Wordless Picture Book Excellence: Yellow Butterfly: A Story From Ukraine

 

Yellow Butterfly: A Story From Ukraine

by Oleksandr Shatokhin

Red Comet Press 

2022

72 pages

ISBN: 9781636550640

From Ukrainian artist Oledsandr Shatokhin this beautifully imagined wordless picture book captures the story of home and war from a child's perspective. Evocative, compelling, heart-breaking, Yellow Butterfly is an inspirational story of hope conquering despair.  

Images of barbed wire, burned out holes, and destroyed neighborhoods give way to first a yellow butterfly, then a few more, until finally a kaleidoscope (yes, a group of butterflies is called a kaleidoscope) of butterflies becomes the child's wings lifting her above the destruction up to the sun, to hope, to peace and to the future.  

The colors at the beginning of the book are gray, white and black. The two page spread showing the wings unfurling behind the child is glorious yellow. 

Yellow Butterfly is the best children's book about the desolation and destruction of war, yet it manages to handle the topic in a way child readers can understand and empathize with the plight of the Ukrainian people. 

Ages 4 and up. 

Innovative Picture Book Pick: Some of These Are Snails

 

Some of These Are Snails

by Carter Higgins

Illustrations by the author

Chronicle Kids

2023 

52 pages

ISBN: 9781797220185

This seemingly simple concept book has unlimited possibilities. Not only creative and artistic, Some of These Are Snails will encourage readers to see shapes, colors, spatial design, and patterns in nature and in their normal environment. 

A circle can become a turtle or a snail; a square can become an elephant. The first reading seems simple enough, but as a child reads it numerous times, patterns emerge and/or no patterns emerge. Their mind is the only limit. 

Carter Higgins has an artistic masterpiece here. Furthermore, entire semesters of art and design classes could revolve around this one picture book. 

Some of These Are Snals is award worthy this year. One of the best of the year! 

A must-have for creative minds. 

young readers of all ages! 

Board Book Pick: Some Dogs

Some Dogs

by Lydia Nichols

Illustrations by the author

Gibbs Smith Publishing

2023

12 pages

ISBN: 9871423663706

In this adorable layered view board book, rhyming text and cute illustrations at a dog park capture the unique personalities and wagging tails of dogs who are shaggy or sleek, big or small, thin or round.

Young readers will love all the playful canines and learn that dogs recognize each other and accept each other no matter their differences. It doesn’t matter if their dog pal is tall or fat, big or small, sleek or shaggy. Dogs all have huge doggy hearts.  

The board quality is heavier than most board books making this a solid choice for shoppers and little readers’ hands. Each page is cut and layered on top of the next double fold and the book is taller and wider than other board books. 

A must read, must have for every baby.

 

Picture Book Pick: Ups and Downs: A Book of Emotions

 

Ups And Downs: A Book of Emotions 

by Mike Wohnoutka

Illustrations by the author 

Candlewick Press

2023

32 pages

ISBN: 9781536227376

Ups and Downs allows young readers to see what emotions look like through gorgeous illustrations by the author. From lonely to hopeful and shy and awkward to friendly, children will recognize feelings they have and how to identify these feelings in other people. 

The illustrations bring each feeling to life as Wohnoutka deftly handles tough feelings like disappointment as well as happy feelings like curious and joyful. This is a must have book for read for every young child. Ups and Downs would make a lovely gift for young readers and their families. 

Highly, highly recommended. Ups and Downs will likely be in the running for children's book awards as Mike Wohnoutka is a Theodor Seuss Geisel Award Winner, and this gem of a book deserves mass recognition. 

Funny Picture Book Pick: Toby Tootles

 

Toby Tootles

by Stephanie Gibeault 

Illustrations by Mary Sullivan 

Sleeping Bear Press

32 pages 

2023

ISBN: 9781534111790

Poor Toby Tootles! He was having the best birthday party ever...until he farts! His guests laugh and Toby is embarrassed. 

When he visits his grandmother, she toots. Toby is shocked. Grandmother says, "gas happens." Later, Toby toots again. He agrees gas happens and shares a laugh with his grandmother. An embarrassing moment doesn't have to be so awful. It's natural. 

The author's note includes a personal experience about embarrassing moments, but how you handle those moments makes the difference. 

Toby Tootles is a cute book about a normal experience. 

Ages 18 months and up. 

Board Book Pick: Whose Prints?

 

Whose Prints?

by Kari Allen 

Illustrations by Kim Smith 

Little Simon

an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division 

2023

20 pages 

ISBN: 9781665929592

If you buy one board book this year, make it Whose Prints? 

Whose Prints? has interactive die-cuts for toddlers to guess what animals left which prints before they turn the page and reveal the answer. Who is that scurrying? Slinking? Swooping? 

Woodland animals featured include fox, deer, an owl, mice, rabbits and even surprise footprints at the ending. Beautifully illustrated by Kim Smith, Whose Prints is bound to be a bedtime favorite. 

Highly, highly recommended 6 months and up. 

Beautiful Picture Book Pick: Full Moon Pups

 

Full Moon Pups

by Liz Garton Scanlon

Illustrations by Chuck Groenink

G.P. Putnam's Sons

an imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC

2023

40 pages

ISBN: 9780525514558

Rhyming text with gorgeous illustratons by Chuck Groenink make Full Moon Pups a must have for every child's bookshelf. 

A litter of wolf pups are born just before a storm. Mama Wolf has to move her pups to higher ground and the wolf pack members pitch in and help her, each of them transporting a precious bundle. The pups grow and play, venturing outside to the wide wonders of the world. Soon, a new full moon lights the sky, but it'll take many full moons for the pups to become adults. 

The author's note and a page about phases of the moon is included. Readers are introduced to the Yellowstone Wolf Project and other sources for more information on wolves. 

Highly recommended. This is one BEAUTIFUL children's book! ages 3 and up. 

Picture Book Pick: Baller Ina

 

Baller Ina

by Liz Casal

Illustrations by the author

Alfred A. Knopf

an imprint of Random House Children's Books

Penguin Random House

2023

40 pages

ISBN: 9780593567098

Baller Ina is for every child who plays sports or dances or dreams of joining any team. Ina has the dance moves, but her team doubts she can play basketball. She can't wait to prove them wrong. Step back, watch her fly! 

Rhyming text is fun to read aloud and kids will love Ina's courage and moxie. She is one determined athlete who knows if given the chance, she can lead her team to victory.  

A lovely, positive book about a determined dancer who won't back down, Baller Ina  proves herself as her team wins. Readers will cheer for Ina!

Highly recommended ages 3 and up. 

Whether she plays basketball or dances ballet, Ina soars with confidence and grace. Tahe play on the word "ballerina" to Baller Ina is genius! 

ISBN: 9780593567098

Wordless Picture Book: Yellow Butterfly

 

Yellow Butterfly: A Story From Ukraine

by Okeksandr Shatokhin

Illustrations by the author

Red Comet Press

2023

72 pages

ISBN: 978636550640

Reviews: 

"Using the colors of his national flag, the Ukrainian author-illustrator of this wordless picture book paints a moving portrait of a young child whose hope for the future transforms a dark world of war into a bright blue sky where yellow butterflies flutter freely."–The New York Times

“Using modest means, the author evokes the darkness of war and a vision of peace. Quite an achievement for a wordless picture book!” –Uri Shulevitz, Caldecott medal winner and author of the autobiography Chance: Escape from the Holocaust, Memories of a Refugee Childhood

My review: 

Yellow Butterfly is a wordless picture book that packs a punch! 

The author's note on the back of the book is full of hope, promise and peace: "My book is about faith, hope, and the belief that after the war, after our victory, life will go on, everything will be restored, and we will live in a new peaceful Ukraine. The memories of those who died in this war will help us heal. And yellow butterflies will flutter freely in free Ukraine." --Oleksandr Shatokhin

A stark story of war told in bold, strong, threatening black illustrations with barbed wire, bombs and explosions, yet in the midst of the danger and peril, hope emerges. Children play, and butterflies come back. First a few, then an explosion of yellow wings dance across full page spreads. A young girl is followed by "wings" of butterflies here.

Yellow Butterfly is the best example of a wordless picture book I've ever seen. This picture book is a glory to hold and behold. Children will love telling the story their own way, using the pictures to guide them. As black and gray give in to yellow and blue, the story is filled with hope for a better world. 

Yellow Butterfly is a must have, must read. Don't miss this picture book. It is likely to win many awards. 

Highly recommended ages 4 and up. 

Two Homes Are Just Right! Mabel's Topsy-Turvy Homes

 

Mabel's Topsy-Turvy Homes

by Candy Wellins

Illustrated by Jess Rose 

Beaming Books

an imprint of 1517 Media

2022

32 pages

ISBN: 9781506482866

Mabel has not one but two homes: one is with her mother and one is with her father. Her bedroom is upstairs in one house and downstairs in the other. Both houses are fun but different. Sometimes she has pancakes for breakfast, sometimes she doesn't. 

It's Mabel's turn to take the Izzy, the class pet iguana home for the weekend. The other kids have taken Izzy fun places, but Mabel takes Izzy to her two houses which turns out to be two very fun places. Although Mabel spends time in each house, she likes that they're different. Two homes means two bedrooms to decorate! 

Two homes equals "double the fun." Mabel finds happiness in knowing her place in two places and accepting that it's her new life. For any child who switches houses for visitation/custody, Mabel's Topsy Turvy Homes celebrates having two homes and two people who love and care for their child.

Highly recommended ages 3 and up. 

Picture Book Pick: Too Much! An Overwhelming Day

 

Too Much: An Overwhelming Day

by Jolene Gutierrez

Illustrations by Angel Chang

Abrams Appleseed

An Imprint of Abrams 

2023 

32 pages 

ISBN; 9781419764264

Finally, a picture book about sensory overload and how children (and adults) can cope with overwhelming days! 

Too Much! An Overwhelming Day is a true gem. Rhyming text with heartfelt illustrations by Angel Chang brings this character, a young girl who is experiencing TOO MUCH!, to life. Loud noises, bright lights, itchy fabrics, too many people, too much noise can cause sensory overload and overwhelm and cause the person to experience panic. 

The girl learns how to calm down using "quiet time, dark place, soft shirt,,,not itchy, not tight." Taking a break from the cacophony of a normal day is necessary for children with sensory processing issues and those who are on the spectrum. Bonus pages include "Note to Caregivers and Educators," "Sensory Overload," and pages defining sensory systems and how to create a sensory "diet." 

Masterful storytelling make this picture book a true winner! Highly recommended for all educators and children of all ages.

Picture Book Pick: Bábo: A Tale of Armenian Rug-Washing Day

 

Bábo: A Tel of Armenian Rug-Washing Dayby Astrid Kamalyan

Illustrated by Aniat Semirdzhyan

Charlesbridge

2023

32 pages

ISBN: 9781623543587

Lively, lovely and full of laughs, Babo: A Tale of Armenian Rug-Washing Day is a sure hit!

Bábo enlists the children help her in cleaning all of gorgeous Armenian rugs in their household. They roll up and carry the rugs to the front of the house where they "soak, soap and wash the rugs." For the kids, it's not a chore, it's a celebration. In fact, the kids wait all year for a sunny day in June to wash and play in the water and soap. The suds and water become rain and snowflakes. The children scrub and scrub. Then it's time to SLIDE. 

The rugs are turned over and washed on the underside and are perfect until...the famly dog chases a rooster across the rugs! Then the chickens get loose, and it's a party. Once the kids catch the birds, they rewash the rugs and set them on benches to dry. Now it's time for a snack. Babo (Grandmother) and her pastries feel like a warm hug. The memories of rug-cleaning day are a treat for all readers to experience. 

A glossary, author's note and a page titled "About Armenian Carpet-Weaving Tradition" helps readers understand the importance family, living off the land by pickling and preserving summer's bounty of herbs and fruits and washing (playing) the rugs that have been passed down for generations. 

What a wonderful love letter to Armenia and family! A treasure of a read. Colorful illustrations capture the joy of childhood and the fun melee of dirty dog paws and loose chickens.

Ages 3 and up. 

 

Rainbow Shopping

by Qing Zhuang

Illustrations by the author 

Holiday House

2023

40 pages

ISBN: 9780823449774

Picture Book Pick: Boop!

 

Boop! by Bea Birdsong

Illustrations by Linzie Hunter

Harper Collins Children's Books

2023

32 pages

ISBN: 9780063214804

Boop! is a fun read aloud for kids who love dogs (and who doesn't?). A dog's snoot is his nose, and everyone knows, "Snoots need boops," a gentle tap that lets the dog know you're their pal. There are snoots everywhere that need boops! 

Illustrations of small dogs, big dogs, dog park dogs,  even fancy dogs will keep kids laughing at the dogs' antics. The fun text will make littles giggle. Who wants a boop?

Highly recommended for any home that loves pets and those who wish they had a snoot to boop. 

Picture Book Pick: The Light Within You

 

The Light Within You

by Namita Moolani Mehra

Illustrations by Kamala Nair

Published by Two Lions

2023

40 pages

ISBN: 9781542039123

Diya is excited to be traveling to India for Diwali, the Festival of Lights and she can't wait to see her Nani and spend time with her. 

Once in India, Diya feels at home. She goes to the bazaar (market) with her grandmother to shop for the  ingredients they need to make all the foods. They make coconut laddoos and Diya thinks she might make some of them when she gets home to share with her classmates. 

Diya confides in Nani that school is sometimes hard and she doesn't fit it, and Nani tells her that when things are tough, she should draw power from her inner light. The Festival of Lights is a magical time and "hundreds of diyas it up the night." It is a wonderful time and Nani sends her love and magic words home with Diya. As long as Diya remembers her inner light, she will shine. 

A lovely book celebrating The Festival of Lights and the love of a girl and her grandmother. ages 2 and up. 

Picture Book PIck: A Bear, A Bee and a Honey Tree

 

A Bear, a Bee, and a Honey Tree 

by Daniel Bermstrom

Illustrations by Brandon James Scott

published by Hippo Park

2022

40 pages

ISBN: 9781662640087

A hungry bear, a scent of sweet honey and a hive of outraged bees entangle in this epic battle. Bear just wants food. He is cute, quirkly, clumsy and highly lovable. The bees have other ideas: he's an intruder in their home! How dare this bear steal from them? 

Brilliant yet sparse text sets the mood right away. And the illustrations! This picture book is the most perfectly illustrated book this year. The illustrations are spot on with the text and the story, capturing every subtle nuance of the the bear and the bees. The choices of color depict the golden-ness of the honey so well a reader can almost taste it. 

A great choice for a read-aloud. Don't you dare read this one silently. A Bear, a Bee and a Honey Tree is likely the picture book that sets the bar for perfect storytelling and art that enhances it. 

Highly, highly recommended ages 3 and up. This book will be a childhood favorite. 

Picture Book Pick: Simon and the Better Bone

 

Simon and the Better Bone

by Corey R. Tabor

Illustrations by the author 

Balzer + Bray

2023

40 pages

ISBN: 9780063275553

Simon is excited to see a dog just like him when he visits the pond. The dog has a bone just like his, but better! Simon wonders how he can get the other dog's bone. The dog seems to know all Simon's tricks. He is copying Simon. Children will realize Simon is staring at his own reflection and giggle at his doggy antics.

With a nod to Aesop's fable "The Dog and His Reflection," Tabor captures little rascally Simon on every page. The book opens and reads vertically, making this book format stand out from all other picture books this year. Innovative design will capture the hearts of child readers and picture book judging panels. Expect to see Simon and the Better Bone awarded this year! Kudos to Corey R. Tabor. 

Ages 3 and up. A cute, fun, heartwarming tale about a dog learning about himself, the world and others. 

Highly, highly recommended. 

Picture Book Pick: Cloud Babies: Sometimes All We Need To Do Is Look Up

 

Cloud Babies: Sometimes All We Need To Do Is Look Up

by Eion Colfer

illustrated by Chris Judge 

2023

40 pages

ISBN: 9781536231076

When Erin falls ill and has to go to the hospital, she is sad. She finds joy in searching the skies from her hospital window. She remembers watching for  "cloud babies" with her parents and seeing fantastical things in the clouds. Each cloud looks like an animal and they are her cloud babies. 

She shows the other sick kids how to find them. When Erin gets better, she is excited to be going home, but home and school are different than before.  She's been gone so long, she feels she has nothing in common with the other kids. Through compassion and patience, her parents, her teacher and her classmates make Erin feel "at home." 

Cloud Babies is an empathetic story of a sick child and how she handles her lengthy hospital stay. After missing months of school, it's difficult for a child to transition into the "normal." 

Ages 4 and up. 

Picture Book Pick: Big

 

BIG

by Vashti Harrison 

Little Brown and Company

Hachette Book Group, Inc.

2023

60 pages

ISBN: 9780316353229

A National Book Award Finalist

A happy child, a growing child, a caring child is told, "What a big girl you are!" and "What a good girl you are!" and it is good...UNTIL...the words are the same but the tone changes. Sitting on Santa's lap, "You're  a big girl, aren't you?" Standing among classmates, she is the tallest and largest. She wants to fade into the background. 

When adults begin to tell her, "You're too big," and kids begin to laugh at her, calling her cruel names, the girl doesn't fit in anywhere. The words sting and she disappears within herself. When adults try to "fix" her, it hurts her feelings. She decides to give them their words back. All the hurtful words, she gives back to those who hurt her. She sees a way out. She will make more room for herself: for her imagination, her caring, her empathy, her kindness. 

This lovely picture book will resonate with so many girls and boys who are dancers. Sadly, ballerinas are supposed to be lithe and tiny, and BIG is not celebrated in the dance world (or anywhere else usually). The girl owns her uniqueness and bigness and does not want to change. She likes the way she is. 

The inspirational moment the girl spreads her wings to make more room for herself in the world is captured beautifully on a double fold out spread that will take your breath away. Illustrations alone tell the story of the girl's journey to accept herself and insist that others accept her as she is. 

This is a powerful book and a must-read for every child. The customer reviews on Amazon are full of stories of women who bought this book for themselves because of the same type "big" shaming that happened to them as children. 

Picture Book Pick: Merry and Hark: A Christmas Story

 

Merry and Hark: A Christmas Story

by April Genevieve Tucholke

Illustrations by Rebecca Santo 

Algonguin Young Readers

An imprint of Workman Publishing Companty Inc,
A subsidiary of Hachette Book Group Inc.  

32 pages

2023

ISBN: 9781643752389

Available October 3, 2023

Merry and Hark is a lovely tribute to  the tiny northern saw-whet owl who fell asleep in her favorite tree in the forest and is transported to a noisy city. 

Merry always wanted to have a big adventure like the great owls she has heard stories about, but she's such a tiny thing, she spends her time in Hark, her favorite tree. The city is strange and loud. There's no food for Merry.

Lucky for her, a lady discovers her hole on the third day and takes her home, nursing her back to health. The lady shows Merry her tree, now decorated for Christmas. Merry thinks the humans are trying to bring the stars to the city. Merry is released back into her forest when she is better. 

A beautiful story of the forest, its creatures and caring humans who make things right. 

A lovely Christmas story. 

Recommended 3 and up. 

CYBILS AWARDS 2023 Picture Books/Board Books Judge

Graphic Novel Pick: Dear Brother

 

Dear Brother 

by Alison McGhee

Illustrated by Tuan Nini

A Caitlyn Dlouhy Book

Atheneum Books for Young Readers 

An imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division 

2023

192 pages

ISBN: 97815344487086

Through a series of letters to her older brother, overlooked little sister states her case: look at the family photo album! A series of photos featuring older brother as the star and little sister as America's Overlooked Sibling. In every adventure Sister does the grunt work while brother gathers the attention and accolades. She's had enough! A cute pop quiz follows the section. 

Even though brother plays a banjo, sister is a talented bongo player. and once again, overlooked. Brother, being the oldest, always gets his way. He gets to choose his room first, he chooses their vacation and most horrible, his choice of pet is okayed by parents. Sister wanted a dog so much, yet brother gets a bearded dragon. To add insult to injury, brother gets to go away to summer camp while sister is forced to stay home and care for aptly named Frightful, the bearded dragon. 

Much to sister's chagrin, she discovers she acturally likes taking care of the atrocious bearded dragon and even admits it in letters to her dear brother when he is away at camp. When brother comes home, there is a new friendship between the siblings. 

Cute storytelling through letters, texts and "evidence" presented by the sister makes this a fun read. This is a great choice for reluctant readers and anyone with a "problem" sibling. 

Highly recommended grades 4 and up. 

Picture Book Pick: Bitsy Bat School Star

 

Bitsy Bat School Star 

By Kaz Windness 

APaula Wiseman Book

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

2023

48 pages

9781665905053

Bitsy Bat is a cute young bat who wants to be a big star on her first day of class. Her family believes in her and tells her to shine and her first day will be great. But sadly, Bitsy finds school a frightening experience. The other students laugh at her when she tries to hang upside down. They tell her she must sit in her chair. 

During art, they laugh when Bitsy uses her toes for her art. When lunchtime comes, the others are disgusted by Bitsy's lunch.  Brokenhearted, Bitsy goes home. Her parents assure her that she is unique and magnificent. Bitsy gets an idea. Aren't all of us special and shine in our own way? She makes everyone a star and passes them out the next day. Everyone writes what makes them special on their own stars. Bitsy is a "terrific toe hanger." Others are caring or leaders or have great ideas. Bitsy truly is a shining star in a constellation of all the stars in the classroom. 

The author/illustrator explains her experiences being autistic in a letter to readers and a page "More About Autism." This is a special book for every classroom and library. 

Highly recommended grades 1-4. 

Halloween Pick: I Love My Magic!

 I Love My Magic!

by Kelly Leigh Miller

Illustrations by the author

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

2023

40 pages

ISBN: 97815344497696

Willow is a young witch who loves her magic, so much so, that she uses it for everything. She conjures up a sub sandwich when she's hungry, she uses it to do her chores and her schoolwork, but when Willow uses her magic to cheat and win games on the playground, her teacher takes her wand away, warning that magic isn't for cheating.

Willow is sad but learns her lesson. Magic is fun and sparkly but not to be used to cheat at games or make others unhappy, She discovers she doesn't have to use magic for everything, 

Cute seasonal read for preschool. 

Picture Book Pick: Mermaid and Pirate

 

Mermaid and Pirate

by Tracy Baptiste

Illustrated by Leisl Adams 

Algonquin Young Readers 

2023

32 pages

ISBN: 9781643750774

Colorful illustrations by Liesl Adams come to life in this big-hearted gem of a picture book. 

A huge storm comes up at sea, and the pirate loses his ship's mast. The mermaid sees the mast break and swims to save it. The pirate casts his net to save the mast, and is shocked when he pulls in not only the broken mast but a mermaid. They both say hello in their different languages. 

A huge shark approaches, but the mermaid turns it away, saving the pirate's life. They retrieve the mast but it can't be repaired. Another ship approaches, and its captain spots what he thinks is a mermaid. The pirate assures him that it's only his broken mast, saving the mermaid from being captured. The pirate says goodbye to the mermaid and they part as special friends. 

The pirate's boat is towed to shore. Days later, the ship is seaworthy again, and the pirate sails to the horizon, searching. The mermaid sits on a rock singing, searching the horizon until she spots a familiar ship. She swims to meet her friend again. They swim together to the setting sun. 

What a lovely, precious book about inclusiveness, friendship, belonging and kindness. Even though we all may speak a different language doesn't mean we can't understand and help each other. A must have for every child. 

Highly recommended ages 2 and up. 

MG Pick: Finch House

 

Finch House

by Ciera Burch

Margaret K. McElderry Books

Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

2023

208 pages 

ISBN: 9781665930543

Available September 5, 2023

Finch House is atmospheric, moody, and ghostly. A true treasure for any tween reader who loves a great ghost story with a creaky, scary mansion. 

Eleven-year old Micah is sad to be leaving Poppop's house and moving an hour away. Her favorite thing in the world is "thrifting" with her grandfather. They drive around and search for great stuff left on the curb before the waste trucks pick it up. 

Poppop assures Micah change happens and change is a chance to grow. Not assured, Micah goes on a long bike ride to assuage her problem. She bikes down to Finch House, a decrepit Victorian mansion that Poppop told her to stay away from. This day, Finch House is different. It's all fixed up and back to its grand glory. Someone has moved in and fixed the entire mansion. Micah is spooked when a boy pops up from a snowpile. His name is Theo and he's the new resident. Micah sees a box for VHS tapes and asks if she can take it away. Theo agress, and Micah phones Poppop to come pick her  and the box up. 

Poppop looks terrified when he pulls up to Finch House. He makes sure Micah did not go inside and orders her into the truck. She waves goodbye to Theo, sensing Poppop knows more about the house than he is letting on. 

She's not wrong. There's something about Finch House. Something terrifying--a family secret that's about to be uncovered. When her grandfather vanishes, Micah must explore the house to find her Poppop. But, to save herself and her grandfather, she must understand what gives the house life. 

For fans of "Monster House" and Coraline. Ages 7 and up. Excellent choice for MG reluctant readers. 

Marvel Pick: Miles Morales: Suspended (A Spider-Man Novel)

 

Miles Morales: Suspended

(A Spider-man novel)

by  Jason Reynolds

Illustrated by Zeke Pena

Caitlyn Dhoulhy book

Atheneum Books for Young Readers

2023

320 pages

ISBN: 9781665918466

Readers and fans of Spider-man will love this book by prolific YA writer and poet Jason Reynolds. Miles Morales is a typical teen who just so happens to save the world. Using prose and poetry written by Miles, the reader gets to know Miles and his world. 

Although he attends a fancy boarding school, Miles feels out of place, buttoned up, stranded, unaccepted and misunderstood. Some of the teachers are racist which not only angers Miles but causes him to stand up to them. He belongs on his block in Brooklyn where he knows all the neighborhood. It's not pretty but it's got its own charms and rhythm. 

Miles says, he's, "Boricua and Black and Brooklyn as hell," but not like is uncles and father. He's his own kind and has spider superpowers to prove it. 

He takes on the powerful minions of the Warden who want to imprison and erase black and brown people. Because Miles stands up, he's a target, but he's okay with that. It's who he is: "...Boricua and Black and Brooklyn as hell." 

Illustrations by Zeke Pena are inspiring.  Miles' poetry shines especially "The Pledge of Annoyance." Reynolds captures Miles' personality through thoughtful and masterful storytelling and profound poetry.

Simply magnificent and highly recommended. Fans of Marvel will love it. 

grades 8-up. 

Non-Fiction PB Pick: Our Blue Planet

 

Our Blue Planet

Stories from Blue Planet II, BBC

by Leisa Stewart-Sharpe

Illustrated by Emily Dove

A Paula Wiseman Book

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

First published in in Great Britain, 2020

2023 

64 pages

ISBN: 9781665928021

A refreshing dip thanks to lively imagery in both art and narrative. (Kirkus Reviews) 

Beautifully illustrated by Emily Dove, Our Blue Planet is a treasure to hold and read. Young readers will discover secrets of the deep--the oceans which cover 71% of our planet, yet we have better maps of Mars than our own oceans. 

Creatures abound that children and adults have probably never heard of, for example, the vampire squid, the flapjack octopus, the pyjama shark and many others. Each two page spread (or layout) is detailed with eye-catching art and animals that seem to dance off the pages. 

A call to all future marine biologists, scientists, engineers, and ocean lovers to protect our oceans complete this compelling text. A lovely book to gift to any child, but especially to children who are interested in all things marine. 

Highly, highly recommended. Foreward by David Attenborough.

Grades 1-up. This book can be appreciated even for middle grade and YA readers. Reluctant readers will love this book. 

Non-Fiction Pick: Meet the Megafauna!

 

Meet the Megafauna!

Get To Know 20 of the Largest Animals To Ever Roam the Earth

by Gabrielle Balkan

Illustrated by Quang And Lien

Workman Publishing 

2023

56 pages

ISBN: 9781523508600

 Meet the Megafauna! is an impressive book with ten gatefolds that fold out for young readers to see the huge size of the mega-animals. Complete with a nice title page that directs readers to each part of the book including explanations of what megafauna are,when and where they lived (and currently live) and a timetable of geologic periods. 

Twenty giant animals including giant dear, wooly mammoth, supercroc, saber-toothed cat and my personal favorite named the terror bird. The blue whale has a double gatefold that kids will love. Each creature has a text box with facts including their scientific name, period, length, weight, and modern relative animals. 

Where Did They Go? is explained on its own page. Some animals may have suffered due to temperature shifts which caused changes in vegetation and their ability to find food. When land masses moved apart, it caused more animals to compete for food with each other. Humans arrived and began hunting animals for food and hides. Megafauna had much longer gestation periods, sometimes the offspring would take two years to be born. Because of this, many animals couldn't reproduce in numbers to insure their species would thrive. 

Illustrations by Quang and Lien depict the beauty and power of each animal. A true inspiration of art. 

Complete with glossary and list of further books and internet links, this book is a true gem. Because of its glorious design it may limit library use. Every young reader needs their very own copy. 

Highly recommended grades 1 and up.  

Picture Book Pick: Plántanos Are Love

 

Platanos Are Love 

by Alyssa Reynoso-Morris

Illustrations by Mariyah Rahman

Antheneum Books for Young Readers

An imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division

2023

40 pages

ISBN: 9781665902731

What a beautiful book about love, food, culture, tradition and family! 

Plántanos Are Love is is love letter to Puerto Rico and ancestors who passed down family recipes that not only feed the stomach but feed the soul. 

A young girl learns to cook at her abuela's side and listens to stories about how the plantanos were harvested by her ancestors. She tells the girl that the recipes had to be memorized and passed down in secret since their ancestors were not allowed to write, read or draw.

At the mercado, Abuela explains, "Plantanos are love." The granddaughter sees this love in their family and friends. Sharing a meal brings them together and there is love. Abuela writes down the recipes in their family cookbook, so the recipes will go on in the future. 

Many Spanish words in the text that add depth to the story. Those kids who don't know Spanish will learn new words. A glossary of terms as well as three family recipes from the author's family are included. 

While not a bi-lingual book, it does contain almost fifty Spanish words. By using illustrations and context clues, even the youngest reader should be able to understand the word without using the glossary. 

Illustrations by Mariyah Rahman capture the colors and food of the island.  Author Alyssa Reynoso-Morris captures sounds of the kitchen as Abuela cooks: cracks, mashes, chops, fries, peels and sauté are words that must be read aloud. This picture book MUST be read aloud. 

Highly recommended for every child's bookshelf. 

Ages 3 and up. 

Non-fiction Picture Book Pick: Welcome to the Opera

 

Welcome To the Opera 

by Carolyn Sloan

Illustrated by Kaly Quarles

Workman Publishing Company, Inc. 

Subsidiary of Hachette Book Group, Inc.

2023

32 pages

ISBN: 9781523516964

On Sale Date: October  10, 2023

What a fabulous book! Young readers (and those adults reading to them) will be transported to the world of the opera. Join some very cultured dogs and cats who attend Mozart's "The Magic Flute." 

This gorgeous, glorious book has interactive buttons of opera sounds for readers to listen to and learn opera singing voices and singing groups. Each button activates the overture, the flute, the trio, bass, soprano, baritone, tenor, and other parts of the opera. 

As kids read, each voice is described in the story as well as the plot of Mozart's The Magic Flute. Pages follow the story about Mozart, singing, definitions of opera terms, the cast of characters and the singers who played them and a list of the musicians who performed. 

Simply ethereal, Welcome To the Opera is the best non-fiction picture book of the year! A must have for every library, music class and child's book shelf. 

Highly, highly recommended. This little gem will win major awards this year. The publication date is perfect for most awards contests.  The October publication date insures readers and judges will remember this book just in time to award it. 

Picture Book Pick: Does a Bear Poo in the Woods?

 

Does a Bear Poo in the Woods?

by Jonny Leighton

Illustrated by Mike Byrne

Aladdin

an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division

2023 (In the USA)

originally published in Great Britain in 2021

32 pages

ISBN: 9781665903479

Does a Bear Poo in the Woods? is a funny rhyming romp featuring  a very shy bear, winsome illustrations by Mike Byrbe and deft storytelling!

 Barry the Bear wakes up after a long sleep and searches for a place to go to the bathroom. He's shy, so he wants privacy. Looking for the perfect hidden spot, Barry runs into a moose, woodpeckers (who will poo anywhere!), smelly skunks and an old friend Brenda Bigpaw.

Brenda tells Barry there's the perfect place just up the stream where he can poo happily. Barry finally spots a cozy cabin. It's a true poo paradise. No sooner than Barry gets comfortable, the homeowner returns. Both Barry and the woodsman are surprised. Barry tells the woodsman he'll have to wait. The woodsman runs off, and Barry thinks he's not the only one who is shy to poo in public. 

Toddlers will delight in a story about poo. 

Young readers will love the antics of Barry and what kid doesn't like a book about poop and skunks farting? New words for young readers are: clambered, peering, lurking, desperate, familiar, reeds, paradise, and .trekking

Novel in Verse Pick: Enter the Body

 

Enter the Body

by Joy McCullough

Dutton Books

An imprint of Penguin Random House LLC

2023

320 pages

ISBN: 9780593406755

Told in a series of stage directions and lines from the script as well as sections in verse, Enter the Body is unlike any YA book out there. If you like plays and poetry, this is the read for you. 

Based on several of Shakespeare's most famous plays, the leading ladies take the stage in this well-imagined tale of woe, greed, hate, love, violence and jealousy. Each tragic death (and life) is told by the girls. This is their story after all. Shakespeare merely told it from his point of view.

The girls take control telling the reader what actually happened to each of them: Juliet, Cordelia, Ophelia and Lavinia who cannot tell her story as her tongue and hands have been cut off in her story. She represents perhaps those who have been so hurt, physically and mentally, that they cannot tell their own stories. 

There is a content warning of possible triggers for some readers before page one that although none of the violence, death or suicide happens in these pages, they are a part of Shakespeare's works. McCullough does a good job of reimagining what truly happened to each character and gives the women their voices. They step to center stage and take their power. 

Readers who are familiar with Shakespeare and especially theater and drama will love this book. Without any background knowledge of the women of Shakespeare, it may be tough for the less seasoned reader to enjoy. This is not to say, don't try it. Try it and learn something new. Then go and read the bard's works referred to in the book. 

Grades 8 and up and especially for drama and poetry fans. 

Summer Camp Pick: Camp QUILTBAG

 

Camp QUILTBAG

by Nicole Mellaby and A.J. Sass 

Algonquin Young Readers

2023

352 pages 

ISBN: 978164752662

From a reviewer on Amazon: 

As a queer person, I wish I had a book like "Camp QUILTBAG" when I was growing up. 

My review: 

Camp QUILTBAG is an inclusive summer camp for queer and trans kids and their friends. When Abigail hears about the camp she is excited. Kai is not as excited. When the two of them meet, they decide to share a friendship and teach each other what it means to have someone's back. 

This amazing book should be in all collections as it would help so many middle grade readers learn about the community and maybe even themselves. A summer camp for kids to feel at home should be available to every child, no matter their gender, and importantly, should be available no matter their family income. So many low income and middle class kids miss the opportunity to be away from home and learn to get along with others their age. 

When readers (adult, parents, guardians) first read about this book, they may assume it contains sexual acts, but Camp QUILTBAG is a wholesome, heartfelt  story about diverse kids who learn about themselves, identity, inclusiveness and friendship through teamwork. Nicole Melleby and A.J. Sass have a true winner: Camp QUILTBAG!

LGBTQIA+, fluid, trans, pansexual, homophobia, deadnaming, bullying, body dysphoria, pronouns.

ages 12 and up. 

Picture Book Pick: Take a Chance

 

Take a Chance

by Sujean Rim 

Illustrations by the author

Atheneum Books for Young Readers

an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division 

2023

40 pages

ISBN: 9781534492554

Once Bob learns to fly, he goes everywhere and sees all his friends but never stops long enough to take a chance. He passes up splashing at the beach and hanging out with the crows. He passes up eating delicious "people food" like pizza because he's afraid it might not agree with his system. Bob makes excuses to all his friends that he has to go. He has an appointment or needs to be somewhere else. 

It's not until Bob flies west and meets Eagle, that he is willing to try to take a chance. The top of the mountain is up in the clouds and Bob is afraid. He realizes he can take small flights and rest. After several short flights, Bob finally makes it to the top of the mountain and the view is fantastic. Bob has an A-HA  moment and realizes he needs to take a chance. He'll never know if he likes pizza or if he likes swimming at the beach unless he tries. Bob retraces his flight path and meets all his old friends and takes chances. 

What a cute story! Bob will entertain young readers who will empathize with his struggles to try something new. In the end, "sometimes you don't know what you're missing...until you take a chance." 

Highly, highly recommended for every picture book collection and every kid's bookshelf. 

Ready*To*Read Pick: Nat the Cat Takes a Bath

 

Nat the Cat Takes a Bath

Ready*To*Read Pre-Level One

by Jarrett Lerner 

Simon Spotlight

An Imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division

2023

32 pages 

ISBN: 9781665918947

The beloved cat is back! This time Nat MIGHT take a bath. Nat comes up with excuses why he's not taking a bath, but the invasive narrator keeps giving Nat what he asks for. The narrator insists that Nat the Cat will take a bath and provides him with bubbles and toys, yet Nat is still leery of the bath.

Nat finally admits that he is afraid of water. Enter Pat the Rat. Pat loves baths and jumps into the bubbles and toys. Nat joins him because everyone knows when your friend joins you it's not scary anymore. 

Lerner's sense of humor and Nat's expressions are spot-on for young readers. Kids will laugh at Nat's antics and those readers who really don't like bath time will take cue from Nat and jump on in. 

Highly, highly recommended for new readers who love Nat already and for those who will discover him. 

Non-Fiction Board Book Pick: Big Stuff: Dozer,, Excavator, Mixer & More

 

Non-Fiction Board Book Pick: Big Stuff: Dozer,, Excavator, Mixer & More 

by Joan Holub

Illustrated by The Little Friends of Printmaking 

Little Simon

An Imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division

2023

26 pages

ISBN: 9781665917896

It's time to build! Each heavy machine is illustrated and its parts labeled for young learners who love big trucks and machines. Fun facts and its history are explained. Even adults will learn facts that they might never learn anywhere else. 

The newest machinery like construction robots and remote controlled machines are also included. Full of useful information yet highly entertaining, this board book is a must have for future engineers and builders and anyone who loves construction. Curious kids who love watching buildings go up will love this book. 

Highly, highly recommended ages 4 and up. 

Picture Book Pick: Our Day of the Dead Celebration

 

Our Day of the Dead Celebration

by Ana Aranda

Illustrations by the author 

Nancy Paulson Books

an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC

2022

32 pages

ISBN: 9780522514282

Our Day of the Dead Celebration bursts with colors and happiness. The family honors their relatives who have died and celebrate their memories. In Mexico,  it is traditional for families to make altars from decorated sugar skulls,  pan de muerto (tradional bread), marigolds, poems they write and favorite foods. Then the living relatives gather to remember earlier times through stories and songs. 

After all the relatives arrive,  grandchildren beg their grandparents, aunts and uncles for stories from the past. Aranda captures the excitement of the younger kids as they dance and sing. The children and adults (even the sugar skulls) are smiling and happy. 

A lovely tribute to a Mexican celebration, Our Day of the Dead Celebration is a must have for every collection.

Highly recommended K-4. 

MG Series Pick: The Chaos Monster

 

The Chaos Monster (The Secrets of the Sky series, book 1)

by Sayantani Dasgupta

Illustrated by Sandara Tang

Scholastic Press

2023

240 pages

ISBN: 9781339006086

Available July 19, 2023

Twins Kiya and Kinjal are ordinary ten-year olds who live in New Jersey with their parents and their dog Thums-Up. That is until searching for answers in their dark and creepy basement, they open an old book their father stores in a locked trunk. Once the book is opened, the adventure begins. 

A loud noise in their yard causes them to race upstairs and throw open the door. Thums-Up runs outside and is grabbed up by a giant cloud-like blob. The kids are afraid of the menacing blob, but when it disappears with their dog, the twins must save their pet. 

Next thing they know two giant flying horses are pawing the lawn and waiting for the kids to come along with them. On their wonderful (yet terrifying) ride through the stars, the horses reveal that the kids are going with them  not only to find their dog but to meet the Princess and help their kingdom. The pair are uneasy and gobsmacked to think that they, mere ten-year old humans, have anything to do with this magical kingdom and trying to save it. The horses say the Princess will tell them when they meet her. 

It seems their parents may be much, much more than they seem and their dog, Thums-Up may not be just an ordinary family pet. Kinjal begins to believe in the magic because he's seen Thums-Up do undog-like behaviors before and he knows what he saw. He tries to get his sister to believe their dog has wings, but science-based Kiya finds it hard to believe. 

Once they meet Princess Pakkhiraj, she tells them her kingdom is dying. The bees are dying causing plants and trees to die. The kids must figure out why the kingdom is dying and fix it or unfathomable harm will come not only to the kingdom but also to New Jersey. 

The quest is on! With the help of Raat and Snowy (the horses) and Thums-Up who is reunited with them, they set off with magical feathers and heads full of doubt. 

A solid beginning to a promising series, The Chaos Monster will enthrall and entertain middle grade readers who love adventure and fantasy. Cover art and illustrations by Sandara Tang and Elizabeth Parisi by will have this book flying off the shelves of bookstores everywhere and libraries will need to stock several copies because readers will demand this title. 

Highly, highly recommended grade 4 and up. Strong emphasis on the welfare of our ecosystem and a lovely, lovely theme is revealed near the end. 

Middle Grade Series Pick: Spy School: Project X

Spy School: Project X

by Stuart Gibbs

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

2022

352 pages

ISBN: 9781534479494

Once again, Stuart Gibbs delivers with this fun middle grade spy series romp. Ben Ripley is in trouble and there's a price on his head. He's going to need to stay alive and keep his head  in order to outwit his nemesis Murray Hill. 

It's hard not to love Ben Ripley. He's funny and clever. Erica Hale is his crush interest in this installment, but she seems so un-Erica-like. Usually she's the strong, no-nonesense person in charge. In Project X, Erica seems to question herself and she seems much weaker. 

If you're a fan of the Spy School series, you'll enjoy this read. I suggest reading the books in order beginning with Spy School. 

Recommended for fans of the series. 

 

Picture Book Pick: Rain

 

Rain

by Cynthia Rylant

Illustrated by Lisa Congdon

Beach Lane Books

an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

2023

48 pages

ISBN: 9781442465091

Rain is a celebration! Vibrant, colorful artwork of squirrels, birds, dogs, cats, ducks and children illustrate how each celebrate rain. The animals know before it rains; squirrels go home to their nests, but the dogs have known it was going to rain since yesterday because dogs can sense it.

The ducks love the rain and revel in the pond. Because of rain, everything is refreshed, renewed and grows strong. "All because of rain," everything is better. 

Rain is a lovely, breathtaking picture book sure to win awards for illustrator Lisa Congdon. 

Highly recommended pre-school to 1st grade. 

PB Pick: When Things Aren't Going Right, Go Left

 

When Things Aren't Going Right, Go Left

by Marc Colagiovanni

Illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds

Orchard Books

an imprint of Scholastic, Inc. 

2023

32 pages

ISBN: 9781338831184

A young boy is having a bad day...a really, really bad day where nothing is going right, so he makes the decision to go left. And he left his worries behind. He notices without the weight of his worries, he could accomplish much more. 

When his fears got too loud, he leaves them behind, and you know what, he felt better! He left behind his worries, his fears, his doubts, and he felt better, lighter. He teaches the reader it's okay to have worries and fears and doubts, as long as they don't get too big or loud and take over your life. He says he's going to keep an eye on them and handle them, so, "when things aren't going, right, go left." 

Choose to do the scary thing like diving off the diving board. The more you do the scary thing, the easier it becomes. Choose to set aside your worries even for a little while. Choose to silence your doubts and they'll get quieter. 

When Things Aren't Going Right, Go Left is a lovely picture book intended for children, but everyone could use its advice. This would make a great gift idea for anyone leaving for college, anyone leaving the nest, anyone beginning a new and maybe scary journey. 

I love, love. love this book! Illustrations by Peter H. Reynolds capture the sentiment of the boy's every decision and mood. Well done! 

Highly, highly recommended pre-school to grade 4 and yes, adults.