Picture Book PIck: Mother Goose Goes to India

 Mother Goose Goes to India

by Kabir Sehgal and Surishtha Sehgal

Illustrated by Wazza Pink 

Beach Lane Books

Simon & Schuster

2022

32 pages

ISBN: 9781534439603

Publishing Date: January 4, 2022 

In this charming rendition of beloved Mother Goose rhymes, readers are transported to India where the colorful illustrations by Wazza Pink capture the country and culture in vibrant, bold orange, yellow, pink, green and purple, Each page is a blossom of Indian art and design. Not only beautiful, this lovely rhyming book captures the rhythm, beauty and joy of India by introducing readers to Indian words incuding dahi (yogurt), panee (water) and naan (Indian bread). 

Featuring Patty Cake (Pat-A Naan) and Star Light, Star Bright (Taara LIght, Taara Bright) and thirteen other Mother Goose favorites,  children are sure to love this introduction to Mother Goose and the Indian language. 

Highly, highly recommended baby-5 years old. A must-have for every child reader. 

Graphic Novel Pick: Huda F Are You?

 

Huda F Are You?

by Huda Fahmy

'Illustrated by the author

Dial Books

Penguin Random House LLC

2021

192 pages

ISBN: 9780593324318

Huda F Are You? is a treasure to behold. It's an inspiring story of five sisters raised by immigrant parents in the United States. Dearborn has a large population of Muslim immigrants, but it's not so "easy peasy."  Lots of women wear  the hijab, but Huda feels like she doesn't have any interests. She thinks she's only good at doing homework and taking tests which is a great parent pleaser.   

As Huda tries to navigate high school, she is called racist names, blamed for being a terrorist, teased about her name, her dress, her religion and even asked if she understands English. It's not only students, teachers are horrible to Huda as well. Teachers are morally blind and assign papers about Muslim extremists and hold beliefs like women can't travel if they're Muslim. Huda finally finds her voice, and next school year promises to be much better. 

I'm thrilled Huda Fahmy shares her story in graphic form where it is easily accessible and understandable for all readers, including reluctant readers. Huda F Are You? is an important book for every collection and a shining example of how graphic novels can teach HUGE LESSONS. Kudos, Huda Fahmy! 

Highly, highly recommended for everyone! 

Vampires Are Back! Vampires, Hearts & iother Dead Things

 

Vampires, Hearts & Other Dead Things

by Marie Fuston

Margaret K. McElderry Books

Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

2021

339 pages

ISBN: 9781534474574

Vampires are back! And in a big way. There are quite a few to choose from this year, but make sure this titles is one of them. 

Victoria is beside herself. Her dad has been diagosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer and there's no medicine or procedure that can save him. She can't possibly live with her best ally and friend. Her Dad shares her love of everything vampire. 

Victoria hears about a living vampire who may or may not be real living in New Orleans. After a falling out with her BFF Henry, Victoria is angry he wants to tag along to New Orleans with her. Bless his heart. Henry is a true friend, only trying to keep his bestie alive. 

Victoria with Henry in tow meets a possible vampire. Her plan is to give herself over to the undead, travel home and infect her father so he can live forever. Sounds plausible, right? 

Early Chapter Book Pick: The Protest

The Protest

by Samantha Thornhill

Illustrated by Shirley Ng-Benitez

Lee & Low Books Incorporated

2021

32 pages

ISBN: 9781643792088

Lily discovers the neighborhood garden is facing ruin. Plans are to turn the beloved garden into a parking lot! Rallying her friends behind her, Lily decides kids can do a lot and they can save their garden. 

Lily and her friends make signs, create a chant and invite neighbors and friends to a rally in one week. It starts small with Lily t's a big rally and a news reporter covers it. The city decides to wait a year and leave the garden alone. Lily vows to be ready next year if the city tries to take their garden. 

A cute story that shows kids in action and promoting change in their own world. Great message for young readers. 

Recommended ages 4-8.