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Children's Bookwatch
Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
Instructions Not Included
Tami Lewis Brown and Debbie Loren Dunn, authors
www.brownanddunn.com
Chelsea Beck, illustrator
chelseadrewthis.com
Disney-Hyperion
www.disneyhyperionbooks.com
9781368011051 $17.99 hc / $10.99 Kindle amazon.com
Instructions Not Included: How a Team of Women Coded the Future is a nonfiction children's
picturebook about the lesser-known contributions that three women made to computer science
during World War II. One of the earliest computers, ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator
and Computer) was a potential tool to aid the war effort, but how could it be used? Betty, Jean,
and Kay used mathematics, electrical engineering, logic, and plain sensibility to figure out how to
effectively communicate with and operate the machine. An extensive "Author's Note" at the end
of the storybook provides more biographical details about this amazingly intelligent and
persistent pioneers. Instructions Not Included is highly recommended, especially for public
school and library picturebook collections.
Z Is for Zebra: A Mosaic Menagerie
Judith Caseley
Full Cycle Publications
www.fullcyclepublications.com
9780996642293, $15.00, HC, 53pp, www.amazon.com
"Z is for Zebra" is a delightful reading romp for children 8-12. With vibrant art and quirky
rhymes, this unique picture book uses a child's innate love of animals to move the young reader
through the letters of the alphabet. Displaying gorgeous mosaics, rich with colors and details, "Z
is for Zebra" presents the alphabet in an easily accessible and entertaining presentation. A delight
for the mind and a visual feast for young book lovers and their parents, each page features an
alphabet letter and a highly colorful animal mosaic along with quirky, funny memorable phrases.
Using glass tile, pebbles, and found materials instead of her usual paints and brushes, author and
illustrator Judith Caseley's words and pictures celebrate the imagination of every child, weaving
her magic for the youngest would-be zoologist. From jeweled starfish to bright butterflies, comic
giraffes to venomous vipers this is a unique picture book that is certain to be an immediate and
enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school, and community library
collections!
Oops! I'm Sorry!
Sara Blau, author
Erin Taylor, illustrator
Hachai Publishing
527 Empire Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY 11225
www.hachai.com
9781945560200 $10.95 amazon.com
Created with laminated pages that are easy for little hands to turn, Oops! I'm Sorry! is an
children's picturebook about what do when one accidentally makes a mistake that causes trouble
for another person. The rhyming words walk young readers through the fundamental principle of
a sincere apology: "Because, even when it's just a mistake, / The kind of mistake anybody could
make, / There are always three steps for people to take: // Saying sorry is first - / Help to fix it,
and then - / Find a way to make sure it won't happen again!" Oops! I'm Sorry! features colorful
illustrations of Jewish children, and is essentially about the Jewish concept of Teshuva (or
"repentance"), yet its presentation about what constitutes a meaningful apology is an invaluable
lesson for young people of all religions and backgrounds. Highly recommended.
The Social Issues Shelf
Tyaja Uses the Think Test
Linda Ryden, author
Shearry Malone, illustrator
Tilbury House Publishers
9780884487357, $16.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Ms. Snowden tells the kids that T = True, H = Helpful, N = Necessary, and K = Kind. If what
you're about to say isn't any of these things, she tells them, you shouldn't say it. Later that day,
when Tyaja is about to criticize her friend Dhavi's new haircut, she is stopped by four little elves
sporting the letters T, H, N, and K, who reinforce Ms. Snowden's lesson and remind Tyaja how
friends should treat friends. Tyaja learns that she is the "I" in THiNK! With a deftly crafted social
message embedded in an original and entertaining picture book story for children ages 6-8,
"Tyaja Uses the Think Test" is an original, clever, and highly recommended addition to family,
elementary school, and community library collections.
The Boy with Big, Big Feelings
Britney Winn Lee, author
Jacob Souva, illustrator
Beaming Books
PO Box 1209, Minneapolis, MN 55440
https://www.beamingbooks.com
9781506454504, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
In the pages of "The Boy with Big, Big Feelings", children ages 4-8 will learn about a boy with
feelings so big that they glow from his cheeks, spill out of his eyes, and jump up and down on his
chest. When a loud truck drives by, he cries. When he hears a joke, he bursts with joy. When his
loved ones are having a hard day, he feels their emotions as if they were his own. The boy tries to
cope by stuffing down his feelings, but with a little help and artistic inspiration, the boy realizes
his feelings are something to be celebrated. All the more impressive when considering that "The
Boy with Big, Big Feelings" is the debut picture book author Britney Winn Lee (and boldly
enhanced with illustrations by Jacob Souva), is impressively relatable for any child, but
especially for children experiencing anxiety and extreme emotions, or who have been diagnosed
with autism or as a Highly Sensitive Person -- making it a unique and highly recommended
addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school and community library
collections.
The Holiday Shelf
Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur Guess Who?
Ariella Stern, author
Patti Argoff, illustrator
Hachai Publishing
527 Empire Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY 11225
www.hachai.com
9781945560224 $9.95 amazon.com
Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur Guess Who? is a double-sided picturebook designed to teach young
children, especially Jewish children, about the Jewish holidays of Rosh Hashana and Yom
Kippur. Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur Guess Who? is a "lift-the-flap" book; young readers can
raise flaps to learn the answers to holiday-themed riddles. For example, one page reads "Put on
sneakers, / or slip into a slipper, / But I'm the kind of shoe / that's NOT for Yom Kippur!" Lifting
the flap shows the answer to the "Who am I?" riddle: Leather shoes (which are expressly not to
be worn during Yom Kippur, in accordance with tradition). Rosh Hashana, Yom Kippur Guess
Who? is an excellent teaching tool that parents can share with their children in order to educate
them about these holidays, and highly recommended.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Little Kids First Big Book of Pets
Catherine D. Hughes
National Geographic Kids
101 West 104th Street, Suite 8, New York, NY 10025
www.nationalgeographic.com
9781426334702 $14.99 hc / $8.99 Kindle amazon.com
Featuring beautiful photography of adorable animals, Little Kids First Big Book of Pets is a full-
color, hardcover nonfiction book filled with basic facts about popular pets, from dogs and cats to
rodents, birds, reptiles, fish and more. The age-appropriate text is thoroughly accessible to
beginning and intermediate readers, and touches upon important principles such as distinguishing
wild animals from pets, understanding the message behind certain body language or
vocalizations from cats and dogs, and basic pet care for a variety of different animals. Little Kids
First Big Book of Pets is appealing, educational, and highly recommended especially for school
and library children's collections.
Snow Leopard: Ghost of the Mountains
Justin Anderson, author
Patrick Benson, illustrator
Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
9781536205404 $16.99 amazon.com
Snow Leopard: Ghost of the Mountains is a beautiful, educational picturebook about snow
leopards, great cats that live in the Himalayan mountains. Told from the point of view of a
zoologist, the story follows wild snow leopards in their daily lives, enriched with fascinating
facts and beautiful, realistic art. A treasure that will especially appeal to young fans of big cats,
Snow Leopard: Ghost of the Mountains is highly recommended for personal, school, and public
library picturebook collections.
Humanimals
Christopher Lloyd, author
Mark Ruffle, illustrator
What on Earth Books
https://www.whatonearthbooks.com/us
9781912920013 $19.99 amazon.com
Written especially for young people ages 7-12, Humanimals is a nonfiction, full-color
picturebook about the many ways in which different animals resemble humans. From ravens that
love to roll in the snow purely for fun (as far as we know), to "farmer fish" that cultivates a
species of algae like a human gardener protects their garden, to evidence that elephants may feel
grief over the death of a family member, Humanimals is filled with fascinating, true-to-life
vignettes revealing that animals might not be so different from humans after all. Highly
recommended, especially for school and library nonfiction picturebook collections.
Snack, Snooze, Skedaddle
Laura Purdie Salas, author
Claudine Gevry, illustrator
Millbrook Press
c/o The Lerner Publishing Group
241 First Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1607
www.lernerbooks.com
9781541529007, $19.99, Library Binding, 32pp, www.amazon.com
There is more than one way for animals to prepare for winter. Some, such as mice, foxes, and
moose, simply tolerate the cold. Of course black bears hibernate, but chipmunks, wood frogs, and
garter snakes do too. And then there are the creatures that migrate, including hummingbirds, blue
whales, and even earthworms! This rhyming nonfiction picture book by the team of author Laura
Purdie Salas and illustrator Claudine Gevry tells children ages 5-9 all about how animals survive
chilly weather. While unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school and community
library Pets/Wildlife picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that
"Snack, Snooze, Skedaddle: How Animals Get Ready for Winter" is also available in a digital
book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Migration: Incredible Animal Journeys
Mike Unwin, author
Jenni Desmond, illustrator
Bloomsbury Children's Books
175 Fifth Avenue, 8th floor, New York, NY 10010-7728
www.bloomsburyusa.com
9781547600977, $18.99, HC, 48pp, www.amazon.com
Animals of all shapes and sizes make epic journeys across our planet, through harsh weather,
avoiding hungry predators, in their efforts to survive. Travel around the globe with some of the
world's most incredible animals and discover their unique migration stories. In the beautifully
illustrated and informative pages of "Migration: Incredible Animal Journeys" children ages 5-8
will follow the emperor penguin through snow, ice and bitter temperatures; watch as the great
white shark swims 10,000 km in search of seals; track huge herds of elephants, on their yearly
hunt for water and be amazed at the millions of red crabs, migrating across Christmas
Island. Featuring the astonishing migrations of 20 creatures, "Migration: Incredible Animal Journeys" is
certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school and
community library Pets/Wildlife picture book collections.
Lucky's Adventure in Winter Wonderland
Elizabeth Macy, author
Jenn Kocsmiersky, illustrator
Image Press
https://www.luckysadventures.net
9781733130011, $17.99, HC, 36pp, www.amazon.com
What could be more fun than snow days with friends? Lucky and her doggie friends enjoy a
winter wonderland adventure, filled with snowshoeing, skating, skiing and sledding. Inspired by
the lucky life she now has, Lucky brings her pals on a surprise visit to a rescue shelter! Through
it all, Lucky and her friends realize that making new friends and giving back is the most
wonderful adventure they can share. Kids ages (and especially dog lovers!) ages 2-8 will enjoy
this beautifully illustrated picture book that introduces them to rescue dogs and the importance of
finding their forever homes. While very highly recommended for family, daycare center,
preschool, elementary school, and community library Pets/Wildlife picture book collections, it
should be noted for personal reading lists that "Lucky's Adventure in Winter Wonderland" is also
available in a paperback edition (9781733130004, $13.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle,
$4.99).
The Health Shelf
Do Penguins Have Pediatricians?
Patrick O'Donnell, author
Erik Mehlen, illustrator
Schiffer Publishing Ltd.
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
www.schifferbooks.com
9780764357770, $14.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
On the way to a doctor checkup, a young child asks an important question: Do animals that live
in really cold places ever get sick? From the same author as "Did Dinosaurs Have Dentists?", this
new picture book from the team of author Patrick O'Donnell and illustrator Erik Mehlen, "Do
Penguins Have Pediatricians?" uses Arctic and Antarctic creatures to lessen anxiety about the
doctor. Can penguins catch pneumonia? Can a caribou get chicken pox? By introducing ailments
through charmingly drawn animals, this humorous look at common childhood illnesses will ease
the fears and worries many kids ages 5-6 can have about visiting the doctor. The colorfully
illustrated story contains 14 common terms related to children's health, as well as a glossary of
fun, scientific facts about each of the animals featured. While an especially recommended
addition to family, elementary school, and community library collections, it should be noted for
personal reading lists that "Do Penguins Have Pediatricians?" is also available in a paperback
edition (9780764358784, $9.99).
Amanda's Fall: A Story for Children About Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Kelly Bouldin Darmofal, author
Bijan Samaddar, illustrator
Loving Healing Press
5145 Pontiac Trail, Ann Arbor, MI 48105
www.LHPress.com
9781615994502 $26.95 hc / $15.95 pbk / $4.95 Kindle
"Amanda's Fall" is a story for children about traumatic brain injury, with special information for
parents, teachers, and caregivers. Written by a survivor of TBI who became an advocate for TBI
survivors, "Amanda's Fall" is written in cheerful verse and illustrated with brightly colored
cartoons. Amanda is a seven year old girl who suffers a mild TBI in the course of normal play
when her head encounters a rock while rolling down a hill. She does not lose consciousness, but
loses the ability to speak clearly. Her teacher is able to help her by calling an ambulance and her
parents, and she is evaluated at the hospital. She was diagnosed with concussion or mild TBI, and
Amanda and her parents received more information about the features of TBI and ways to
prevent problems and to work with results of TBI. In addition to the story for kids, there is also
information for parents and caregiver on TBI, its causes, signs, and symptoms, related facts to
know, and a relevant study of head injuries in young football players at Wake Forest Baptist
Health. There is also a list of 12 tips for TBI survivors under A Few Tips for Coping with TBI,
plus tips for friends and caregivers and teachers of TBI survivors. A list of resources includes
books for parents, teachers, caregivers, and children, and helpful website links. "Amanda's Fall"
is an excellent resource for children and adults about dealing with traumatic brain injury.
The Picturebook Shelf
5-Minute Stories
Margaret Wise Brown
Silver Dolphin Books
www.silverdolphinbooks.com
c/o Printer's Row Publishing Group
www.printersrowpublishinggroup.com
9781684128495 $12.99 amazon.com
5-Minute Stories is essentially eight picturebooks under one cover - an assortment of beautifully
illustrated stories by Margaret Wise Brown (best-selling author of "Goodnight Moon"), each of
which is ideal for parents to read aloud to little ones right before bedtime. The whimsical color
illustrations add just the right, fanciful touch to these gentle, heartwarming tales. 5-Minute
Stories is a joy for families to share, highly recommended.
The Little Dragon
Sheri Fink, author
Lynx Studios, illustrator
SheriFink.com
Whimsical World Books
www.WhimsicalWorldBooks.com
9781949213034 $24.95 hc amazon.com
The Little Dragon is hardcover picturebook, beautifully illustrated with bright, cartoony artwork,
about a young dragon who encounters the overwhelming emotions of fear, embarrassment, and
anger. Though he makes mistakes at first, he learns that being open to and making friends with
others is better than isolating himself. A simple, charming allegory with an invaluable lesson,
The Little Dragon is an excellent read-aloud picturebook, ideal for parents and children to share
during storytime or bedtime, and also a choice pick for public library children's collections.
Ninja Boy's Secret
Tina Schneider
Tuttle Publishing
364 Innovation Drive, North Clarendon, VT 05759-9436
www.tuttlepublishing.com
9784805315262, $14.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Ninja Boy has a secret. It's not that he's flunking out of Ninja Academy -- his dad knows that. It's
that Ninja Boy doesn't like skulking about quietly in the night, clad in black like a thief, leaving
no trace of his existence. He knows he'll never be half the Ninja his father is -- silent as a ghost,
ever ready to attack. No, this little Ninja has a different calling. He's a talented musician who
expresses himself with a violin. He wants to share that passion with his dad, but is afraid his
father will not approve. So what's a misguided maestro to do? Summoning all the courage and
passion he has, he plays a loud and beautiful violin sonata for his Ninja dad! In "Ninja Boy's
Secret", author and artist Tina Schneider's lively and amusing illustrations bring her character's
struggles and ultimate triumph vividly to life. This Japanese-inspired picture book teaches kids
ages 3-8 valuable lessons through a fun and inspiring story about being true to yourself and
finding your calling in life. While very highly recommended for family, daycare center,
preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections, it should be noted
for personal reading lists that "Ninja Boy's Secret" is also available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $14.24).
Super Sloth
Robert Starling
Andersen Press USA
c/o The Lerner Publishing Group
241 First Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1607
www.lernerbooks.com
9781541555112, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Super Sloth isn't fast. He can't fly. But he is very, very good at moving slowly and looking just
like a greenish bit of tree. When his archenemy Anteater makes off with some prize mangoes,
Super Sloth vows to save the day... eventually! An original, charmingly illustrated, and
wonderfully entertaining picture book story for children ages 4-9 by author and illustrator Robert
Starling, "Super Sloth" is fully endorsed and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare
center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.
Ella McKeen, Kickball Queen
Beth Mills
Carolrhoda Books
c/o The Lerner Publishing Group
241 First Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1607
www.lernerbooks.com
9781541528970, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
First grader Ella McKeen is the undisputed kickball queen until a new girl named Riya shows up
-- and shows her up at recess. How does Ella handle losing? By throwing herself on the grass and
screaming while the rest of the class watches her fall apart. Yikes! "Ella McKeen, Kickball
Queen" by author and illustrator Beth Mills presents children ages 5-9 with a pitch-perfect look
at recess, friendship, and being a good sport. While certain to be an immediate and enduringly
popular addition to family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections, it
should be noted for personal reading lists that "Ella McKeen, Kickball Queen" is also available
in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
It's Your World Now!
Barry Falls
Pavilion Children's Books
https://www.pavilionbooks.com
9781843654315, $16.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
"It's Your World Now!" by author and illustrator Barry Falls is a beautiful, lyrical and funny
celebration of the world and the potential of every individual within it. This is the perfect picture
book to read to children ages 4-8 to help them appreciate the wonderful things that exist in the
world, and the wonderful things that they can do, as well as allowing them to understand some of
the setbacks that may happen. And in the end, whatever happens, the child is reassured that their
parents will always love them. While especially and unreservedly recommended for family,
daycare center, preschool, elementary school and community library picture book collections, it
should be noted for personal reading lists that "It's Your World Now!" is also available in a
paperback edition (9781843654100, $11.95).
Brian the Brave
Paul Stewart, author
Jane Porter, illustrator
Flyaway Books
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
https://www.flyawaybooks.com
9781947888180, $17.00, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Every sheep is different. Some white, some black. Some striped, some spotted, some with hats!
They re all still sheep, and they can all play together. At least, that's what Brian thinks until the
other sheep say they can be friends only with sheep that are just like them. But when danger
strikes, can Brian help the sheep come together? Can Brian the ordinary become Brian the
Brave? The collaborative work of author Paul Stewart and Jane Porter, "Brian the Brave" is a
lively story for children ages 3-12 that impressively enhanced with bright, playful artwork that
will prompt conversations about friendship, teamwork, and bias based on race or language --
making it an ideal and recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary
school, and community library picture book collections.
Blue Spot
Griselda Sastrawinata-Lemay
Disney Press
c/o Disney Book Group
1200 Grand Central Avenue, Glendale, CA 91201
https://books.disney.com
9781368024594, $16.99, HC, 48pp, www.amazon.com
Daisy the kitten has gotten a blue spot on her new white dress. How did this happen, asks her
mama. Daisy has an answer, which is anything but simple. Instead, she responds with a
wonderful fantastical story that includes a blue monster and plenty of blue treats. Mama
encourages Daisy to tell the truth in the end, which she does, but even Mama loves the creativity
in Daisy's first answer -- and kids will, too. The author/illustrator for "Blue Spot" is Griselda
Sastrawinata-Lemay who is a visual development artist for Walt Disney Animation Studios. In
addition to many animated film projects, she worked on Moana and she's currently working on
Frozen 2. She is also the illustrator of the Moana Little Golden Book. "Blue Spot" is
unreservedly endorsed and recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary
school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-8.
On Your Way
John Coy, author
Talitha Shipman, illustrator
Beaming Books
PO Box 1209, Minneapolis, MN 55440
https://www.beamingbooks.com
9781506452586, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
A mother recounts for her child "that day on the porch" when they first tried to walk. As the child
totters, stumbles, and flops, young animals nearby gallop, jump, waddle, and hop. Kids ages 3-5
will delight in the child's progress and think of the ways they themselves are still learning to
grow and move every single day now that they're on their way. A perfect picture book for looking
back at how far kids have come (and how far they'll go), "On Your Way" is a joyous and
entertaining celebration of growth, movement, and the importance of slowing down to observe
life's milestones both big and small. "On Your Way" is unreservedly recommended for family,
daycare center, preschool, and community library collections.
AdoraBULL
Alison Donald, author
Alex Willmore, illustrator
Maverick Children's Books
9781848864122, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Alfred is a bull, and bulls are reliable and dependable. When his best friend Tom wants to bring
home a new, adorable pet, Alfred realizes he may need to up his game if he wants to stay number
one in Tom's heart. But can bulls be adorable too? A wonderfully charming, entertaining and
original story by Alison Donald that is enhanced with the amiably appealing illustrations of Alex
Willmore, "AdoraBULL" is an especially recommended addition to family, daycare center,
preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages
4-9.
Back Roads, Country Toads
Devin Scillian, author
Tim Bowers, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
315 East Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.sleepingbearpress.com
9781534110397, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
When country toads, Hank and Buckeroo, hear some folks talking about going "fly-fishing," they
know they have to tag along. What could be better than fishing for flies?! So they stow away in a
picnic basket and prepare for the feast of their lives. But what will happen when they realize
fly-fishing isn't exactly what they expected? "Back Roads, Country Toads" is a knee-slapping
funny and original picture story by the team of author Devin Scillian and illustrator Tim Bowers
that is unreservedly endorsed and especially recommended for family, elementary school, and
community library picture book collections for children ages 5-7. It should be noted for personal
reading lists that "Back Roads, Country Toads" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle,
$16.14).
Little Smokey
Robert Neubecker
Knopf
c/o Random House Children's Books
1745 Broadway, 10-1, New York, NY 10019
www.randomhouse.com/kids
9781984851048, $17.99, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
When forest fires blaze, the airplanes at Nif-C spring into action! Some swoop low to spray water
on the flames. Others drop bright red fire retardant. Little Smokey hasn't quite figured out her job
yet, but she wants to help! And when a fire like no other flares up (a fire that none of the other
planes can control) it's Smokey's turn to show what she's made of. An original and thoroughly
entertaining picture book for children ages 3-6 and featuring the bold, eye-catching illustrations
by Robert Neubecker, "Little Smokey" is a tale of courage and teamwork in the face of disaster.
While very highly recommended, especially for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary
school, and community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that
"Little Smokey" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Beverlee Beaz the Brown Burmese
Regan W. H. Macaulay, author
Alex Zgud, illustrator
http://www.reganwhmacaulay.com
Mirror World Publishing
https://www.mirrorworldpublishing.com
9781987976526, $15.95 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 48pp, www.amazon.com
A Best Book Awards finalist, "Beverlee Beaz the Brown Burmese" is an exciting adventure story
about a highly imaginative, brown Burmese cat who longs for fresh adventures. Filled with
exotic, colorful illustrations of Beverlee's brilliant fantasy transformations of her everyday
outside observations, this charming story takes readers on an Iliad rife with entrapments of
wonder. On a beautiful sunny day, Beverlee leaves her serene home for an adventure outside. At
first she encounters a meadow, hills, trees a splashing river, and Monarch butterflies. Then her
fevered imagination takes over and transforms the orange Monarch butterfly to a fiery orange
parrot from the Amazon rainforest. This experience continues as she imagines a rabbit to be a
jumping kangaroo, and a frog transforms to a deadly Komodo dragon. A nest of bees she jostles
changes to a flock of hungry Pterodactyls that pursue Beverlee until she hides in the woods. Then
Beverlee encounters the most mystical transformed beast of all, a white unicorn. Frightened,
Beverlee retreats and runs until she falls into a hole, hissing and swatting at the unicorn to scare
him away. Then another amazing transformation happens - The unicorn tells Beverlee not to be
afraid and rescues her from the hole by lowering his horn for her to grab onto, and pulling her
out. After that, Beverlee recognized the white unicorn as a white stallion who lived on a farm that
was neighbor to hers. She apologized to her rescuer, blaming her overactive imagination. Then
the white horse laughed and gave Beverlee a ride on his back all the way home. "Beverlee Beaz
the Brown Burmese" is an exciting tale of adventure and fantasy that children will love and
identify with. It helps them explore two sides two sides of the beauty and power of imagination
and more, the grounding value of friendship.
Karsyn's Path: The Land of Enigami
John Graham, author
Getty Images, illustrations
LifeRich Publishing
www.liferichpublishing.com
9781489720634 $16.99
"Karsyn's Path" is an inspiring story about finding your core and life direction, allowing your
imagination to show you the way. Although written as a children's tale, it also speaks directly to
older readers, glowing with universal appeal. Karsyn is an 8 year old girl who believes her
grandfather's tale about finding a path through the woods to cross a mystical brook to the land of
Enigami, where everything, even insects and animals, has a voice. Karsyn draws a map to the
brook and Enigami based on her Grandfather's tale and invites her older sister, Kelbie, to
accompany her. Kelbie ridicules Karsyn for her belief in their grandfather's tale of the land of
Enigami. Karsyn decides to go alone. Her mother gives permission for her to make the journey
on their land, with the instruction that she return by an hour later. Karsyn sets off through the
woods to find the path according to her grandfather's directions. In her journey she encounters a
busy squirrel who makes her laugh at his acorn gathering efforts that seem very playful and busy.
Despite doubts, Karsyn is able to find the mystical brook and to cross it to the other side. There,
to her surprise, Karsyn has conversations with a bee, a squirrel, an ant, a turtle, and an owl named
Hal. Hal helps Karsyn condense and summarize all her lessons in the land of Enigame as follows:
"I think the lesson is to set your goals high, but make sure that your work is your pla and your
play is you work, and, no matter what you do, it takes a team with different talents to make your
dream come true. Remember, it doesn't do any good just to dream... you have to take action steps
like the bees going from flower to flower, and then working together at the hive to create the
honey. Appreciate all the steps of your journey. SO, set your dreams high, do what you love to
do, have a good team around you, and do it for the right reason." "Karsyn's Path" is a tangible
blending of fantasy and truth, filled with glowing imagery. Young readers age 6 and up will
embrace its positive imagery and ideas about using imagination to find your way.
The Adventures of Mr. Fuzzy Ears: Searching for a Furry Friend
Donna Carr Roberts, author/illustrator
Mr. Fuzzy Ears LLC
http://donnacarrroberts.com
9780692184219, $16.95 HC, $11.95 PB, 36pp, Ages 6-9, www.amazon.com
"The Adventures of Mr. Fuzzy Ears" is the exciting first title of what promises to be a delightful
series. Based on the life experiences of a real little dog named Scamp, "The Adventures of Mr.
Fuzzy Ears" recounts Scamp's efforts to find a real friend. He tries to become friends with a
mouse, a chipmunk, a squirrel, unsuccessfully. Finally he communicates with his human Mom
and Dad and they propose a visit to the Humane Society shelter for animals who need new
forever homes. Scamp knows this place because he was found there by his forever humans. After
visiting with a cat, a rat, and fluffy rabbit, Scamp met a sad little dog named Izzy. Izzy wanted to
be friends with Scamp and the family decided to take her home with them. Izzy also asked if they
would take with her a friend named Sofie, a friendly dog who is very shy and sweet. The family
and Scamp decided to adopt Sofie too so all three dogs and the two humans left for home. On the
way home, they found a small furry puppy named Teddy who was lost. They picked up Teddy
too and tried very hard to find Teddy's owners, but were unsuccessful. So Teddy also joined the
family which now included Mr. Fuzzy Ears, Izzy, Sofie, and Teddy, and the author, Donna Carr
Roberts, and her husband. All the pages of "The Adventures of My. Fuzzy" are filled with
beautiful paintings, portraits of different furry friends in different settings. "The Adventures of
Mr. Fuzzy Ears" tells a positive story of a dog who finds three new friends with the help of his
owners on one very good day . Both the portrait and the prose of this tender story persuasively
convey the need for humane treatment, and responsible care and love for animals.
The Spacesuit
Alison Donald, author
Ariel Landy, illustrator
Maverick Children's Books
9781848864153, $17.99, HC, 36pp, www.amazon.com
There is a competition to make the spacesuit for the first moon landing! Ellie, an ordinary
woman, is asked to lead a team of other talented seamstresses. No one believes they can win, but
they are determined to try. Based on the incredible true story behind the spacesuit that astronauts
wore on the first moon walk and the team of women who sewed it together, "The Spacesuit: How
a Seamstress Helped Put Man on the Moon" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended
addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture
book collections for children ages 4-9. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The
Spacesuit" is also available in a paperback edition (9781848864283, $11.19).
The Lost Property Office
Emily Rand
Tate Publishing
c/o Harry N. Abrams
195 Broadway, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10007
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781849765954, $18.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
A little girl and her mother are on the train, going to visit Grandpa. It's very busy -- but hold on
tight! But when they arrive at their destination and get off the train they realize something is
wrong: the little girl's beloved teddy bear has gone missing! Just when it looks like she'll never
see Teddy again, Grandpa has an idea! And suddenly the little girl is off on a magical journey to
rescue her favorite stuffed friend. "The Lost Property Office" is especially for children ages 3-5
who have ever wondered where lost objects go! With charming and stylish illustrations by author
and artist Emily Rand, "The Lost Property Office" is perfect for curious young minds and is
unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, kindergarten, and community
library picture book collections.
Jazzy and Kettle
Rick Quinn, author
Sefira Lightstone, illustrator
https://www.jazzyandkettle.com
Archway Publishing
www.archwaypublishing.com
9781480869363, $25.95, HC, 38pp, www.amazon.com
Jazzy and Kettle are two children who are both new to the neighborhood. Early one morning,
each of them goes outside to play before any of the adults are awake. There they meet and
become friends and then decide to go on an adventure together. Jazzy and Kettle set off for a
morning jaunt into the woods near their houses. There they find flowers and birds and bugs and
animals, all with their own springtime jobs. They face a little bit of trouble and then learn some
valuable lessons. Together the children come to understand a bit more about friendship, respect,
the fun of exploration, and ways to overcome their fears. They share how they see life and
discover the power of courage and the thrill of curiosity. Celebrating racial and gender equality,
"Jazzy and Kettle" by the team of author Rick Quinn and illustrator Sefira Lightstone is children's
picture book for young readers ages 6-8 and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary
school, and community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that
"Jazzy and Kettle" is also available in a paperback edition (9781480869370, $16.95) and in a
digital book format (Kindle, $3.49).
Up Down Inside Out
JooHee Yoon
Enchanted Lion Books
67 West Street, Studio 317A, Brooklyn, New York, NY 11222
9781592702800, $18.95, HC, 64pp, www.amazon.com
JooHee Yoon is an illustrator and printmaker committed to the art of bookmaking. She enjoys
combining illustration with design whenever possible and using both traditional and industrial
printing techniques for her projects. Rather than a single approach, she tries to match the tone of
each project. She strives to create picture books that work on many levels and can be enjoyed by
people of all ages. In "Up Down Inside Out" she takes up aphorisms and gives them wit and
playfulness through visual explanation. Graphically gorgeous and mentally stimulating, and
highly recommended for family, school, and community library collections, "Up Down inside
Out" is a unique book for all ages!
I Love You Brighter Than the Stars
Owen Hart, author
Sean Julian, illustrator
Tiger Tales
PO Box 70, Iron Ridge, WI 53035
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9781680101515, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
In the beautifully illustrated picture book pages of "I Love You Brighter Than the Stars", Bear
and Cub explore the woods in the early evening as the stars are just beginning to appear in the
sky. As the two travel through the trees, alongside a stream, and up the mountain, Bear reassures
Cub that the love they share will continue to shine just as brightly as each star that lights up the
night sky. A joyful celebration of the love between parent and child, "I Love You Brighter Than
the Stars" is unequivocally endorsed and recommended for family, daycare center, preschool,
elementary school, and community library collections for children ages 3-6.
Snow Globe Wishes
Erin Dealey, author
Claire Shorrock, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
315 East Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.sleepingbearpress.com
9781534110311, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
As the worst snow storm of the year rolls in, one family hunkers down together in a cozy blanket
fort for the night. A little girl makes a wish on a snow globe and, in the morning, the sun rises on
a winter wonderland -- beckoning all outside. And what if, on this snow-filled day, families
shake their busy lives and everyone goes out to play? "Snow Globe Wishes" by the team of
author Erin Dealey and illustrator Claire Shorrock is a delightfully lyrical holiday picture book
story about wishes and community and snow -- lots and lots of snow! While unreservedly
recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for
children ages 5-7, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Snow Globe Wishes" is also
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.14).
Angelina Ballerina
Katharine Holabird, author
Helen Craig, illustrator
Little Simon
c/o Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781534451513, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Angelina is a pretty little mouse who wants nothing more than to be a ballerina. She dances all
the time -- at home, at school, even in her dreams! In fact, she's so busy dancing that she forgets
all about the other things she's supposed to do, like cleaning her room and joining her family for
breakfast! Her parents don't know what to do -- especially after her arabesques in the kitchen
knock over the milk! Then one day they come up with an idea that will change Angelina's life
forever. A delightfully entertaining picture book story for children ages 4-8, "Angelina Ballerina
is an especially recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school,
and community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Angelina
Ballerina" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
The Upper Case: Trouble in Capital City
Tara Lazar, author
Ross MacDonald, illustrator
Disney Hyperion
www.disneyhyperionbooks.com
9781368027656, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Just when Private I thinks all is calm (now that he's cracked the case of 7 Ate 9) Question Mark
storms into the office. Mark is worried. All the uppercase letters are M-I-S-S-I-N-G! But that's
absurd. This is CAPITAL City! Private I is the last letter standing. Will he solve his BIGGEST
mystery yet, the UPPER CASE, before it's too late?! Filled with the same humor, wit, and
quirkiness of the hit "7 Ate 9: The Untold Story", comes "The Upper Case: Trouble in Capital
City", another laugh-out-loud whodunit from the team of author Tara Lazar and illustrator Ross
MacDonald. An engagingly entertaining picture book for children ages 5-6, "The Upper Case:
Trouble in Capital City" is an especially recommended addition to family, elementary school, and
community library collections.
Simonie and the Dance Contest
Gail Matthews, author
Ali Hinch, illustrator
Inhabit Media
www.inhabitmedia.com
9781772272246, $10.95, PB, 36pp, www.amazon.com
"Simonie and the Dance Contest" is the inspiring story of a boy named Simonie who loved to
dance. Living in Nunavut, Canada's Arctic region, Simonie was excited to practice his dancing
for the annual dance contest that was celebrated in the pre-Christmas season. With the
encouragement of his parents and friends, he danced and danced, practicing for the dance contest.
His mother told him to try to feel the music when he danced, and this was difficult for Simonie,
but he continued practicing his dancing, working hard with two special friends, Dana and David.
when the day of the dance contest finally arrived, Simonie was nervous and afraid his dancing
would not be good enough. his friend David, an excellent dancer, told him to just pretend he was
practicing. So Simonie danced with his partner Dana, allowing the music to inspire his jigging
feet. His body spun and his arms flew out as through he might take flight. Simonie really felt the
music and let it inspire and shape his dance. When all the dancers were finished and the judges
announced the winners, Simonie was amazed to find he and Dana had won first place! His
Anaana and Ataata were so proud of him! He had learned to feel the music, and he had danced
his best! "Simonie and the Dance Contest" is simply told and colorfully illustrated to picture the
life of a dancing boy in Nunavut. The story is excellent inspirational reading for readers age 5-7
years.
Where Does a Pirate Go Potty?
Dawn Babb Prochovnic, author
Jacob Souva, illustrator
West Margin Press
https://www.westmarginpress.com
9781513262406, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
This little pirate's got to go potty! He wanders around sandy beaches and dark caves, discovering
where the sea lion, the pelican, and even the octopus go potty. But where in the seven seas can a
pirate go?! A hilarious adventure filled with playful anticipation and fun, "Where Does a Pirate
Go Potty?" guarantees a good time and laughter. Also available in a digital book format (Kindle,
$9.99), and very highly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library
picture book collections for children ages 5-8, it should be noted that "Where Does a Pirate Go
Potty?" is the companion to author Dawn Babb Prochovnic and illustrator Jacob Souva's "Where
Does a Cowgirl Go Potty?" (9781513262383, $16.99 HC, $9.99 Kindle).
Pumpus Has a Growing Idea!
Praba
BOON-dah LLC
www.boon-dah.com/books
9781733005906 (Hardbound) $14.99
9781733005913 (Paperback) $12.99
9781733005920 (E-Book) $9.99
Pumpus Has a Growing Idea! offers a sequel to the prior Pumpus adventure with the picture book
adventures of a budding young scientist who, in addition to his two best friends Filbin and
Filberta, enjoys experimenting and making discoveries. Here Pumpus and his friends plant a
garden, but the tap has very little water flowing out. How can Pumpus fix this dilemma? By
putting together a "trickler sprinkler" that doesn't produce more pressure, but slowly applies what
is there directly to the plant's roots, making for a better watering experience. No sooner does
Pumpus solve one gardening dilemma than another emerges; this time around the lack of mulch.
Young picture book readers with good reading skills receive a step-by-step survey of a garden's
needs and how to address them; but more importantly, the problem-solving skills employed by
Pumpus gives them tools for not just addressing gardening needs, but thinking about the world
and science in new ways.
Scholastic, Inc.
www.scholastic.com
Two excellent picture books hold appeal for all ages as they explore facts and present them in
colorful packages that will appeal to kids. Dean Robbins covers the true story of Alan Bean in
The Astronaut Who Painted the Moon (9781338259527, $17.99), which receives colorful
drawings by Sean Rubin as it tells of an astronaut on the Apollo 12 mission who began to paint
what he'd seen on the Moon. Bean's name won't be as familiar as some others, but he was the
fourth person to walk on the moon and the first to use his artistic skills to capture the magic and
wonder of the moon landing and environment. Elementary school to adult readers alike will find
much to enjoy in Horses: The Definitive Catalog of Horse and Pony Breeds (9781338360813,
$19.99). Over a hundred breeds of horses and ponies are covered in this world-wide tour of
equine habits, history, and characteristics. Each page is packed with beautiful color photos which
pair well with the horse facts throughout, making for a fine blend of natural history, photographic
excellence, and facts about human and horse relationships.
Scholastic, Inc.
www.scholastic.com
Two fine new picture books are top recommendations young readers and read-aloud parents.
Max Amato's Perfect (9780545829311, $16.99) helps kids understand that the idea of perfection
can change, depending on perspective. In this case, an eraser is consumed with wanting book
pages to be spotless, but for a pencil, "perfect" is defined quite differently. This wordless picture
book story may take some interpreting for the very young, but excels in a thought-provoking
early treatise on perfection. Peter H. Reynolds's Say Something! (9780545865036, $17.99)
maintains that the world needs the reader's voice, no matter what form of talent the young reader
has. But the story goes beyond expression and talent to maintain that one should speak up in the
face of loneliness, people being hurt, and anger. The result is a fine story of social and artistic
responsibility that parents will want to use to teach their children well.
The Board Book Shelf
Dig, Dump, Roll
Sally Sutton, author
Brian Lovelock, illustrator
Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
9781536209020, $7.99, Board Book, 28pp, www.amazon.com
Diggers, dump trucks, rollers, and more - it takes a lot of big, noisy machines to build a school!
Every young child who has ever gawked at a building site will gravitate to this exciting new entry
in the kid-pleasing, charmingly illustrated board book edition in the author Sally Sutton and artist
Brian Lovelock's 'Construction Crew' series for children ages 2-5. No family, daycare center,
preschool, kindergarten, or community library board book collection would be complete without
a copy of "Dig, Dump, Roll"!
Colors with Little Fish
Lucy Cousins
Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
9781536206111, $7.99, Board Book, 24pp, www.amazon.com
Little Fish is off on a fun, rhyming adventure underwater, spotting colors along the way: blue
fish, yellow coral, maybe even a pink seahorse. The bright orange star of Hooray for Fish! loves
swimming in the sea, and little ones will love looking at and learning colors in this sturdy,
original, and charmingly illustrated board book from Lucy Cousins. "Colors with Little Fish" is
an especially recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, kindergarten, and
community library board book collections for children ages 2-5.
Yum Yummy Yuck
Cree Lane & Amanda Jane Jones
Prestel Publishing
900 Broadway, Suite 603, New York, NY 10003
www.prestel.com
9783791374055, $9.95, Board Book, 30pp, www.amazon.com
In their hip and often humorous Instagram accounts, Amanda and Cree Jones invite the world
into their life with two young kids. Now, the Joneses are sharing another experience -- the
struggle to keep their kids from putting everything they see into their mouths. Using simple,
bright illustrations, irresistible colors, gentle repetition, and a lighthearted tone, "Yum Yummy
Yuck" is an elegantly stylish board book that teaches babies and toddlers ages 1-3 what they
should and shouldn't put in their mouths. Delectable treats like an ice cream cone, a pear, and a
donut are interspersed with not-so-yummy things kids find irresistible -- like coins, boogers, and
sand! Facing pages display the correct use of these items. That boogers go in tissues, coins in a
piggy bank, and sand in a bucket. Designed to appeal to modern parents, this durable and
attractive board book will have kids and their parents going back to it and sharing in the fun of all
the delicious and disgusting things kids. Certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular
addition to family, daycare center and preschool board book collections, "Yum Yummy Yuck" is
unreservedly endorsed and highly recommended.
Silly Lullaby
Sandra Boynton
Little Simon
c/o Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781534452824, $5.99, Board Book, 16pp, www.amazon.com
"Silly Lullaby" starts with the big bear observing to the little bear in the red footie pajamas:
"Your pajamas are on. / There's a duck on your head. / I think that this means / you are ready for
bed." A charmingly unpredictable go-to-sleep board book, "Silly Lullaby" provides a perfect
bonding time for the parents and children ages 1-5, making it an ideal addition to family, daycare,
preschool, and community library collections.
Go, Go, Pirate Boat
Katrina Charman, author
Nick Sharratt, illustrator
Bloomsbury Children's Books
175 Fifth Avenue, 8th floor, New York, NY 10010-7728
www.bloomsburyusa.com
9781547603190, $7.99, Board Book, 24pp, www.amazon.com
Little pirates ages 2-5 will have endless fun with "Go, Go, Pirate Boat", vibrant board book by
author Katrina Charman and illustrator Nick Sharratt with an entertaining and original text that is
set to the tune of Row, Row, Row Your Boat! Children will join two seafaring pirates and their
captain on a nautical adventure to find a treasure chest in a fun little board book that is
unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, kindergarten, and community
library collections.
Ripley Publishing
c/o Ripley Entertainment Inc.
https://www.ripleys.com/publishing
Known for their legendary publications showcases the weird and wonderful of the world, Ripley
Publishing has now produced two fully entertaining board books for children ages 2-5. "Ripley's
Believe It or Not! Funny Feelings" (9781609912833, $6.99, 26pp) is a fun and silly illustrated
guide to feelings. Happy? Nervous? Curious? Kids will love seeing their own varied emotions in
the silly situations and faces of these delightfully illustrated characters. "Ripley's Believe It or
Not! Odd Opposites" (9781609912840, $6.99, 26pp) is a fun and silly illustrated guide to
opposites. Kids will enjoy seeing silly characters illustrating everyday opposites like day and
night, as well as some sillier ones, like clean and dirty. Both of these unique, colorfully illustrated
and thoroughly 'kid friendly' board books are unreservedly recommended for family, daycare
center, preschool, and community library collections.
The ABC Shelf
ABCs at the Haunted House
Jennifer Marino Walters, author
Nathan Y. Jarvis, illustrator
Red Chair Press
c/o The Lerner Publishing Group
241 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1607
www.lernerbooks.com
9781634408769, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
The collaborative work of author Jennifer Marino Walters and illustrator Nathan Y. Jarvis,
"ABCs at the Haunted House" invites children ages 4-8 to come along to the haunted house and
see just how many letters of the alphabet they spot along the way -- But beware of the cobwebs!
While unreservedly and especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool,
elementary school, and community library picture book collections, it should be noted for
personal reading lists that "ABCs at the Haunted House" is also available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $9.99).
The Counting Shelf
One Dark Bird
Liz Garton Scanlon, author
Frann Preston-Gannon, 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
9781534404434, $17.99, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
One dark bird is perched up high, with a view of the town and a taste of the sky. Then she's
joined by two more, then three, then four. Before long, there are hundreds of starlings dancing
across the sky -- and avoiding a hunting hawk with one of the most spectacular tricks in the
animal kingdom. Then, when night comes, the starlings begin to depart, until finally there is just
one dark bird perched way up high, with a view of the town and a taste of the sky. Beautifully
illustrated throughout, "One Dark Bird" is a lyrical counting picture book that is unreservedly
recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school and community library
collections for children aged 2-8.
The Bilingual Shelf
Code 7/Codigo 7
Bryan R. Johnson
Candy Wrapper Inc.
www.code7book.com
9781940556024, $12.99, PB, 240pp, www.amazon.com
Life at Flint Hill Elementary School may seem normal, but seven friends soon find themselves on
a path to crack the code for an epic life. Whether they're chasing their dreams on stage, searching
for an elusive monster fish, or running a makeshift business out of a tree house, can these heroes
find a way to work together to change their community? A bilingual (Spanish/English) book, "Code 7:
Cracking the Code for an Epic Life" is an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to
family, elementary school, middle school, and community library collections. It should be noted
for personal reading lists that "Code 7" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle,
$3.99).
Play / Jugar
Elizabeth Verdick & Marjorie Lisovskis
Free Spirit Publishing
6325 Sandburg Road, Suite 100, Minneapolis, MN 55427-3674
www.freespirit.com
9781575424262, $6.99, Board Book, 22pp, www.amazon.com
Pat-a-cake and peek-a-boo. You see me and I see you! Parents and caregivers can celebrate
baby's busy day with "Play / Jugar", a fun and playful board book. Babies ages will enjoy and
respond to the happy sounds, joyful movements, and vivid black-and-white photos of babies
depicted. Gurgle, babble, grunt, and coo. Watch how Daddy waves to you! A rollicking playtime
book to delight babies, parents, and caregivers. This bilingual (English/Spanish) board book is
very highly recommended for family, daycare center, and community library collections. Also
unreservedly recommended is Elizabeth Verdick and Majorie Lisovskis other bilingual board
book for babies "Cuddle / Abrazos y mimos" (9781631984488, $6.99, 22pp).
Todos Iguales / All Equal
Christy Hale
Lee & Low Books
95 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10016
www.leeandlow.com
9780892394272, $19.95, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Ten-year-old Roberto Alvarez loved school. He, his siblings, and neighbors attended the Lemon
Grove School along with the white children from nearby homes. The children studied and played
together as equals. In the summer of 1930, the Lemon Grove School Board decided to segregate
the Mexican American students. The board claimed the children had a "language handicap" and
needed to be "Americanized." When the Mexican families learned of this plan, they refused to let
their children enter the new, inferior school that had been erected. They formed a neighborhood
committee and sought legal help. Roberto, a bright boy who spoke English well, became the
plaintiff in a suit filed by the Mexican families. On March 12, 1931, the case of Roberto Alvarez
v. the Board of Trustees of the Lemon Grove School District was decided. The judge ruled in
favor of the children's right to equal education, ordering that Roberto and all the other Mexican
American students be immediately reinstated in the Lemon Grove School. "Todos Iguales / All
Equal: Un Corrido De Lemon Grove/A Ballad of Lemon Grove" is nonfiction bilingual picture
book, written in both English and Spanish, that tells the empowering story of The Lemon Grove
Incident which was a major victory in the battle against school segregation, and a testament to the
tenacity of an immigrant community and its fight for equal rights. "Todos Iguales / All Equal" is
unreservedly endorsed and especially recommended for elementary school and community
library collections for young readers ages 8-11.
No More Bullies! / No Mas Bullies!
Rudolfo Anaya, author
El Moises, illustrator
Museum of New Mexico Press
PO Box 2087, Santa Fe, NM 87504-2087
www.mnmpress.org
9780890136423, $16.95, HC, 36pp, www.amazon.com
"No More Bullies!/No Mas Bullies!" is a bilingual (English/Spanish) picture book for children
ages 4-8 that tackles the subject of bullying of classmates for being different. Jackie Jackalope is
missing from school and the teacher (Ollie Tecolote's grandmother) gets to the bottom of it. The
kids have been teasing Jackie about her horns and she has run away to her parents in Pot of Gold
Land. A contrite Ollie along with Uno the Unicorn (both guilty of teasing) volunteer to find and
bring Jackie back to school. Their journey to Jackie's home leads to encounters with three
guardians of the Dark Forest (NM monsters/legends): La Llorona, El Kookooee, and Skeleton
Woman; and the Golden Carp who allows them to cross Rainbow Bridge. They reach Jackie and
apologize and take her back to Wisdom School. Highly recommended for family, daycare center,
preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, Rudolfo Anaya's magical
characters are brought to life by illustrator El Moises.
The Folktale/Fairytale Shelf
Arnica, the Duck Princess
Ervin Lazar, author
Jaqueline Molar, illustrator
Anna Bentley, translator
Pushkin's Children's Books
c/o Pushkin Press
www.pushkinpress.com
9781782692201, $16.95, HC, 96pp, www.amazon.com
Princess Arnica is so sweet and gentle that when she smiles even wolves and bears forget their
fierceness. Everyone loves her, but she loves only Poor Johnny. Luckily, he loves her too, and
even more luckily she has a very sensible king for a father, who is happy for her to marry
whomever her heart desires. So, no problems then? Well, maybe just one -- The Witch with a
Hundred Faces has cast a spell on Arnica and Johnny which means that one of them, at any one
time, must always be a duck, and the other human! Who can help them? Only the Seven-headed
Fairy. Will they be able to find her? Children ages 7-10 will enjoy finding out! Ably translated
from Hungarian into English, and uniquely enhanced with the original artwork of Jacqueline
Molar, this delightfully entertaining retelling of an Hungarian folk tale by author Ervin Lazar is
unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library collections. It
should be noted for personal reading lists that "Arnica the Duck Princess" is also available in a
digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Huff...Puff...Grind!
Lois Wickstrom, author
Francie Mion, illustrator
Gripper Products / Look Under Rocks
www.LookUnderRocks.com
9780916176396, $24.99, HC, 24pp, www.amazon.com
In "Huff...Puff...Grind!: The 3 Little Pigs Get Smart", the 3 Little Pigs have gone to architecture
school and learned not only how to build wolf-proof houses, but how to think in a scientific
manner. If something looks like a problem from one point of view, try looking at it differently.
The problem may contain its own best solution! A clever new twist to a classic fairytale subject,
this charmingly entertaining picture book for children ages 3-8 is especially recommended for
family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections. It
should be noted for personal reading lists that "Huff...Puff...Grind!" is also available in a
paperback edition (9780916176402, $15.99).
The General Fiction Shelf
#NotReadyToDie
Cate Carlyle
Common Deer Press
www.commondeerpress.com
9781988761398, $11.95, PB, 128pp, www.amazon.com
Ginny's life suddenly comes to a screeching halt one fateful Monday when a shooter shows up at
Southwestern High School during first period. In lockdown with both the homeroom sub and her
secret crush Owen badly wounded, Ginny finds herself teamed up with Kayla, one of the
"Barbies." Together, they must try to keep their classmates alive amid terror and pain. As the
chaos continues, Ginny is plagued with questions. Has she judged Kayla too harshly? Will she
ever have the chance to ask Own to prom? Will the fight she had with her mom before school be
their last interaction ever? With the uncertainty of everyone making it out alive growing with
every minute, there's only one thing Ginny knows for sure: no one is making it out unchanged! A
deftly crafted and absorbing read from cover to cover, "#NotReadyToDie" is a riveting novel that
could well have been taken from today's headlines about school-based active shooters that have
become an all too common occurrence in today's America. While recommended for highschool
and community library YA Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that
"#NotReadyToDie" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
The Campout
Pete Leriget
Mister Mitchell, LLC
9781733312240, $11.95, PB, 101pp, www.amazon.com
"Hi, it's Blitz here again, did you miss me? Anyway, once again, Uncle Drake and I find
ourselves in a bit of a pickle. But this time we have help. Her name is Cleo, she's something else,
but you'll get a chance to meet her when you get into the book. We find ourselves chasing an
illegal trapper and things get a little dicey. We travel to Alturas lake in the Sawtooth Mountains
when Uncle Drake gets a whiff in the air of some trouble coming. Okay, I'm not going to give it
all away so read, read, read, you're going to have fun. Oh yeah, Pete gets a new friend in his life
too, gag, gag...no really Hope turns out to be pretty cool too!" "The Campout" is the sequel to
author Pete Leriget's "The Beginning" and part of his 'The Adventures of Blitz and Uncle Drake'
series for children ages 5-11. While very highly recommended for family, elementary school and
community library general fiction collections for young readers, it should be noted for personal
reading lists that "The Campout" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99).
Scholastic, Inc.
www.scholastic.com
Six new young adult leisure reads from Scholastic are strong recommendations for collections
that look for eye-catching books solid in their writing, presentation, and appeal. Sarah Kohn's I
Love You So Much (9781338302882, $17.99) tells of Kimi Nakamura, who is obsessed with
fashion and likes to create bold outfits for her and her friends. Her passion puts her at odds with
her mother, so when an invitation arrives from Kimi's estranged parents, she takes the
opportunity to flee...and enters a new world that additionally challenges her thinking and
trajectory in life. Laura Resau's Tree of Dreams (9780545800884, $17.99) tells of Coco, who
helps her mother run a chocolate shop, yet faces a struggling store and her best friend's
alienation. She needs answers, but when she visits the local Amazon rain forest in search of
something that will save the shop, she faces bigger questions of environmental and cultural
threats to the forest and peoples who live there. A fine story of struggle and social issues emerges
from what begins as a story of personal angst. Cynthia Lord's Because of the Rabbit
(9780545914246, $17.99) will appeal to elementary-level and lower middle school grades alike
with its fun story of a wild rabbit rescue that results in a pet bunny. Emma wants a best friend
from her new public school experience, but when she and Jack, who loves animals, bond over
her new rescue rabbit, she faces some hard questions about different kinds of people and the
meaning of friendship. Nafiza Azad's The Candle and the Flame (9781338306040, $18.99) tells
of Fatyima, who lives in Noor off the Silk Road. It's a magical city affected by a slaughter that
killed everyone except for Fatima and two others in the past. Now Fatima faces more troubles not
only on a magical level, but in political and social challenges that sweep her into an ongoing
struggle for survival. Jennifer Donnelly's Stepsister (9781338268461, $17.99) tells of lucky
Isabelle, who is about to gain the prince she's always wanted. But Isabelle isn't Cinderella: she's a
wicked stepsister who cut off her toes to fit into Cinderella's shoe. Her intense desire to be her
sister results in her hacking at everything that makes her mean; but can an evil stepsister really
change? Mature readers will relish this somewhat gruesome story of the other side of goodness.
Kat Falls' Undaunted (9780545371025, $17.99) tells of Lane McEvoy, whose journey into the
Feral Zone, an area abandoned by all after a virus ravages the country, reveals survivors. These
events were recounted in Inhuman, but this sequel follows up six months later, when Lane must
go back into the Feral Zone and discover new truths about the virus, its effects, and the one she
loves who has made her promise something she doesn't want to do. These are engrossing reads
highly recommended for young adults looking for something different.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
The Collected Works of Gretchen Oyster
Cary Fagan
Tundra Books
www.penguinrandomhouse.ca
9780735266216 $16.99
The Collected Works of Gretchen Oyster tells of Hartley, nearly drone with middle school, who
faces trouble at home when his older brother runs away. His attempts to cope with his brother's
absence leads him to search out postcards in his small town, and uncover the clues about who
G.O., their writer, is and what is really happening with the cards. Ages 10-14 will find this a
fascinating blend of mystery and psychological inspection.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Winnie and the Mystery of the Missing Moonstones
J.P. Coman, author
Mailys Pitcher, illustrator
Crimson Dragon Publishing
https://crimsondragonpublishing.com
9781944644055, $8.95, PB, 188pp, www.amazon.com
Their dad's decision to go camping late in the season leaves Winnie and Jerry with nothing to do
but bicker and annoy each other. But when Winnie storms off in anger, she accidentally rescues a
real live troll! All their moonstones were stolen, and they need Winnie's help to get their magic
back! Winnie and Jerry start off on a whirling adventure with their new friends, Oola and
Humphry, and encounter new dangers with each step of their journey. Even if they find the
treasure, how will they get home? An original, entertaining, and thoroughly charming fantasy
story for young readers ages 8-12, "Winnie and the Mystery of the Missing Moonstones" is
unreservedly endorsed and recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and
community library Fantasy Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that
"Winnie and the Mystery of the Missing Moonstones" is also available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $4.99).
Voyages in the Underworld of Orpheus Black
Marcus Sedgwick, author
Julian Sedgwick, author
Alexis Deacon, illustrator
Walker Books
c/o Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
9781536204377, $17.99, HC, 320pp, www.amazon.com
Harry Black, a conscientious objector, artist, and firefighter battling the blazes of German
bombing in London in 1944, wakes in the hospital to news that his soldier brother, Ellis, has
been killed. In the delirium of his wounded state, Harry's mind begins to blur the distinctions
between the reality of war-torn London, the fiction of his unpublished sci-fi novel, and the myth
of Orpheus and Eurydice. Driven by visions of Ellis still alive and a sense of poetic inevitability,
Harry sets off on a search for his brother that will lead him deep into the city's Underworld. With
otherworldly paintings by Alexis Deacon depicting Harry's surreal descent further into the depths
of hell, "Voyages in the Underworld of Orpheus Black" by co-authors Marcus and Julian
Sedgwick is an eerily beautiful blend of prose, verse, and illustrations that delves into the themes
of love, loyalty, and the unbreakable bonds of brotherhood as it builds to a fierce indictment of
mechanized warfare. A unique and impressively entertaining read from cover to cover, "Voyages
in the Underworld of Orpheus Black" is an especially recommended addition to family,
elementary school, middle school, and community library collections for young readers ages 9 -
14. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Voyages in the Underworld of Orpheus
Black" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
The Christian Shelf
My Bible God's Word For Me
Mary Martha Moss, FSP, author
Augusta Currell, illustrator
Pauline Books & Media
50 St. Paul's Avenue, Boston, MA 02130-3433
www.paulinemedia.com
9780819850041, $19.95, HC, 232pp, www.amazon.com
"My Bible God's Word For Me" is an inspired and inspiring compendium of illustrated bible
stories combined with basic prayers and emphasizing a distinctly Catholic understanding of
scripture and Christian tradition. Teaching young children how prayer and scripture go together,
"My Bible God's Word For Me" is unreservedly recommended for family, Catholic Sunday
School, and Catholic Elementary School collections.
Joseph: Guardian of the Holy Family
Marlyn Evangelina Monge FSP
Pauline Books & Media
50 St. Paul's Avenue, Boston, MA 02130-3433
www.pauline.org
9780819840271, $12.95, Board Book, 14pp, www.amazon.com
"Joseph: Guardian of the Holy Family" is a beautiful board book for children ages 1-5 that
provides a charming and memorable way for babies and toddlers to become familiar with Saint
Joseph and his role in the earthly life of Jesus and is unreservedly endorsed -- especially for
Catholic families and Catholic preschool collections.
God Made Me
Stephen R. Blandino, author/illustrator
Independently Published
9781793435361, $10.00, PB, 24pp, www.amazon.com
https://www.amazon.com/GOD-MADE-Stephen-Robert-Blandino/dp/1793435367
"God Made Me" is described by its author as "a labor of love." Beautiful rainbow speckled
illustrations blend seamlessly with gentle verse narrative of a creation story told by God, the first
storyteller. After creating all the animals, fish and birds, God wondered what might be missing.
"He saw his reflection in the deep blue sea and realized in an instant, 'I'll make an image like
me.'" Beautiful, smiling images of a beneficent God beam through the rays of the sun. "So from
out of the Love that was placed on the earth, GOD blessed the planet with the birth... of a
beautiful baby, so precious and new. A baby that grew to be me and to be you." "God Made Me"
is a vibrant, faith-infused gift to children and parents everywhere.
Picturing God
Ruth Goring
Beaming Books
PO Box 1209, Minneapolis, MN 55440
https://www.beamingbooks.com
9781506449395, $17.99, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
With poetic language and gorgeous handcrafted mixed-media collages and mosaics, "Picturing
God" by poet, visual artist, and book editor Ruth Goring brings to life for children ages 5-8 the
many metaphors for God found in the Bible. God is the light, living water, a father, a mother,
clothing, a rock, wind, comforter, a door, the Good Shepherd, and more. "Picturing God" invites
children and adults alike to revisit the beautiful imagery found in Scripture and provides an
opportunity for children to develop their imagination about who God is. Of special note is that at
the end of the book, a list of Bible references is provided for the images depicted, making
"Picturing God" an especially recommended addition to family, Sunday School, elementary
school, and community library Christian themed picture book collections.
A Place Called Heaven for Kids
Dr. Robert Jeffress
Baker Books
c/o Baker Publishing Group
6030 East Fulton, Ada, MI 49301
www.bakerpublishinggroup.com
9780801094286, $14.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Children ask a lot of questions. When a death occurs in their family or circle of friends, those
questions inevitably turn toward heaven. Is heaven real? Where is it? What will we do there?
How do we get there? And more. Parents and grandparents often find themselves at a loss to
explain a place that they suddenly may realize they don't know much about either. Colorfully
illustrated and using simple concepts and language that children ages 4-7 can understand, "A
Place Called Heaven for Kids" by Pastor Robert Jeffress provides answers to 10 of these
common questions. In doing so, it gives children peace of mind about their lost loved one as well
as a comforting, biblical picture of their forever home. For parents, grandparents, and caregivers,
"A Place Called Heaven for Kids" offers a positive, constructive way to grieve, hope, and grow
with the children in their lives, making it an ideal and highly recommended addition to family
and Sunday School library collections. It should be noted that "A Place Called Heaven for Kids"
is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
The Islamic Shelf
Tales Of The Last Messenger
Kisa Kids Publications
c/o Al-Kisa Foundation
www.kisakids.org
9781683121237, $14.95, HC, 146pp, www.amazon.com
Very nicely illustrated throughout, "Tales Of The Last Messenger" is a collection of informative
and entertaining short stories for young readers which are drawn from the life of the Holy
Prophet Muhammad. "Tales of the Last Messenger" features 65 stories that are categorized into
the following chapters: Kindness is Part of Faith; Remembering Allah & His Lessons;
Developing Good Character Treating Others Fairly & Justly; Respecting the Rights of Children.
A unique volume that teaches children about Muhammad and the Islamic faith, "Tales Of The
Last Messenger" is unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community
library collections for both Islamic and non-Islamic students -- most especially in these currently
troubled times when there is so much misunderstanding and misinformation about the Islamic
faith.
Hakima and Hadi Explore the World!
Kisa Kids Publications
c/o Al-Kisa Foundation
www.kisakids.org
9781683121268, $6.00, Board Book, 14pp, www.amazon.com
Kisa Kids Publications, under the guidance of Moulana Nabi R. Mir (Abidi) has produced a
thoroughly charming, entertaining, and informative series of board books for young children ages
2-5 featuring Islamic values and practices that include going to a mosque, praying, the Quran,
playing, homelife, and honoring religious leaders from the past, and more! Beginning with
"Hakima and Hadi Explore the World!", this simply outstanding and unreservedly recommended
board book series includes Hakima and Hadi Say Bismilla; Hakima and Hadi Remember Allah is
Everywehre; Hakima and Hadi Read the Quran; Hakima and Hadi See Allah's Creation; Hakima
and Hadi Pray Salaah!; Hakima and Hadi Remember Imam Husain; Hakima and Hadi Say
Alhamdulillah!; and Hakima and Hadi Go to Jum'ah!.
The Science Shelf
Barefoot Books Solar System
Anne Jankeliowitch, author
Annabelle Buxton, illustrator
Barefoot Books
http://www.barefootbooks.com
9781782858232 $19.99 amazon.com
Barefoot Books Solar System is an educational children's book featuring stylized artwork,
amazing true facts, interactive flaps, and a glow-in-the-dark poster of the solar system. These
features make Barefoot Books Solar System a fun, hands-on treat, ideal for gift-giving to young
people ages 8-12 who are curious about what lies beyond the Earth. Highly recommended!
Prehistoric
Kathleen Weidner Zoehfeld, author
Julius Csotonyi, illustrator
What on Earth Books
https://www.whatonearthbooks.com/us
9781912920051 $18.99 hc amazon.com
Prehistoric: Dinosaurs, Megalodons, and Other Fascinating Creatures of the Deep Past is an
educational book for young adults, about amazing animals that lived in prehistory. Some became
extinct; others were the ancestors of modern-day species. The moderately detailed text is filled
with fascinating facts about the natural world during prehistoric eras, and enriched with striking,
realistic color artwork. A brief glossary and index round out this treasure for public and school
library science collections. Highly recommended!
Wheels
Tracey Turner, author
Fatti Burke, illustrator
Kingfisher Children's Books
c/o Macmillan Children's Publishing Group
www.macmillan.com
9780753475317, $16.99, HC, 48pp, www.amazon.com
"Wheels" by the team of author Tracey Turner and illustrator/artist Fatti Burke takes young
readers ages 6-9 on a fact-packed journey through the subject of wheels, from bicycles to
driverless cars, via wheeled toys, Ferris wheels, potter's wheels, and chariots along the way.
Information is presented by Fatti Burke's stylish illustrations combined with creatively presented
text, including speech bubbles -- the result is an impressively informative and charmingly
presented picture book that is an especially recommended addition to elementary school and
community library collections.
The World History Shelf
1,000 Facts About Ancient Egypt
Nancy Honovich
National Geographic Children's Books
c/o National Geographic Press
101 West 104th Street, Suite 8, New York, NY 10025
www.nationalgeographic.com
9781426332739, $14.99, HC, 96pp, www.amazon.com
From the Great Pyramid and the Valley of the Kings to the Nile River and Cleopatra, children
ages 8-12 will discover all they have ever wanted to know about this ancient civilization in the
beautifully and profusely illustrated pages of "1,000 Facts About Egypt". Kids will enjoy
unearthing ancient hieroglyphs and their meanings; finding out what was in King Tut's tomb; and
getting insights about the science of mummification. Young readers will learn about ancient
Egyptian gods and famous pharaohs, and follow Egypt's battles for power in the world. After this
deep dive into Egyptology, the young reader will be able to dazzle friends and family with your
newfound knowledge about the history and culture of Ancient Egypt -- making it an ideal and
recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library Ancient History
collections in general, and Egyptology supplemental studies reading lists in particular.
The World of the Old Testament
Marc Olson, author
Jemima Maybank, illustrator
Beaming Books
beamingbooks.com
9781506450599 $19.99 hc amazon.com
Intended for young readers ages 9-14, The World of the Old Testament draws upon the latest
archaeology and research to portray what life was like in biblical times. Created especially to
provide authentic, historical context to stories of the Bible, in a format thoroughly accessible to
young adults, The World of the Old Testament is utterly fascinating from cover to cover and a
"must" for personal, public, school, and church library collections. Highly recommended!
The Self-Help Shelf
Big Breath
William Meyer, author
Brittany R. Jacobs, illustrator
New World Library
www.newworldlibrary.com
9781608686339 $16.95 32 pages
"Big Breath" is a guided meditation and relaxation book for kids. Focusing on breathing, a gentle
relaxation practice is colorfully illustrated and described. Readers are encouraged to use their
breath to guide them into a deeper, calmer awareness of themselves in their bodies, building a
positive connection to the physical realities of existence. The author's words help suggest a way
to deepen inner connectedness: "Can you remember all the places you have been today? Imagine
all the invisible footprints you have left behind. then take another big breath, and let them all go,
like footprints washed away by the waves. let go of the day. Let go of the coulds, the woulds, and
the shoulds, the goods and the bads. And for a moment, just breathe. Breathe in the blue sky of
your mind. Breathe in the light of your heart. Breathe in the tingling of your toes and the warmth
of your hands. breathe in all you are and all you will be. Breathe in everywhere you've been and
everywhere you'll go. And then, when you are ready, but only when you are ready, take one last
breath and open your eyes. How do you feel on the inside? How do you feel on the outside? Do
you feel lighter, more relaxed, maybe a little calmer? May you carry this feeling with you through
your day and your dreams. And may you share it with everyone you meet!" This breath
meditation can be used to calm worries, build strength, or just to relax or wind down before
bedtime. "Big Breath: A Guided Meditation for Kids" is a wonderful self help resource for both
kids and adults.
Try: Building Confidence for Children
Joseph S. DiMare, author
John Wilson, illustrator
Schiffer Kids
c/o Schiffer Publishing Ltd.
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
www.schifferbooks.com
9780764357787, $16.99, HC, 48pp, www.amazon.com
"Try: Building Confidence for Children" is a fun, uplifting, feel-good read by author Joseph S.
DiMare that is enhanced for young readers ages 5-6 with captivating illustrations by John Wilson
that presents them with a positive message about trying new things. From tying a tie to climbing
the highest mountain, kids are encouraged to try their best, no matter how big or small their
dreams may be. Playful suggestions teach children to believe in themselves and help encourage
curiosity without fear of failure. At the end of "Try" are special pages for children to brainstorm
and draw things they'd like to try, as well as what they're proud of having already done. It also
includes simple, step-by-step directions for some activities named in the book, such as baking a
pie and catching fireflies. "Try" builds children's confidence, feeds their curiosity, and expands
what they imagine they can do, making it unreservedly recommended for family, elementary
school, and community library collections.
The Wizard's Wish
Brad Yates
Eifrig Publishing
PO Box 66, Lemont, PA 16851
www.eifrigpublishing.com
9781632332004, $19.99, HC, 34pp, www.amazon.com
After a terrible storm, the people of a normally peaceful village find themselves unusually out of
sorts. They feel more angry, sad, and scared (and find life more difficult) even in school and
sports! But a kindly wizard discovers a secret that helps them feel even better than before, one
they can use themselves -- and so can children ages 2-11 (along with their parents/teachers) can
learn a safe, simple way to deal with uncomfortable emotions in the brightly illustrated picture
book "The Wizard's Wish" by author and illustrator Brad Yates. The solution is right at our
fingertips! By tapping points on our body (a process done in the clinically proven Emotion
Freedom Technique), together with guided responses, the wizard demonstrates how we can feel
better in minutes! EFT practitioner Brad Yates has created a book that is both fun and incredibly
helpful! Of special note is that using QR code technology, you can download instructional and
sample videos by Brad for instant access to the magical tool of EFT, making it an unreservedly
recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school and community
library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Wizard's Wish" is also
available in a paperback edition (9781451570908, $9.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle,
$7.00).
The Crafts Shelf
Easy Paper Projects
Maggy Woodley
https://www.redtedart.com
Page Street Publishing
www.pagestreetpublishing.com
9781624148507, $19.99, PB, 192pp, www.amazon.cm
Maggy Woodley is the creator of the crafts blog Red Ted Art. Her crafts have been featured in
Good Housekeeping, Reader's Digest and Brit + Co. In "Easy Paper Projects: 60 Crafts You Can
Wear, Gift, Use and Admire" she shows children ages 6-11 just how versatile paper can be when
creating fun, colorful crafts. Whether using plain printer paper, a rainbow array of cardstock or
just a few scraps of construction paper, children will be able to create inventive paper crafts that
require only a few materials that are readily available, making them a thrifty and accessible
alternative to more complicated projects. Thoroughly 'kid friendly' in organization and
presentation, "Easy Paper Projects" is unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school,
and community library Crafts/Hobbies collections.
The Music Shelf
The History of Rock
Rita Nabais, author
Joana Raimundo, illustrator
Triumph Books
www.triumphbooks.com
9781629377339, $19.95, HC, 112pp, www.amazon.com
The collaborative work of author Rita Nabais and illustrator Joana Raimundo, "The History of
Rock: For Big Fans and Little Punks" offers young readers ages 9-12 an impressively informative
tour through popular music history, featuring trailblazing acts from the 1950s to the present day.
Colorful, stylish illustrations bring to life artists like Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie, Joan Jett, and
Madonna, plus bands such as The Beatles, The Clash, Beastie Boys, and Pearl Jam, all of whom
have inspired countless boys and girls to become musicians over the past 70 years. As fun as it is
informative, "The History of Rock: For Big Fans and Little Punks" will prove to be an enduringly
popular addition to the personal reading lists of young rock music fans, as well as elementary
school and community library Popular Music collections.
The Humor Shelf
The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids
Carole P. Roman
www.caroleproman.com
Rockridge Press
www.getrockridgebooks.com
9781641526371, $9.99, PB, 160pp, www.amazon.com
Compiled by Carole P. Roman, "The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids" is illustrated collection of
more than 800 jokes for kids ages 6-12. This laugh-out-loud compendium of knock-knock jokes,
riddles, and tongue twisters, and more is inclusive and family-friendly, with knee-slappers that
kids will be bursting to tell every chance they get. The jokes also get more challenging with each
chapter, so "The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids" will tickle funny bones of all ages. Offering
hours and hours of fun, "The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids" is unreservedly recommended for
family, elementary school and community library collections. It should be noted for personal
reading lists that "The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids" is also available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $2.99).
The Graphic Novel Shelf
Uleyli: The Princess and the Pirate
G. C. Daniels, story and art
www.GCDaniels.com
Rebourne Communications
https://rebournecommunications.com
9780977418947 $19.99 hc / $9.99 Kindle amazon.com
Uleyli: The Princess and the Pirate is a historical fiction graphic novel based on true events in the
life of a Native American princess who lived in Florida, in the year 1528 - the era of first contact
between native populations and Spanish explorers. Drawing upon historical record and folklore,
the story is from the perspective of Uleyli (based on the real Princess Ulele, also known as
"Florida's Pocahontas"), who saves the life of a Spanish captive. Uleyli feels trapped by an
arranged marriage to the ruler of a neighboring tribe, but her own artist talents, sense of
compassion, and ability to inspire others just might be the key to taking control of her destiny!
Uleyli: The Princess and the Pirate is a welcome addition to personal and public library children's
graphic novel collections, highly recommended. It should be noted that "Uleyli: The Princess and
the Pirate" is also available as an illustrated chapter book, and future titles in the series are
forthcoming.
The Music CD Shelf
Ageless: Songs for the Child Archetype
Jon Samson
Co Creative Music
$TBA CD / $9.49 MP3 amazon.com
Music therapist and songwriter Jon Samson presents Ageless: Songs for the Child Archetype, a
music album crafted to appeal to the child in everyone. Kids and adults will both enjoy these
lighthearted songs about dealing with everyday challenges. Heartwarming and upbeat, Ageless is
highly recommended for both family and public library music collections. The tracks are
"Predicament", "Anxiety", "Video Game", "Focus on What You Want", "Magic Potion Ocean",
"Focus on ADD", "Am I Awake", "Focus on This Moment", "Love Is Not A Race", "Bubble
Earth", "Bye, Polar Bear", and "Only Love".
Kith & Kin
Duke Otherwise
dukeotherwise.com
Privately Published
$TBA CD / $8.99 MP3 amazon.com
Kith & Kin is a family-centric album of songs featuring a diversity of instruments, a quirky sense
of humor, and inspiration from around the globe. Exulting in the joys of family, friends, and
everyday life, Kith & Kin is so delightfully charming one can't help but smile. Kith & Kin is
highly recommended for personal, public, and school library children's music collections. The
tracks are "Everybody Spin", "So Full", "Joy's aGrump", "Yodeling Lament", "Atticus", "Billy,
Put Your Sister Down", "Eats Like You", "Elementary Crush", "There's a Lion in My Room",
"Still Counting...", "Slow Monster", "Gavin", "Zane", "Twins", "And Finally...", "Golden Wheel
Spider", and "Always Home".
Waiting For The Elevator
The Laurie Berkner Band
www.laurieberkner.com
Two Tomatoes Records
$11.98 CD / $9.99 digital amazon.com
Children's musician Laurie Berkner and The Laurie Berkner Band present Waiting For The
Elevator, a wonderful album of original songs brimming with zest and whimsy. The songs are
crafted to naturally lead into one another; the smooth transitions make Waiting For The Elevator
feel like a family-friendly concert performance. Waiting For The Elevator is thoroughly
delightful, and highly recommended for both personal and public library children's music
collections. The tracks are "Waiting For The Elevator", "A Dollar", "Did You Go To Ohio?",
"Look At All The Letters", "12 Months", "Do You Hear The Bells?", "Chipmunk At The Gas
Pump", "I Missed You", "I Know How That Works", "I Love You Daddy", "A Hug From My
Mama", "Piggyback Ride", "A Mermaid's Song", "Big Blue Box", "Come Out Come Out", "I Am
Angry (Yes I Am)", "Purple Bricks In The Sky", "This Mountain", and "Somos Los
Dinosaurios". 47 min., 24 sec.
Listen. Love. Repeat
Again, Again
Privately Published
$12.00 CD / $8.99 digital cdbaby.com
Listen. Love. Repeat is a family-friendly album of original songs by the delightful duo of Jennifer
Cook and Anne Montone, a.k.a. "Again, Again". The high-spirited songs celebrate exciting
challenges such as the first day of school, and the joy of simple things such as helping others out
or sharing a hug with family. Listen. Love. Repeat is a choice pick for children and parents to
share together! Also highly recommended is the separately sold "Listen. Love. Repeat. Lyric and
Coloring Book for Kids and Their Adults" ($4.99 digital/$6.99 softbound); a book/CD bundle is
available from Brandcamp ($12.00). The tracks of "Listen. Love. Repeat" are "ABCs in Spanish
and English", "The Kids Are Here (First Day of School)", "Families Come in Blended Ways",
"Get Dressed March", "Bubble Gum and Cheese", "Wrap You Arms Around Your Family", "Be
Well", "Dinosaur Party", "Helping Out", and "Camping Song (Lullaby)".
A Cheerful Little Earful
Diana Panton
www.dianapanton.com
Little Things
$12.99 CD / $9.99 download amazon.com
Two-time JUNO Award winner Diana Panton presents A Cheerful Little Earful, a family-friendly
album of classic songs, including beloved Americana tunes as well hits from Disney and Sesame
Street. Panton's stylish, jazzy performance is a joy to experience, creating a wonderful album that
both adults and little ones will treasure hearing again and again. Highly recommended! The
tracks are "Happy Talk", "It's a Most Unusual Day", "'A' You're Adorable", "Red Red Robin", "I
Don't Want to Live on the Moon", "Cheerful Little Earful", "If You Feel Like Singing, Sing",
"Music and Me", "Pocketful of Miracles", "Look to the Rainbow", "All in the Golden
Afternoon", "Experiment", "Aren't You Glad You're You?", "Sing a Rainbow", and "Hush-a-bye
Island". 53 min. 47 sec.
Hunk-Ta-Bunk-Ta Holidays
Katherine Dines
Privately Published
Hunktabunkta.com
$15.99 CD / $12.00 digital www.bandcamp.com
Grammy-nominated independent family music artist Katherine Dines presents Hunk-Ta-Bunk-Ta
Holidays, a family-friendly music album of 13 songs as well as fascinating stories and facts about
how cultures around the world cherish their favorite holidays. In addition to celebrating well-
known holidays like Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and Christmas, songs rejoice in less-familiar
holidays such as Chinese New Year, Diwali, Kwanzaa, and Ramadan. Brief stories about each
holiday enrich this educational, multicultural treasure highly recommended for personal, public,
and school library children's music collections. The tracks are "Somewhere in this World", "A
Long Time Ago", "Thanks to the Sun", "Nian", "Light Rises Over Darkness", "Stars", "Eight
Little Candles", "The Friendly Beasts", "The Forever Evergreen", "The Sun Will Rise",
"Ramadan", "Kwanzaa", and "Joy". 43 min.
Ditto Kiddo
Stephen Michael Schwartz
www.StephenMichaelSchwartz.com
S-Team Productions
$12.98 CD / $8.91 MP3 amazon.com
Created especially for young listeners, Ditto Kiddo is the fourth solo album by Stephen Michael
Schwartz, about life from a child's perspective. The catchy, upbeat vocals and Schwartz's guitar
playing make these energetic tunes a jubilant delight. Ditto Kiddo is a choice pick for family car
trips, children's parties, or rainy day fun! The tracks are "Alphabet Soup", "Bubble Gum Friend",
"Grandma and Grandpa", "That's What Love Can Do", "Ditty Kiddo", "No, No, No, No, No",
"Little Fingers, Tiny Toes", "Hopscotch", and "Hello Gymbo".
The LGBT Shelf
Ho'Onani Hula Warrior
Heather Gale
Tundra
www.penguinrandomhouse.ca
9780735264496 $17.99
Ho'Onani Hula Warrior receives fine drawings by Mika Song and tells of a girl who doesn't see
herself as either female or male. She's happy to be in the middle, but Hawaiian culture demands
that she makes a choice. And when she wants to lead the boys-only hula troupe at her school,
trouble begins. This is based on a true story and offers many insights on Hawaiian culture as it
explore gender identity and fluidity in an accepting manner.
The GayBCs
M. L. Webb
Quirk Books
215 Church Street, Philadelphia PA 19106
www.quirkbooks.com
9781683691624 $14.99 hc / $8.99 Kindle amazon.com
Intended for parents to share with children ages 4-8, The GayBCs is an alphabet picturebook and
teaching tool about LGBTQ+ vocabulary, issues, and rights. Each letter is paired with a simple
rhyme. The page for B reads "B is for Bi. / You can shout it out loud: / 'I like boys and girls, / and
that makes me proud!'", and the page for Q reads "Q is for Queer. / An inclusive term. / It's used
to show pride, / unite, and affirm!". Since The GayBCs is meant to educate young people about
social issues, including LGBTQ rights, tolerance, gender, and sexuality, it works well as a read-
aloud "discussion starter" for parents to share with their children, while answering any questions
that their children ask.
Books in Series
Making a Book
Meg Gaertner, author
The Child's World
1980 Lookout Drive, Mankato, MN 56003
www.childsworld.com
9781503835092, $28.34, Library Binding, 24pp, www.amazon.com
"Making a Book" is a grade level 1 how -to book from the series, Sequencing Stories. It describes
the process of creating a book from a child author's viewpoint. It outlines the process of writing a
book, including imagining and creating a story, plus specifics about characters, setting, and plot.
Green highlighted sidebars detail various fun facts related to the process of making a book. The
process of making a book is broken down into multiple steps, including imagining, writing,
revising, drawing illustrations, and finishing. For additional help, "Making a Book" has a
glossary of terms, a resource section titled To Learn More, and an index. "Making a Book" is an
inspiring workbook for early elementary students to use for help in creating their own
stories.
Also highly recommended are these additional titles by author Meg Gaertner in the series,
Sequencing Stories: "Building a Snowman (9781503835061)," "Building with Blocks
(9781503835122)," "Carrying a Jack-O'-Lantern (9781503835078)," "Making Cookies
(9781503835108)," "Making a Valentine (9781503835139)," "Making Lemonade
(9781503835085)," and "Planting a Garden (9781503835115)."
Things Up Close
Alice Boynton, author
Red Chair Press
Lerner Publishing Services (distributor)
www.lernerbooks.com
9781634406697, $18.99 S & L, 24pp, www.redchairpress.com
"Things Up Close," from the Red Chair Press nonfiction series, Look Closely!, is a fascinating
resource text about examining common objects closely to determine unusual facts or features
about each object. Some of the everyday objects under scrutiny include a toothbrush, a sponge, a
pencil, a seashell, and more. Filled with color photographs of object closeups, "Things Up close"
is written using a riddle format to appeal to children age 5 to 8 years . Green fact boxes labeled
"Good To Know" and "Now You Know" provide additional highlighted information about each
object. There is also a vocabulary list, index, and a resource list labeled Learn More at the
Library. "Things Up Close" is a creative approach to the examination of common objects for
further analysis and knowledge. Children will be stimulated to learn more about other everyday
objects in their daily lives. Other titles in this series that are also highly recommended for
audiences ages 4-7 years include: "Structures Up Close (9781634406673, $18.99)," by Wiley
Blevins, "People Up Close (9781634406680, $18.99)," by Wiley Blevins, and "Nature Up Close
(9781634406666, $18.99)," by Alice Boynton.
Scratch Code Smart Homes
Max Wainwright, author
John Haslam, illustrator
Crabtree Publishing Company
PMB 59051, 350 Fifth Avenue, 59th Floor, New York, NY 10118
www.crabtreebooks.com
9780778765400 $27.60 hc / $8.95 pbk amazon.com
"Scratch Code Smart Homes," from the series Scratch Code Challenge, is a code manual for kids
(age 8 and up) using Scratch 3, a code website, to help create a modern smart home using
computer coding technology. Students use their web browser to type scratch.mit.edu to create
their projects for smart homes. Detailed illustrations show crucial screen components used in
Scratch 3, and step by step instructions show how to create an appropriate setting and backdrop
for the house being coded. Then students are shown how to draw a house, set rooms, start coding,
use sensor codes for lighting or automatic music. Additional coding instruction is provided to
help create an intercom and camera for the automatic doorbell. Voice Control 1 and 2 show how
to use voice control technology to turn lights on or turn heat up. Next the Scratch 3 site is used to
code home improvement robots such as vacuum cleaners to do their job efficiently. Further home
improvements are coded using burglar alarms and audio and video burglar alarms. A chapter
page on bugs and debugging helps work through problems when your code isn't working as
expected. This includes several special tips to reduce bugs. One suggestion is to practice
debugging, and to draw a diagram of your program and plan it before starting. "Scratch Code
Smart Homes" is completed by a Glossary and helpful index. "Scratch Code Smart Homes" is an
excellent guidebook for kids and adults learning to use computer technology to improve homes
and home security. Also highly recommended are the following titles by max Wainwright from
the Scratch Code Challenge Series: "Scratch Code Space Tech (9780778765417)," "Scratch
Code Transportation (9780778765424)," and "Scratch Code Robots (9780778765325),"
The Tasty Treat: The Nocturnals
Tracey Hecht, author
Josie Yee, illustrator
Fabled Films Press
https://www.fabledfilms.com
9781944020293, $12.99 HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
In "The Tasty Treat" (a part of the Fabled Films Press 'Grow & Read' series 'Nocturnals'), Dawn
the fox wakes up and goes looking for her friends, Tobin the pangolin and Bismark the sugar
glider, to share a tasty treat -- a pomelo! Using basic language, emerging readers ages 4-6 are
introduced to the Nocturnal Brigade. Very highly recommended for family, daycare center,
preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, "The Tasty Treat" also includes
bonus pronunciation guide and is also available in a paperback edition (9781944020309, $5.99).
Other titles in this simply outstanding series include "The Moonlight Meeting"; "The Peculiar
Possum"; "The Kooky Kinkajou": "The Mysterious Abductions"; "The Ominous Eye"; and "The
Slithery Shakedown".
Ruby Finds a Worry
Tom Percival
Bloomsbury Children's Books
175 Fifth Avenue, 8th floor, New York, NY 10010-7728
www.bloomsburyusa.com
9781547602377, $17.99 HC, $11.09 Kindle, 32pp, www.amazon.com
In "Ruby Finds a Worry", children ages 3-6 will meet Ruby -- a happy, curious, imaginative girl.
But one day, she finds something unexpected: a Worry. It's not such a big Worry, at first. But
every day, it grows a little bigger . . . And a little bigger . . . Until eventually, the Worry is
ENORMOUS and is all she can think about. But when Ruby befriends a young boy, she
discovers that everyone has worries, and not only that, there's a great way to get rid of them too!
A perceptive and poignant picture book story is the perfect springboard for talking to children
about emotional intelligence and sharing hidden anxieties, "Ruby Finds a Worry" is an especially
recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community
library collections. It should be noted that two other titles in this outstanding Big Bright Feelings
picture book series for children about mental and emotional health, positive self-image, building
self-confidence, and managing feelings include "Perfectly Norman" and "Ravi's Roar".
Athena: Goddess of Wisdom, War, and Crafts
Teri Temple, author
Robert Squier, illustrator
The Child's World
1980 Lookout Drive, Mankato, MN 56003
www.childsworld.com
9781503832558 $29.93 List/ $20.95 Library
Written at a Grade 3 reading level with interest for grades 3-6, "Athena: Goddess of Wisdom,
War, and Crafts" is a title from the twelve volume series, Greek Gods and Goddesses. Filled with
colorful full page illustrations and organized with thumbnail portraits of the major Greek gods,
goddesses, and other important personages, "Athena" opens with a map of Greece showing major
characters and places. The story of Athena's birth/creation is told, along with her devotion to her
friend and practice mate, Pallas, whose name she added to her own when she accidentally killed
Pallas during battle training. Athena was goddess of not only battle but also the goddess of crafts,
such as literature, poetry, music, weaving, and the arts. Many traditional stories of Athena and
other gods an mortals are recounted. Athena is the patron goddess of Athens, Greece. Their
famous temple, the Parthenon was built to honor Athena. Athena also gifted Athens and all
Greece with the olive tree, a very useful gift. "Athena" finishes with an illustrated family tree of
the principal gods of Greek mythology in a family tree, and also a list of the Roman gods and
goddesses, who mostly changed the names of the Greek gods and goddesses. A section on further
information lists books and websites for related interest. "Athena" is an excellent resource for
elementary students grades 3 and up. Additional highly recommended titles by the same author
and illustrator in the Greek Gods and Goddesses series include the following: "Eros: God of
Love (9781503832565, $20.95 Library)," "Hades: God of the Underworld (9781503832589,
$20.95 Library)," "Hephaestus: God of Fire, Metalwork, and Building (9781503832572, $20.95
Library)," Hera, Queen of the Gods, Goddess of Marriage (9781503832596, $20.95 Library),"
"Hermes: God of Travels and Trade (9781503832602, $20.95 Library)," "Apollo: God of the
Sun, Healing, Music, and Poetry (9781503832527, $20.95 Library)," "Ares: God of War
(9781503832534, $20.95 Library)," "Artemis: Goddess of Hunting and Protector of Animals
(9781503832541, $20.95 Library)," "Aphrodite: Goddess of Love and Beauty (9781503832510,
$20.95 Library)," "Poseidon: God of the Sea and Earthquakes (9781503832619, $20.95
Library)," and "Zeus: King of the Gods, God of Sky and Storms (9781503832626, $20.95
Library)."
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.
Are You My Monster?
Amanda Noll, author
Howard McWilliam, illustrator
Flashlight Press
flashlightpress.com
9781947277328, $8.99
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
I've come to love the illustrations of Howard McWilliam. They are so colorful and captivating.
They add an extra level of wonder and creativity to every story. This early educational concept of
matching and awareness will engage children with delight. While they try to help search out just
the right monster, they are learning important classification skills that help them to identify same
or similar objects based on common properties. This earliest concept prepares and develops
logical thinking, and basic early math skills while having fun. (Ages 2-5)
I Love My Dragon
Jodi Moore, author
Howard McWilliam, illustrator
Flashlight Press
flashlightpress.com
9781947277304, $7.99
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
I enjoyed this early reader board book. It is bright and colorful, with illustrations that are sure to
capture a young imagination (and some old ones as well). Relationship has many faces, and
friendship is surely her most attractive side. It often begins in those awkward early years when
sorting imagination and reality is still a bit blurred. When young hearts are open and fluid, and
magical thoughts are as lucid as the rising sun. Imaginary friends often set the stage, guiding the
heart, while setting a lifelong understanding of the power of friendship. (Ages 2-5)
Happy Halloween Pirates! (Lift-the-Flap Book)
W. Harry Kirn, author
Inna Chernyak, illustrator
Clever Publishing
clever-publishing.com
c/o Quarto (distribution)
https://www.quarto.com
9781948418881, $12.99
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
This fun peek-a-boo board book is sure to tickle some funny bones. It's filled with the excitement
and creativity of planning for a costume party, and is sure to delight. Finding hidden little visuals
under tabs on each page is an added bonus. (Ages 2-5)
Dinosaur Farm!
Penny Dale
Nosy Crow
nosycrow.com
c/o Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9780763699369, $15.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
This is the newest installment in author Penny Dale's series of dinosaur books. The team of
dinosaurs have been in outer space and fought pirates. Now they are on the farm plowing the soil,
feeding the sheep, harvesting the wheat, and doing all the work that needs to be done on a farm.
Everyone's working hard to get ready for the upcoming farm show. (Ages 2-5)
Why Not?
Amanda Huneke, author
Claudia Tenorio Pearl, illustrator
Warren Publishing, Inc
www.warrenpublishing.net
9781943258482, $17.95
Larissa Juliano
Reviewer
What a sweet story with our cute protagonist Peyton Pep! She will remind lots of families and
teachers of their imaginative and spirited children and students. Peyton's zest for life and
adventurous spirit sparks different ideas or outings and activities each day of the week.
Illustrations have a classic feel with our little brunette and her various outfits, fun backgrounds
that illuminate Peyton's big ideas and dream vacation spots. A perfect story for children who
dream big, and also a great mentor text to talk about the days of the week, habitats, and dreams
that stretch beyond our own backyard. (Ages 2-7)
Mr. Pumpkin's Tea Party
Erin Barker
Blue Manatee Press
www.bluemanateepress.com
c/o Independent Publishers Group (distribution)
www.ipgbook.com
9781936669776, $17.99
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
This Halloween counting book is just spooky enough for little ones, and makes the countdown
just ghoulish enough for lots of fun and giggles. The clock strikes thirteen with an echoing
chime, and everyone is sure to have had a frightful good time! (Ages 3-5)
High Five
Adam Rubin, author
Daniel Salmieri, illustrator
Dial Books
www.penguinrandomhouse.com
9780525428893, $19.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
The annual high five contest is being held, and you are invited to participate. Test your skills
against a gigantic bear, a kangaroo, a lizard, an elephant and an octopus. Who will win? Will it
be you? (Ages 3-5)
Pick a Pumpkin
Patricia Toht, author
Jarvis, illustrator
Candlewick
www.candlewick.com
9781536207644, $16.99
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
This cute, rhyming description reminds us all of the fun to be shared in the fall. The joy in
combing the pumpkin patch for that perfect one! Halloween brings everyone so much fun.
Community, family, sharing, and imagination all make for good reading, and good times. (Ages
3-7)
Maya and the Lost Cat
Caroline Magerl
Candlewick
www.candlewick.com
9781536204230, $16.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
When Maya discovers a lost cat, it takes her several tries to coax the cat to come to her. Then
Maya goes looking for the cat's owner. What happens next is a pleasant surprise. Author Caroline
Magerl writes in a beautiful, flowing prose that adds so much to this short but sweet story. (Ages
3-7)
One Red Sock
Jennifer Sattler
Sleeping Bear Press
sleepingbearpress.com
9781534110267, $14.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
A little purple hippo has a problem. She only has one red sock and she can't find the mate to it.
She keeps looking and looking for a sock that will work, but because she is fashion conscious,
not just any sock will do. The text is interactive and engaging and the illustrations are delightful.
(Ages 4-5)
The Truth About Grandparents
Elina Ellis
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
www.lbyr.com
9780316424721, $17.99
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
The illustrations in this story will bring a warmth and a giggle as a young boy sorts out the truth
about "old people." He's heard many things that just don't prove to be true when he measures it
against his very own favorite old people. The relationship between grandparents and
grandchildren is one truly made of magic. Some may ponder the hows and the whys of it all, but
it is past finding out. It just seems to be a gift life whispers to the heart. (Ages 4-7)
Hibernate with Me
Benjamin Scheuer, author
Jemima Williams, illustrator
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781534432178, $17.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
This book is based on a song by the same name, written by Benjamin Scheuer. Jemima Williams
turned the song into a picture book, adding warm illustrations to the text. The story is about a
small bear that needs a place to hibernate for the winter. Mama Bear invites him to hibernate
with her so she can keep her cub safe. A copy of the song is
printed as the back matter for the book. (Ages 4-8)
Give Me Back My Bones!
Kim Norman, author
Bob Kolar, illustrator
Candlewick
www.candlewick.com
9780763688417, $16.99
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
I so enjoyed this book! It's educational, but so much fun you don't know it. Its clever rhyming
paints clear visuals easy to remember, making big words manageable. This is a great way to learn
our skeletal structure. Truly early education at its finest! (Ages 4-8)
How I Met My Monster
Amanda Noll, author
Howard McWilliam, illustrator
Flashlight Press
http://flashlightpress.com
9781947277090, $17.95
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
The amazing illustrations in this story will surely bring the fun of imagination to every page!
Bedtime can sometimes be anything but a quiet experience, and parents have exhaustingly sought
for the perfect overcoming win. In this fun-loving tale, Ethan meets his match as Gabe the
toe-loving monster takes up residence under his bed. Proving to be the perfect monster to keep
this little guy in his bed, it's sure to bring some giggles and chuckles along the way. (Ages
5-7)
Milo Does Not Like Mornings: A Tiny Ninja Book
Sasha Graham, author
Angelina Valieva, illustrator
https://www.tinyninjabooks.com
Gatekeeper Press
gatekeeperpress.com
9781642374674, $19.99
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
My adult granddaughter casually glanced at the title on a stack of books awaiting my attention,
and with a chuckle she said, "Be sure to read THAT one to my daughter!" I then realized the
ordeal of mornings for Milo and his mother was a real reality mothers face every day. Milo is a
loving active boy, just NOT in the morning. This story is part of the Tiny Ninja series. It
addresses the real-time necessity, and provides fun search-and-find ninja pages along the way to
keep readers engaged. Find out if Milo can overcome his morning dilemma by listening to his
own tiny ninja. (Ages 5-7)
Georgia's Terrific, Colorific Experiment
Zoe Persico
Running Press Kids
www.runningpress.com
9780762465248, $17.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Georgia is a scientist. She's into measuring and observing things. The rest of her family members
- mom, dad, and brothers - are artists. They are into color and being creative. Even the dog is
creative! When Georgia is trying to come up with a unique science experiment, her family
members want to help. But, she is determined to do something herself. After all, science and art
really don't go together. Do they? (Ages 5-8)
Peek-a-Boo at the Zoo
Kimberly Dixon, author
Claudia Tenorio-Pearl, illustrator
Warren Publishing, Inc
https://www.warrenpublishing.net
9781943258659, $7.99
Larissa Juliano
Reviewer
Sweet rhyming stories with children and their families always tug at my heartstrings. And this
one will capture reader's hearts as they go on a zoo journey with a baby and his daddy! Readers
will definitely join in the animals' chorus and dialogue as they respond to the baby's fun and
games. Lots to point out on each page, and a fun inspiration for budding artists to create their
own map of a favorite place. Great book for little animal lovers. (Ages 5-8)
Ollie on Stage
Keith Brockett
Sleeping Bear Press
sleepingbearpress.com
9781585364015, $16.99
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Ollie the ogre wants to be on stage. When he sees a sign at the local theatre advertising a talent
show, he's ready to perform. But, he has a problem: He can't sing, he can't dance, and he has no
obvious talents. Will he be able to compete? (Ages 5-8)
Norm
Sylvia Liang
Thames & Hudson
thamesandhudson.com
9780500651612, $13.95
Christine Irvin
Reviewer
Norman, who likes to be called Norm, is just a "normal" kid living in a "normal" town where
everyone and everything is the same and is "normal." Norm and the other people in his town
carry rulers everywhere they go so they can measure everything, to see how things "measure up"
and to make sure that nothing is "unruly." This way of life is normal for Norm and he is content
and happy... until he meets a young girl named Jess. Jess doesn't fit Norm's measure of being
normal. A story that shows the world is a richer and fuller place when you can go beyond the
"normal limits" and use your imagination to express your individuality. (Ages 6-8)
The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids
Carole P. Roman
www.caroleproman.com
Rockridge Press
www.getrockridgebooks.com
9781641526371, $9.99
Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer
They say laughter is the best medicine. Life is not always easy, and can hurl some pretty bad
things our way. As parents, we try to instill strong and healthy coping skills to our children. A
good sense of humor is vital to life. It's a good dose of protection from the world's emotional
contagions. I think we all should have this fun-loving book at arm's length, ready to apply a
liberal dose of its 800 plus jokes, riddles, and tongue twisters to the nasty scrapes and bruises of
childhood. Who doesn't remember the thrill of telling a Knock Knock joke? Education is vital,
and we should teach our children how to laugh! Even at themselves. (Ages 6-12)
The Dog Who Lost his Bark
Eoin Colfer, author
P.J. Lynch, illustrator
Candlewick
www.candlewick.com
9781536204421, $16.99
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Patrick has been desperate for a dog of his own for as long as he can remember, and this summer,
with his father away, he longs for a canine friend more than ever. Meanwhile, in his short doggy
life, Oz has suffered at the hands of bad people. Somewhere out there, he believes, is an
awesome boy - his boy. And maybe, when they find each other, Oz will learn to bark again. A
beautiful story that all children should read. (Ages 7-10)
A Creative Approach to Managing Emotions series
Maria Merce Conangla and Jaume Soler
Schiffer
www.schifferbooks.com
$16.99 each amazon.com
Larissa Juliano
Reviewer
Innovative, different, clever. These words describe the trio of books in this series - Relationship
Navigators (9780764355554), Emotional Explorers (9780764355530), and Feelings Forecasters
(9780764356247). The idea behind these "teaching guides" is to connect nature and its elements
to the feelings and experiences children face in their everyday lives. More and more, the
expectations and pressures on children, emotionally and academically, can feel stifling and
confusing and these books can be a wonderful resource to healthily sift and push through
conflicts, discomforts, and new experiences to become our best selves. (Ages 8-12)
Sunnyside Plaza
Scott Simon
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
www.lbyr.com
9780316531207, $16.99
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Sally Miyake can't read, but she learns lots of things. She is happy working in the kitchen at
Sunnyside Plaza, the community center she lives in with other adults with developmental
disabilities. For Sally and her friends, Sunnyside is the only home they've ever known.
Everything changes the day a resident unexpectedly dies. After a series of tragic events,
detectives Esther Rivas and Lon Bridges begin asking questions. Are the incidents accidents? Or
is something more disturbing happening? While this is a tale of adventure for the characters, the
story gives young readers an insight and empathy into the lives of people young and old who live
in group homes. A must-read. (Ages 8-12)
Sandapalooza Shake-Up
Chris Grabenstein
Dell Yearling
c/o Random House
www.penguinrandomhouse.com
9781524717599, $7.99
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Life's a vacation when you live in the world's wackiest motel! P.T. and his best friend, Gloria, are
getting ready for St. Pete Beach's first-ever Sandapalooza! The Wonderland's biggest rival, the
Conch Reef Resort, is doing everything it can to win the sand sculpture contest, but P.T. has
bigger problems: The Wonderland has opened a new restaurant - the Banana Shack - and running
a restaurant is harder than it looks! And to make matters worse, a royal guest's priceless tiara has
gone missing, and the prime suspect is the Wonderland's beloved housekeeper! Can P.T. and
Gloria win the contest, keep the restaurant going, and clear Clara's name? I can't wait to read the
next P.T. Wallace story. They just get better and better. (Ages 8-12)
The Absence of Sparrows
Kurt Kirchmeier
Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
www.lbyr.com
9780316450928, $16.99
Diana Perry
Reviewer
In the small town of Griever's Mill, 11-year-old Ben Cameron is expecting to finish off his
summer of relaxing and bird-watching without a hitch. But everything goes wrong when dark
clouds roll in. Old Man Crandall is the first to change--human one minute and a glass statue the
next. Soon it's happening across the world. Dark clouds fill the sky and, at random, people are
turned into frozen versions of themselves. There's nowhere to run, nowhere to hide, and no one
knows how to stop it. Ben must hold out hope that his town's missing sparrows will return with
everyone's souls before the glass plague takes them away forever. Readers of all ages will be
truly entertained with this most unique story. (Ages 9-12)
The Crystal Navigator
Nancy Kunhardt Lodge
http://www.nancylodge.com/index.html
Wilwahren Press
9780996088527, $14.99
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Eleven-year-old Lucy Nightingale is a special little girl. She can make things with her thoughts.
However, she lost her confidence when her mind went blank during an oral report. Then a
dazzling new teacher assigns another report about five paintings. Convinced that the only way to
get an A on this assignment is to actually talk to the artists, Lucy summons a Wise One to help
her with time travel. This is the beginning of a great adventure where young readers will learn
much about the world-famous classic artists and their paintings. A fun and very educational read
for children. (Ages 11-14)
Playing Dead
Anne Colledge
https://annecoll.co.uk
Nielsen
9781916497504 $10.27 pbk / $2.99 Kindle amazon.com
Diana Perry
Reviewer
Everyone can be caught up by War. Stories about how people survived help us today. The
historical facts educate us but the characters help us to cope ourselves. Davy and Stan are Blood
Brothers but Stan plays a dirty trick when they go to sign up underage. Can Davy forgive him?
Will he survive to get back to Hilda, his sweetheart? This book is the testament to courage,
friendship, and forgiveness and offers a realist in-depth view of life far away from home for our
heroes in World War ll. Young Adult readers will learn many life lessons from this book. (Ages
14+)
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
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