is the true testament that details kind teaching and practicing the priceless virtues, at any moment with anyone.
The heroic high fantasy fictional section is a story of the Virtuepops, their glorious leaders, deceptive villains, and Virtueland. Grandma, Uncle Steveo, Michael, and Walker, a human family, search for TV shows that teach the morals, values, and virtues that we all need in life. They literally fly through the rainbow tunnel and are welcomed to Virtueland by the lively animated Virtuepops, King, Spirit Bird, and Father and Mother Virtue.
The earthly family and the Virtueland family share all the virtues with love, laughter, and stories told around the big red picnic table. The story embraces conflict and resolution that magnifies morality play between good and evil.
Of special note is the inclusion of good guiding tools to open the treasured toolbox of your heart and mind to live in decent, moral, and virtuous manners. The foundation for being mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually happy.
https://www.amazon.com/Virtuepops-Book-Two-Adventures-Virtueland/dp/1970157666
Volume 2: "The Virtuepops Book Two: Virtuepops Adventures in Virtueland: Their Story Continue" (9781970157666, $21.99 HC, $4.99 Kindle, 410pp)
Begun in Volume 1, the Virtuepops and the Paradise Animals continue their story of Virtuepops Adventures in Virtueland. Popping with victorious virtues, their exciting fantasy adventure story is cutely cradled within the non-fiction, educational, and uplifting sections.
The story embraces conflict and resolutions that magnify morality play between good and evil as once again, the joyful virtues happily harmonize with fun interactive poems, songs, and games. The Pops embody faith, charity, patience, justice, love, perseverance, respect, and humility. Through the lively animated Virtuepops, King, Spirit Bird, Father Virtue, Mother Virtue, and the Paradise Animals, children of all ages can learn all about the victorious virtues, the glorious leaders, deceptive villains, and travel to Virtueland and all around the world.
Both children and adults can learn how to put these priceless virtues into practice at any moment with anyone. This second volume in 'The Virtuepops' series continues to embraces good guiding tools that allow young children to open the treasured toolbox of their hearts and minds -- and inspire them to live in decent, moral, and virtuous manners.
https://www.amazon.com/Virtuepops-Paradise-Animals-Illustrations-Handbook/dp/1970157682
Volume 3: "The Virtuepops and the Paradise Animals Colored Illustrations Handbook" (9781970157680, $29.99 HC, $4.99 Kindle, 142pp)
Welcome to the lively, colorful, and fun world that POPS within with the concluding third book in the Virtue series as "The Virtuepops and the Paradise Animals Colored Illustrations Handbook" provides a volume dedicated to beautifully pops-spirited, majestic, and brilliantly colored illustrations of the Virtuepops, Virtueland, Paradise Animals, ABC pages, and more.
This delightful handbook is a treasured tool when one is creatively coloring all the black and white illustrations from my first two books, my teen stories books, and my adult stories books. And when one is reading or teaching, it ideally inspires imagination in popping full color. It's nurturing nice to understand that coloring brings precious peace, raises self esteem, and boosts the art of creativity. Therefore, wrap those virtues up with radiant ribbons of love when teaching and sharing.
Critique: Each of the three large format (8.25 x 0.53 x 11 inches) hardcover titles comprising author/illustrator Frances Angelina's unique and treasured "The Virtuepops" series is a unique and highly prized contribution to family, preschool, elementary school, middle school, and community library Family Values/Personal Virtues collections for parents, teachers, and caregivers working with young children. Each volume is profusely and brightly illustrated. The DIY activities are supported with informative commentaries, stories and images. Thoroughly 'kid friendly' in organization and presentation, each of the three books comprising "The Virtuepops" trilogy by Frances Angelina are especially and unreservedly recommended in both their hardcover and digital book formats.
Editorial Note: Frances Angelina is the dedicated author of self-help and educational virtue books teach healthy happy habits as well as what she terms 'victorious virtues' such as faith, charity (sharing), perseverance, patience, love, respect, being humble, and being truthful. She invites parents, teachers and caregivers to join her online #ValueVirtue movement at www.virtuepopsineducationandmore.study
"Thank You" for Rainbow Adventures: Virtue Pops Reading is Cool
Frances Angelina
Story Merchant
www.virtuepopsineducationandmore.study
Synopsis: From Frances Angelina, the author of the "What is Paradise?" series, comes "Reading is Cool" -- another simply wonderful 8 volume series of Values oriented, colorfully illustrated, and fun books for young readers. Each individual book focuses on a particular Virtue:
https://www.amazon.com/Believing-Presents-Virtue-Rainbow-Adventures/dp/1970157488
Volume 1: "Believing B Presents the Virtue of Faith" (9781970157482, $16.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 44pp)
For parents, librarians and caregivers looking for a book that helps children acquire good feelings and peaceful emotions, "Believing B Presents the Virtue of Faith" is a happy gift wrapped in love. The Virtue of Faith, exercise, and sports are highlighted in this first book in author Frances Angelina's educational virtues books series.
Young readers will be excited to learn that faith is an important emotional learning life skill to be used as a daily happy healthy habit. Because, when children and their caregivers learn to believe in themselves, others, and the future, they are more likely to take positive actions on their own behalf, and approach life as a challenge to be mastered.
This sense of good-feeling confidence, motivation, and highly valued human characteristic we call faith is what we all need to feel deep within ourselves. If you desire the blessings of peace, patience, and prosperity wrapped in faith, then this book of good feelings and peaceful emotions can help and guide you in many happy healthy ways.
https://www.amazon.com/Sharing-Stephen-Presents-Charity-Adventures/dp/1970157496
Volume 2: "Sharing Stephen Presents the Virtue of Charity" (9781970157499, $16.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 44pp)
"Sharing Stephen Presents the Virtue of Charity" will help children acquire good feelings and peaceful emotions. It also presented the value of using money for good purposes.
Charity sharing is an important emotional learning life skill to be used as a daily happy healthy habit. You as the caregiver can help your child(ren) develop charity sharing by joyfully learning, teaching, exercising, and kindly sharing. Thus, they will be more likely to take sharing actions on their own behalf. This sense of confidence, motivation, and highly valued human characteristic we call charity sharing is what we all need to feel deep within ourselves.
If you desire the blessings of peace wrapped in sharing, then this book of good feelings and peaceful emotions can help and guide you in many happy healthy ways.
https://www.amazon.com/Persevering-Presents-Perseverance-Rainbow-Adventures/dp/1970157585
Volume 3: "Persevering Philip Presents the Virtue of Perseverance" (9781970157581, $16.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 46pp)
The Virtue of Perseverance (courage), jobs, and transportation are highlighted in this third book of the "Thank you for Rainbow Adventures 8 Book Series" of educational virtues books. When you model words and actions that embrace perseverance, make it fun and smile. For perseverance is a healthy and important emotional learning life skill.
When children learn to be brave when it's hard, they gain inner strength to try new things and learn new subjects. When they are brave when they feel like giving up, they gain self-confidence and build self-esteem. Perseverance helps a child bear difficulty calmly and without complaint. This sense of confidence, motivation, and highly valued human characteristic we call perseverance is what we all hope to feel.
You as the parent, teacher or caregiver can help your child(ren) develop perseverance built on a more positive attitude by learning, teaching, exercising, repeating, and sharing the virtue of perseverance. This fun and inspiring book will help and guide children on the good path lined with blessings of perseverance.
https://www.amazon.com/Patient-Presents-Patience-Rainbow-Adventures/dp/1970157534
Volume 4: "Patient Peter Presents the Virtue of Patience" (9781970157536, $16.99, $4.99 Kindle, 46pp)
"Patient Peter Presents the Virtue of Patience" will help children acquire good feelings and peaceful emotions. It's a happy gift wrapped in love to feel your best. The Virtue of Patience, Time, and Numbers are highlighted in this fourth book of the "Thank you for Rainbow Adventures 8 Book Series" educational virtues books.
Patience is an important emotional learning life skill to be used as a daily happy healthy habit. Because patience can help you and your child(ren) calmly and successfully navigate life events, which can lower stress levels. With its cute colorful images and lively context, this is a children's book that can help parents, teachers and caregivers, and children to embrace good feelings and peaceful emotions to improve attention and memory skills and be more patient.
Of special note are the TOP TIPS to helping parents, teachers and caregivers to develop patience by joyfully learning, teaching, exercising, and kindly modeling the victorious King Guardian of all the virtues: Patience.
https://www.amazon.com/Loving-Presents-Virtue-Rainbow-Adventures/dp/1970157542
Volume 5: "Loving Lucy Presents the Virtue of Love" (9781970157543, $16.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 44pp)
"Loving Lucy Presents the Virtue of Love" will helps parents, teachers, caregivers, and children to acquire good feelings and peaceful emotions. The virtue of love is a happy healthy habit that should be a part of a child's everyday life. Because love is an important emotional learning life skill dressed in happy healthy joy. Be the parent, teacher, or caregiver whose relationship with a child embraces how to love, trust, and treat each other with respect and compassion. Let them know that they are unconditionally loved.
Showing love to children can help them become more confident, motivated, eager to help with chores, do their best in school, pursue extracurricular activities, and keep healthy loving relationships with family and friends. A special feature, TOP TIPS. will help parents, teachers and caregivers to inspire the virtue of love in both giving and receiving. This volume is dedicated to helping and guiding children on a good path lined with the blessings of love.
https://www.amazon.com/Respectful-Presents-Respect-Rainbow-Adventures/dp/1970157550
Volume 6: "Respectful Ruth Presents the Virtue of Respect" (9781970157550, $16.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 44pp)
It is critically important that children acquire good feelings and experience peaceful emotions. The virtue of respect is a happy healthy habit to be joyfully exercised every day. Because respect is an important and essential social-emotional learning life skill. Learning and showing respect will enhance your child's overall personality and strengthen their communication skills. All which help them become a more confident, courteous, and socially attentive human being that fosters better and healthier relationships.
For "Respectful Ruth Presents the Virtue of Respect" to work its wonders, and to inspire children to be kind and considerate, parents, teachers, and caregivers must be the top model on showing respect in all its wonderful ways. Like having a positive attitude when learning, teaching, exercising, and sharing the virtue of respect.
https://www.amazon.com/Humble-Presents-Humility-Rainbow-Adventures/dp/1970157569
Volume 7: "Humble Helena Presents the Virtue of Humility" (9781970157567, $16.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 52pp)
Children can need help and inspiration to acquire good feelings and peaceful emotions. That is the goal and purpose of "Humble Helena Presents the Virtue of Humility".
Making it fun with a smile, parents, teachers and caregivers can model words, actions, and deeds showing children how to embrace humility. This is an essential virtue because humility is an important social-emotional learning life skill. Vital for positive development and growth if a child is to become honest-to-goodness humble person who care about people regardless of race, sex, or financial and social status.
Explaining that humility is a super strength that improves their overall well-being and brings out their best "Humble Helena Presents the Virtue of Humility" can make it fun with a smile to instill solid, character building, humility-growing practices with a positive attitude.
https://www.amazon.com/Truthful-Therese-Presents-Justice-Adventures/dp/1970157577
Volume 8: "Truthful Therese Presents the Virtue of Justice" (9781970157574, $16.99 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 92pp)
"Truthful Therese Presents the Virtue of Justice" is specifically designed to help parents, teachers and caregivers demonstrate, illustrated, and inspire children to acquire good feelings and peaceful emotions. Justice is an important social-emotional learning life skill that children need to gain super skills of conflict resolution (inspires peace), critical thinking (inspires fair behavior), and trusty teamwork.
"Truthful Therese Presents the Virtue of Justice" will help and guide children on the good path lined with blessings of justice.
Critique: This unique, large format (8.5 x 0.22 x 11 inches) paperback edition of the "Thank You" for Rainbow Adventures" picture book series by Frances Angelina showcases the virtues of Faith, Charity/Sharing, Perseverance/Courage, Patience, Love, Respect, Humility, Justice/Truth. Original, informative, inspiring, profusely illustrator, effective, 'kid friendly' and fun, this is a series that will be of particular interest to parents, teachers, and caregivers wanting to incur these values into the lives and morales of the children they are responsible for. These virtues are the foundations for an emotionally successful adulthood and a socially healthy community.
This entire series by Frances Angelina will be of special and particular value to readers with an interest in Early Childhood Education policies, programs, and activities.
While also available in a digital book format (Kindle), and available for individual acquisition, home schooling parents, elementary classroom teachers. This series is also recommended for daycare center, preschool, K-5 school, and community libraries, who are best advised to acquire the complete 8 volume set for the benefit of their children, students, and patrons.
Editorial Note: Frances Angelina is the dedicated author of self-help and educational virtue books teach healthy happy habits as well as what she terms 'victorious virtues' such as faith, charity (sharing), perseverance, patience, love, respect, being humble, and being truthful. She invites parents, teachers and caregivers to join her online #ValueVirtue movement at www.virtuepopsineducationandmore.study
What is Paradise?
Frances Angelina
Story Merchant
www.virtuepopsineducationandmore.study
Synopsis: A simply outstanding six volume 'Bobble Pops' series of stories and illustrations by author/illustrator Frances Angelina, "What is Paradise?" was created for young readers ages 6-10 with the continuing theme of virtue as a necessary foundation for peace and happiness. At the end of each book in this impressively unique series, you will find each virtue's definition, meaning, and importance. So that you can understand the delightful difference the virtue can play in you and your child(ren)'s life. The series consists of:
https://www.amazon.com/What-Paradise-ACT-Winter-Adventures/dp/1970157593
Volume 1: "What Is Paradise? ACT 1: Winter Paradise" (9781970157598, $18.99, PB, 118pp) introduces the idea that virtues are simply good feelings and emotions that we all need to have inner peace and happy hope. This first Act 1 book features Winter Paradise (January, February, and March) and highlights New Years, Valentine's Day, and St. Patrick's Day.
The Virtues of Acceptance, Blessings, Cleanliness, Discipline, and Empathy come to life in fun, positive, and educational manners, by the Bobble Pops and Paradise Animals Accepting Alligator, Blessings Bear, Clean Camel, Discipline Donkey, and Empathy Elephant.
Through daily learning, teaching, and modeling this book's valuable virtues, you help your child/student gain values that benefit them in all stages of their life.
https://www.amazon.com/What-Paradise-ACT-Spring-Adventures/dp/1970157607
Volume 2: "What Is Paradise? ACT 2: Spring Paradise" (9781970157604, $18.99, PB, 102pp) features Spring Paradise (April, May, and June) and highlights Spring Break, Easter, and Bobble Birthdays.
The Virtues of Forgiveness, Goodness, Helpfulness, Ideal, and Joy come to life in fun, positive, and educational manners, by the Bobble Pops and Paradise Animals Forgiving Frog, Good Giraffe, Helpful Hippo, Ideal Iguana, and Joyful Jaguar. Through daily learning, teaching, and modeling this book's valuable virtues, you help your child/student gain values that benefit them in all stages of their life.
https://www.amazon.com/What-Paradise-ACT-Summer-Adventures/dp/1970157615
Volume 3: "What Is Paradise? ACT 3: Summer Paradise" (9781970157611, $16.99, PB, 104pp) features Summer Paradise (July, Aug. Sept.) and highlights July 4th, Camp
(Virtueopoly Game), School, and Bobble Pop Teachers.
The Virtues of Kindness, Loyalty, Modesty, Niceness, and Obedience come to life in fun, positive, and educational manners, by the Bobble Pops and Paradise Animals Kind Kangaroo, Loyal Lamb, Modest Monkey, Nice Nightingale, & Obedient Octopus. Through daily learning, teaching, and modeling this book's valuable virtues, you help your child/student gain values that benefit them all their life.
https://www.amazon.com/What-Paradise-ACT-Autumn/dp/1970157623
Volume 4: "What Is Paradise? ACT 4: Autumn Paradise" (9781970157628, $16.99, PB, 86pp) features Autumn Paradise (Oct. Nov.) and highlights Halloween, Grandma's 100thbirthday, Special Needs Paradise School, and Thanksgiving.
The Virtues of Peace, Quiet, Responsible, Sincere, and Trust come to life in fun, positive, and educational manners, by the Bobble Pops and Paradise Animals Peaceful Penguin, Quiet Quail, Responsible Rooster, Sincere Seahorse, and Trusting Turtle. Through daily learning, teaching, and modeling this book's valuable virtues, you help your child/student gain lifetime values.
https://www.amazon.com/What-Paradise-ACT-Christmas-Adventures/dp/1970157631
Volume 5: "What Is Paradise? ACT 5: The First Twelve Days of Christmas Winter Paradise" (9781970157635, $20.99,PB, 134pp) features December and highlights the First Twelve Days of Christmas Winter Paradise.
The Virtues of Unity, Victory, Wisdom, Excellence, and Yes (to good) come to life in fun, positive, and educational manners, by the Bobble Pops and Paradise Animals United Unicorn, Victor Velo, Wise Wolf, Excellent Ant, and Yes Yak. Through daily learning, teaching, and modeling this book's valuable virtues, you help you and your child/student gain lifetime values.
https://www.amazon.com/What-Paradise-ACT-Christmas-Adventures/dp/197015764X
Volume 6: "What is Paradise? ACT 6: The Second Twelve Days of Christmas Winter Paradise and Christmas Day" (9781970157642, $29.99, PB, 190pp) features December and highlights the Second Twelve Days of Christmas Winter Paradise.
The Virtues of Unity, Victory, Wisdom, Excellence, and Yes (to good), and Zeal come to life in fun, positive, and educational manners, by the Bobble Pops and Paradise Animals United Unicorn, Victor Velo, Wise Wolf, Excellent Ant, Yes Yak, and Zebra Zeal.
Through daily learning, teaching, and modeling this book's valuable virtues, you help you and your child/student gain lifetime values.
Critique: Available in a large (8.5 x 0.32 x 11 inches, 14.6 ounces) paperback edition, it should be noted that each of the six volumes comprising "What is Paradise?" series is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99). Each individual title in this original, fun, informative, and engaging series is thoroughly 'kid friendly' in substance, organization, style, presentation, and message. While available singularly and separately, it is especially and unreservedly recommended for home schooling families, as well as elementary school and community library collections, that the entire series be acquired for the benefit of their children, students, and patrons.
Editorial Note: Frances Angelina is the dedicated author of self-help and educational virtue books teach healthy happy habits as well as what she terms 'victorious virtues' such as faith, charity (sharing), perseverance, patience, love, respect, being humble, and being truthful. She invites parents, teachers and caregivers to join her online #ValueVirtue movement at www.virtuepopsineducationandmore.study
Books in Series
The Day I Had a Fire Truck
Ashley Wall and Vaughan Duck
MamaBear Books
www.MamaBearbooks.com
9791960616197, $18.95 Hardcover/$9.95 Paperback, 32pp (Ages 4-6)
https://www.amazon.com/Day-Had-Fire-Truck/dp/1960616188
The Day I Had a Fire Truck is the third book in the 'The Day I Had' picture book series for ages 4-6 years, and presents the same attention to whimsical events and fun fantasy as the previous books.
Here, the first-person young narrator is helping clean out the garage when he is lured from his task by a fire truck that mysteriously appears on his driveway, devoid of firefighters! Luke reads a note that tasks him with filling in for a missing crew enchanted by a "super doper swirly twirly twisty wisty meta waterslide" at the new water park, and so his unexpected new duty begins.
As Luke taps his friends to fill in for the fire chief and his crew, fire equipment operations and terminology give young readers practical lessons on firefighting apparatus. Colorful illustrations capture the fun of learning as Luke and his group explores the fire truck, considers its operation, and then embarks on a typical firefighter's day involving various rescue operations.
Adults seeking a lively read-aloud story that continues many underlying messages about life ("Trying new things for the first time can be scary," Emma said) will find this engaging story holds widespread attraction for young listeners and readers. In addition to the specifics of covering a firefighter's duties, kids receive many insights about approaching life that will be enhanced by a read-aloud adult's discussions.
The result is a picture book that goes above and beyond the typical young person's book about firefighting and equipment to delve into situations that offer growth reflections and opportunities. Elementary-level libraries will find its colorful presentation makes for an eye-catching winner.
The World of Money
The Child's World, Inc.
www.childsworld.com
Synopsis: The Child's World is a premier publishing of fiction and non-fiction book books for children. One of their newest Stride series, 'The World of Money' is a twelve volume series on the various aspects and elements of money and finance for children ages 8-11 and includes:
https://www.childsworld.com/shop/show/9044
"Bartering" by Janie Havemeyer (9791503894587, $32.79, Library Binding, 24pp)
Describing the practice of bartering, of special note is the introduction explaining how bartering is used by children in the cafeteria at school. The remaining chapters detail the history of bartering in ancient societies, the benefits and drawbacks of bartering, and how people still barter for goods and services today.
https://www.childsworld.com/shop/show/9018
"Budgets" by Ib Larsen (9791503894327, $32.79, Library Binding, 24pp)
Describing ways to budget money, "Budgets" begins with an introduction showing how kids can save their allowance over time to purchase a new toy or treat for themselves. The remaining chapters detail the difference between wants and needs, as well as how to track income and expenses in day-to-day life.
https://www.childsworld.com/shop/show/9017
"How Money is Created" by Ib Larsen (9791503894310, $32.79, Library Binding, 24pp)
Living up to its titles, "How Money is Created" describes how money is physical created in the form of currency. An introduction explains the process of how dollar bills are made in the United States, as well as the government departments responsible for making currency. The remaining chapters detail the history and value of money around the world.
https://www.childsworld.com/shop/show/9024
"Cryptocurrency" by Hilary Margitch (9791503894389, $32.79, Library Binding, 24pp)
Describes the concept of cryptocurrency. An introduction explains the basics of cryptocurrency and how it works. The remaining chapters detail the benefits and drawbacks of using cryptocurrency, as well as examples of how cryptocurrency is used today.
https://www.childsworld.com/shop/show/9021
"Investing" by Ib Larsen (9791503894358, $32.79, Library Binding, 24pp)
"Investing" describes the importance of investing money, starting with an introduction that accessibly explains how the stock market is used to help people and businesses invest. The remaining chapters detail different types of investments people can make and the benefits and drawbacks of investing.
https://www.childsworld.com/shop/show/9022
"Banks and Credit Unions" by Miles Herman (9791503894365, $32.79, Library Binding, 24pp)
Describing the functions of banks and credit unions, there is an introduction explaining how banks have evolved throughout time and why people still use banks today. The remaining chapters detail the services that banks and credit unions provide, as well as how they can keep money safe.
https://www.childsworld.com/shop/show/9023
"Ways to Pay" by Catherine Ipcizade (9791503894372, $32.79, Library Binding, 24pp)
Describing all the different ways people can pay for goods and services with money, "Ways to Pay" begins with an introduction explaining the history of how early people paid for goods and services before bills and coins were created. The remaining chapters detail the many ways people can pay for things today, including with physical money, debit and credit cards, and banking apps.
https://www.childsworld.com/shop/show/9042
"Starting a Business" by Ann M. Staats (9791503894563, $32.79, Library Binding, 24pp)
Critique: With each individual volume, there are vivid images and a helpful diagram to aid in comprehension. Additional features with each title includes a table of contents, sidebars, a phonetic glossary, fast facts, critical-thinking questions, an index, information about the author, and sources for further research. Thoroughly 'reader friendly' in organization and presentation, 'The World of Money' series is especially and unreservedly recommended for home schooling parents, elementary school, middle school, and community library Money & Finance collections for young readers.
Editorial Note #1: Janie Havemeyer is an author of many books for young readers. She lives in San Francisco, California, and has visited Angel Island. Janie loves history and learning about the lives of other people. For many years she taught California history to third graders. She is a graduate of Middlebury College and Bank Street College of Education.
Editorial Note #2: Ib Larsen is a writer and an editorial assistant living in Saint Paul, Minnesota. He holds a degree in English and mathematics, and is the author of several other nonfiction books for young readers.
Editorial Note #3: Hilary Margitich received her master of business administration (MBA) and worked for many years in the financial services industries. She enjoys sharing this knowledge with children through her writing.
Editorial Note #4: Miles Herman is a freelance writer living in Upstate New York. In his spare time, he loves to research and write about trains and railroading.
Editorial Note #5: Catherine Ipcizade is the author of more than 30 books for children. She writes fiction, nonfiction, and poetry for all age levels. She also teaches academic and creative writing to college students. She holds an MFA degree in Creative Writing.
Editorial Note #6: Ann McCallum Staats, M.Ed., is the award-winning author of more than a dozen books.
The Creative Company
www.thecreativecompany.us
The Creative Company is a premier publisher and distributor of K-12 book series for elementary school, middle school, highschool, and community/public library collections for young readers. One of their popular imprints are the Black Rabbit Books. And one of the new Black Rabbit Books series is 'Super-Incredible Animals', an eight volume series about the classification of wildlife that is informatively written by the team of Joanne Mattern, Meg Greve, and features full color photography illustrations throughout for children ages 7-11.
https://thecreativecompany.us/products/super-strong-animals
"Super-Strong Animals" (9781645823834, $35.70, Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp)
Strong-armed gorillas. Small yet mighty dung beetles. Powerful grizzly bears. These creatures easily grab, pull, and carry things that are multiple times their body weight. The world is full of these incredible heavy-lifters! Captivate elementary minds with intriguing facts and wondrous photos of six super-strong animals found around the world.
https://thecreativecompany.us/products/super-camouflaged-animals
"Super-Camouflaged Animals" (9781645823766, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp)
Speedy cheetahs. Huge whales. Venomous jellyfish. The world is full of incredible creatures! Which ones are the fastest, strongest, smartest, and most amazing? Elementary readers find out which animals and dinosaurs rank at the top and what makes them the greatest in their category. Including facts about habitats and traits, this series is perfect for fans of Guinness World Records and animal extremes. Chameleons change colors. Leafy sea dragons blend in with seaweed. Walking sticks look like tree bark. The world is full of animals who can hide and disguise themselves in their surroundings. Captivate elementary minds with intriguing facts and wondrous photos of six super-camouflaged creatures found around the world.
https://thecreativecompany.us/products/super-dangerous-animals
"Super Dangerous Animals" (9781645823773, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp)
Speedy cheetahs. Huge whales. Venomous jellyfish. The world is full of incredible creatures! Which ones are the fastest, strongest, smartest, and most amazing? Elementary readers find out which animals and dinosaurs rank at the top and what makes them the greatest in their category. Including facts about habitats and traits, this series is perfect for fans of Guinness World Records and animal extremes. Charging hippos. Ambushing lions. Relentless wolverines. The world is full of dangerous--and incredible--animals! Captivate elementary minds with intriguing facts and wondrous photos of six powerful and fast creatures found around the world.
https://thecreativecompany.us/products/super-deadly-animals
"Super Deadly Animals" (9781645823810, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp)
Floating box jellyfish. Colorful dart frogs. These creatures are beautiful -- and deadly! They aren't the only ones. The world is full of these incredible animals! Captivate elementary minds with intriguing facts and wondrous photos of six poisonous and venomous creatures found around the world. Easy-to-read text and appealing page design share details about the featured animals' habitats, traits, and how they use their deadly toxins to survive.
https://thecreativecompany.us/products/super-fast-animals
"Super Fast Animals" (9781645823780, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp)
Speedy cheetahs. Swift peregrine falcons. Zooming dragonflies. The world is full of incredibly fast creatures! Captivate elementary minds with intriguing facts and wondrous photos of six super-fast animals found around the world. Easy-to-read text and appealing page design share details about the featured animal's habitat, traits, and how they use their speed to capture prey and avoid predators.
https://thecreativecompany.us/products/super-gigantic-animals
"Super Gigantic Animals" (9781645823797, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp)
Huge bears. Mighty elephants. Enormous whales. Whether it's weight, height, or sheer massive size, these creatures grow incredibly large. And they aren't the only ones! The world is full of animals that are the biggest of their kind. Captivate elementary minds with intriguing facts and wondrous photos of six giant animals found around the world. Easy-to-read text and appealing page design share details about the featured animals' habitats, traits, and how they use their size in their environment.
https://thecreativecompany.us/products/super-smart-animals
"Super Smart Animals" (9781645823827, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp)
Octopuses can manipulate objects. Crows can solve puzzles. These creatures are curious and intelligent, and they aren't the only ones. The world is full of clever animals! Captivate elementary minds with intriguing facts and wondrous photos of six super-smart animals found around the world. Easy-to-read text and appealing page design share details about the featured animals' habitats, traits, and how they use their intelligence to survive and sometimes play.
https://thecreativecompany.us/products/super-incredible-dinosaurs
"Super Incredible Dinosaurs" (9781645823803, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp)
Towering Brachiosaurus. Spiky Stegosaurus. Mighty Triceratops. These amazing dinosaurs used to roam the Earth, and they weren't the only ones. The world was once full of these incredible creatures! Captivate elementary minds with intriguing facts and wondrous photos of six popular dinosaurs found around the world. Easy-to-read text and appealing page design share details about the featured animals' habitats, traits, and how they used their size, speed, and special adaptations to survive in the world back then.
Critique: Each individual volume of this outstanding series features an easy-to-read text and appealing page design share details about the featured animals' habitats, traits, and how they use their adaptations to survive. Weird and wonderful facts make these nonfiction wildlife book perfect for fans of Guinness World Records and animal extremes. Each title also includes a range map, "Think About It" sidebars, and extra resources for science reports. Although each book comprising this wildlife series is available individually, home schooling parents, elementary school, middle school, and community library Animal/Wildlife collections would be well advise to acquire the complete 8 volume set for their students and patrons.
Suzie Housley's Bookshelf
Hobart's Second Quest (The Adventures of Hobart Book 2)
Heather Mullaly
https://www.heathermullaly.com
Favored Oak Press
B0DRGQQX3X, Kindle $3.99, 78 pages, (Ages 8-12)
https://www.amazon.com/Hobarts-Second-Quest-Adventures-Hobart-ebook/dp/B0DRGQQX3X
Synopsis: In a world where adventure beckons at every turn, young Hobart and his steadfast companions, Tate and Hero, embark on an exhilarating quest filled with surprises. Their mission? To retrieve the legendary Excalibur, the very sword that symbolizes King Arthur's right to the throne. This journey, with its enchanting twists and turns, is not just about the destination; it's about the awe-inspiring experiences they create together.
As Hobart and his friends navigate through enchanted forests, treacherous mountains, and ancient ruins, they encounter challenges that test their courage and resilience. Each obstacle they face is an opportunity for growth, and every triumph strengthens their unbreakable bond. Their camaraderie produces connections, where shared experiences lead to lasting friendships, inspiring readers with the characters' personal growth.
Through teamwork, creativity, and unwavering support for one another, Hobart and his companions learn that the journey itself is not just a means to an end, but a treasure trove of experiences. The laughter and joy they share become the veritable treasures of their adventure, echoing the essence of genuine friendship that fosters connection and creates unforgettable memories.
Critique: Hobart's Second Quest is an exhilarating treasure hunt where the magic of teamwork comes alive! Imagine the laughter and camaraderie as friends unite, each step bringing them closer to their shared goal.
Heather Mullaly's enchanting narrative reminds how friendships can blossom and deepen through shared experiences. Her book illustrates the magic that unfolds when individuals come together, face challenges, and uncover mysteries, promoting positive themes of teamwork, resilience, and friendship that are beneficial for young readers.
Editorial Note: Hobart's Second Quest is the second book of The Hobart Adventures series, a thrilling saga that began with The Legend of Hobart. The recommended reading age for this book is ages 8-12. Learn more about the first book and the entire series by visiting this talented author's website: https://www.heathermullaly.com
Would You Rather: The Haunting of Pinedale High
Kimberly Baer
The Wild Rose Press, Inc.
https://wildrosepress.com
9781509260140, $16.99 PB, Kindle $3.99, 206 pages
https://www.amazon.com/Would-You-Rather-Kimberly-Baer/dp/1509260145
Synopsis: Picture this: a classroom buzzing with the vibrant energy of youth, where laughter and curiosity intertwine. It's just another day at school, but a substitute teacher introduces a seemingly harmless game: Would You Rather?
The thrill of choice draws students in, pondering whimsical scenarios that spark their imaginations. However, the lines between fun and reality blur as the game progresses, and the stakes rise higher than anyone could have expected.
As the clock ticks ominously, three brave souls - Ava, Blake, and Charlie - embark on an exhilarating journey to unravel the mystery behind the enigmatic teacher and the strange occurrences plaguing their lives. Playing that game cursed their lives.
Their choice echoes through their world, turning the mundane into a thrilling adventure. This adventure is not just about danger and mystery, but also about the power of friendship and teamwork.
Ava, Blake, and Charlie learn to trust each other, support each other, and work together to overcome challenges and confront fears, embodying the spirit of camaraderie.
Critique: Kimberly Baer's book is a testament to her skill in weaving mystery and intrigue, as evidenced by her bone-chilling scenes. The book revolves around the unsettling idea that a teacher's actions can bring evil into an innocent classroom.
This book offers a realistic look at how evil can enter the pathway of innocents. A deep life lesson exists in the pages of this book, one that demands your attention.
Editorial Note: Recommended reading ages 12-18 years old.
The Art of Giving a Crap: You never know what someone is going through
Olivia DeSantis, author
Anais Duran, author
Angel Duran, author
Taryn Johnson, author
Kenshin Lee, author
Kenneth Loder, author
Michaella Ruiz, author
Brooklynn Satterfield, author
Young Author Project
YoungAuthorProject.Com
9798988918004, $8.99 Kindle, $18.99 PB, 416 pages
https://www.amazon.com/Art-Giving-Crap-someone-through-ebook/dp/B0DBZNTRKW
Synopsis: The Art of Giving A Crap is a remarkable collaboration between Natalie Wilkinson and the Young Author Project, serving as a beacon for adults seeking to navigate the often tumultuous world of adolescence alongside their young ones.
This engaging middle school fiction, crafted by teens and their dedicated teacher, invites readers into the lives of teenagers such as Asher and Lucy - two relatable characters who embody the struggles and triumphs of their peers, creating a sense of connection with the readers.
The portrayal of Asher, dealing with an unstable home life and feelings of isolation, and Lucy, who faces the weight of social expectations and the desire to fit in, is beautiful as they confront the challenges of friendship, peer pressure, and self-discovery.
Their journey is not just a story; it reflects the real emotional hurdles many students face today. This book, serving as an invaluable resource, offers insights into the intricate lives of teenagers and fosters a deeper understanding of their emotional rollercoasters, making the audience feel more informed.
Critique: The Art of Giving A Crap is more than just a narrative; it's a powerful tool for empathy and understanding, fostering a sense of empathy in the audience.
The Art of Giving A Crap by Natalie Wilkinson and the Young Author Project is not just a book; it's a heartfelt journey that dives deep into the emotional landscape of adolescence. This remarkable collaboration brings together the authentic voices of teenagers and the wisdom of their teachers, creating an invaluable resource that resonates with parents, teachers, and libraries alike.
Suzie Housley, Senior Reviewer
https://housleysliteraryservices.com
The Story Monsters Ink
Shelf
Story Monsters LLC is dedicated to helping authors of all genres strive for excellence through our marketing and
publicity services, Dragonfly Book Awards contests, Story Monsters Approved! awards program, opportunities for
connecting with schools, and the award-winning Story Monsters Ink(R) magazine.
If I Had a Dragon
Gabby Dawnay, author
Alex Barrow, illustrator
Thames & Hudson
https://www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500653630, $15.95
Kimberly Waters
Reviewer
Everyone loves a fun rhyming story, and this story is one to love! Very clever rhyming accompanies an imagination-driven young girl who dreams about having a dragon as a pet. All of the wonderful ideas she would do if she had a dragon are articulated in an entertaining, poetic way. The illustrator skillfully captures each adventure the character takes the dragon on with bright colors fitting to the events. Well done! (Ages baby-4)
Dream Big
Emma Dodd
Templar
https://www.candlewick.com
9781536236002, $17.99
Cynthia Kern OBrien
Reviewer
Growing up is a wondrous journey. Many are anxious to grow up too fast. Father lion is proud of his little cub, and he teaches him to be himself and be free. "Dare to dream your biggest dreams and know that I love you. For when you came along, my love... my biggest dream came true." A very sweet book to read to your little one. (Ages 2-5)
You Make My Heart Saur
Maggie Fischer, author
Todd Lauzon, illustrator
Silver Dolphin
https://www.silverdolphinbooks.com
9781645177609, $7.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
"My love for you is louder than a Triceratops can roar. You give my tummy butterflies; you make my heart saur." So begins this delightful board book filled with loving sentiments of mothers to their youngsters, using dinosaurs as the catalyst, with bright illustrations. Sure to be a favorite of little dinosaur fans. (Ages 3-5)
The Night Whale
Bryher Mackenzie, author
Gillian Eilidh O'Mara, illustrator
Candlewick
https://www.candlewick.com
9781536238846, $18.99
Cynthia Kern OBrien
Reviewer
A wonderful story about a Nana, her grandchild, and the stars in the sky that create The Night Whale. The stars create magical images in the sky and speak to us at night, telling us that "anything is possible." Beautifully illustrated. (Ages 3-7)
Thank You
Jarvis
Candlewick
https://www.candlewick.com
9781536235869, $17.99
Kimberly Waters
Reviewer
This is a fun and clever book to remind kids of all ages to be thankful for the big things, little things, and even silly things. We need to be grateful for EVERYTHING we have and this book helps us show that gratitude. The artist has done an exceptional job representing each thought of thanks with colorful and creative pictures. (Ages 3-7)
Better Together
Bret and Fred Bender, author
Robby Firmansyah, illustrator
Independently Published
9798325943621, 13.99
Kimberly Waters
Reviewer
With an underlying reference to political disputes, this book compares them to a soccer team, showing the outcomes of when they do work together and when they don't work together. This very detailed story helps children understand how much more success is accomplished when teammates unite. Nicely done! (Ages 3-8)
Best Thing Ever!
Beatrice Alemagna
Thames & Hudson
https://www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500653623, $17.95
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Pascaline is a little pink bat. When she and her mom visit the local grocery store, she sees so many wonderful things - sparkly slug slippers, clover cookies, crispy crickets - and wants them all. But when mom refuses to buy the goodies, Pascaline has a tantrum that leads to a lesson about what the best things really are. Kids will be rooting for Pascaline as this is something they all can relate to. (Ages 4+)
How Lucky Am I?
Scott Hoying and Mark Hoying, authors
Steph Lew, illustrator
Henry Holt
https://henryholt.com
9781250853332, $18.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Life can be short, especially if you're a mayfly, as you only live for one day. The mayfly in this book uses his allotted time to live and explore his world as he finds a way to make the most of his short life. The illustrations in the book are bright and colorful, and the theme is a good one. The authors have also included a QR code that can be scanned, giving readers access to the song, "How Lucky Am I?" that they co-authored and recorded and that goes along with the book. (Ages 4-8)
Sleigh Magic
Susan Vaughan, author
Thomas Brooks, illustrator
Maine Authors Publishing
https://maineauthorspublishing.com
9781633813588, $25.95
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
Before there were elves, there was only Santa. When an exhausted Santa guides his sleigh into the Great North Woods, the woodland animals learn that he can't keep up with making all the toys and there might not be enough to go around. Can they help the not-so-jolly fella? Squirrel has an idea, and raccoon, otter, beaver, and fox are onboard. Flip these enchanting pages to see the magic when they join Santa on his sleigh and land at the North Pole with a gift for Christmas and all the children around the world. (Ages 4-8)
Poppy's Family Patterns
Lauren Semmer
Crown Books
https://crownpublishing.com
9780593710609, $18.99
Kimberly Waters
Reviewer
What a sweet story about a mom teaching her daughter about patterns through fabric and memories of loved ones throughout her life. We learn the names of some popular patterns, and we get to go down memory lane of those who wore those patterns. Another lesson learned is that time spent with parents is priceless. Cute story and very creative illustrations! (Ages 4-8)
Everett Green: The Not-So-Christmas Tree
Freddy Wexler, author
Fanny Berthiaume, illustrator
Random House Books for Young Readers
https://www.rhcbooks.com
9780593567944, $14.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
Everett the palm tree entertains guests in Hawaii but dreams of so much more... one sighting of the Rockefeller tree and he wants to be the most famous Christmas tree ever. His ambitions hit a roadblock when all flights to New York are halted due to a snowstorm. Can Everett learn the real meaning of Christmas with a bunch of disappointed travelers stuck in an airport? Grammy-nominated songwriter Freddy Wexler's magical message: you can experience Christmas cheer anywhere, it's who you're with that matters most. (Ages 4-8)
In the Winter
Lauren Kukla
North Star Editions
https://northstareditions.com
9781963802009, $19.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
The inaugural print title from mylittledigital.com, an online platform for interactive children's stories, takes us through snowy woods, over frozen lakes, and under northern lights where we bundle up and celebrate the season. Snow falls, animals makes tracks or tuck themselves in cozy burrows, and festivities are filled with singing and dancing. Soft and soothing illustrations capture all that is special about winter. The perfect story to settle in with a warm cocoa and a fuzzy blanket, and to share with your little one. (Ages 4-8)
Winter Light
Aaron Becker
Candlewick
https://www.candlewick.com
9781536236460, $17.99
Lindsay Moretti
Reviewer
New York Times bestselling creator, Aaron Becker, presents a warm, cozy board book about the transition to winter light. With die-cut snowflakes in a kaleidoscope of colors and dreamy illustrations throughout the story, the simple verses have a warmth that highlights the meaning of the season through familial traditions. A great book to wind down with at the end of the day! (Ages 4-8)
If I Had a Polar Bear
Gabby Dawnay and Alex Barrow
Thames & Hudson
https://www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500653067, $15.95
Kimberly Waters
Reviewer
The author takes us on an adventure to discover what it would be like to have a polar bear as a pet. From taking you to school in a snowstorm to helping you catch a delicious fish meal are just a few of the fun things you could do. So many clever ideas and fun-filled travels are presented with admirable artwork to enhance those adventures! (Ages 4-8)
Dear Vincent
Michael Bird, author
Ella Beech, illustrator
Thames & Hudson
https://www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500653388, $19.95
Kimberly Waters
Reviewer
A big thumbs up for this charming story behind the artist Vincent van Gogh! The relationship between Vincent and his brother is touching and a wonderful example of how families take care of each other. Seeing another side of Vincent in his quest to become a better painter brought an understanding that many people probably didn't know! Nicely done, and kudos to the illustrator! (Ages 4-8)
The Adventures of Malice in Munsterland: Malice's Punderful Plants
Mary K. Saunders
Independently Published
9798398858334, $13.99
Cynthia Kern OBrien
Reviewer
Malice is a little monster that loves to get into mischief! Malice can't resist planting some interesting bulbs and seeds she found while walking her Mischief Hound. When the seeds grow into angry plants, chaos ensues! Can Malice tame the wild plants and save her town? A longer read for the new reader but the older children will be interested in the adventures and the puns included. (Ages 4-12)
Tick Tock The Christmas Mouse
Christine Thomas Doran, author
Janice M. Coward, illustrator
https://booksbychristinethomasdoran.com
Independently Published
ISBN TBA, $25.00
Dr. Dawn Menge
Reviewer
I loved the fact that the book was based on the Kaminski House Museum. This draws attention to museums and education. It helps to teach that there is always hope, and that everyone has value. A beautiful Christmas story laced with self-worth and self-esteem. (Ages 5+)
Madame Badobedah and the Old Bones
Sophie Dahl, author
Lauren O'Hara, illustrator
Walker Books
https://www.walker.co.uk
9781536233568, $18.99
Cynthia Kern OBrien
Reviewer
What mysteries lie within the Mermaid Hotel? Madame Badobedah and Mabel join forces to explore the hotel and find all of the hidden treasures. A lovely book filled with watercolor illustrations and whimsical beach themes. A treasured book for those readers who are ready for beginning chapter books. (Ages 5-8)
Little Mouse Adventures: In Search of the Holy Grail
Teresa Anne Power, author
Emma Allen, illustrator
Stafford House Books
https://staffordhousebooks.com
9781736622063, $12.95
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
Little Mouse relocates to the country with his family, makes new farm animal friends, and embarks on a mission to locate the magical Holy Grail in book 6 of the Little Mouse Adventures series. With yoga, mindfulness, and teamwork, can the crew accomplish their goal? Complete with comprehension questions in the back. (Ages 6-9)
Shermy and Shake, the Not-So-New Kid
Kirby Larson, author
Shinji Fujioka, illustrator
Candlewick
https://www.candlewick.com
9781536237887, $6.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Shermy's friend, Shake, is back in the neighborhood (and is the new kid in school), living across the street from Shermy at Shake's grandmother's house for an indefinite period of time. While Shermy is glad to have Shake back to hang out with, Shake's overpowering personality can sometimes be too much for Shermy to handle. Many youngsters can identify with Shermy's problem. Author Kirby Larson helps kids navigate the sometimes perilous world of second grade. (Ages 6-9)
How to Make a Picture Book
Elys Dolan
Candlewick
https://www.candlewick.com
9781536231427, $17.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Do you know a youngster who is always making up stories? This is the perfect gift for future children's book writers: Its instructive, humorous, hands-on, and interactive text and illustrations take the reader through the various steps of how picture books are created. (Ages 6-9)
Sanya's New Starts
Aditi Wardhan Singh and Sharvi Singh
Raising World Children LLC
https://raisingworldchildren.com
9781956870060, $5.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
Sanya is a tween with a bright imagination and a world that's filled with new things: a new neighborhood, a new school, a new brother, and even new glasses. But with her colorful imagination, she navigates her way through the changes in this early reader that offers lessons about kindness, resolving conflicts, apologizing, and managing a bully. Complete with a glossary, game rules, activities, and conversation starters. (Ages 6-9)
The Puppets of Spelhorst
Kate DiCamillo, author
Julie Morstad, illustrator
Candlewick
https://www.candlewick.com
9781536216752, $8.99
Mark Graham
Reviewer
Shut up in a trunk by a taciturn old sea captain with a secret, five friends - a king, a wolf, a girl, a boy, and an owl - bicker, boast, and comfort one another in the dark. When at last their shared fate arrives, landing them on a mantel in a blue room in the home of two little girls, the truth is more astonishing than any of them could have imagined. A truly mesmerizing story. (Ages 7-10)
The One and Only Family
Katherine Applegate
Harper
https://www.harpercollins.com
9780063389519, $19.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
In the sequel to the Newberry Medal Winner The One and Only Ivan and the finale to the best-selling One and Only series, our favorite silverback gorilla, Ivan, and his mate Kinyani are having twins. In the wildlife sanctuary, Ivan adapts to being a parent, with the help of friends Ruby the elephant and Bob the dog, while struggling to deal with memories of the mall's glass walls, his childhood in the jungle, and his own twin. Another Applegate winner... if you're new to the series, you'll be eager to read them all. (Ages 8-12)
Looking Up
Stephan Pastis
Aladdin
c/o Simon & Schuster
https://www.simonandschuster.com
9781665929622, $13.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
Saint is an odd little girl who loves medieval knights, can't harm anything with a face on it, and absolutely doesn't want her neighborhood to change. As she witnesses the things she loves in her hometown being torn down... even her favorite toy store, Punch's Toy Farm... and replaced with fancy condos and other upscale stores, she and the little boy across the street devise a scheme to stop the changes. This first-person heart-warming account is filled with emotion, humor, and colorful language, and interspersed with simple black-and-white illustrations throughout. (Ages 8-12)
A Code Red Christmas
Camille Klump
https://camilleklump.com
Independently Published
9798397519380, $22.50
Dr. Dawn Menge
Reviewer
What does Santa do when he receives a Code Red letter? He drops everything and travels to the Amazon to save the Brazil nut trees and Cocoa bushes. Including this with a Santa story will help little ones connect to the issues that are being conveyed and that we need to help protect our forests even if they are across the world. The illustrations are beautiful. (Ages 8-12)
Mountain of Fire
Rebecca E. F. Barone
Henry Holt and Company
https://henryholt.com
9781250881656, $18.99
Deb Greenberg
Reviewer
If you're interested in learning more about the volcanic eruption of Mount St. Helens on May 18, 1980, this narrative nonfiction account is for you. It provides a captivating read, recounting the event through the eyes of the many people involved. The shaking and swelling was unlike any volcanic activity ever seen before. Day and night, scientists tried to piece together the mountain's clues as the long-dormant volcano seethed away, boiling rock far below the surface. Readers will also earn a lot about the science of volcanoes in this fascinating book. (Ages 10-14)
Chasing Stars
Meg Gaertner
North Star Editions
https://northstareditions.com
9781631637902, $9.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Change can be good, but it can also be scary and confusing. Libby's grandfather is moving into their family home because he is no longer able to take care of himself. Her older sister, Erica, is leaving soon for boarding school. In the meantime, Libby and Erica must share a bedroom as Grandpa will be using Erica's room. With all this going on, things get tense between Libby and her sister, and they lose sight of what they have in common. This is a great book that many middle school students will relate to. (Ages 10-14)
Lights, Camera, Brains?
Michelle L. Brown
Jolly Fish Press
c/o North Star Editions
https://northstareditions.com
9781631638305, $9.99
Cynthia Kern OBrien
Reviewer
Tweens will love this book! This book has everything they would want to read about: space, zombies, being undead, squeamish stomachs, friendship struggles, and family. Short chapters that are quick and easy to read add to its perfection. (Ages 10-14)
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
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