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Children's Bookwatch
Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
Miss Popular Steals the Show: Girls in Wheelchairs Rule!
Jewel Kats, author
Murray Stenton, illustrator
Marvelous Spirit Press
http://www.marvelousspirit.com
9781615994779, $26.95, HC, 42pp, www.amazon.com
"Miss Popular Steals the Show: Girls in Wheelchairs Rule!" is a delightful and humorous diary
account from "Bix," a plain Jane from a struggling family trying to outdo and steal the
third-grade classroom stage from Valerie, whose mother is a famous author. Miss Popular may
be a wheelchair-user, but she knows how to charm the classroom, and her pink bejeweled
wheelchair rules. In a pique of frustration, Bix resorts to lies to steal the limelight from Miss
Popular. She also announces that she will be having a puppy shower, and everyone except Miss
Popular is invited. Can Bix pull it off? Young readers ages 8-10 will Learn the importance of
honesty; Discover that being loved and being popular are not the same thing; Find out how even
a small act of kindness pays big dividends; Learn how to rise above circumstances to be a better
person. While especially recommended for school and community library collections, it should
be noted for personal reading lists that "Miss Popular Steals the Show: Girls in Wheelchairs
Rule!" is also available in a paperback edition (9781615992362, $14.95) and in a digital book
format (Kindle, $4.20).
All the Ways to be Smart
Davina Bell, author
Allison Colpoys, illustrator
Scribe Publications
c/o Cursor Marketing Services
www.thinkcursor.com
9781947534964, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
"All the Ways to be Smart" is a tender, funny, entertaining, and inspiring picture book celebrating
all the unique and wonderful qualities that make children who they are. With a heartwarming and
rhyming text by Davina Bell that is deftly combined with charming illustrations by Allison
Colpoys all about knowing what makes a child special, "All the Ways to Be Smart" is an ideal
introduction to conversations about self-esteem for children ages 3-6. While unreservedly
recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library
collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "All the Ways to Be Smart" is also
available in a paperback edition (9781911617877, $11.99).
May All People and Pigs Be Happy
Micki Fine Pavlicek, author
John Pavlicek, illustrator
North Atlantic Books
2526 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Berkeley, CA 94704-2607
www.northatlanticbooks.com
9781623173890, $17.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
"May All People and Pigs Be Happy" follows the adventures of seven-year-old Claire and her
stuffed animal Pigalina. From Pigalina, Claire learns a simple meditation that helps her to feel
kinder toward herself and spread caring and love to others. The loving-kindness meditation can
be practiced by anyone regardless of religion to cultivate loving presence, friendship, tenderness,
and love. "May All People and Pigs Be Happy" is perfect for children ages 4-8 with or without a
background in the loving-kindness meditation. While a unique and unreservedly recommended
addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library
collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "May All People and Pigs Be
Happy" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
The Oldest Student
Rita Lorraine Hubbard, author
ritahubbard.com
Oge Mora, illustrator
ogemora.com
Schwartz & Wade Books
c/o Random House Books for Young Readers
rhcbooks.com
9781524768287 $17.99 hc / $10.99 Kindle amazon.com
The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read is a children's picturebook for young
readers ages 4-8, about the true-life story of an African-American woman who learned to read at
116! Mary Walker was born into slavery in the year 1848, and freed at age 15. She spent her life
working jobs like cooking, cleaning, babysitting, and selling sandwiches. She outlived the rest of
her family. The Oldest Student is proof that one is never to old to learn new and exciting things,
and an inspirational story for young readers everywhere. Highly recommended, especially for
school and public library picturebook collections.
The Holiday Shelf
The Easter Storybook
Laura Richie, author
Ian Dale, illustrator
David C. Cook
www.davidccook.org
9780830778607 $18.99 / $9.99 Kindle amazon.com
The Easter Storybook: 40 Bible Stories Showing Who Jesus Is features forty biblical stories, each
of which is retold on the left page and illustrated with full-color, full-page artwork on the right
page of every two-page spread. Written to be accessible to young adults, yet faithful to the spirit
of the original Bible passages, The Easter Storybook is highly recommended for Christian family
and church library collections. Also highly recommended is "The Advent Storybook: 25 Bible
Stories Showing Why Jesus Came" (9780830776085, $13.99 hc / $9.99 Kindle), a previous
compilation of biblical stories heralding the birth of Jesus Christ, retold in the same verbal and
visual style.
The Science Shelf
I am Allosaurus
Tim Bradley
Arbordale Publishing
612 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite A2, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
www.arbordalepublishing.com
9781643517490, $17.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
What would it be like to live as a dinosaur? With "I am Allosaurus" by Tim Bradley, young
readers ages 5-6 will discover that dinosaur lives had many similarities to present-day animals:
they hatched, ran, hunted, hid from predators, and grew to adulthood. However, the world these
creatures from the far past inhabited was very different from that of today; a great example is that
a simple thing like grass didn't yet exist. Repetitive sight words make this a great story for
beginning readers and dinosaur enthusiasts alike. While "I am Allosaurus" is unreservedly
recommended for elementary school and community library collections, it should be noted for
the personal reading lists of young dinosaur fans that "I am Allosaurus" is also available in a
paperback edition (9781643517544, $9.95).
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
We Love Babies!
Jill Esbaum
National Geographic Press
www.nationalgeographic.com
9781426337482 $17.99 amazon.com
We Love Babies! is an utterly adorable children's picturebook, featuring beautiful, full-color
photography of a wide variety of animal babies, from penguin chicks to cheetah cubs, a young
kangaroo, a newly hatched snail riding on its parent's shell, and many more. The simplistic text is
suitable for the littlest beginning readers, and parents will love sharing the pictures of cuddly
(and not-so-cuddly) young animals with their children. Highly recommended!
No Dead Fish for Ginger!
Cathy Marine
Eifrig Publishing
PO Box 66, Lemont, PA 16851
www.eifrigpublishing.com
9781936172528, $16.99, HC, 48pp, www.amazon.com
In "No Dead Fish for Ginger! the Story of a Sarasota Bay Dolphin" by Cathy Marine children
ages 3-4 will enjoy meeting Ginger, a young Sarasota Bay dolphin, who was stranded on a beach
on Siesta Key in December 2008. Was she sick? Was she injured? Or was she just catching fish
and got confused by the extremely low tide that day? Whatever the reason, by the time the animal
ambulance arrived, the veterinary staff had determined that Ginger needed to go to the Dolphin
and Whale Hospital at Mote Marine Laboratory. At the hospital, Ginger gets blood tests, a
hearing test, and swabs of her blowhole. What makes Ginger unique as a patient is her refusal to
eat dead fish. She is a picky eater and drives the staff crazy with her food preferences.
Fascinating and scientific introduction to marine life studies, "No Dead Fish for Ginger!" is
unreservedly recommended for elementary school and community library Pets/Wildlife picture
book collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "No Dead Fish for Ginger!" is
also available in a paperback edition (978-193617244, $12.99).
The Environmental Shelf
Planet SOS
Marie G. Rohde
What on Earth Books
9781912920228 $24.00 amazon.com
Planet SOS: 22 Modern Monsters Threatening Our Environment (and What You Can Do To
Defeat Them) is a children's picturebook that characterizes modern environmental problems as
monsters - each of which speaks to the reader (in first person) about the havoc it creates, and the
changes that can tame it. From "The Degradotaur" (representing topsoil erosion from clear-
cutting) to "Smogosaurus" (representing air pollution) to "The Glare Worm" (representing light
pollution) and more, Planet SOS is a creative, lively, and brilliantly illustrated introduction to
some of the greatest threats facing the Earth today! Highly recommended.
Little Turtle and the Changing Sea
Becky Davis, author
Jennie Poh, illustrator
Tiger Tales
PO Box 70, Iron Ridge, WI 53035
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9781680101997, $17.99, HC, 32p, www.amazon.com
Little Turtle loves the ocean with her whole heart. As the years pass, she repeats an incredible
journey across the world to the beautiful coral reefs. But one day she finds that plastic has
invaded her beloved ocean. Could Turtle's journey be over forever? A collaborative and
beautifully crafted picture book by author Becky Davis and illustrator Jennie Poh, "Little Turtle
and the Changing Sea" is a deftly crafted and lyrical story which explores the problem of plastic
in the ocean, and the challenges facing marine life for children ages 3-7 and will prove to be an
enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and
community library environmental issues picture book collections.
Ripples and Waves: Walking Lake Huron
Carol Trembath, author
David W. Craig, illustrator
www.caroltrembath.com
Lakeside Publishing Mi
9780990744658, $22.95, HC, 54pp, www.amazon.com
A part of author Carol Trembath's Water Walkers series, "Ripples and Waves: Walking Lake
Huron" (enhanced with new and original illustrations by a Native American artist David W.
Craig) is the story of an Ojibway girl named Mai. Her family members are walking around Lake
Huron to raise awareness about the harm being done to the Great Lakes. As Mai walks along the
lakeside path, she tries to find ways to help. On the journey Mai and her new friend Kaiya, make
dreamcatchers as gifts of friendship for other children around the lake. However when their gifts
are not accepted, they seek the advice of their elders. Will the messages they receive help them to
bring a community together? Can they send out ripples and waves of friendship? Included are
common core state standards, web and print resources, cross-curriculum activities, a glossary of
environmental terms, how to make a dreamcatcher, and ten ways for children to protect the Earth.
Especially and highly recommended for family, school, and community library collections for
young readers ages 6-11, "Ripples and Waves" is an informative and entertaining tribute to all
the Native American women and men who in today's world have courageously walked over
19,500 miles to draw environmental awareness and attention to the condition of our water
resources.
The Picturebook Shelf
The Paper Kingdom
Helena Ku Rhee, author
Pascal Campion, illustrator
helenakrhee.com/books
Random House Books for Young Readers
rhcbooks.com
9780525644613 $17.99 hc
9780525644637 $10.99 ebook
The Paper Kingdom is a children's picturebook based on author Helena Ku Rhee's own memories
growing up. When young Daniel's babysitter cancels, his parents take him along for their jobs as
nighttime office cleaners. To entertain his imagination while they work, they tell him stories
about the "paper kingdom", its hardworking rulers, and its hidden dragons. Charming
illustrations add the perfect touch to this fanciful story about parental love. Highly recommended,
especially for public library picturebook collections.
Watership Down
Retold by Frank Cottrell-Boyce
Based on the original story by Richard Adams
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781534457065 $17.99 hc / $10.99 Kindle amazon.com
Inspired by the animated Netflix television miniseries, Watership Down is a children's
picturebook adaptation of Richard Adams' classic novel about a small group of rabbits forced to
evacuate their old home. In their search for a new place to live, they confront dangerous
predators, as well as threats from other territorial rabbits! Splendidly illustrated with a realistic
art style, Watership Down captures the spirit of the original novel, making the rabbits' struggle to
survive accessible to younger readers. Highly recommended, especially for public library
picturebook collections.
Buckaroo Chuck: Cowboy For Reals
Lexi Kinney, author
Marinella Aguirre, illustrator
Bublish, Inc.
9781948543521, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
In the pages of "Buckaroo Chuck: Cowboy For Reals", children ages 3 to 8 can ride along with
Buckaroo Chuck as he goes from hopeful youngster to accomplished bull rider. An action-filled
picture book story by author Lexi Kinney and illustrator Marinella Aguirre takes the a young
reader through the motions, tumbles and falls of a young buckaroo as he becomes a confident
rodeo man. No matter how many times Chuck falls off, he never loses sight of his dream. Of
special note is the underlying message promoting the use of helmets and vests when riding in the
arena, and inspiring children to never give up on their goals. While unreservedly recommended
for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book
collections, it should also be noted that "Buckaroo Chuck: Cowboy For Reals" is also available
in a paperback edition (9781948543514, $12.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle,
$3.99).
Little Rosie Rodeo: Cowgirl For Reals
Lexi Kinney, author
Marinella Aguirre, illustrator
Bublish, Inc.
9781948543552, $17.99, HC, 34pp, www.amazon.com
Little Rosie Rodeo loves to race as fast as she can to win the prize, those sparkly buckles. She
couldn't do this without the help of her horse B-Bar, who's also her best friend. Together they
race for those buckles that twinkle like stars. A collaboratively produced picture book by author
Lexi Kinney and illustrator Marinella Aguirre, "Little Rosie Rodeo: Cowgirl For Reals" is a
thoroughly entertaining delightful scripted rhyming story about the rodeo and the bonds of
friendship. While very highly recommended, especially for family, daycare center, preschool,
elementary school and community library collections for children ages 3 to 8, it should be noted
that "Little Rosie Rodeo" is also available in a paperback edition (9781948543545, $12.99) and
in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).
My Big Red Monster
Lois Wickstrom, author
Nicolas Milano, illustrator
Look Under Rocks
9780916176525, $24.99, HC, 32pp, www.LookUnderRocks.com
What is a little girl to do when there's a monster under her bed, and her brother won't believe her?
What if the monster wants to work for her? In fact, he's so hungry for work, that if she doesn't
give him jobs, he'll eat her! He'll straighten her room. He'll wash the dishes. He'll wash the dog,
until he's all clean and fluffy. It's up to her imagination to keep that monster busy! The
collaborative work of author Lois Wickstrom and illustrator Nicolas Milano, "My Big Red
Monster" is a delightful and modern adaptation of a Hindu Teaching Tale. While "My Big Red
Monster" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool,
elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-8, it
should be noted for personal reading lists that "My Big Red Monster" is also available in a
paperback edition (9780916176518, $11.99).
The Best Kind of Bear
Greg Gormley, author
David Barrow, illustrator
Nosy Crow
c/o Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
9781536208238, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
When Nelly asks Bear what kind of bear he is, he isn't entirely sure how to answer. So off he
goes to find out. But none of the different bears he meets on his travels are like him. Grizzly
bears don't have stitching; polar bears don't have tags attached to their bottoms; spectacled bears
are not as soft and bouncy as Bear is; and sun bears never wear bow ties. Disheartened, he returns
to Nelly... only to discover what kind of bear he is - her own special bear! A thoroughly charming
and fun picture book for children ages 2-5, "The Best Kind of Bear" is especially recommended
for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.
Caveboy Crush
Bethy Ferry, author
Joseph Kuefler, illustrator
Harry N. Abrams
195 Broadway, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10007
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781419736568, $17.99, HC, 48pp, www.amazon.com
Neander is a young caveboy. He spends his days doodling on cave walls, chasing mammoth
butterflies, and playing with his pet rock, Rock. But one day, he meets Neanne -- and he's
CRUSHED! She's short, she's hairy, she's perfect! Neander does everything he can think of to get
Neanne's attention. He picks a bouquet for her from the Field of the Bees. He fetches a conch
shell for her from the Waves of Salt. As Neander's gestures get grander and grander, Neanne
remains unimpressed. But then Neander hatches the grandest gesture of all, and it's Neanne's turn
to do some crushing. From Beth Ferry and Joseph Kuefler comes this sweet celebration of first
love. An original and thoroughly charming picture book for children ages 4-8, "Caveboy Crush
by the team of author Bethy Ferry and illustrator Joseph Kuefler is perfect for Valentine's Day
and read-alouds all year long -- and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center,
preschool, elementary school, and community library collections. It should be noted for personal
reading lists that "Caveboy Crush" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Evie's Field Day: More than One Way to Win
Claire Annette Noland, author
Alicia Teba, illustrator
Cardinal Rule Press
www.cardinalrulepress.com
9781733035903, $16.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Evie loves to run, jump, hop, and win. She even has ribbons and trophies to prove it. So, when
the school's field day comes around, she is sure she will add to her winning collection. When
Evie finds herself ahead of the pack, she is faced with an important decision. Does she choose the
chance at a trophy or the chance to be a good friend? Children ages 5-7 will be delighted to join
Evie as she navigates the playground and learns about sportsmanship and the challenge of losing
in "Evie's Field Day: More than One Way to Win". While especially and unreservedly
recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for
children, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Evie's Field Day: More than One Way
to Win" is also available in a paperback edition (9781733035910, $10.95) and in a digital book
format (Kindle, $1.99).
Miss Money Honey and the Riddle
Becky Page, author
James Balkovek, illustrator
Brown Books Kids
c/o Brown Books Publishing Group
16250 Knoll Trail Drive, Suite 205, Dallas, TX 75248
www.BrownBooks.com
9781612543192, $16.99, HC, 28pp, www.amazon.com
Jimmy can't believe the summer is over and it's already the first day of school, but he's still
excited to see all his friends and start the new year! But when he gets to class, he notices his
friend Benny being bullied by some of the other kids. He wants to help, but he just doesn't know
how. And then his teacher tells the class their homework for the day: think of a riddle to bring to
the class tomorrow, one that'll stump everyone. With so much to think about after a long day,
Jimmy falls asleep and has a crazy dream, where he meets Miss Money Honey, her flying piggy
bank, and Lenny Penny, a shy but important coin who comes out of the piggy bank. The dream is
strange, but may have everything Jimmy needs to solve all his problems from his first day of
school. Children ages 5-6 will enjoy joining Jimmy as he learns not only the value and
importance of a penny, but most importantly how to stand up to bullies, for himself and for his
friends. An original and thoroughly entertaining picture book with an important underlying
message about dealing with bullies, "Miss Money Honey and the Riddle" is unreservedly
recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for
young readers.
The Magic Hour
Ian Beck
Tate Publishing
c/o Harry N. Abrams
195 Broadway, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10007
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781849766241, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
One long, hot summer, Lily and Rose are playing in the garden of a large country house when
they spot a strange light. It must be fairies! Determined to catch them, they sneak out at sunset to
find the fairies. However, things aren't always what they seem. Will Lily and Rose be
disappointed or will they find something that's magic in its own way? Based on the world-famous
John Singer Sargent painting Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose, author and illustrator Ian Beck brings
the subjects to life and reveals an inspirational world behind the painting. An elegantly
entertaining picture book for children ages 3-8, "The Magic Hour" is unreservedly recommended
for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book
collections.
Matchy Matchy
Erin McGill
Cameron & Company
c/o Harry N. Abrams
195 Broadway, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10007
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781944903725, $16.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Thanks to Mom, everything about Maria matches -- her clothes, her socks, her underwear, her
backpack, and her lunchbox. Maria even matches the dog, the duvet, and the doilies. But Maria
doesn't want to be so matchy matchy. She wants to mix it up! Feathers and fringe! Pom-poms
and plaid! Spikes and spots! Leopard and lace! Tie-dye and tutus! One day she does just that and
asserts her very own unique style! An original and throughly charming picture book for children
ages 5-7, "Matchy Match" by author and artist Erin McGill is especially and unreservedly
recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, and community library collections.
At the Stroke of Goodnight
Clay Rice
Familius
1254 Commerce Way, Sanger, CA 93657
www.familius.com
9781641701440, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
In "At the Stroke of Goodnight", world-renowned paper-cut artist Clay Rice weaves a poetic
scene of what happens around a small farmhouse as night falls. A dreaming dog. A purring cat. A
bird on a limb. A mouse on a mat. The evening glows in the twilight. And all falls quiet at the
stroke of goodnight. A baby coos; a mommy sighs. Little ones tucked in, with dreams in their
eyes. A gentle hand turns out the light. And all is quiet at the stroke of goodnight. "At the Stroke
of Goodnight" is a perfect bedtime story for children ages 3-5 that gently and beautifully depicts
a busy world settling in for a warm night's sleep. While certain to be an immediate and
enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and
community library picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "At
the Stroke of Goodnight" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
The Adventures of Moose & Mr. Brown
Paul Smith, author
Sam Usher, illustrator
Pavilion Children's Books
www.pavilionbooks.com
9781843654285, $17.95, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Inspired by toys that children's author Paul Smith has owned for many years, the main characters
in "The Adventures of Moose & Mr. Brown" are Moose, who is a moose, and Mr. Brown, who is
a monkey who lives in Sir Paul's office in London. Mr. Brown is an international fashion
designer, who meets Moose on a plane travelling to London. Moose is distraught as he has lost
his twin brother Monty -who got on the wrong plane! Mr. Brown agrees to help Moose track
Monty down, and in return, Moose helps bring even more inspiration to Mr Brown's business.
They travel around the world, helping other animals with their designs (slippers for sloths, parkas
for penguins, scarves for giraffes, and more) and looking for Monty. Will Mr. Brown and Moose
find Monty before Mr Brown's big catwalk show? An original and thoroughly entertaining story
by the team of Paul Smith artist/illustrator Sam Usher, "The Adventures of Moose & Mr. Brown"
is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool,
elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-8.
Grandma Mable, Are You Able?
Willie Etta Wright, author
Blueberry Illustrations
Independently Published
9780970355157, $21.99, HC, 64pp, www.amazon.com
Deftly written in a first person narrative style, "Grandma Mable, Are You Able?" is a warmly
entertaining picture book for children ages 7-8 with a positive underlying message about a child's
adaptation to having to live with a grandparent. While a unique and unreservedly recommended
addition to family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for young
readers, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Grandma Mable, Are You Able?" is
also readily available in a paperback edition (9781791354480, $13.99) and in a digital book
format (Kindle, $2.99).
The Sand Elephant
Rinna Hermann, author
Sanne Dufft, illustrator
Floris Books
www.florisbooks.co.uk
9781782506157, $17.95, HC, 28pp, www.amazon.com
Paul is a young boy who has no one to play with. The sandbox is empty -- or is it? As he digs and
pats the sand, a shape appears: an elephant. Curling up under the elephant's warm, sandy trunk,
Paul drifts off to sleep. But then something amazing happens. The sand elephant stands up, and
lifts Paul onto its back! The sand elephant takes Paul to a wonderful land where incredible sand
animals and their children are laughing and playing together. But what will happen when the
wind starts to blow and the rain starts to fall? "The Sand Elephant" is delightful and entertaining
celebration of the power of childhood imagination in which Rinna Hermann's story deftly
combines with pictures full of vibrancy and charm by illustrator Sanne Dufft. Very highly
recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library
picture book collections, "The Sand Elephant" is a gentle story that reassures children ages 3-6
that friends from our imagination stay with us forever, so we need never feel alone!
Roly Poly
Mem Fox, author
Jane Dyer, illustrator
Beach Lane Books
c/o Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781481445566, $17.99, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Roly Poly the polar bear loves being an only child. His bed is only his. The fish he catches are
only his. And he doesn't have to share his toy walrus tooth with anyone. But then along comes
baby Monty. Roly Poly did not ask for a little brother and he certainly does not want one now!
What is Roly Poly to do when Monty starts making him share his bed and fish and walrus tooth?
A delightfully entertaining picture book (and with a positive underlying message promoting
sibling sharing) for children ages 4-8, "Roly Poly" will prove to be an enduringly popular
addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library
collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Roly Poly" is also available in a
digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Lola Dutch I Love You So Much
Kenneth Wright, author
Sarah Jane Wright, illustrator
Bloomsbury Children's Books
175 Fifth Avenue, 8th floor, New York, NY 10010-7728
www.bloomsburyusa.com
9781547601172, $17.99, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Lola Dutch is a delightfully creative young girl who loves her friends SO much. When they're
having a bad day, Lola knows just what to do to make each of them feel better: She sews cozy
pajamas for Gator, constructs the perfect reading nook for Crane, and takes Pig to the park! Lola
loves showing her friends how much she loves them! But there's one special friend she's
forgotten -- Bear! Can Lola decide on the perfect way to express how much he means to her?
Enhanced for children ages 3-6 with the inclusion of paper dolls and a note card, "Lola Dutch: I
Love You So Much" is a wonderfully entertaining and unreservedly recommended picture book
that is also available in a paperback edition (9781526605948, $10.99) and in a digital book
format (Kindle, $9.99).
Frankie's Scared of Everything
Mathew Franklin
Building Block Press
https://buildingblockpress.com
9781944201227, $19.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
The world can be a dark place. You would be scared too if your own brain was out to get you!
More and more our children feeling overwhelmed by the unknown and the pressures of society.
Deftly written and impressively illustrated by Mathew Franklin, ""Frankie's Scared of
Everything" is a unique and entertaining picture book for children ages 4-8 that will help instill
the fact that our fears can be our greatest strengths. Especially recommended for family, daycare
center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, kids will enjoy
following Frankie as his imagination runs wild creating robots, beasts, sea creatures, and even a
mole man in a technicolor adventure. -- Being afraid has never looked so fun!
Will's Adventure to the Candy Mountain
Gerry Haller, author
YM Cho, illustrator
Westwood Books Publishing
https://www.westwoodbookspublishing.com
9781643618821, $19.50, HC, 60pp, www.amazon.com
Will's grandmother has told Will about the Candy Mountain since he was a small child. One
night, Will is awakened by the conductor of a train. He is told to hurry to catch the train -- the
train to the Candy Mountain! On the train, Will meets a boy named Quinn, and they decide to go
on the adventure together. Will can hardly believe he is going to the Candy Mountain. Together,
there are many decisions to make. Each one is more mysterious than the last. What will they
find? What decisions will they have to make? A collaborative, unique, and thoroughly
entertaining picture book co-created by educator Gerry Haller and illustrator/artist YM Cho,
"Will's Adventure to the Candy Mountain" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended
addition to family, elementary school, and community library collections. It should be noted for
personal reading lists that "Will's Adventure to the Candy Mountain" is also available in a
paperback edition (9781643618814, $12.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Bon Voyage, Mister Rodriguez
Christiane Duchesne, author
Francois Thisdale, illustrator
Pajama Press
http://pajamapress.ca
9781772780895, $18.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Every afternoon at four o'clock, Mister Rodriguez steps out of a narrow laneway and strolls
through the street. The village children watch him go, ever more curious about the enigmatic old
man with the bushy white mustache. Some say they've seen him float above the ground. Others
say he played a piano without touching a single key. The truth, though, is more beautiful than any
of the children could have imagined. A beautifully crafted and charmingly entertaining picture
book for children ages 5-8 by the team of author/storyteller Christiane Duchesne and
illustrator/artist Francois Thisdale, "Bon Voyage, Mister Rodriguez" is an especially and
unreservedly recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library
collections.
With All My Heart
Stephanie Stansbie & Richard Smythe
Silver Dolphin Books
www.silverdolphinbooks.com
10350 Barnes Canyon Road, Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92121
9781684129102, $15.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
"With All My Heart" by the team of Stephanie Stansbie and Richard Smythe is a beautifully
illustrated picture book that showcases the lifelong love a parent has for their child. Each page
features sweet text paired with shaped die cuts for a unique reading experience for children ages
3-5. "With All My Heart" is the perfect picture book to cuddle up with and to express the endless
love between a parent and child making it an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to
family, daycare center, preschool, kindergarten, and community library collections.
What's So Wonderful About Webster?
Stephen & Alex Kendrick, authors
Daniel Fernandez, illustrator
B&H Kids
c/o B&H Publishing Group
1 LifeWay Plaza, Nashville, TN 37234
www.bhpublishinggroup.com
9781535949866, $12.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
It's almost field day, and Webster is worried. He can't run fast, he trips on the jump rope, and his
Frisbee always lands in a tree. How will he help his class get the medal? Webster is sure that God
forgot to make anything special about him. Children ages 4-8 will enjoy joining Webster and his
class as the whistle blows and he discovers a few God-given skills that just might save field day.
Especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and
community library collections, "What's So Wonderful About Webster?" is a whimsical and
charmingly illustrated picture book that will remind children that they were each wonderfully
made by God! It should be noted for personal reading lists that "What's So Wonderful About
Webster?" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.55).
Diggy the Dog Explores Friendship
Adam Loveless, author
Elena Kochetova, illustrator
Loveless Letters
www.lovelessletters.net
9780578595818, $19.95, HC, 44pp, www.amazon.com
With catchy rhymes and beautiful illustrations, "Diggy the Dog Explores Friendship" will have
young children delightfully following Diggy the Dog as he explores the unknown forest and
meets several new friends. Very highly recommended for family, elementary school, and
community library collections, the colorful pages and unique characters comprising this
adventurous picture book story will bring a smile to any child and will hopefully spread the idea
that the uniqueness of friends banding together can accomplish nearly all.
Good Night, Little Blue Truck
Alice Schertle and Jill McElmurry
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
www.hmhbooks.com
9781328852137, $17.99
Good Night, Little Blue Truck tells of a little blue truck and his good friend Toad, who head
home for cover when a storm threatens. They aren't the only ones who seek shelter during a
storm, though, and soon Cow, Goose, and other farm animals join them. Is there room for
everyone? A fun story of friendship, storms, and shelter evolves.
The Wolf Will Not Come
Myriam Ouyessad, author
Ronan Badel, illustrator
Schiffer Kids
c/o Schiffer Publishing Ltd.
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
www.schifferbooks.com
9780764357800, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
The Wolf Will Not Come represents an inviting exploration of childhood nighttime terrors as it
considers a frightened young rabbit who has nightmares of a wolf coming when he's asleep. At
first his mother claims there are no wolves, then admits that only a few still exist, then maintains
that wolves actually hide in the mountains far from them. As the astute little bunny keeps
catching his mother fibbing, he begins questioning both her wisdom and his safety. Kids with
good reading skills will relish this fun story of exactly why the wolf will not come to eat a
frightened little rabbit.
A Good Day
Daniel Nesquens and Miren Asiain Lora
Eerdmans Books
www.eerdmans.com
9780802853505, $16.99
The cat and the tiger are best friends, even though the cat runs free and the tiger's in a zoo. They
talk about everything, but when they begin to compare their different circumstances, they
discover a big surprise: each envies the other's life and strengths. The tiger has a plan to make his
dreams real. All he needs is the help of a little cat. Kids with good reading skills will find this a
fine adventure.
Tundra Books
www.penguinrandomhouse.ca
Three fine picture book stories are highly recommended for young readers. Anne Hunter's
Where's Baby? (9780735264984, $17.99) tells of Papa Fox, who is looking for Baby Fox. Baby
is hidden and there are many possibilities as to his location. Can readers see what Papa Fox
cannot? Kids ages 3-7 will delight in a very simple 'find Baby' story that has kids viewing what
Papa cannot! Sally Nicholls and Bethan Woollvin's The Button Book (9780735267152, $16.99)
presents a group of animal friends who experiment with a collection of mysterious buttons that
do different things when pressed. As the animals press a different button on each page, with
unexpected results, kids receive a whimsical survey of sounds and surprising experiment results.
Ben Clanton's Vote for ME! (9780735267589, $17.99) provides a fun political satire about
voting, elections, and candidates who just can't stop insulting one another as they contend for
leadership. Each presents a solid case as to why they deserve the vote, but as accusations and
contentions get out of hand, kids receive a whimsical and fun story that goes out on a limb of
fantasy during an outrageous confrontation. All are fine stories.
Simon and Schuster
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
These two picture books will appeal to young audiences and offer intriguing stories with
excellent-quality illustrations. Mem Fox works with illustrator Jane Dyer to create Roly Poly
(9781481445566, $17.99), a polar bear story that tells of an only child who enjoys everything
around him until baby Monty enters his life. He never asked for a little brother, and doesn't know
or accept the concept of sharing. Needle felt art enhances a warm story powered by dolls and the
idea of family and togetherness. Parker Curry and Jessica Curry's Parker Looks Up: An
Extraordinary Moment (9781534451865, $17.99) benefits from fine drawings by Brittany
Jackson as it tells of a youngster who encounters Michelle Obama's portrait at the National
Portrait Gallery and sees in that picture the strength and dynamic personality of a strong leader.
When someone snapped a photo of author Parker's fascination, her image went viral. This
provides the background story of her involvement not just with art and a woman's image, but her
own possibilities for influencing a different world.
Candlewick Press
www.candlewickpress.com
Three picture book winners provide excellent-quality artistic stories that will delight librarians
and parents seeking something different. Bob Graham's The Underhills: A Tooth Fairy Story
(9781536211122, $16.99) tells of tooth fairy sisters April and Esme, who are ready to enjoy a
night at their grandparents' teapot house when they parents are called away on a molar pickup
mission. When another job arrives, however, the two sisters decide to step up and take on the
tooth fairy tradition. Readers of April and Esme, Tooth Fairies, as well as newcomers to the two,
will find this a delightfully whimsical story of magic and tooth dilemmas. Good reading skills or
parental assistance are required. Terry Milne's Anxious Charlie to the Rescue (9781536209167,
$16.99) tells of a dog that follows the same routine daily. If there's any deviation to his schedule,
worry sets in. When an emergency leads him to abandon his well-established routine, he begins
to fret that something bad is certain to happen. Charlie's obsession with control and managing
change will resonate in many a young reader and creates a story with an important message about
flexibility and friendship. Lucy Rowland's The Knight Who Said "No!" (9781536208139,
$16.99) is illustrated by Kate Hindley, who provides a set of intriguing and hilarious drawings to
enhance the dilemma of a knight who begins to say 'no' on a regular basis, to everything. He's
always been the only polite child in his village, but when he tries out his new world on a night
dragon, he learns something new about the power of 'no' and 'yes'. A warm tale emerges about
friendship, rebellion, and lessons learned by accepting new possibilities.
Disney Hyperion
www.disneybooks.com
These new books for young readers each offer a story and compelling, fun approach that
discriminating parents and librarians will find refreshingly different and worthy of acquisition.
Mo Willems produces Volume 2 of An Elephant & Piggie Biggie-Biggie! (9781368045704,
$16.99), which packs five Elephant and Piggie pal adventures under one cover. Readers who
have no prior familiarity with these zany friends (or who have some of the books but not the
series) will welcome this very simple reader which features two-color drawings of best friends
who face dilemmas together.
Kids learn some basic math, from counting book pages to the problem of a best friend's broken
trunk from weight-lifting antics. The tales are very simple, the drawings oversized and fun, and
children with basic reading skills and their read-aloud parents will find this a whimsical set of
adventures. Tara Lazar's The Upper Case: Trouble in Capital City (9781368027656, $17.99)
receives fun drawings by Ross MacDonald, who presents a puzzling case that Private I must
crack when Question Mark storms into his office to report all the uppercase letters are
M-I-S-S-I-N-G. -- But, they can't be truly gone. This is Capital City, after all!
A fun story of letters gone awry teaches the basics of upper and lowercase letters within the
structure of an investigative puzzler. Lynn Plourde's If I Could Give You Christmas
(9781368002677, $17.99) arrived too late for holiday feature, but deserves to be on the shelves
of any seasonal picture book collection for years to come. Jennifer L. Meyer's gorgeous, warm
drawings capture the warmth and togetherness of the holiday season as animals share affection,
love, games, and seasonal delights with one another. The bundled-up birds and other animals are
beautifully depicted, complimenting a message of togetherness and holiday rituals. Tami Lewis
Brown & Debbie Loren Dunn's Instructions Not Included: How a Team of Women Coded the
Future (9781368011051, $17.99) is illustrated by Chelsea Beck, who provides fun drawings to
accompany the story of how three women (Betty Snyder, Jean Jennings, and Kay McNulty) used
mathematics and basic engineering savvy to work with the (then) largest computer in the world
during World War II. ENIAC came with no guidelines or rules, but a team effort led to new
inventions, calculations, and success fostered by a rare team of women who achieved the
impossible. Griselda Sastrawinata-Lemay's Blue Spot (9781368024594, $16.99) tells of cat
Daisy, who sports a blue spot on her new white dress after an art class mishap. But that isn't the
complete story of the blue spot. Daisy's propensity for utilizing blue materials for various
purposes leads to all kinds of scenarios that could have created the blue stain. As a coloring
mishap expands to include blueberry rain and other impossible blue scenarios, Daisy's story gets
wilder and wilder. Parents and kids will find this easy reader hilarious.
The Board Book Shelf
I Am Violet
Tania Duprey Stehlik, author
Vanja Vuleta Jovanovic, illustrator
Second Story Press
http://secondstorypress.ca
9781772601312, $10.95, Board Book, 18pp, www.amazon.com
People come in a rainbow of beautiful colors. A little girl looks around her and sees that some
people are blue, some are green, some are red? The world is a rainbow and Violet herself is a
wonderful mixture of her mom and dad. Her mom is red, her dad is blue, and the little girl
proudly announces: I am proud to be violet? I am proud to be me? I am Violet! A book for all
babies and toddlers to celebrate the skin they are in, "I Am Violet" is an especially and
unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, and community library
board book collections for children ages 5-6.
There Was an Old Dragon Who Swallowed a Knight
Penny Parker Klostermann, author
Ben Mantle, illustrator
Random House Books for Young Readers
rhcbooks.com
9781984892423 $8.99 board book
9780385390811 $9.99 ebook
There Was an Old Dragon Who Swallowed a Knight is a riotous board book featuring an original
take on the classic children's rhyme "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly". As
gargantuan red dragon swallows more and more people and things, he begins to wonder - should
he have stopped with just swallowing the knight? The wacky, off-the-wall illustrations (including
insider's views of the increasingly crowded living space within the dragon's stomach) add the
perfect touch to this hysterically funny, read-aloud board book!
The Theatre/Cinema/TV Shelf
You Are My Friend
Aimee Reid, author
Matt Phelan, illustrator
Harry N. Abrams
195 Broadway, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10007
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781419736179, $17.99, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Mister Rogers is one of the most beloved television personalities, but before he was the man who
brought us Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, he was just little Freddie Rogers. Though he was often
sick and had trouble making friends as a child, his mom and grandfather encouraged him to ask
for help and explore the world. With their support, he learned how to better say what he was
feeling and see the beauty around him. As he grew up, he realized he could spread the message of
compassion, equality, and kindness through television. A work of picture book fiction, "You Are
My Friend: The Story of Mister Rogers and His Neighborhood" is a gentle homage to Fred
Rogers by author Aimee Reid and illustrator/artist Matt Phelan and shows how his simple
message still resonates with children today. Of special note is the inclusion a short biography of
Fred's life and a bibliography. "You Are My Friend" is not associated with or endorsed by The
Fred Rogers Company. While highly recommended for elementary school and community library
collections for children 5-8, it should be noted that "You Are My Friend" is also available in a
digital book format (Kindle, $11.84) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape
Media, 9781974957675, $14.99, CD).
The Poetry Shelf
I Remember: Poems and Pictures of Heritage
Lee Bennett Hopkins, compiler
Lee & Low Books
95 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016
www.leeandlow.com
9781620143117, $19.95, HC, 56pp, www.amazon.com
From the joyous to the poignant, poems by award-winning, diverse poets are paired with images
by celebrated illustrators from similar backgrounds to pay homage to what is both unique and
universal about growing up in the United States in "I Remember: Poems and Pictures of
Heritage" specifically compiled by Lee Bennett Hopkins for children ages 9-12. Collectively
these heartfelt poems and captivating illustrations shine a light on the rich diversity of people in
our nation as well as the timeless human connections and experiences we all share. Unreservedly
recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library children's
poetry collections, young readers of any age and background will find much that sparks their
memories and opens their eyes.
The Folktale/Fairytale Shelf
The Generous Fish
Jacqueline Jules, author
Frances Tyrrell, illustrator
Wisdom Tales Press
www.wisdomtalespress.com
9781937786793 $16.95
The Generous Fish inspired by Jewish folktales, The Generous Fish is a children's picturebook
story about a talking fish with golden scales, who befriends a young boy. Seemingly everyone in
the boy's village needs the fish's golden scales for something - but doesn't the fish need its scales
too? Can the protect his fishy friend from the village before its last scale is taken? A
heartwarming parable, The Generous Fish is highly recommended especially for school and
public library picturebook collections.
The Walrus and the Caribou
Maika Harper, author
Marcus Cutler, illustrator
Inhabit Media
www.inhabitmedia.com
9781772272567, $16.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
When the earth was new, words had the power to breathe life into the world. But when creating
animals from breath, sometimes one does not get everything right on the first try! Based on a
traditional Inuit story passed forward orally for generations in the South Baffin region of
Nunavut, "The Walrus and the Caribou" is a delightful and entertaining picture book by author
Maika Harper and illustrator Marcus Cutler that shares with young readers ages 5-7 the origin of
the caribou and the walrus -- and tells of how very different these animals looked when they were
first conceived! Certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, preschool,
elementary school, and community library collections, "The Walrus and the Caribou" is
especially and unreservedly recommended!
The American History Shelf
Your Bridge To History
Portia Love, author
Preston Love Jr., author
Regina Jeanpierre, illustrator
Preston Publishing
9780996446495, $19.95, HC, 34pp, www.amazon.com
The collaborative work of authors Portia and Preston Love, "Your Bridge to History" is ideal for
taking children ages 6-9 along with the Black Votes Matter Tour across the American South. The
characters tour sites where individuals and organizations focus on Civil Rights, Voting Rights
and Black History in the United States. Beautiful illustrations by Regina Jeanpierre depict the
pictures the tour participants experienced along the way. Of special note are the QR codes
included in important locations to take young readers to websites that are important to further
learning. An ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to family, school and community
library African-American collections and Black History Month special events, it should be noted
for personal reading lists that "Your Bridge To History" is also available in a paperback edition
(9780996446402, $12.95).
The Judaic Shelf
Asteroid Goldberg: Passover in Outer Space
Brianna Caplan Sayres, author
Merrill Rainey, illustrator
Intergalactic Afikoman
www.IntergalacticAfikoman.com
9781951365004 $18.95
Asteroid Goldberg: Passover in Outer Space is a children's picturebook about a space-traveling
Jewish family, the Goldbergs, who celebrate the Passover holiday while flying home from Pluto!
Although the rhyming story is science fiction, it is deliberately in keeping with traditions of the
seder, and features a glossary of terms related to the Passover celebration. Asteroid Goldberg:
Passover in Outer Space is a delightful picturebook, and a choice pick for Jewish families to read
aloud and share with their children. Highly recommended.
Here Comes the Mitzvah Team - A Story about Zrizus
Naomi Lieberman, author
Tova Leff, illustrator
Hachai Publishing
527 Empire Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY 11225
www.hachai.com
9781945560194, $12.95, HC, 26pp, www.amazon.com
Rollicking rhymes and action-packed illustrations show what zrizus really looks like! With a
combination of speed and boundless enthusiasm for the mitzvos all around them, a family
"mitzvah team" rushes to the rescue on their little riding toys. "Lights flash, sirens scream
Zooming past, Fast, fast, fast, Here comes the Mitzvah Team!" How quickly they move to help
Bubby with her many bags, Little Sara Gittel who got a scratch while playing catch, and a boy
named Lipa who lost his kipa! A thoroughly charming and entertaining picture book, "Here
Comes the Mitzvah Team - A Story about Zrizus" is great way to inspire young children ages 4-6
with zrizus for their own mitzvah opportunities -- and is unreservedly recommended for family,
daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.
The Audiobook Shelf
The Night Country
Melissa Albert, author
Rebecca Soler, narrator
Macmillan Audio
175 Fifth Avenue, Suite 315, New York, NY 10010
www.macmillanaudio.com
9781250246240, $34.99, CD, www.amazon.com
In The Night Country is the complete and unabridged audio book sequel to author Melissa
Albert's novel "The Hazel Wood" in which Alice Proserpine once again dives back into a
menacing, mesmerizing world of dark fairy tales and hidden doors. Young listeners ages 12-18
will enjoy following her and Ellery Finch as they learn The Hazel Wood was just the beginning,
and that worlds die not with a whimper, but a bang. With Finch's help, Alice escaped the
Hinterland and her reclusive grandmother's dark legacy. Now she and the rest of the dregs of the
fairy tale world have washed up in New York City, where Alice is trying to make a new,
unmagical life. But something is stalking the Hinterland's survivors and she suspects their
deaths may have a darker purpose. Meanwhile, in the winking out world of the Hinterland, Finch
seeks his own adventure, and (if he can find it) a way back home! Expertly narrated by Rebecca
Soler, "The Night Country" is unreservedly recommended for both school and community library
audio book collections for teens and young adults.
The Music CD Shelf
Wild Life
Justin Roberts
www.justinrobertsmusic.com
Carpet Square Records
$13.59 CD / $9.49 MP3 amazon.com
The latest family-friendly music album by three-time Grammy nominee Justin Roberts, Wild Life
features upbeat, original compositions inspired by the birth of Roberts' first child. A medley of
instruments ranging from finger-plucked ukulele to flutes, moving bass lines, and pizzicato cello
enliven these charming songs brimming with wondrous delight. Wild Life is a choice pick for
family or public library children's music CD collections. The tracks are "Heart Like a Door",
"Curly", "World for You", "Glad You're Here", "You Grew", "First Let Go", "Ain't No Way",
"Be Not Afraid", "Hide and Seek", and "Wild Life".
The Self-Help Shelf
Be Your Best Self: Life Skills For Unstoppable Kids
Danielle Brown & Nathan Kai
Button Books
https://www.buttonbooks.co.uk
9781787080386, $17.99, HC, 120pp, www.amazon.com
Children can have big dreams. Maybe they would like to be a successful scientist, an
award-winning journalist, play in a rock band, swim in the Olympic Games, groom dogs, own a
bakery or even help to run the country? We all have different dreams, that's what makes us
unique. But whatever it is that a child wants to do, the skills they will need to achieve their goals
are the same. "Be Your Best Self: Life Skills For Unstoppable Kids" is exciting new book helps
children and young people to practice these core skills and provides a survival kit for them to dip
into when they need extra help or motivation. Some of the themes explored are: goal setting,
growth mindset, perseverance, getting organized and learning to fail well. Looking after yourself
is another important theme -- whether that be eating healthy food and exercising regularly,
getting enough sleep, being kind to oneself or knowing how to deal with bullies. Thoroughly 'kid
friendly' in organization and presentation, "Be Your Best Self: Life Skills For Unstoppable Kids"
is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to family, school and community
library Self-Help/Self-Improvement collections for young readers.
The Biography Shelf
The Slave Who Went to Congress
Marti Rosner and Frye Gaillard, authors
Jordana Haggard, illustrator
NewSouth Books
www.newsouthbooks.com
9781588383563 $18.95 amazon.com
The Slave Who Went to Congress is a children's picturebook biography of Benjamin Turner
(1825-1894), an African-American who spent the first 40 years of his life as a slave, taught
himself to read at a young age, and became the first black Congressman from Alabama and
among the first black Congressmen to serve after Emancipation. Striking artwork adds a
beautiful touch to this inspirational true story about perseverance, high ideals, and forging
history. The Slave Who Went to Congress is a choice pick for personal, school, and public
library picturebook collections, highly recommended.
The Sports Shelf
Breaking Through
Sue Macy
National Geographic Press
www.nationalgeographic.com
9781426336768 $18.99 amazon.com
Award-winning author Sue Macy presents Breaking Through: How Female Athletes Shattered
Stereotypes in the Roaring Twenties, a nonfiction children's book about the rise of women's
sports in the era after World War I. Here are true stories of brave, talented, physically fit women
who permanently changed the athletic world. Vintage photographs illustrate the in-depth text.
Breaking Through is ideal for young adults with confidence in their reading skills, and highly
recommended for school and public library nonfiction collections.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Wings of Fire Legends: Dragonslayer
Tui T. Sutherland
Scholastic
www.scholastic.com
9781338214604 $17.99 hc / $10.99 Kindle amazon.com
Wings of Fire Legends: Dragonslayer is a brand new YA fantasy novel in the Wings of Fire saga,
set in a land where various species of intelligent dragons reign supreme, and humans scramble to
hide lest they become the dragons' slaves, pets, or food. In Wings of Fire Legends: Dragonslayer,
Wren is a human who feels bitterness toward her village for attempting to sacrifice her to
dragons; she befriends an infant mountain dragon named Sky, raising it in isolation. Her brother
Leaf believes Wren to be dead, and has dedicated himself to becoming a dragonslayer. And Ivy
doesn't trust her own father; though he is a beloved ruler and a successful dragonslayer, she
knows that he hides a perilous secret from the sand dragon he killed twenty years ago. Each of
these three humans is destined to cross paths with dragons; could their choices light the way to a
future where dragons and humans are more than just predator and prey? Wings of Fire Legends:
Dragonslayer is a choice pick for school and public library collections, highly
recommended.
Wings of Fire: The Lost Continent
Tui T. Sutherland
Scholastic
www.scholastic.com
9781338214444 $7.99 pbk / $10.99 Kindle amazon.com
Now available in paperback, Wings of Fire: The Lost Continent is the eleventh novel in the
Wings of Fire YA fantasy series, set in a world where different species of dragons rule over all
dominion. Set in the faraway land of Pantala, The Lost Continent follows Blue and Luna, two
adolescent SilkWing dragons on the cusp of their metamorphosis. They expect to grow wings,
gain the ability to produce silk, and move to another Hive, but Luna's unexpected changes thrust
Blue into the complex and dangerous world lurking outside his own Hive. Pantala is brimming
with unexpected threats, and Blue must struggle for survival! An enthralling adventure from
cover to cover, Wings of Fire: The Lost Continent is highly recommended especially for young
dragon fans, as well as public and school library YA fantasy collections.
Books in Series
353 3rd Avenue, Suite 255, New York, NY 10010
www.greenhavenpublishing.com
There is a new six title addition to the uniquely informative and thoroughly 'kid friendly' People
In The News biography series from Greenhaven Publishing. This newest to the series includes:
Beyonce: The Reign of Queen Bey; Gal Gadoot: A New Kind of Action Hero; Mark Zuckerberg:
Shaping Social Media; Michelle Obama: First Lady, Author, and Activist; Prince Harry: Royal
Rule-Breaker; Robert Downey Jr.: Superhero Superstar. Certain to be immediate and enduringly
popular additions to both school and community library collections for young readers, each
individual title is available in a library binding print edition and in a digital ebook format. Each
volume features annotated quotations, a balanced text and objective tone, and will have a very
special appeal for reluctant readers based on their being high-interest subjects. Although
available individual, it is recommended for school and community libraries that they acquire all
six of these new additions to the People In The News series (9781534568068, $119.94
List/$101.94 List).
PowerKids Press
29 East 21st Street, New York, NY 10010
www.rosenpublishing.com
Ultimate Fantasy Art is a unique and impressively 'kid friendly' series of DIY books for aspiring
young artists in grades 3-6. Comprised of six profusely illustrated and instructive 32 page titles
(Epic Adventure; Fantastic Monsters; Gothic Horror; Heroes of History and Myth; Steampunk
World; Urban Magic), each books features activities, step-by-step instructions, a detailed table of
contents, a Further Information section, a glossary, and an index. Ideal as elementary and middle
school art class supplemental studies curriculum textbooks, the entire series (9781725303887,
$165.00 List/$124.20 S&L) will prove to be immediate and enduringly popular additions to both
school and community library Art instructional reference collections.
The Rosen Publishing Group, Inc.
29 East 21st Street, New York, NY 10010
www.rosenpublishing.com
Coding Your Passion has a new six volume jobs/careers addition to their computer skills based
series for students in grades 7-12. The titles (and subjects) covered by this six title addition to the
series includes Using Computer Science in Eduction Careers; Using Computer Science in High-
Tech Security Careers; Using Computer in Hospitality Careers; Using Computer Science in
Marketing Careers; Using Computer Science in Media Careers; Using Computer Science in the
Food Industry. Each 80 page titles includes full color photography, a detailed Table of Contents,
a Further Information Section, a Bibliography, a Glossary, Sidebars, Web Sites, and an Index.
Young readers will learn how they can acquire coding and programming skills through academic
and professional opportunities such as classes, camps, and internships -- and how to take and
apply those skills to their job or career. While individually available ($35.75 List/$26.85 S&L),
school and community libraries would be well advised to acquire the complete six volume set for
their young students and patrons (9781508187578, $214.50 List/$161.10 S&L).
Gareth Stevens Publishing
111 East 14th Street, Suite 349, New York, NY 10003
www.garethstevens.com
The School Rules is a simply outstanding series that is especially recommended and thoroughly
'kids friendly' addition to elementary school library collections for students in grades K-5. The
six comprising the 26-page titles of "The School Rules" collection include Rules at Lunch;
Rules in the Classroom, Rules in the Gym, Rules in the Library, Rules on the Bus, Rules on the
Playground. Profusely illustrated and featuring an ATOS text reading level of 1.0, each title
includes a table of contents and an index. While each titles in available individually ($22.60
List/$16.95 S&L), school libraries would be best advised to acquire the entire set
(9781482425413, $135.60 List/101.70 S&L).
Crabtree Publishers
www.crabtreebooks.com
Two series additions are fine books for elementary-level picture book collections. Rachel Eagen's
Abandoned and Escaped Animals (9780778766865, $27.60) illustrates its series theme of
Wildlife in the City by exploring populations of abandoned animals in urban environments. From
different problems of wild and semi-wild animals that roam yards and parks to human spaces that
face challenges over their presence, this provides a fine survey of problems, solutions, and
ecology. Simon Rose's Earthquake Readiness (9780778765042, $31.32) adds to the Natural
Disasters Meeting the Challenge series and explores the science of earthquake prediction and
how individuals can prepare for a disaster. Case studies show how scientists and engineers
modify structures to make them safer during a quake, while discussions of preparedness blend
science with social issues and individual readiness. Both are excellent series additions.
Cavendish Square
243 5th Avenue, Suite 136, New York, NY 10016
https://cavendishsq.com
Politics Today is an outstandingly informative and thoroughly 'kid friendly' series five books
specifically written for middle school ages students. This informative and expertly presented
series consists of Who Are Conservatives; Who Are Libertarians; Who Are Nationalists; Who
Are Populists; and Who Are Progressives. Each 64 page titles is profusely illustrated with full
color photography, and features Fact Boxes, a Further Information Section, a Glossary, Sidebars,
Web Sites, and an Index. This series is ideal for teaching students about different political
philosophies, as well as how to map trends in history, politics, and culture. Offering lessons in
civics and the responsibilities of citizenship and introducing basic economics and the effects of
government and regulations on the economy, this Politics Today series is an especially
recommended addition to middle school and community library Political Science collections.
While each of these five books is available individually ($34.21/$23.95), school and community
libraries would be best advised to acquire the complete set intact (9781502647627,
$171.05/$119.75).
The Child's World, Inc.
1980 Lookout Drive, Mankato, MN 56003
www.childsworld.com
The eight volume 'Learn About' series from The Child's World is an extraordinary and fun 'Glass
Jar Science' books that include Learn About Seeds; Learn About Clouds, Learn About
Volcanoes, Learn About Ocean Zones, Learn About Tornadoes, Learn About Snowstorms, and
Learn About The Galaxy. Each individual 24 page title includes a hands-on, science oriented
craft project that can be made in a glass jar to demonstrate each topic and encourage further
learning in the subject. Each title also features informative sidebars, a table of contents, a
phonetic glossary, an index, an introduction to the author, and sources for further learning.
Especially recommended as supplement curriculum textbooks for students K-3 grade, this
thoroughly 'kid friendly' series is unreservedly recommended for elementary school, family home
schooling, and community library collections. While each title in this outstanding series is
available individually ($19.95), schools and libraries should acquire the entire set for the benefit
of their young students and patrons (9781503840010, $159.60).
The Story Monsters Ink
Shelf
Story Monsters LLC is dedicated to helping authors of all genres strive for excellence through our marketing and publicity services, Dragonfly Book Awards contests, Story Monsters Approved! awards program, opportunities for connecting with schools, and the award-winning Story Monsters Ink(R) magazine.
The Boy and the Bear
Tracey Corderoy and Sarah Massini
Nosy Crow
c/o Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9781536208146, $16.99, hc, amazon.com
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
A lonely boy needs a friend to play with. It's difficult to play hide-and-seek or be on a see-saw by
yourself. One day, while sitting on the edge of the water, a paper boat floats by with an invitation
to play. Thinking he might have found a real friend at last, the little boy is excited to meet his
new playmate, only to find that his playmate is a big bear, and not a little boy like him. The two
have nothing in common. Will they be able to find a way to play together and be friends? (Ages
2-5)
Max and Marla are Flying Together
Alexander Boiger
Philomel Books
c/o Penguin Group USA
https://www.penguin.com
9780525515661, $17.99, hc, $10.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
Fun and friendship go hand in hand. And, in this sweet tale, Marla finds that friendship is also
the best way to overcome fear! Max's creativity opens to them a much higher level of enjoyment
to share together. Having a good friend can broaden our lives, take us beyond our personal
limitations, and let us truly fly! (Ages 3-5)
Polar Bear's Story
Harriet Blackford, author
Manja Stojic, illustrator
Sterling Publishing Company
www.sterlingpublishing.com
9781912757107, $16.95, hc, amazon.com
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Author Harriet Blackford introduces young readers to polar bears by chronicling the life of one of
these magnificent creatures, starting with the cub's birth. As she grows, she plays with her
brother, learns to hunt, and eventually goes out on her own. The simple text and kid-friendly
illustrations work well together. The author's note at the end of the book provides more
information about polar bears and how they are being impacted by the changing environment.
(Ages 3-6)
The Space Walk
Brian Biggs
Dial Books
c/o Penguin Group USA
https://www.penguin.com
9780525553373, $17.99, hc, $10.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
Astronaut Randolph Witherspoon wants to take a walk - a spacewalk, that is! But Ground
Control has other ideas. Randolph must eat some lunch, get some exercise, and then he can go
outside, provided he dresses warmly and doesn't talk to strangers. But Randolph's mission doesn't
exactly go as planned, leading to an unexpected new friend. This is a cute story that shares the
joy of friendship, and a sure reminder that whether we are bored at home, or in outer space, if our
hearts are open, good things will find their way to us. (Ages 3-7)
Gigantosaurus: Don't Cave In
Cyber Group Studios
c/o Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9781536212075, $12.99, hc, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
This book is based on the TV series Gigantosaurus on Disney Jr. The four young dinosaur friends
are based on characters created by Jonny Duddle. Each book leads the foursome into new
adventures in discovery. Children will enjoy spending time with their favorite characters away
from the TV screen. In the story Don't Cave In, we find the four young dinosaur friends caught in
a dark and scary place. Can they find their way out together? What incredible things might they
discover as they press their way through the frightening unknown? (Ages 3-7)
Fearless Mirabelle & Meg
Katie Haworth and Nila Aye
Templar
c/o Penguin Group USA
https://www.penguin.com
9781536208115, $16.99, hc, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
It's hard to live in someone's shadow. Hard to meet the expectations of others. It can be
exceptionally hard if you happen to be twins! When you look alike, people can expect you to act
alike as well. These two sisters are nothing alike, and Meg begins to get concerned. But, together
they learn that their differences add to a much fuller experience for everybody. Everyone has
their own uniqueness to add to every situation. Learn to enjoy yours! (Ages 3-7)
Great Job, Dad!
Holman Wang
Tundra Books
http://penguinrandomhouse.ca/imprints/tundra-books
9780735264106, $16.99, amazon.com
Larissa Juliano
Reviewer
Great Job, Dad! and Great Job, Mom! are a fantastic book duo that celebrates moms and dads
and all the hats they wear! The illustrations are not really illustrations, but in fact wool felt dolls
that are staged on different sets and photographed for the book. So fun and different! Very cute
and relatable for both parent and child. This book is a fantastic mentor and inspirational text for
teachers and art teachers to kick off a writing and art project. Children and adults can create their
own stories using tangible and 3-D mediums/dolls, furniture, props, and more as they celebrate
the love of their parents and all the jobs they (happily) do. (Ages 3-7)
The Underhills: A Tooth Fairy Story
Bob Graham
Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9781536211122, $16.99, hc, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
Graham creates magic with a cute peek into an ethereal world. A world of family and community
where an extra helping hand is readily extended. A place where the young come into those same
familiar moments of childhood independence. A great story of the realization or fulfillment of
one's talents and potentialities, and the finding of our place in the whole of things! (Ages
3-7)
Being Small (Isn't So Bad After All)
Lori Orlinski, author
Vanessa Alexandre, illustrator
Mascot Books
http://mascotbooks.com
9781643071275, $14.95, hc, $6.99, Kindle
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
Self-acceptance is a hard place to reach. Feeling comfortable with ourselves seems to take us on
quite a journey. It's great when we get an early start. This story of a little girl falling into those all
too familiar patterns of avoidance, withdrawal, and self-depreciation is met with loving and
tender wisdom from her mom. Without denying our feelings, if we can help each other find the
positives, the negatives may just diminish. Kindness and acceptance are very compatible friends.
(Ages 3-9)
Anxious Charlie to the Rescue
Terry Milne
Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9781536209167, $16.99, hc, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
Charlie is a fearful pup. Careful to do everything just right, he assures himself stable days. Until
one particular day when a call for help comes his way. Would responding unravel his
well-maintained routine? Charlie discovers that helping others can take our minds off of our
demanding duties, and still produce assurance and stability. A great lesson to learn. (Ages
4-6)
Doodle and Peck
Marla F. Jones
Doodle and Peck Publishing
https://www.doodleandpeck.com
9781733346214, $19.99, hc, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
Doodle and Peck are each making a special gift for their friend Camelia's birthday. In the rush to
get to the party, they collide, and so do their gifts! While they can't see past their unfortunate
situation and the urge to blame each other, onlookers see a whole different story. The collision
and it's shuffling seemed to bring about one very nice new gift! Can they look past their own
disappointment and present their new gift together? It brings to mind an old saying, "Sometimes,
two heads are better than one!" (Ages 4-6)
There Was an Old Woman Who Lived in a Book
Jomike Tejido
Jimmy Patterson
https://www.jimmypatterson.org
c/o Little, Brown Children's Books
https://www.lbyr.com
9780316493055, $17.99, hc, $9.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Instead of living in a shoe, this old woman lives in a book. When her children don't come home
on time, she goes out looking for them. She stops by to ask for help from Jack (of the beanstalk
fame), Humpty Dumpty, the Three Bears, and other well-known fairy tale characters. Author
Jomike Tejido cleverly incorporates all these characters for a
different take on the beloved childhood favorites. (Ages 4-7)
Good Night, Little Blue Truck
Alice Schertle, author
Jill McElmurry, illustrator
HMH Books for Young Readers
https://www.hmhbooks.com
9781328852137, $17.99, hc, $12.99, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
This is a sweet, rhythmic story that is sure to be a childhood favorite. On a stormy night, friends
find warmth and comfort together. Little Blue truck and his friends discover that scary things
never seem as frightening when we have someone to snuggle up and ride it through with. (Ages
4-7)
Sulwe
Lupita Nyong'o, author
Vashti Harrison, illustrator
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781534425361, $17.99, hc, $10.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Sulwe was born with skin the color of midnight. The rest of the members of her family all have
lighter skin, as does everyone in her school. Because of her darker skin, her classmates make fun
of her and keep away from her. This inevitably leads to pain and heartbreak on her part. All she
wants is to be like everyone else, especially like her mother and her sister, as she considers both
of them to be beautiful. One night, after she goes on a magical journey through the dark sky, her
perception of dark and light is changed forever. (Ages 4-8)
Mother Goose of Pudding Lane (Small Tall Tales)
Told by Chris Raschka
Pictures by Vladimir Radunsky
Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9780763675233, $17.99, hc, amazon.com
Larissa Juliano
Reviewer
I love Mother Goose tales and rhymes and this homage to her has quite an interesting spin on the
usual rhyme books and narrative nonfiction biographies (which are gaining in popularity). Who
was she really? What do we know about her history, background, and personal life? She was a
creative and remarkable woman and this book showcases a special and fun side to her with an
extra spotlight on her poetic prowess and talent. This is a fantastic addition to learning nursery
rhymes, reading biographies with a twist, diving into poetry unit, and of course, just for pure
entertainment. (Ages 4-8)
Wild Honey from the Moon
Kenneth Kraegel
Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9780763681692, $17.99, hc, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
This delightful tale is a shining example of the joy and memories that thrive in storytime. A
moment nestled together, sharing in heart the adventures pressed upon its characters. The love,
the necessity that drives us beyond our ability, beyond our comfort, to reach our very best for
another. This is a tender story of a mother's love and determination, and the success it brings. (Ages 4-8)
Cookie & Milk: A Scientifically Stunt-Tastic Sisterhood
Michele McAvoy, Jessica Gibson
Cardinal Rule Press
https://cardinalrulepress.com
9780997608595, $16.95, hc, $1.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Cookie and Milk are best friends, even though they don't have much in common. Cookie is a
genius who loves math and science. Milk is a daredevil who lives for adventure and adrenaline.
But the two make a great pair. Cookie invents wonderful things and Milk tries them out. Written
in a cartoon-type format with great illustrations, this book is sure to capture your child's
imagination. (Ages 5-7)
Betty Builds It
Julie Hampton
West Margin Press
https://www.westmarginpress.com
9781513262321, $17.99, hc, $8.69, Kindle, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
This cute story brings home two major life truths. Necessity is the mother of invention! Need has
a way of pressing us into remedies. And, often what we need is right in front of us all the time!
Little Betty is a lonely little bot. She can build just about anything. One day she sets herself to
building a friend that can run fast, jump high, and talk, just like her. When things begin to go
wrong, Betty realizes what she longs for has been right in front of her all along! (Ages 5-8)
Crocodile's Crossing: A Search for Home
Yoeri Slegers
Flyaway Books
https://www.flyawaybooks.com
9781947888210, $17.00, hc, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
Children are often frightened and confused when they remain in the background catching bits and
pieces of adult conversations. There are many hot topics in the air today, and as parents and
caregivers, we need to help our children understand them. This story gives a sensitive look from
the immigrant's point of view. Difficult conditions dislodge them from their families and homes,
driving them in directions they aren't familiar with, only to find they are unwanted when they
arrive. Crocodile's story portrays the challenges faced by many refugees today. (Ages 5-8)
Suffragette: The Battle for Equality
David Roberts
Walker Books
https://walkerbooksus.com
c/o Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9781536208412, $25.00, hc, $14.75, Kindle, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
History connects time and people to the feats of glory that brought us to this very moment and
place in our day. No one ever stands alone in the great cry of victory, but rests their laurels on the
shoulders of all those who came before them. Those who suffered and fought for the open doors
through which we walk. This beautifully crafted book should don our shelves as reminders of all
those who paved the way for our liberties. (Ages 7-10)
The Boy at the Back of the Class
Onjali Q. Rauf
Delacorte Books for Young Readers
c/o Random House
www.randomhouse.com
9781984850782, $16.99, hc, $9.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Diana Perry
Reviewer
There used to be an empty chair at the back of Mrs. Khan's classroom, but on the third Tuesday
of the school year, a new kid fills it: 9-year-old Ahmet, a Syrian refugee. The whole class is
curious about this new boy - he doesn't seem to smile, and he doesn't talk much. But after
learning that Ahmet fled a very real war and was separated from his family along the way, a
determined group of his classmates bands together to concoct the greatest idea in the world: a
magnificent plan to reunite Ahmet with his loved ones. This is a very educational story about the
plight of refugees. A book every student should read. (Ages 8-12)
Amelia Fang and the Barbaric Ball
Laura Ellen Anderson
Delacorte Books for Young Readers
c/o Random House
www.randomhouse.com
9781984848390, $12.99, hc, $7.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Amelia Fang would much rather hang out with her pet pumpkin Squashy and her friends
Florence the yeti and Grimaldi the reaper than dance at her parents' annual Barbaric Ball. When
the King's spoiled son Tangine captures Squashy, Amelia and her friends must escape the party
to plan a daring rescue! In their race against time, they begin to realize things in Nocturnia may
not be quite what they seem ....With comedy, action, new vampire facts, and more troubles than
one can count, young readers will laugh their way through this story that ends with a great moral
lesson. (Ages 7-10)
Martin McLean, Middle School Queen
Alyssa Zaczek
Sterling Children's Books
www.sterlingpublishing.com
9781454935704, $16.95, hc, $8.49, Kindle, amazon.com
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Seventh-grader Martin McLean has always been surrounded by people who can express
themselves. He can only find the right words when he's answering a problem at a Mathletes
competition - until his friend introduces him to the world of drag. In a swirl of sequins and
stilettos, Martin creates his fabulous drag queen alter ego, Lottie Le¢n. As Lottie, he is braver
than he's ever been; but as Martin, he doesn't have the guts to tell anyone outside of his family
about her. Young adults will find this story intense as the decisions Martin makes changes his life
forever. (Ages 8-12)
The Magical Land of Birthdays
Amirah Kassem, author
Elisa Chavarri, illustrator
Amulet Books
c/o Harry N. Abrams
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781419737435, $14.99, hc, $8.41, Kindle, amazon.com
Diana Perry
Reviewer
After receiving a magical cookbook and baking her special birthday cake, 11-year-old Amirah is
transported to the Magical Land of Birthdays, where she meets three of her birthday buddies from
different corners of the world - kids who share her exact birthday and are also about to turn 11. In
the Magical Land of Birthdays, a place filled with wonder and whimsy (and plenty of cake!), you
can celebrate your birthday every moment of every day. As they explore the land, Amirah and her
new friends learn about each other and the special bond they share, and discover exciting and
wonderful birthday traditions from around the world. This uplifting book teaches to treasure each
birthday and keep the memories forever. (Ages 8-12)
The Perfect Star
Rob Buyea
Delacorte Books for Young Readers
c/o Random House
www.randomhouse.com
9781524764630, $16.99, hc, $9.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Eighth-graders Gavin, Natalie, Trevor, Randi, and Scott go on a field trip to the Nature's
Learning Lab for a five-day scientific adventure. The five friends are excited. They all go to the
beach, but as much fun as they're having, things start to go wrong... This is a coming-of-age story
about the emotional highs and lows in the daily lives of teenagers struggling to become adults.
Young readers will find themselves relating to almost all of it. While I can't reveal why, the title
fits this story perfectly! (Ages 9-12)
I, Cosmo
Carlie Sorosiak
Walker Books
https://walkerbooksus.com
c/o Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9781536207699, $16.99, hc, $9.00, Kindle, amazon.com
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Ever since Cosmo became a big brother to Max ten years ago, he's known what his job was: to
protect his boy and make him happy. Through many good years marked by tennis balls and
pilfered turkey, torn-up toilet paper and fragrant goose poop, Cosmo has doggedly kept his vow.
Until recently, his biggest problems were the evil tutu-wearing sheepdog he met on Halloween
and the arthritis in his own joints. But now, with Dadscented blankets appearing on the couch
and arguing voices getting louder, Cosmo senses a tougher challenge ahead. Cosmo goes through
every emotion that he senses from Max, making me wonder if dogs really do feel what we do. A
truly great book. (Ages 8-12)
Pony on the Twelfth Floor
Polly Faber, author
Sarah Jennings, illustrator
Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9781536209303, $16.99, hc, $16.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Diana Fisher
Reviewer
Kizzy is a young girl with a big dream - to have a pony of her own. It seems impossible, living in
the city in an apartment, but Kizzy's wish comes miraculously, absurdly true in the most unlikely
of places. A mischievous pony has wandered into a grocery store sniffing out goodies to munch
on while Kizzy is there on an errand. She takes charge if the wandering pony, whom she dubs
Donut, and there begins a delightful, messy, bumbling adventure for the two of them. But the
inevitable search for the Donut's real home looms in the background. Whimsical illustrations add
to the fun. For young readers, this novel is an amusing, heartwarming page-turner. Incorrigible,
lovable Donut will steal your heart. (Ages 8-12)
Bouncing Back
Scott Ostler
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
c/o Hachette Book Group USA
https://www.lbyr.com
9780316524742, $16.36, hc, $9.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Back in his old basketball league, Carlos Cooper owned the court, sprinting and jumping and
lighting up the scoreboard as opponents (and teammates) watched in awe. Now 13-year-old
"Cooper the Hooper" is out of his league, new to life in a wheelchair, and struggling to pull his
weight with his wheelchair basketball team, the Rollin' Rats. Just when Carlos starts to get the
hang of the game, the city shuts down the Rollin' Rats' gym. Without the gym, the team can't
practice, and if they can't practice, they might as well kiss their state tournament dreams goodbye.
Carlos will need to fully embrace his new friends and his new role in the sport he loves in order
to truly become part of the team - and help save their season. I believe young readers will be able
to see through Carlos' eyes how life can change during a disaster and yet the important things
remain. (Ages 9-12)
Who Put This Song On?
Morgan Parker
Delacorte Press
c/o Random House
www.randomhouse.com
9780525707516, $18.99, hc, $10.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Trapped in sunny, stifling, smalltown suburbia, 17-year-old Morgan knows why she's in therapy.
She can't count the number of times she's been the only non-white person at the sleepover, been
teased for her "weird" outfits, and been told she's not "really" black. Also, she's spent most of her
summer crying in bed. So there's that, too. Lately, it feels like the whole world is listening to the
same terrible track on repeat - and it's telling them how to feel, who to vote for, what to believe.
Morgan wonders when can she turn this song off and begin living for herself. This book will
open eyes and minds. Read it. (Ages 13+)
The Infinite Noise
Lauren Shippen
Tor Teen
www.tor-forge.com
9781250297518, $17.99, hc, $9.99, Kindle, amazon.com
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Caleb is an Atypical, an individual with enhanced abilities. Which sounds pretty cool, except
Caleb's ability is extreme empathy he feels the emotions of everyone around him. Being an
empath in high school would be hard enough, but Caleb's life becomes even more complicated
when he keeps getting pulled into the emotional orbit of one of his classmates, Adam. Adam's
feelings are big and all-consuming, but they fit together with Caleb's feelings in a way that he
can't quite understand. This is a story that is informative, intense, and complex. It will keep
young adults reading until the very end. (Ages 14+)
103 Fundraising Ideas for Parent Volunteers with Schools and Teams
Cathy McGough
Stratford Living Publishing Inc.
https://stratfordliving.ca
9781988201405, $14.95, pbk, $4.95, Kindle, amazon.com
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
Wow! What a resource. Anyone connected to fundraising of any kind needs this book on their
shelf. It is packed with everything you need to know for running a perfect event. Many clever and
fun ideas are laid out in detail. There are so many things to do and consider, and Cathy has
addressed them all! As a young woman, I ran a fair share of events, and I would have loved to
have had such a resource at hand. Moms, you need this book to survive the many activities and
committees it will take to get your kids through school. And sports Moms are sure to succeed in
getting new equipment and uniforms with this handy guide. (14+)
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
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