Thursday, December 12, 2024
Sunday, November 24, 2024
Picture Book Pick: The Day We Got Lost
The Day We Got Lost
by Faith Pray
Illustrations by Faith Pray
Little, Brown.
Aug. 2024.
40p.
ISBN 9780316541176.
This review appeared in School Library Journal Magazine.
PreS-Gr 2–Smudge’s family packs up the car and drives to the mountains for a picnic and a day in the great outdoors. His grandpa tells them that moss grows on the north side of trees and cautions him to stay on the trail because the paths are marked with trail markers and stones, but Smudge is a busy, playful child and moves the rocks as he frolics through the woods. He does not need markers, he claims. He is an explorer. Smudge ventures far away. It is not until he hears animals snorting and snuffling in the undergrowth that Smudge becomes afraid and realizes he is lost and alone. As fear sets in, Smudge tries to retrace his steps, but he is lucky his family is looking for him, too. When they reach each other, Mama, Grandpa, and Smudge work together to find the right path out of their predicament. Following the moss on the trees just as Grandpa taught them, they make their way back to the clearing and to where they left their car. Being lost isn’t such a bad thing after all, if they are lost together. Pray uses subtle watercolors and colored pencils to capture the beauty of the surroundings and the facial expressions of each character. Smudge is shown as a brave adventurer and a bit of a troublemaker. Baby Willa appears sweet and angelic, and Oni the dog is playful and joyous.
VERDICT An additional purchase, this is nevertheless a sweet book celebrating family, togetherness, belonging, and love.
Reviewed by Pamela Thompson McLeod , Jul 01, 2024
Sunday, November 17, 2024
My First I Can Read Pick: Fox Plays Ball
Fox Plays Ball
by Corey R Tabor
Illustrated by Corey R. Tabor
Greenwillow (My First I Can Read)
32 pages
Oct. 2024
ISBN 9780063370913
This review appeared in School Library Journal.
A fun read about a mixed group of animals who are competitive no matter their size. Fox wants to play ball, and soon is joined by Elephant, Bear, and Rabbit in a game officiated by Penguin. Snail does not want to miss out, even though he is such a small creature. Elephant kicks the ball to start the game. It soars. Illustrations show the ball going far away, into the mountains and trees, and the animals scurry to claim their prize. Fox is elated when he gets to the ball first. Little does he know the punishment his body is about to take: Rabbit, Bear, and Elephant pile on top of him, causing the ball to squirt out. Snail claims victory, proving that underdogs can win, even if the odds are against them. Readers will love seeing unlikely friends playing together.
Lively illustrations capture the game and the players’ emotions as they chase the ball. A spread with the animals chasing the ball as it repeatedly goes “boing” off trees, rocks, and hills is laugh-out-loud funny. The expression on Bear’s face as he concentrates while trying to catch the ball is phenomenal. For further whimsy, Rabbit uses a kitchen colander as a football helmet.
This book will appeal to parents and caregivers as a solid teaching tool. A note before the story offers guidance on using I Can Read titles for shared reading, reading with help, beginning reading, and reading alone.VERDICT A must-have for all elementary collections.
Saturday, November 16, 2024
Picture Book Pick: The Quiet Forest
by Charlotte Offsay
Illustrated by Abi Cushman
A Paula Wiseman Book
An Imprint of Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
2024
40 pages
ISBN: 9781665926423
A mischievous mouse sets this story in motion in a cumulative tale about a not-so-quiet forest. The mouse rattles the rabbit which bothers the beaver who soaks the deer who bumps a giant moose which wakes the bear from her den.
The hero of the story is the bear cub who quiets his mama who then calms down. The forest gets a little more quiet but not too quiet. The animals "sing" in their lovely forest.
Beautiful illustrations by Abi Cushman capture each animal's personality and feelings. The deer looks startled, the bear looks angry with her "serious side-eye," and the moose looks miserable indeed.
Readers will love the interactions of the animals with each other and the fact that they are all friends in the forest. Parents can follow up with a few non-fiction (but fun) picture books on forest creatures mentioned in The Quiet Forest. Readers who live near forests can attest that forests are not usually quiet at all.
Recommended pre-K to grade 2. Ages 3 and up.
Sunday, November 3, 2024
Humorous Pick: Peg Gets Crackin'
by Jo Renfro
Illustrations by the author
Beaming Books
2024
32 pages
ISBN: 9781506492070
Peg is an egg, and is quite happy to be an egg. It's safe inside her shell surrounded by all the other eggs, but one morning Mama says it's time to wake up and get out in the world. Peg is afraid. There might be danger lurking out there in the world.
She hears cracking all around her as the other chicks bust free. Then it's scary quiet. She wonders what to do next. She stays in the egg, safe. Soon Peg begins to outgrow her shell. Suddenly it's not comfortable, she's squished. She has no choice but to break free.
The world is bright, the sun is shining, Peg has LEGS! She's excited to see what the world is all about. She searches for her mama and the other chicks while enjoying freedom and the outside. Peg is no longer afraid to be outside her shell.
Colorful and joyful illustrations bring Peg's personality to life. Readers will love Peg and empathize with her struggle to be safe or to take a risk. Savvy children may realize that Mama chicken would not put her babies in danger, and even savvier children will point out that Peg becomes brave when left alone. The mama chicken doesn't coddle Peg nor baby her. Parents may learn a lesson from Peg Gets Crackin'.
The fun story told with heart and gorgeous illustrations are stand-outs.
Highly, highly recommended ages 4 and up.
Monday, October 28, 2024
Picture Book Pick: Abuela's Library
by Lisette Norman
Illustrated by Jayri Gomez
Harper
An imprint of HarperCollings Publishers
2024
32 pages
ISBN: 9780067530
Alfonso goes to the library every week with Abuela (his grandmother). She loves books, and was, in fact, a librarian. She believes that there is no such thing as too many books. Abuela and Alfonso sit under their favorite tree and read each week.
The power company must cut down their tree as it is leaning and will cause major problems. Both of them are sad to see their tree go until...Alfonso asks if they can use the tree stump to build a library inside. The entire family helps and soon, there is a cute library where neighborhood kids can come and take or leave books.
Making something positive for the good of the community out of what could have been a dismal experience is Alfonso's superpower. When he sees all the kids reading, he decides he will become a librarian, too.
A sweet story about a grandmother's love of reading and the time she spends with her grandson is wonderful. There is no mention of Little Free Libraries or the program or how to build one in your neighborhood. I feel this is a page that needed to be included, and the publisher clearly missed an opportunity to support a wonderful program.
Recommended ages 4 and up. You can find more information about Little Free Libraries and maybe you'll be inspired to start a group in your neighborhood to build and support reading for everyone.
Early Reader Pick: Sketty and Meatball (published in School Library Journal )
Sketty and Meatball
HarperCollins. (I Can Read Level 1). Jul 2024. 32p. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9780062431622; pap. $5.99. ISBN 9780062431615.
COPY ISBN
Gr 1-3–A lovable duo that will charm young readers. Sketty and Meatball are the best of dog friends. They do everything together: run, play, bark at the cat, and curl up under the lemon tree for a nap. Aptly named Sketty is a bigger dog with long, spaghettilike hair. Meatball is a round, brown dog who looks like a meatball. Readers will love their names and their friendship. When the friends go to a dog show, they see dogs of every kind. After spending the day making new friends, Meatball curls up with Sketty to nap under their favorite tree. Repetition shows how close the two dog friends are and is good for new readers. For example, one will often always ask, "Are you thinking what I’m thinking?" and the other replies, “I hope so.” Then, Sketty and Meatball will blurt out the same answer together. Willmore captures the fun personalities of the dogs with colorful and playful illustrations. A note to parents at the beginning offers tips on shared reading, beginning reading, and reading alone, and a helpful web link promises more information.
VERDICT A must-have for early readers.
Sunday, October 27, 2024
Wordless Picture Book Pick: The Last Zookeeper
by Aaron Bccker
Illustrated by Aaron Becker
Candlewick Press
2024
40 pages
ISBN: 978`536227680
In this sweeping, breathtaking artistic masterpiece, NOA, a robot with a huge heart for creatures, steps up to save what is left of the world. There has been a catastrophic flood or tsunami that destroyed everything but an abandoned zoo. A few buildings still stand, but the only life seems to be the animals. NOA plans to save them somehow and take them to dryer and better land.
He plans and designs a small boat, testing the waters. NOA transports the animals to higher ground as he builds a huge boat (ark) to sail to a better location and possibly find others like him and them. NOA sets sail with the animals, and they encounter a terrible storm and become shipwrecked on a beautiful island that is not underwater. Things are looking up...literally...as a friend shows up in a hot air balloon. It's someone NOA is happy to see.
The Last Zookeeper has no text, no words, and none are needed. The gorgeous watercolor art tells the story, and readers are able to make the story up for themselves. There is so much to discuss about NOA's behavior: he, a robot, who has empathy and feelings for living, breathing creatures, so much so, he risked hurting himself to save them. He has hope of finding a better place, of saving all of them, of discovering what is still "out there." He works tirelessly, using his skills to plan and design a boat capable of bearing the weight of all the zoo animals. He is thrilled to see a new land where the animals can thrive.
Genius storytelling through art has never been so masterfully done! Kudos to Aaron Becker for a true WIN! The Last Zookeeper is a book I'll never forget, and I'll bet young readers will remember it always.
So highly recommended if you don't get this book for a young reader, you'll wish you had. The story is ageless and will withstand the test of decades. This is a true classic that will be on every single library shelf everywhere.
For all ages, even pre-readers.
Saturday, October 26, 2024
Own Voices Pick: I Am a Masterpiece!
I Am a Masterpiece
by Mia Armstrong
Illustrations by Alexandra Thompson
Random House Children's Books
a divisiion of Penguin Random House, LLC
2024
40 pages
A note from the author about Down Syndrome
ISBN: 9780593567975
Editorial Review: “A celebration of self-advocacy, self-expression, and self-acceptance.” —Kirkus Reviews
My review:
I Am A Masterpiece is a tribute to the genius, creativity and spunk of tween activist and actress Mia Armstrong and everyone like her. Mia was born with Down Syndrome, which makes her different from other people, but all humans have dreams and desires. While she may look a bit different, and her speech might sound different, she likes to do the same things other kids do: she likes to draw, she loves roller coasters and sleepovers.
Sometimes grown-ups treat her like she's invisible, but her mother tells her to practice patience. Some people need to be taught that different is amazing.
The actress herself believes her superpower is her Down Syndrome. It makes her empathetic and sweet. She knows when someone needs a hug or a kind word without them telling her. She may not wear a cape like a superhero, but she is one. This book is a celebration of acceptance and growth. It is such a positive message for all families and children with Down Syndrome.
In her note, Mia explains that Down Syndrome is not the "r" word. People with Down Syndrome are intelligent and creative. The reason her voice sounds different is that the tongue is a muscle, and her muscles are "floppy." It doesn't mean she's not intelligent or that she can't speak. Different is not scary. Different is good.
Highly recommended for all collections grades 3 and up. Inclusiveness, celebrating differences, Down Syndrome, educational, activism.
Sunday, October 20, 2024
Out of This World Pick Picture Book: Dalmartian
by Lucy Ruth Cummins
illustrations by the author
Atheneum Books for Young Readers Children's Publishing Division
2024
48 pages
ISBN: 9786659111955
One summer night some visitors land and begin collecting earth samples in Stepthen's backyard. When they were frightened off, one visitor got left behind. A little dog! Stephen invites the "dog" inside, and shows him where to sleep. The visitor is not having it. He enjoys the bed, not the floor.
They also have trouble at breakfast. It isn't until Stephen offers the dog bacon, that readers see the happiness erupt on the visitor's face. A tear of joy! Bacon! Later, on a walk to the park, the visitor insists on walking without a leash like a real "person." He is appalled when real dogs want to sniff his behind.
The visitor waits for his ship to return, hoping to go home soon. A few nights later, his people do land and pick him up. On board the ship, the visitor questions "home." He should be happy to be where he belongs, but he misses his friend Stephen. He heads right back to Earth and grabs his favorite spot on the bed so that he's there when Stephen wakes. This is a true tail of intergalactic friendship!
Dalmartian is quirky fun, and young readers will giggle at the visitor's antics which are very un "dog" like. Yellow, black and brown dominate the art, but the visitor and his ship are colored with green (a nod to Martian green).
Highly, highly recommended for anyone who loves dogs, space and friendship.
Saturday, October 12, 2024
Picture Book Pick: Lighthouse and the Little Boat
by Katie Frawley
Illustrated by Ben Mantle
Quill Tree Books
an imprint of Harper Collins Publishers
2024
32 pages
ISBN: 97800631114234
Lighthouse stands at the harbor: tall, strong and powerful, watching over everything in her harbor and guiding everyone to safety. When a little boat named Brightness visits, Lighthouse protects her. Brightness is happy to hang close to the harbor, but after a bit, she gets braver and wonders what is beyond the safety of her harbor.
As the weather changes, suddenly Brightness is missing from the harbor. Lighthouse is lonely and sad. She continues to shine brightly with the hope that Brightness will see her beacon and find her home safely. Brightness makes it back and thanks Lighthouse for saving her, but Lighthouse tells her she merely lit the way. Brightness did the hard work.
Beautifully written with illustrations that any young reader will connect with. Lighthouse and the Little Boat is destined to be an award winner this year and an instant classic.
Ages 4 and up.
Sunday, September 29, 2024
Dragon Pick: Roar-Choo!
by Charlotte Cheng
Illustrations by Dan Santat
Rocky Pond Books
An imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC
40 pages
2024
ISBN: 9780593531754
Never has a dragon been more glorious, gorgeous, awesome, but imperfect! Roar-Choo! celebrates the power of the dragon and the beauty and kindness of the phoenix in this rambunctious tale of a dragon who tries to ROAR, but ends up sneezing and a phoenix who helps the dragon slow down, take a breath, sip some hot tea and take a nap. You see, even dragons need rest, especially when they are sick.
Sweet Phoenix offers hot tea, bone broth and a nice nap. Dragon believes they must live up to to their hype: a dragon must be loud, a dragon must be strong, a dragon must be scary, a dragon must roar! Phoenix helps Dragon understand that even at their best, even a powerful dragon should learn to take breaks and rest. The friendship and the shared nap at the end is sweet.
The note at the end about the dragon and the phoenix in Chinese mythology helps young readers understand what the two characters stand for. May everyone find their phoenix and their dragon.
Art by Dan Santat is inspirational: Dragon is captured and brought to life, practically jumping off the pages and breathing fire. This is one dragon readers won't forget. Roar-Choo! MUST be read out loud with the loud roar-choos! and using two character voices. This book is likely to be a nighttime must before bed.
Highly recommended and likely to win several awards this year.
Sunday, September 15, 2024
Graphic Pick: Nancy Spector Monster Detective
by Stephen W. Martin
Illustrated by Linh Pham
Algonquin Young Readers
an imprint of Workman Publishing
Hachette Book Group, Inc.
2024
208 pages
ISBN: 9781643750651
A fun graphic mystery adventure with a tenacious protagonist who happens to be the greatest girl detective, Nancy Spector Monster Detective is a gem.
The invisible man has lost his dog Spot, so he turns to Nancy for help in finding him. There is just one problem that will complicate this case: Spot is also invisible. Nancy is a great detective and she knows detectives never give up. She goes on a mission with her grumpy dog Jinx (who is comic relief to Nancy's serious nature) is against the mission from the onset. The professor (the invisible man) tags along.
Nancy searches the professor's house and Spot's invisible dog house for clues, taking notes. Soon the trio sets off following Spot's scent. Jinx begins sneezing and Nancy figures he may be allergic to Spot's invisible fur. The more Jinx sneezes, the closer they are to their quarry.
A fun map of Nancy's island features Frankenstein Monster's monster's castle, ice horns, deadly whirlpools and a pirate cove. What reader can resist a cartoon map? Illustrations by Pham are energy-charged and will appeal to an reader who loves superhero comics.
Nancy Spector Monster Detective is fun frolic full of whimsy and creativity. Recommended for graphic novel readers, mystery lovers, comic book lovers and perfect for reluctant readers. Grades 4 and up.
Sunday, September 8, 2024
Non-Fiction Pick: Unknown New York
by Jesse Richards
Art by the author/artist
Workman Publishing
A division of Hachette Book Group, Inc.
2024
240 pages
Publication Date: September 10, 2024
Jesse Richards discovers Manhattan and becomes a New York aficionado, exploring interesting places on her weekend walks. Always an artist at heart, she starts an art group to sketch in Central Park. As her group grew, she began to look for new places to sketch and found that many members kept returning because of the new locations she found. The group grew to over 8,000 member and Richards found that she loved to delve into the history of the places she found.
In chapters like "Hidden New York," she includes The Daily News Building with its rich history and iconic placement in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s as The Daily Planet where Clark Kent meets Lois Lane. She includes the facades of buildings like the Cable Building and the Roosevelt Building and the Shinran Shonin Statue which was gifted to New York in 1955 by a Japanese industrialist. The statue has red burns marks on it from the atomic bomb at Hiroshima in 1945.
The art and historical details give rich descriptions of each choice in the book. Anyone going to New York should take notes from this gem of a book. Even New Yorkers will discover places they've never heard about or visited.
An interesting tidbit is there are still buildings in New York that use mail chutes: over nine hundred, in fact. A pneumatic tube system connected all of Manhatten across the Brooklyn Bridge and all of Brooklyn. It was too expensive to run and by 1953, the city began using cars and carriers to move the mail.
Other chapters include Humble Parks, On the Street, Central Park and Excursions. A section at the back of the book includes walks were you can see all the places mentioned in the text. For the seasoned adventurer or new New Yorker, Hidden New York is a treasure trove of information and unlikely places to visit.
Highly recommended for anyone planning to visit or live in New York and those who love to read about travel and history.
Sunday, August 25, 2024
Dragon Pick: Rory The Remarkable Dragon
by Katherine Rammell
Illustrations by the author
Orchard Books
an imprint of Scholastic, Inc.
2024
40 pages
ISBN: 9781546109976
Publication date: September 17, 2024
Rory is a remarkable dragon: she has a beak, she doesn't roar like other dragons, she has much smaller wings and is not good at breathing fire. On her first day at school, the other dragons see that Rory is different. When lunchtime comes, Rory loses her appetite when the dragons are served a chicken dinner. The principal senses something is off with Rory from the moment Rory enters the school, but lunchtime proves her point! Rory is a vegetarian dragon! She then declares that Rory can be the treasure guard, the youngest in history.
Rory takes her job seriously, guarding the treasure from plundering knights. In fact, one look at Rory and the knights run away. She is the scariest dragon they've ever seen. Young readers will love Rory, a chicken who is hatched alongside dragons' eggs.
Rory the Remarkable Dragon is a whimsical picture book that celebrates standing out in a crowd and accepting your own differences. Young readers will smile at the chicken's moxie and laugh out loud at the runaway knights.
Highly, highly recommended ages 18 months and up. The cartoon like drawings welcome readers in and the humor captures Rory's personality.
Friday, August 23, 2024
Colorful Columbian Picture Book: I Am La Chiva: The Colorful Bus of the Andes
by Karol Hernandez
Illustrated by Lorena Alvarez Gomez
Dial Books for Young Readers
An imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC
2024
40 pages
ISBN: 9780593529201
La Chiva is the colorful and fun bus of the Andes. Up and around mountains it goes, chugging its way to the town where the passengers will shop and sell their goods at the mercado (market). Each day, farmers, makers and bakers depend on the little bus to take them on the breathtaking ride through the picturesque Andes.
There are farmers with pigs, ladies with big baskets of baked goods and meat pies, children riding to school and other people eager to go to town. A man plays an accordion and everyone sings along on their journey....until they have a flat tire. Now, it takes everyone to come together to save the day.
Once in town, La Chiva waits patiently outside the market for the people to close up their stalls. The little bus will take them safely to their mountain homes.
Entertaining, rhyming verse and gorgeous colorful illustrations make La Chiva! The Colorful Bus of the Andes a strong contender for many book awards this year. The illustrations are sheer beauty and deserve the highest of praise. A handy glossary of Spanish words is included for young readers who may not know Spanish.
Highly, highly recommended for any picture book collection and sure to be a hit in classroom read alouds.
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Picture Book Pick: Seoul Food
by Erin Danielle Russell
Illustrations by Tamisha Anthony
Viking
an imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC
2024
40 pages
ISBN: 978059346438
Every family, including found families, has foods and dishes with shared experiences and memories. When both sets of grandparents decide to visit Hana's family, she wants to do something nice for all of them. How does she bring two cultural identities together and blend them both into a yummy dish?
Hana remembers eating gumbo in South Carolina with one set of grandparents and she remembers the pot of kimchi-jjigae in her other grandmother's kitchen in South Korea. She wants to honor both sets of grandparents and begins by making a roux. She adds andouille and bell peppers and then adds kimchi and gochujang to make a delicious, aromatic stew.
When the grandparents arrive, they are greeting by the delicious smell of the food. They guess it must be soul food. The others think it smells like Korean food. Hana tells them everyone is right, but it's not soul food, it's Seoul food. The two sides of the family bond over the meal and agree that even though they live a great distance apart, they should visit each other's homes and share their familial bond of love and food.
Seoul Food is a lovely picture book that celebrates the love and laughter that happens over shared food. Different cultures can come together and make a fantastic recipe for happiness.
Highly recommended for every picture book collection and every child, especially those with multiracial families like Hana's.
Sunday, July 28, 2024
Picture Book Pick: Gaga Mistake Day
Gaga Mistake Day
by Emma & Susan Straub
Illustrated by Jessica Love
Rocky Pond Books
an imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC
2024
32 pages
When quirky grandmother Gaga comes to visit, life gets more fun! Gaga makes a lot of "mistakes," but it's always a great time for the child and Gaga. Making up new games is Gaga's greatest gift. She claims in order to walk to the park, the rule is: you can only walk backwards.
Dress up and dance party are the child and Gaga's shared activities, and when lunchtime rolls around, there's no more "eat all your vegetables" or "just try one bite." Gaga makes the plates silly and fantastic; for example, the entire food pyramid, Gaga style, is featured, "The plate has 1 lollipop, 2 pieces of cheese, 3 pretzel rods, 4 slices of cucumbers..." and more whimsical additions climbing up to the count of ten.
Gaga makes so many "mistakes," and ends up having to apologize to the parents, but grandchild and Gaga both know the mistakes are made on purpose and their purpose is to infuse their day with fun.
Gaga Mistake Day is a winner! The story is full of love and family, laughter and joy, and memories that will be worth remembering. Everyone needs a Gaga in their life. The last line of the book says it all: "I love Gaga days."
Highly, highly recommended and likely to be in the mix for book of the year, this book treasure is the perfect gift for any new grandparent and/or grandchild.
Tuesday, July 23, 2024
Coping and Cool: How To Stop Freaking Out: The Ultimate Guide To Keeping Cool When Life Feels Chaotic
by Carla Naumburg, PhD, LICSW
Illustrated by Letizia Rizzo
Workman Kids
Workman Publishing
2024
144 pages
ISBN: 9781523518241
Publication Date: September 10, 2024
Written by a clinical social worker/author of parenting books, this comprehensive guide discusses feelings, emotions, actions, reactions and how to navigate tough situations while maintaining a cool head.
Quick quizzes, text boxes, highlighted texts, lists and clever acronyms like BuRPing which stands for Button Reaction Practices, will help the reader learn to manage stress and tension. There are techniques for each letter of the alphabet; for instance, W is for Walk, take a walk and M is for move your body. These suggestions apply not only to young readers, but make sense for any person any age.
Truth Bombs appear throughout set off in highlighted boxes and offer wisdom and guidance for the reader. Suggestions like taking a nap when worn out seems so logical, but few stressed out people will think of it let alone do it.
Complete with a list of resources, How To Stop Freaking Out is the ultimate self-help book needed by every child ages eight and up (and of course, adults can learn a thing or two as well). Naumburg handles the topic without becoming preachy or condescending. The book, although serious, sets a tone of helpful, enthusiastic and hopeful.
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
Origin Story: Boy 2.0
by Tracey Baptiste
Algonquin Books for Young Readers
Workman Publishing
2024
304 pages
ISBN: 9781643753812
Book available October 1, 2024
Tracey Baptiste has created her own super-hero--dare I say--series?
Being a foster kid isn't that bad, and Win (Coal) has seen everything and been placed in several homes, but when he has a run-in with an armed neighbor and somehow turns invisible, that's a whole other level of crazy. How did the armed man and later the police not see Coal? He "changed" his skin like a chameleon.
Sure, there's some glitches in turning invisible--like his clothes are still visible so he must be naked to be truly invisible, but it's a small price to pay for being a super-hero. Or is he a super-hero? And how can he learn to use his new-found power and control it? And how did he get this superpower? He knows so little about his birth mother or the man who adopted him.
When Coal tells his best friend Door about his invisible run-in, Door doesn't believe him at first and refers to Coal's new power as, "a stupid naked superpower." The boys need to figure out how Coal is able to turn invisible and what causes it in order to keep themselves safe, so they turn to where else? The trusty library. Researching humans and chameleons brings up the name of a company: Mirror Tech. Coal is determined to travel to Newark to find out is he is a mutant or an orphan or both.
The author weaves Coal's story masterfully, and a reader will have much to ponder about how skin color affects people's first impressions and society's treatment of a person based on their appearance.
Boy 2.0 is a read that will stick with you long after the last page is turned. The novel has huge potential as an extended series and is a stellar win for the author and the publisher. Kudos Tracey Baptiste and Algonquin Books for Young Readers for not only an important story but one packed with excitement, bad guys, evil stealthy doctors, military secrets and a few normal kids who use their friendships and wiles to best a gigantic corporation and expose dark conspiracies.
Highly, highly recommended grades 5 and up. If you read one superhero book, make it Boy 2.0 which is destined to become a bestseller, the next big thing and perhaps an entire franchise. This book is likely to win Every. Single. Book. Award. This. Year.
Saturday, July 6, 2024
LGBTQIA Dictionary: The Queens' English
The Young Readers' LGBTQIA+ Dictionary of Lingo and Colloquial Lingo and Phrases
by Chloe O. Davis
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Adapted from The Queens' English published in 2021
by Clarkson Potter
2024
336 pages
ISBN: 9781665926867
The Queens' English (Young Readers version) is adapted from a 2021 book also written by Chloe O. Davis. This version is aimed at much younger readers (not YA nor adults) who are interested in the language used by the LGBTQIA+ and drag community.
This concise compendium is a great asset for any library shelf and also a great gift for teens and/or families of teens.
From homophobia to deadname (a word with particularly negative connotations for those who have changed their birth names) to the idea of a gingerbread person (used to help all ages understand sexuality and gender), this dictionary covers it all. Simply put, this is a book all of us (every human) needs to read.
Understanding and accepting are the goals, and Chloe O. Davis has succeeded in making this a teachable moment! Kudos to the author!
Highly, highly recommended for every library. The ideas and terms are presented in a straight forward way in language easy to understand. This is NOT a book about sex or acting promiscuously. An extensive list of resources offers readers more information and guidance. Full color illustrations, Did You Know? boxes which offer even the most reluctant readers quick, interesting facts and the terms used in sentences for better understanding are highlights.
Grades 4 and up/ages 10 and up.
Saturday, June 29, 2024
Picture Book Pick: What's New, Daniel?
What's New, Daniel?
by Micha Archer
Illustrated by the author
Nancy Paulson Books
An imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC
2024
32 pages
ISBN: 9780593461303
What's New, Daniel? is a quiet picture book filled with love, wonder and discovery. Daniel meets his grandpa at the park, and the elder asks, "What's new, Daniel?" This question set Daniel off on a quest for discovering really, "What's new?" He climbs up and his favorite, giant boulder and watches as the blackbirds have returned.
Spring has indeed sprung. New ducklings are hatching, polliwogs are growing legs, leaves are unfurling, squirrels are building nests and even snakes are changing by shedding their skin. Daniel discovers he, too, is changing and growing. He's getting a new tooth, he can run faster than ever before, and he's growing like the polliwogs. Daniel recounts all the things he's seen and asks, Grandpa, "What's new?"
The author's illustrations and collages are beautiful and make this book an artistic gem.
This picture book is a lovely interpretation of a grandpa with a special bond with his grandchild. Full of love, heart and family connection, What's New, Daniel? is that sweet book every child needs to read, even if they are far away from their grandparents. It is reminder to families to make more time to enjoy the outdoors, nature, the changing seasons and love.
Highly recommended ages 2-6.
Sunday, June 23, 2024
Fun Picture Book Pick: The Book That Almost Rhymed
The Book That Almost Rhymed
by Omar Abed
Illustrations by Hatem Aly
Dial Books for Young Readers
an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC
2024
32 pages
ISBN: 9780593406380
What's a rhyming older brother supposed to do when his loud, interfering detective younger sister keeps messing up his stories and rhymes? Play along, of course!
Funny text by Omar Abed will keep young readers in giggles as they try to finish each rhyme with the obvious rhyming word that will fit and make sense only to realize each time little sister interrupts and throws out silly and sometimes outrageous lines that make no sense to the older brother, he's nice enough to go with with his sister's help as she takes the story into outer space, back in time to kingdoms, knights and you guessed it: DRAGONS, and aboard a pirate ship where they dance their way out of trouble.
The pirate ship encounter begins, "On deck they faced a frightful sight/ The pirates were prepared to--"
Readers will guess "fight" is the rhyme, but Little Sister interrupts, shouting, "DANCE!" The picture of pirates dancing with the brother/sister duo is unexpected and clever. The Book That Almost Rhymed is a great way to teach rhyme and predicting what will happen next in the story, an important reading strategy for any reader.
This picture book is bound to be a favorite at story time and must be read aloud. Savvy parents will not read this one at bed time as the young readers will want to interact with the story and shout out obvious word choices.
Highly, highly recommended. The sibling relationship is lovely and lovingly depicted by Abed. Everyone will wish for this kind of fun with their siblings. PreK-grade 3 and older to teach rhyme.
Sunday, June 9, 2024
Important Graphic Novel: Puzzled: A Memoir About Growing Up With OCD
Puzzled: A Memoir About Growing Up With OCD
by Pan Cooke
Illustrations by the author
Rocky Pond Books
An imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC
2024
224 pages
ISBN: 9780593615621
Puzzled is an important book about growing up feeling different from other people. Pan is ten-years old when he begins to feel a little off kilter. His mind feels like a puzzle and he worries about "what if". What if he makes a scene in church? What if he blurts out curse words in class? Pieces of the puzzle float around his mind and are pictured in illustrations by the author as puzzle pieces.
He begins to think of all the dreadful things that could possibly happen and develops rituals to try to insure that they don't. Anxiety overwhelms him. The story follows Pan through puberty when things are always changing and GIRLS become a huge anxiety for Pan. What if he says something stupid? How is he supposed to act? Although these questions are common for most tweens and teens, Pan dwells in his anxiety-filled puzzle pieces. By age fourteen, Pan begins to have questions about his body and about food. Food becomes a terrible puzzle. While other students eat tons of french fries and candy, Pan is disgusted (yet jealous) to see they seem to have no problems with fatty, over-processed junk food.
The author dispels popular myths about OCD, including being neat and tidy and a stickler for organization. Those things are not OCD. Overthinking and anxious thoughts are as is creating rituals to try to manage these thoughts.
Pan seeks help once he realizes there might be a doctor who can help.
The Afterword by Cooke is hopeful and honest. He's now an adult and a WRITER! He still has OCD, but he knows how to use tools to help himself. OCD can vary greatly from person to person. There is not one simple symptom to look for. Most people go eleven years or longer before they are diagnosed for the condition.
The graphic nature of this book make it easily accessible even for the most reluctant reader. Colorful, understated art appears fun and happy, the opposite of most of Pan's thoughts and interactions with others.
Recommended ages 10-up. Middle grade readers will be drawn to Puzzled.
Saturday, June 8, 2024
Ethereal PIcture Book: In My Dreams
by Effie Lada
Illustrations by the author
Clavis Publishing Inc.
2023
332 pages
ISBN: 9781605378657
Originally published in Belgium and the Netherland,
2022Translation from Dutch by Clavis Publishing, Inc.
Simply transformative and ethereal art work by the author in grayscale pencil and pages with overlay that reveal hidden illustrations for the reader to discover make In My Dreams a treasure trove of artistic expression.
A young girl tries to stay awake to "catch" her dreams and see for herself where they come from, but, alas, she always drifts off to sleep. Color is introduced to the story: the green of the girl's outfit, gorgeous pink feathers as the child drifts over the rooftops of her town, a red umbrella and a school of orange fish. The girl wakes in the morning to a world filled with color, and she is "herself."
Sleepy, understated prose and beautiful images will make this book a nightly bedtime read.
Highly, highly recommended ages 2 and up. Libraries must buy at least two copies; one for the shelf (which is likely to be damaged after a few reads) and one for story time that will last years.
Sunday, June 2, 2024
Must-Have Picture Book: Wild Places
by Hayley Rocco
Illustrations by John Rocco
G.P. Putnam's Sons
An imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC
2024
48 pages
ISBN: 9780593618097
"If we take care of nature, nature will take care of us." --David Attenborough
Simply stunning! Illustrations by John Rocco are stellar and among the best artwork found in children's books. The earth captured in colored pencil and digital paint open this amazing story of the most important voice in saving wild places for generations to come, for our children, our grandchildren and their grandchildren.
When David Attenborough was a young boy, two-thirds of the planet was filled with wild places. David explored fossils and rocks around his home. Later he went to university to study wild animals and the places they live. Television was just gaining popularity, and David had an idea to do a show about animals. He traveled far and wide, showing viewers gorillas in Africa, penguins on icebergs, wild animals in the South American rain forests and everywhere else animals lived. Millions of viewers tuned in.
Much to David's dismay, as time passed, humans began destroying natural places, building cities and skyscrapers. He sought out scientists and climate experts around the world. He sounded the first alarm to make wild places wild again. He insisted humans begin to use new ways to power their cities. Attenborough was intent on stopping overfishing in the oceans to help marine life and was an early advocate for eating less meat. Meat production takes many acres to raise the beef, lamb, and poultry and ruins the land. David insisted we replant trees to save our environment.
The most powerful voice in ecology and natural sciences, David Attenborough brought saving our planet to the forefront of every political discussion worldwide. He believed, "If we take care of nature, nature will take care of us."
The hit series "Life on Earth" had 500 million people watching it and learning about ecology and activism. The Author's Note, bibliography, and information of how to help change the destruction of wild places as well as huge problems we face as humans if we don't change are included. If everyone does their part, Attenborough is sure our planet will thrive.
So highly, highly recommended and a must-have, must read, Wild Places is an obvious frontrunner for numerous literary awards this year.
Grades 2 and up.
Friday, May 31, 2024
Witchy Tale: The Garden Witch
by Kyle Beaudette
Illustrations by the author
Eye of Newt Books, Inc.
2023
32 pages
ISBN: 9781777791811
Quirky illustrations, funny characters, and a nod to old-fashioned fairy tales, The Garden Witch is a sure winner. This picture book will NOT sit on the shelf. Smart librarians will purchase several copies. It's that great!
End pages give a nod to 1960s children's book and include a bookplate where readers can enter their name "This book belongs to..." fill in the blank. Poor witch lives alone with three very mean rats. They are lazy and call the witch names even though she cooks for them, gives them a place to live and cares for them. When Witch goes to market to sell her potions, no one visits her booth. Defeated the witch returns home. She faces the evil rat trio. They tell her to hurry up and feed them, and if she doesn't listen to them, they threaten they will eat her!
The witch tends her garden, seeking solace. She talks to her plants, telling them her woes. The garden uses its magic to grow a little turnip-boy. The Turnip is polite and cleans the house and agrees to go with the witch to the market to help her sell her wares. People are enthralled by the magic dancing turnip-boy and witch sells out of product.
Returning home, the rats order the witch around. She doesn't let them eat her, in fact, she cooks and eats them! Witch and her turnip-boy have many happy years together and make a fortune at the market each week.
The illustrations are quirky, clever and fun. The rhyming text begs to be read out loud. Savvy parents will do voices for the witch, the turnip-boy and the rats, causing young readers to giggle and ask for this story again and again. Beaudette is Canadian, so spelling is English, i.e., omelette, and "bum" is used for bottom.
What a fun book! So different, no unique in the crowded picture book space. This is a gem of a book. A must-have, must-read ages 2 and up.
Sunday, May 19, 2024
MG Pick: Faker
Faker
by Gordon Korman
Scholastic Press
2024
224 pages
ISBN: 9781338826760
Available for pre-order and on sale July 2, 2024
Twelve-year old Trey is the son of a con man. His father has been in the con game forever and it's the only life Trey has ever known. When he was younger, he knew they moved a lot and he had to change schools frequently, but Trey learns about his father's game and does his part to help his family. Doing his part means making friends with kids who are from wealthy families and introducing Dad to them. The game is then on! Trey is torn between helping his dad and questioning the morality of it all, but Dad says they only take from those who are so rich they won't even miss the money.
If a con goes sour or his dad suspects the marks are savvy to his game, the family knows the term "Houdini" means LEAVE NOW. Trey and his sister do not have time to pack a bag or say goodbye to the new friends they've made. It's "get out of town" time. They ditch their phones because the phones can be tracked. They jet off to a beach somewhere for a "vacation" which means Dad will plan their next game. They buy new clothes, new phones and have no contact EVER to the people they have met.
The con life is getting old, but Trey is excited when his dad makes him a full partner to the scams. Younger sister Arianna voices her opinion about Dad favoring Trey because he's a boy, but Dad assures her that her time will come.
The next town they move to is in Kentucky and Dad's new scam is selling shares in a "secret" start up company that will manufacture the El Capitan, a car Dad has made using his specifications to look like the grandest new car on the market. It is so captivating to the eye, and Dad makes sure to influence Trey's friend's parents by his well-timed, smooth delivery, salesman smile and his demeanor that all say El Capitan is the "next big thing," He assures would-be investors the car will be unattainable, rare, and in such short supply, they better act quickly.
Trey is sailing along great, making new friends, enjoying himself until he gets an anonymous note warning him: I know what you're doing. Now he's freaking out! What if anonymous blows up their game? Trey is saved by a friend who knows the con game well because his family has their own game.
His friend says the FBI isn't too far away, so Dad dumps the scam claiming the El Capitan has mechanical problems. Trey and his family are forced out of crime, but Dad has an answer for everything. Their future looks bright!
Faker is a rollicking joy-ride full of humor and heart. Korman, always a masterful storyteller, shines in this latest book. Faked is by far the best book Korman has put out in a very long time. Highly entertaining and easy to read for even the most reluctant of readers.
Highly, highly recommended ages 8-12 and even older if the reader loves Korman and diabolical antics.
Monday, May 6, 2024
Picture Book Pick: Floof
by Heidi McKinnon
Illustrations by the author
Algonquin Young Readers
Imprint of Workman Publishing Co., Inc.
Hatchette Book Group, Inc.
32 pages
2024
ISBN: 9781523525867
Floof is a fluffy, floofy cat who loves mischief-making. He's very busy all day. He has tons of work to do: unrolling the toilet paper, spilling coffee on the laptop, teasing the dog--(who is not his friend, but Floof doesn't care), playing in an empty box, rolling the ball for the dog--teasing again!, napping in a plant, napping in the laundry, napping on a stack of books. He's VERY busy.
The illustrations tell the true story of Floof. He's a busy cat to be sure. His "work" is anything but work. For anyone who has ever loved a cat, Floof is the epitome of catastic. He's high energy, funny, silly, and a real charmer.
Floof is a fun picture book for ages two and up. Readers will compare Floof to their own cat or cats they've known.
Highly recommended for all animal lovers and little troublemakers. A must-have for every bookshelf and library.
Saturday, April 20, 2024
Poetry Pick: In and Out the Window
by Jane Yolen
Illustrations by Cathrin Peterslund
Philomel
an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC
2024
208 pages
ISBN: 9780593622513
From beloved author Jane Yolen comes In and Out the Window, a treasure of middle grade poetry sure to make readers want to share her poems and write ones of their own.
In "Hook in the Water," Yolen writes, "Each poem a hook/flouting in the tide./ An invitation/to open wide..." Poems featured in the book are about school, after school, hobbies, friendship, the seasons, sports, pets and all the things important to kids ages eight to thirteen. In "Crayons: A Rainbow Poem," the poet says, "This box contains the wash of blue sky/spikes of green spring,/ a circle of yellow sun,/triangle flames of orange and red," capturing all the crayon colors in the box.
"Winter Prayer" features this beautiful personification of, "Nature, in her grace, falls white/upon the rock's shoulder..." The book opens with "Why to Write a Poem" which is my personal favorite as a poet/reader/lover of poetry. Yolen says, "To sing up the sunshine/To bargain the moon,/ To follow the rainbow..." answering her own title's question.
Complete with an index that makes it easy for children to find their favorite poems easily, this book of poetry will be read again and again. A must-have for every poetry collection, libraries should multiple copies as it will be widely checked out.
The book would be a great introduction to any poetry unit regardless of grade levels. The poems are easy enough for ages eight to thirteen, yet also an asset for high school age students to learn the basics of poetry.
Highly, highly recommended for all poets.
Saturday, April 13, 2024
Environmental Pick: Planting Hope: A Portrait of Photographer Sevastiao Salgado
Planting Hope: A Portrait of Photographer Sebatiao Salgado
by Philip Hoelzel
Illustrations by Renato Alarcao
Atheneum Books for Young Readers
An imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division
2024
48 pages
ISBN: 9781534477650
Beautiful artwork in watercolor and pencil illustrate the story of an important couple of environmental pioneers from Brazil. Sebastiao Salgado grew up in a green space in Brazil surrounded by the nature of beauty. As a child, he ran through the hills, fields and forests and swam in the rivers near his home.
Later when he went to the city, he met Lelia and they marry. As the government in Brazil became precarious, they fled to Paris where Sebastiao began to photograph the world as he saw it. They traveled the world with Sebastiao clicking photographs of refugees fleeing their homes and people working. He captured war and Presidents of nations. After seeing the death of thousands in Rwanda, the couple go back to Brazil and his family's farm which he's inherited. Gone are the green fields and the mighty trees of his youth.
The land is ruined but he calls in a forestry expert who helps him plant trees. Every year the couple visited the trees they planted and watched the land heal. Meanwhile, photography kept them busy. They traveled to the North Pole and the Amazon and showed people of the world that we are all responsible for saving our planet.
Returning to Brazil once more, they established The Environmental Education Center in Aimores, Brazil. They teach students and biologists with their seedlings and research. Because of the photography and care for the land, Sebstiao brought attention not only to Brazil, but to all corners of the world.
Glorious artwork on the end papers draw the reader in. Visually stunning art by Renato Alarcao is award worthy! This is an important biography and non-fiction picture book and is a great introduction to any unit on ecology and environmental science. Young scientists may learn there are careers in photography and research.
Highly, highly recommended as one of the most beautiful picture books of the year. Grades 2 and up.
Friday, April 12, 2024
Halloween Pick: How Do Dinosaurs Say Trick or Treat?
by Jane Yolen
Illustrations by Mark Teague
Scholastic Press
2024
48 pages
ISBN: 9781338891980
Available July 2, 2024
How Do Dinosaurs Say Trick or Treat? is the latest edition of the talented team of Jane Yolen and Mark Teague. Any fan of dinosaurs or Halloween will love this picture book.
End pages are colorful and fun illustrations of various types of dinosaurs. Not only will children read a fun story, but likely true dino fans will memorize each dino name and locate them in the pages.
Winning, rhyming text by Yolen never gets stale. Fans of the series of Dinosaur books by this talented team will consider this a must-have, must-read. You must read this book out loud. Young kids will love it!
Highly, highly recommended for dino fans and everyone else. Ages 2 and up.
Tuesday, April 9, 2024
Healing Picture Book Pick: Moonlight Memories
by Amanda Davis
Illustrations by Michelle Jing Chan
Worthy Kids
2023
32 pages
ISBN: 9781546003168
Piper feels empty after the loss of her mother. She doesn't want create art anymore until she gets a telescope as a gift. Not only does Piper see stars in the skies, she sees her mother's face, "...a face that tucked her in at night...A face with cheeks that smelled of sweet vanilla..." Piper feels her creativity switch on; she draws again. Soon, her sketchbook and her room is filled with drawings of her with her mother.
She wonders if her father will see what she sees when he looks through the telescope, but she decides to wait to ask him. One night, Piper looks through the lens and doesn't see her mother anymore, but she remembers all the memories, the "moonlight memories," of her mother. She leads her father to the telescope and says, "Your turn."
Moonlight Memories is a quiet book, but deals with huge feelings. Full of hope, healing and love, it's a gem of a read. Illustrations by Michelle Jing Chan are transcendent. A stellar work of art with a beautiful message of hope, this picture book is a must-have.
Ages 2 and up. This is a great book to open up conversations about loss of a parent and healing.
Sunday, April 7, 2024
Poetry Pick: Black Girl Your Are Atlas
by Renee Watson
Art (collages) by Ekua Holmes
Kokila
an imprint of Penguin Random House, LLC
2024
96 pages
ISBN: 9780593461709
Black Girl You Are Atlas is a breathtaking triumph celebrating a young girl's thoughts as she grows up black and female in America. Watson uses autobiographical stories and captures moments in history and how she experienced them as a child. She includes poems about Michelle Obama, Rodney King and Breonna Taylor.
Magnificent does not do this book justice. It is the most powerful book of poetry since Maya Angelou or Langston Hughes. In "Black Like Me" Watson asks, "can i be Black & brilliant?/ can i be jazz & gospel, hip-hop & classical?/ can i be christian & accepting? can i be big & beautiful?"
In "Underbelly," Watson uses repetition of "Black girl body..." to begin each line. This poem is a compelling statement of power, weathering the storm, pushing through, being proud, and finding happiness.
Black Girl You Are Atlas is a wonderful book gift for any girl or woman. It is a celebration of being black in America but should be read and enjoyed by everyone, regardless of their skin color or country of origin. This is one book you will not forget.
Collage art by Ekua Holmes captures not only the joy but also the sorrow and sadness of the prose.
This is a must-have, must-read for everyone. Any library collection should purchase multiple copies as this book will not sit on the shelf.
So highly recommended, I'd give it more than five stars.
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