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Reviewer's Choice
Dad, I Miss You: A Residential School Story
Nadia Sammurtok, author
Simji Park, illustrator
Inhabit Media
9781772274820, $18.95, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Dad-Miss-You-Nadia-Sammurtok/dp/1772274828
Synopsis: Told in the voice of a boy and his father by turns, "Dad, I Miss You: A Residential School Story" is a picture book by author/storyteller Nadia Sammurtok and artist/illustrator Simji Park that takes a thoughtful and heartfelt look at the emotional toll of a child being taken from their family and community to attend residential school.
While the child's internal monologue expresses his fear, confusion, and loss, the father's monologue conveys his own sadness, fears, and hopes for the future of his child. The narrative gives voice to the things left unsaid between a parent and child experiencing this heart-rending separation. Upon his return to his community, when father and son are reunited, they must start the long process of reconnection.
Critique: Based on the author's family history of residential school separation, "Dad, I Miss You: A Residential School Story" provides a unique perspective on the difficult cycle of loss, reconnection, and regaining hope for the future. This picture book story is dedicated to the author's mother and father -- both of whom are residential school survivors. Simply stated, "Dad, I Miss You: A Residential School Story" Inhabit Media is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.
Editorial Note #1: Nadia Sammurtok is an Inuit writer and educator originally from Rankin Inlet, Nunavut. Nadia is passionate about preserving the traditional Inuit lifestyle and Inuktitut language so that they may be enjoyed by future generations. Nadia currently lives in Iqaluit, Nunavut, with her family.
Editorial Note #2: Simji Park is from South Korea, and is now based in London, England, and Rotterdam, Netherlands. After she finished her study at the Royal College of Art, she started her professional illustration career in 2017. She was awarded first prize in children's illustration at the 2019 Faber Adlyn Prize. Simji creates illustrations with pencils and watercolour for children's books alongside digital animation.
I Want to Read All the Books
Debbie Ridpath Ohi
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781481416306, $18.99, HC, 48pp
https://www.amazon.com/I-Want-Read-All-Books/dp/1481416308
Synopsis: A little girl named Hana wants to know everything about the world around her. When she starts asking questions, her mother gives her a book. She learns so much, but now she has even more questions! She also has a big mission: she will read all the books -- every single one!
She reads every book in her house... and then her friends' houses... and then the whole block. Nonfiction, fiction, romance, mysteries, and science fiction.
But when her mother takes her to the downtown library, she realizes there are a lot more books than she thought... way more. Maybe she can't really read all the books -- now what?
Critique: A charming celebration of the delight and value of reading, "I Want to Read All the Books" by author/illustrator Debbie Ridpath Ohi is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community/public library picture book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "I Want to Read All the Books" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Debbie Ridpath Ohi (www.DebbieOhi.com) is the award-winning author and illustrator of Where Are My Books? and Sam & Eva. Her illustrations appear in books by Judy Blume, Michael Ian Black, and Linda Sue Park, among others.
Misty Mole Goes Screen-Free
Yasmin El-Rouby, author
Ishy Walters, illustrator
Neem Tree Press
https://neemtreepress.com
9781911107651, $18.95, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Misty-Mole-Goes-Screen-Free/dp/1911107658
Synopsis: Misty Mole is frustrated because all her friends have mobile phones and tablets, but she does not! She finally persuades her parents to buy her a mobile phone, and plays on it all the time -- even under her desk at school!
When her eyes get sore, blurry and she can't sleep, Misty Mole pays a visit to the eye doctor. All of her friends are there with the same concerns: sore, tired eyes, headaches, and blurry vision. The eye doctor informs them that spending less time on screens and more time outdoors is important for their eye health.
But everyone is too obsessed with their video games and apps, so Misty Mole needs to think of a creative way to reduce screen time and restore fun in the Woodlands...
Children ages 3-7 will fully enjoy joining Misty, a friendly little mole, on her mission to reduce screen time and save her friends' eyesight!
Critique: Dealing with a growing issue/problem arising from modern social media driven technologies, "Misty Mole Goes Screen-Free" by Dr. Yasmin El-Rouby and illustrator Isy Walters with its vision care theme is a fun and critically important addition for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Life Skills/Life Lessons picture book collections. While also available for the personal reading lists of children concerned with good eye health and vision, it should be noted that "Misty Mole Goes Screen-Free" is also readily available from Neem Tree Press in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.00) as well.
Editorial Note #1: Dr. Yasmin El-Rouby O.D MSc PH is a Canadian board-certified eye doctor with over twenty years of experience. Envisioning a world where preventable eye conditions are caught early, she founded Baseera, a non-profit organization, to improve access to basic eye care in developing countries. (https://yasminelrouby.com)
Editorial Note 32: Ishy Walters is an illustrator and mural artist from North East Scotland, UK. With artists on both sides of the family, she has always drawn and painted wherever she has found herself living or travelling and likes to explore different styles and mediums to create a unique response to each new project. (https://neemtreepress.com/illustrator/ishy-walters)
Camouflage Mom: A Story About Staying Connected
Sarah Hovorka, author
Elif Balta Parks, illustrator
Cardinal Rule Press
www.CardinalRulePress.com
9781945369452, $18.95, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Camouflage-Mom-Military-Staying-Connected/dp/1945369450
Synopsis: Sarah is happy to finally see her mom after two months of boot camp but she feels a distance between them that's more than the physical space that separates them. Is that her mom who stares straight ahead in a line of soldiers when Sarah calls out for her? Is that her mom who stomp stomp stomps in big, heavy boots and hides in camouflage clothing?
Using the analogy of links in a chain, "Camouflage Mom" is the picture book story about how Sarah reconnected with her mom after her mom has joined the military.
Critique: A fun, informative, and thoroughly 'kid friendly' picture book by the collaborative team of author/storyteller Sarah Hovorka and artist/illustrator Elif Balta Parks, Camouflage Mom: A Story About Staying Connected" from the Cardinal Rule Press is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, elementary school, and community/public library picture book collections for children ages 5-7. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Camouflage Mom" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781945369612, $12.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $0.99).
Editorial Note #1: Sarah Hovorka (www.sarahhovorka.com) is the published author of Hattie Hates Hugs (2022) and the upcoming Same Love, Different Hug (2023) as well as short stories.
Editorial Note #2; Elif Balta Parks (www.advocate-art.com/elif-balta-parks) is a prolific Children's Book Illustrator. Elif strives for bright, cheerful illustrations that capture the joy of childhood. Since starting her professional career she has illustrated over 60 Children's Books and is ready for so many more.
The Holiday Shelf
Once Upon a Diwali
Anita Mishra, author
Diah Chakraborty, illusrator
Soaring Kite Books
9781958372449, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Once-Upon-Diwali-Holidays-Home/dp/1958372447
Synopsis: Presented as a 'Once Upon a Time' bedtime story, in "Once Upon a Diwali" by author/storyteller Anita Mishra and Diah Chakraborty, children will enjoy learning about the origin of Diwali and how it came to be a celebration of light over darkness and good over evil.
Diwali is a five-day long celebration beginning from purchasing silver and gold items, to decorating the home with lights and candles, to preparing baked goods and visiting friends and family, to ending the holiday with fireworks and a celebration of siblings.
Anita Mishra and Diah Chakraborty join together to represent their respective cultures as Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is celebrated around the world and across various religions including Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists.
Critique: Fun, informative, and thoroughly 'kid friendly', "Once Upon a Diwali" is a unique and unreservedly recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library Celebration/Holiday picture book collections for children ages 5-9. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Once Upon a Diwali" from Soaring Kite Books is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99) as well.
Editorial Note #1: Anita Mishra (https://anitamishra.net) was born in India, experiencing the diverse culture and traditions celebrated. As a kindergarten teacher, Anita is passionate about writing stories to entertain children and spark their imagination.
Editorial Note #2: Diah Chakraborty calls charming Assam, India home. Diah paints vivid scenes bursting with colors and takes inspiration from childhood innocence, whimsical fantasies, and the comforting nostalgia that warms the soul. (https://www.behance.net/inkistopaper)
Trick or Treat on Scary Street
Lance Bass, author
Roland Garrigue, illustrator
Union Square Kids
https://www.unionsquareandco.com
9781454952176, $18.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Trick-Treat-Scary-Street-Lance/dp/1454952172
Synopsis: Come one! Come all! Come follow thirteen trick-or-treaters down Scary Street. Dare to stop at the vampire's lair? Tempted to take a bite of the witch's delight? How about a peek inside a ghostly haunt? Who will make it to the end... and what last trick (or treat) awaits?
Critique: Original, fun, and an unreservedly recommended pick for Halloween themed picture book collections, "Trick or Treat on Scary Street" by author/storyteller Lance Bass and artist/illustrator Roland Garrigue, is a charming introduction to the celebration, thrills and chills of the Halloween season for children ages 4-8.
Editorial Note #1: Lance Bass, best known from his time in the successful music group *NSYNC, can sing, host, act, produce, write, and happily whip up a mean omelet if you ask nicely. With multiple Grammy nominations, two diamond records, more MTV Video Music Awards than you can shake a mic at, and now his first children's book, Lance is truly thankful for all the different ways he gets to create. Living in Los Angeles with his husband, Michael, and their twins (born on Friday the 13th!), Lance is thrilled to share this treat of a book filled with surprising tricks for his favorite holiday, Halloween!
Editorial Note #2: Roland Garrigue is the illustrator of more than a dozen children's books. From kindergarten to today, he has never stopped drawing. He creates fantastic universes and surreal situations, populating his books with characters from all walks of life - monsters, vampires, witches, pirates, aliens, children, and all the strange creatures he can dream up. (https://bookroo.com/creatives/roland-garrigue)
The Environmental Shelf
Jelly-Boy
Nicole Godwin, author
Christopher Nielsen, illustrator
Walker Books
9781760659349, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Jelly-Boy-Nicole-Godwin/dp/1760659347
Synopsis: Jelly-Boy is different. He is big and strong. And not as wobbly as the other Jelly-Boys. By the time Jelly-Girl discovers the dangerous truth about her new friend, it may already be too late.
Critique: "Jelly-Boy" by author/storyteller Nicole Godwin and artist/illustrator Christopher Nielsen is an unusual picture book that offers an inventive approach to tackling a conservation issue that is plaguing our world: too much plastic in the ocean. Told in a thoroughly kid-friendly and humorous way, "Jelly-Boy" is a story with the potential to encourage dialogue around an important issue. While an extraordinary, informative, fun, and unreservedly recommended pick for family, elementary school, and community/public library environmental picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Jelly-Boy" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note #1: Nicole Godwin (https://nicolegodwin.com) shines a light on environmental and animal rights issues through captivating picture books that engage readers and help to create a generation of thoughtful, committed, and compassionate individuals.
Editorial Note #2: Christopher Nielsen (http://www.chrisillo.com) is an artist whose illustrations flow forth from a love of vintage design. His artwork has won numerous awards worldwide.
The Science Shelf
Galapagos Islands: The World's Living Laboratory
Karen Romano Young
What on Earth Books
www.whatonearthbooks.com
9781804661154, $21.99
https://www.amazon.com/Gal%C3%A1pagos-Islands-Worlds-Living-Laboratory/dp/1804661155
Galapagos Islands: The World's Living Laboratory will attract picture book readers from grades 3-5 with its lovely survey of the ecology and history of the Galapagos. Paired with exceptionally colorful and attractive illustrations by Amy Grimes, this book introduces the science, scientific investigations, and meaning of islands which are "...the last frontier, the best-preserved place on Earth."
Discussions range between humans discovering this fact, these islands, and their findings to the different creatures that call the Galapagos their home. Young readers will appreciate the vivid, exciting facts which embrace not just natural, but the human history of this special ecosystem.
Kingdoms of Life
Carly Allen-Fletcher
Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
c/o Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company
www.eerdmans.com/youngreaders
9780802855916, $13.99, HC, 44pp
https://www.amazon.com/Kingdoms-Spectacular-STEAM-Curious-Readers/dp/0802855911
Synopsis: Life is all around us -- in millions of different forms! "Kingdoms of Life" is a spectacular picture book in which author/illustrator Carly Allen-Fletcher invites children on an amazing tour of scientific classification's six kingdoms of life.
Every page will spark new questions: what makes each kingdom unique? Where do scientists place camels, baobabs, seaweed, and bread molds? How about the tiny things wriggling under our microscopes? What weird and wonderful life-forms have been discovered in the geysers of Yellowstone and on the sea floors off the coast of Namibia?
Exploding with bright colors and mind-boggling details, "Kingdoms of Life" presents the kaleidoscopic beauty of life on our planet. A simply fascinating and beautifully illustrated picture book, "Kingdoms of Life" is the perfect introduction to how the science of classification helps us explore and understand the wonders of nature.
Critique: A fun and informative read from cover to cover, "Kingdoms of Life" is an especially appropriate and unreservedly recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library Biology/Zoology Science picture book collections and personal reading lists for children ages 6-10 and in elementary school grades 2 & 3.
Editorial Note: Carly Allen-Fletcher (www.carlydraws.com) is a British illustrator and author whose books include Goodnight Forest (Muddy Boots), Beastly Biomes (Creston), and Animal Antipodes (Creston). Inspired by nature and science, she creates her art by combining hand-drawn elements, painted textures, and graphic shapes.
All About the Brain
Gabriel Dabscheck, author
Kim Siew, illustrator
Berbay Publishing
https://www.berbaybooks.com
9781922610782, $18.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/All-About-Brain-Gabriel-Dabscheck/dp/192261078X
Synopsis: Curious kids will find the answers to these questions and more in "All About the Brain" by expert pediatric neurologist Dr. Gabriel Dabscheck. Exceptionally well illustrated by Kim Siew, "All About the Brain" is the second book in Berbay's nonfiction series from Berbay Publishing that is authored by pediatric specialists and designed to be read cover to cover. It's is a one-stop introduction to the brain for kids who want a better understanding of the way our amazing bodies work.
Critique: Simply stated, "All About the Brain" is nformative, fun, and an ideal pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Science picture book collections for children ages 4-8.
Editorial Note #1: Dr. Gabriel Dabscheck is a specialist Pediatric Neurologist who works, and does research, in the area of children's brain health at the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne. He has always been interested in science and is passionate about helping his patients reach their potential in life. (https://gabrieldabscheck.com)
Editorial Note #2: Kim Siew (www.kimsiew.com) is an illustrator and mural artist living on Gadigal land, Australia. Her work is characterised by playful characters, bright palettes and simple line work created with the sole intention of bringing a smile to your day.
The Psychology Shelf
Everything Anxiety Ever Told You Is a Lie
Dr. Toni Lindsay
Exisle Publishing
www.exislepublishing.com.au
9781922539991, $24.99, HC, 144pp
https://www.amazon.com/Everything-Anxiety-Ever-Told-You/dp/1922539996
Synopsis: "Everything Anxiety Ever Told You Is a Lie: (*Well, almost everything!)" by clinical psychologist Toni Lindsay is intended for teenagers and young adults who are experiencing anxiety in their everyday lives, across the breadth of the anxiety spectrum. It emphasizes that anxiety is completely normal, and something that can be managed by taking the steps that are right for you. It is comprised of practical, effective activities and exercises that each young reader can apply to their own set of circumstances.
Experiencing anxiety can be overwhelming, especially at such a turbulent stage in life. "Everything Anxiety Ever Told You Is a Lie" is specifically tailored for the stresses faced by the 14-25 age group, with concise, impactful chapters and strategies that can be realistically applied even in a busy and changeable time of life. Themes include management of uncertainty, values-based living, and identifying meaning and purpose.
Anxiety affects a huge number of people, and it is not something that you have to ignore or push down. This guide is full of expert advice on not just coping with anxiety, but truly managing it, to minimise its symptoms and its effect on your everyday life.
Critique: In this era of social media and its deleterious impact on the mental health and well-being of adolescents and young adults, "Everything Anxiety Ever Told You Is a Lie (*Well, almost everything!)" by Dr. Toni Lindsay is impressively informative, exceptionally well presented, and a critically important and timely addition to middle school, highschool, community, college/university and professional library Mental Health collections dealing with conditions of depression, anxieties, phobias.
Editorial Note: Dr Toni Lindsay (www.mylifehouse.org.au/team/toni-lindsay) is a qualified clinical psychologist who has been working with both adults and adolescents for over 10 years. She works at Chris O'Brien Lifehouse, a cancer treatment center in Australia, in the Oncology and Haematology departments and has a special interest in the care of adolescents and young adults with cancer. She is an AHPRA approved supervisor and works predominately from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy framework. Her first book was titled Cancer, Sex, Drugs and Death (Australian Academic Press, 2017) and focused on the psychological management of young people with cancer. Her more recent titles include The Cancer Companion and The Certainty Myth, published by Exisle Publishing. During more than fifteen years spent working clinically with adolescents and young adults (primarily in the health context) Dr Lindsay has developed a unique perspective and understanding of the challenges of managing anxiety.
Sonia and the Super-Duper Disaster
Rachel Funez, author
Kelly Kennedy, illustrator
Free Spirit Publishing
www.freespirit.com
9798885543903, $18.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Sonia-Super-Duper-Disaster-Rachel-Funez/dp/B0CKV936F3
Synopsis: When Sonia forgets Mom's birthday, she's determined to whip up a super surprise and become Mom's hero. But her ADHD foils her best-laid plans, and her anxiety multiplies as the chaos grows. Sonia has to use all her coping skills to find a new recipe for success and become her own superhero.
Celebrating the individual strengths and special qualities of neurodivergent children, Sonia helps children with ADHD and anxiety recognize how their bodies feel when they become anxious and gives them tools to calm down with her worry-fighting gadgets. Activate Breath Blasters! Stellar Self-Talk! Senses Scanner!
A section at the back of the book includes more information on Sonia's worry-fighting gadgets for kids and tips and reminders for caring adults.
Critique: A fun and positive read from start to finish for children ages 4-9 by author/storyteller Rachel Funez and artist/illustrator Kelly Kennedy, "Sonia and the Super-Duper Disaster" from Free Spirit Publishing is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended for young readers and their parents/teachers having to deal with ADHD. While a highly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, it should be noted that "Sonia and the Super-Duper Disaster" is also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.48).
Editorial Note #1: Rachel Funez (www.rachelfunez.com) knows exactly what it's like to have ADHD and anxiety. She still uses her Breath Blasters, Stellar Self-Talk, Senses Scanner, and other tools to get through lots of tough and scary moments. She wishes she could hug every kid who is struggling with overwhelming feelings, but she will settle for creating stories that celebrate children with special brains and help them cope with their big emotions in productive ways.
Editorial Note #2: Kelly Kennedy (https://catagencyinc.com/kellykennedy) is an artist and a children's book writer and illustrator. He is best known for illustrating the Dr. Seuss book Maybe You Should Fly a Jet! Maybe You Should Be a Vet! and as a longtime contributor to Highlights magazines. He has also worked for various animation studios, such as Nickelodeon, where he directed and created the award-winning short film The Baseball Card Shop.
The World History Shelf
Live Like A Viking: Discovering the Secrets of the Vikings
Claire Saunders, author
Ruth Hickson, illustrator
Button Books
c/o The GMC Group
www.gmcbooks.com
9781787081376, $19.99, HC, 56pp, September 2024
https://www.amazon.com/Live-Like-Viking-Discovering-Secrets/dp/1787081370
Synopsis: While Vikings have a fearsome reputation as warriors, in reality, they were much more than that. From farmers and craftsmen to musicians and explorers, Viking society and culture has left a lasting impression on our modern world. At the peak of their power, the Viking population soared to two million!
With the publication of "Live Like A Viking: Discovering the Secrets of the Vikings" by author Claire Saunders and illustrator Ruth Hickson, children will discover what it was like to live in this epic era. They will learn about out how these master seafarers invaded countries across Europe using iconic wooden longships, about Viking family life, their beliefs, the place of women in society, how they dressed and what they ate, as well as their language, customs and rituals.
Of special note is that this edition of "Live Like A Viking: Discovering the Secrets of the Vikings" also includes step-by-step craft activities and recipes for children to have a go at.
Critique: Fascinating, informative, and fun, "Live Like A Viking: Discovering the Secrets of the Vikings" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library European History collections and the personal reading lists of young readers with an interest in Viking history and lore.
Editorial Note #1: Claire Saunders has been writing and editing for more than 20 years. Specializing in children's non-fiction, she has authored or co-authored many titles including The Power Book, The Birthday Almanac, A World of Gratitude and various activity books, including The Great British Staycation Activity Book, Super Soccer Activity Book and the Only in America Activity Book. (https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/1137283.Claire_Saunders)
Editorial Note #2: Ruth Hickson (www.ruthhickson.com/about-1) is an illustrator who enjoys creating bold, colorful, fun designs inspired by ordinary everyday objects and a love of printmaking and drawing. She uses a mixture of traditional linocutting and digital techniques, hand carving individual elements which brings a playful texture and energy to each work of art.
The Folktale/Fairytale Shelf
Vietnamese Folktales for Children
Phuo Thi Minh Tran, author
Dong & Hop Thi Nguyen, illustrators
Tuttle Publishing
www.tuttlepublishing.com
9780804856591, $17.99, HC, 48pp
https://www.amazon.com/Vietnamese-Folktales-Children-Adventure-Recordings/dp/0804856591
Synopsis: "Vietnamese Folktales for Children: Stories of Adventure and Wonder in Vietnamese and English " is a compendium of ten delightful and authentic stories that bring Vietnam's rich culture and traditions vividly to life. "Vietnamese Folktales for Children" is perfect for story time and read-alouds, and for anyone who loves the imaginative leaps and moral lessons in traditional myths and legends.
An essential anthology of Vietnamese folktales, included are: Thach Sung and the Cracked Earthen Pot (A greedy man learns that it's better to be satisfied with what you have than to yearn for the unattainable); The Carp and the Dragon's Gate (A fish turns into a dragon, showing that with hard work and perseverance seemingly impossible goals can be achieved); The Toad Is Sir Sky's Uncle (A brave toad saves the world from drought, showing that we should never judge someone by their looks) -- and seven more fascinating, entertaining folktales!
Critique: A fun read from cover to cover, "Vietnamese Folktales for Children: Stories of Adventure and Wonder in Vietnamese and English ) with its bilingual format (Vietnamese/English) is an ideal resource for teachers, parents and caregivers who want children to absorb the wisdom of Vietnamese folk stories while becoming familiar with the Vietnamese language along the way. While unreservedly recommended as a unique and popular pick for family, elementary school, and community library Bilingual Picture Book & Folklore/Mythology collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Vietnamese Folktales for Children: Stories of Adventure and Wonder in Vietnamese and English" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.09) as well.
Editorial Note #1: Phuoc Thi Minh Tran is the first Vietnamese-American librarian in Minnesota. A respected storyteller and award-winning author, her first book Vietnamese Children's Favorite Stories won the Anne Izard Storytellers' Choice Award, the Creative Child Magazine Book of the Year Award, and the Moonbeam Children's Book Gold Medal Award. Her other books include My First Book of Vietnamese Words and All About Vietnam, all published by Tuttle.
Editorial Note #2: Nguyen Thi Hop & Nguyen Dong are the illustration team behind My First Book of Vietnamese Words, Vietnamese Children's Favorite Stories, All About Vietnam and Vietnamese Stories for Language Learners. Since beginning their careers as professional artists in Vietnam in the 1960s, they have exhibited their work and collaborated on book illustrations for publishers throughout Asia, Europe and the US.
Monkey Moon
Demi
Wisdom Tales
www.wisdomtalespress.com
9781957670065, $19.95
https://www.amazon.com/Monkey-Moon-Demi/dp/1957670061
Monkey Moon narrates a fine folktale for picture book readers ages 4-8, telling of a monkey who notices a moon at the bottom of the well and decides it's fallen in. He engages a host of monkeys on a rescue mission, but their efforts prove impossible. How can they save the moon when trying to scoop it out of the water breaks it into pieces?
From the cooperative efforts of a 'monkey chain' to reach their goal to the quandary presented by the impossible rescue scenario, read-aloud parents that choose Monkey Moon will find Demi's compelling illustrations create a thoroughly compelling saga replete with underlying messages about helping others, cooperative efforts, and thinking outside the box.
Libraries and read-aloud parents will find it a perfect match for its entertainment and enlightenment value.
The ABC Shelf
Alphabet by Heart
Mark K. Shriver, author
Jeanne Shriver, author
Laura Watson, illustrator
4U2B Books & Media
https://www.4u2bbooksandmedia.com
9780829454833, $19.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Alphabet-Heart-Mark-K-Shriver/dp/0829454837
Synopsis: A is for Admire! B is for Believe! C is for Care!
Co-authored by Jeanne and Mark Shriver "Alphabet by Heart" is a one-of-a-kind ABC book that takes kids on a fun and meaningful journey! While exploring letters, little readers also discover big values to help them grow.
Not Just the ABCs: Teaching important virtues like empathy, gratitude, and kindness.
Shared Family Moments: Promotes connection between kids and their caregivers.
Entertaining & Uplifting: A positive and fun way for kids to learn the alphabet.
With colorful pictures by artist/illustrator Laura Watson supporting warmhearted rhymes, and important life lessons, "Alphabet by Heart" is a delightful adventure that brings families closer and fills little hearts with joy and empathy.
Critique: Unreservedly recommended as being truly special, "Alphabet by Heart" is unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library collections for young readers ages 5-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Alphabet by Heart" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kidle, $16.99) as well.
Editorial Note #1: Mark K. Shriver is president of Don Bosco Cristo Rey High School and senior advisor at Save the Children in Washington, D.C. A New York Times bestselling author, he also wrote the Christopher Award-winning books A Good Man and 10 Hidden Heroes.
Editorial Note #2: Jeanne Shriver lives in Bethesda with her husband, Mark. After working for Merrill Lynch and American Express, she left the corporate world after 10 years to raise their three children. She has served on several non-profit and independent school boards since 1994 and is an active volunteer for several non-profits in her community.
Editorial Note #3: Laura Watson (https://www.w-illo.com) is a Canadian illustrator specializing in whimsical illustrations for children's books, food and drink, and surface pattern and stationery design.
The Board Book Shelf
Magic Counting
Nabeel Khan, author
Tete Garcia, illustrator
Scribble
www.scribblekidsbooks.com
9781957363189, $16.95, Board Book, 20pp
www.scribblekidsbooks.com/books/p/magic-counting
https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Counting-Nabeel-Khan/dp/1957363185
Synopsis: What if the way that we traditionally teach kids how to count misses the clear connections between numbers, shapes, and the world around them?
With the publication of his board book, "Magic Counting", author Nabeel Khan invites you to draw on your child's innate interest in geometry, patterns, and shapes as an intuitive and fun way to learn about numbers -- starting their math journey from a place of playfulness, curiosity, and tangible connection to their environment. We can find numbers and shapes everywhere: in the natural world, in art and architecture, in symbolism, and in the sky above us.
This approach is just as straightforward as 1, 2, 3, 4, but also provides kids the tools to see their world in a new way, and the agency to understand the fundamental connection between numeracy and geometry, changing their perspective for life.
Welcome to the world of magic counting!
Critique: Colorfully illustrated throughout by the artistry of Tete Garcia, "Magic Counting" by Nabeel Khan is a particularly appropriate for children ages 2-7 who are more artistically inclined, helping them realize the exciting creative potential of numbers and geometry! This board book edition of "Magic Counting" from Scribble is brilliant tool for parents, caregivers, educators and librarians to help young children to "see" numbers and get curious about how mathematics offers a unique and mind-expanding lens with which to view our world. Original, fun, and informative, "Magic Counting" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.
Editorial Note #1: Nabeel Khan (https://linktr.ee/Nabeelkhanart) is a visual artist and geometry practitioner based in Meanjin/Brisbane Australia and hailing from London. Nabeel began his arts career as a photographer and then became fascinated by geometry, which led him to study under Keith Critchlow at The Prince's Foundation School of Traditional Arts in London. This has informed his arts practice, which encompasses painting, design, printmaking, sculpture, and woodwork, and has inspired him to pass this eternal knowledge on to the next generation as a teacher and author.
Editorial Note #2: Tete Garcia (www.iamtetegarcia.com) is a Spanish illustrator and designer based in Sydney / Gadigal Country. Her work is all about spreading warmth and kindness through fun, bold, and colorful illustrations.
I Love You Forever and a Day
Amelia Hepworth, author
Tim Warnes, illustrator
Tiger Tales
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9781664351172, $7.99, Board Book, 28pp
https://www.amazon.com/Love-You-Forever-Day-creators/dp/1664351175
Synopsis: It's a beautiful, sunny day, and Bear and Little Bear set out for a day full of adventure. They climb trees, sing songs, tell stories, and swim in the river. And at the end of the day, Big Bear carries Little Bear home.
A sweet, uplifting board book by author/storyteller Amelia Hepworth and artist/illustrator Tim Warnes for babies and toddlers ages 0 to 3, the sweet, uplifting messages of love in the core message of this gender-neutral, parent-child relationship board book.
"I Love You Forever and a Day", is an uplifting board book story will show a little one just how strong your love is throughout the day and night.
If I could imagine a day just for you,
the sun would be shining; the sky would be blue.
You make me so happy; you make my world bright,
for you are my sunshine--my day and my night.
Critique: Gentle, charming, and fun from start to finish, this board book edition of "I Love You Forever and a Day" is a perfect pick for family, daycare center, preschool, Kindergarent, and community library board book collections for ages 2-5.
Editorial Note #1: Amelia Hepworth lives in London with her family and her elderly sausage dog, Katie. Amelia is the author of the best-selling "I Love You to the Moon and Back". (https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13336723.Amelia_Hepworth)
Editorial Note #2: Storyteller Tim Warnes (www.TimWarnes.com) has been writing and illustrating kids' books for 25 years. He's passionate about helping parents and caregivers nurture their children through stories worth sharing.
I Love You Berry Much!: A Bumpy Book for Tactile Learning
Rosamund Lloyd, author
Kat Uno, illustrator
Tiger Tales
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9781664350731, $9.99, Board Book, 20pp
https://www.amazon.com/Love-Berry-Much-Scratch-Sniff/dp/166435073X
Synopsis: "I Love You Berry Much!: A Bumpy Book for Tactile Learning" is fun book is full of warmth and laughter and features adorable artwork and tactile textures for children to explore.
Sweet rhymes of friendship pair with colorful, adorable artwork and tactile textures throughout for the perfect treat! Children can touch the embossing on each spread for an interactive reading experience. Cute play-on words, such as "We're a perfect pear!," "You're one in a melon!," "Muffin compares to you!," "I'm your biggest flan!," and "I love you a waffle lot!" will appeal to young readers as well as adults. Ideal for sharing with a special little one.
Critique: A thoroughly charming and original board book for children ages 2 to 5, "I Love You Berry Much!" by author/storyteller Rosamund Lloyd and artist/illustrator Kat Uno, is a lively compendium of cute puns and sweet illustrations keep even the youngest readers fully entertained. Of special note is the embossing on the cover and on every page spread that makes "I Love You Berry Much!" an exciting tactile experience that is very highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, Kindergarten, and community library board book collections.
Editorial Note #1: Rosamund Lloyd lives in London with her two boys (one son, one husband). She loves visiting museums in the big city and baking cakes in her tiny house.
Editorial Note #2: Kat Uno has illustrated more than 30 books since launching her status as a full-time illustrator back in 2015. Although classically trained, she considers herself a digital artist now that she creates all of her illustrations on the computer. Kat loves illustrating cute and whimsical images for kids and kids at heart!
One Little Fish: Exploring Nature for Curious Kids
Molly Littleboy, author
Bryony Clarkson, illustrator
Tiger Tales
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9781664351264, $12.99, Board Book, 14pp
https://www.amazon.com/One-Little-Fish-Exploring-Curious/dp/1664351264
Synopsis: Through the simple facts, prompts, and activities comprising this board book edition of "One Little Fish: Exploring Nature for Curious Kids" from Tiger Tales, children are introduced to the amazing world beneath the waves! They will learn what makes different kinds of fish unique, what other amazing animals live in the water, and how everyone can help take care of our oceans. This sturdy board book (which includes lift-the-flaps and peek-through pages throughout), is the perfect nonfiction book to inspire a love of nature in young readers.
Critique: The One Little board book series from Tiger Tales immerses young readers in the natural world. These engaging nonfiction titles present the processes of growth and change in our world, with bite-size facts and lift-the-flaps for an interactive learning experience. "One Little Fish: Exploring Nature for Curious Kids" by author/storyteller Molly Littleboy and artist/illustrator Bryony Clarkson is especially appropriate and recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, Kindergarten, and community library board book collections for children ages 2-5.
Editorial Note: Molly Littleboy lives in a tiny apartment in London with more plants than she really has space for. She is lucky enough to have her dream job in children's publishing, where she gets to edit, write, and spend time finding words that rhyme. Her favorite things are lazy Sundays, detective stories, and petting other people's dogs.
Editorial Note #2: Bryony Clarkson loves making pictures of magical worlds and quirky creatures for children. She especially loves drawing night-time scenes. Her studio is in the beautiful city of Oxford, where she can usually be found sketching away and covered in paint, with her Wheaten Terrier asleep on her feet.
The Picturebook Shelf
Webster the Beagle and His Adventures at the River
Frank Payne
Mascot Kids
www.mascotbooks.com
9781637556733, $19.95
https://www.amazon.com/Webster-Beagle-His-Adventures-River/dp/163755673X
Webster the Beagle and His Adventures at the River is a colorful picture book that follows the adventures of a former hunting dog with a nose for observation. Webster wasn't just fated for hunting. When he got lost during a hunting trip, he not only found his forever family, but a new mission in life. Frank Payne outlines river ecology as Webster both explores and appreciates this world.
The story is replete with observations and encounters that support the wonder of the outdoors, giving children a sense of discovery, themselves, through "Did you know?" facts, colorful illustrations by Romney Vasquez, and insights on birds, crabs, and other East coast river denizens that Webster encounters.
As Webster follows his owner through the seasons, kids will enjoy a tale filled with appreciation for these changing landscapes and their nature. The result is a fictional overlay to some very interesting nature facts that will intrigue kids interested in the outdoors.
Webster the Beagle and His Adventures at the River is particularly well-suited for adult read-aloud, as it emphasizes the river environment's special nature.
The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac
Vickilynn O'Donnell
Yorkshire Publishing
www.YorkshirePublishing.com
9781960810632, $20.00
https://www.amazon.com/Amazing-Adventures-Mr-Mac/dp/1960810634
The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac: The Farm Life Way With Granny Jay Kay is the first volume in a picture book series that follows a Mr. Mac and Granny Jay Kay's farming life and adventures. Bright, inviting illustrations by Jenna Jordan add colorful embellishments to Vickilynn O'Donnell's exploration of the farm life, animals, and chores required to keep everything going.
A rollicking rhyme moves young listeners and readers through these farm tasks, from "First chore on the list is where the pigs lay they throw down some slop and move on their way" to creeping through the chicken coop to "gather some eggs with a smooth gentle swoop." Farmer Mac and Granny Jay Kay are filled with smiles even as they work hard and follow their daily maintenance routines. Kids receive a gentle lesson about perseverance, purpose, and cheer, giving read-aloud adults the opportunity to point out that hard work need not be negative.
Libraries that include The Amazing Adventures of Mr. Mac: The Farm Life Way With Granny Jay Kay will find that it both enlightens about farming, and holds underlying value with its messages about tackling jobs with a positive attitude.
Anonymoose
Shawna J. C. Tenney
Beaming Books
https://www.beamingbooks.com
9781506497648, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Anonymoose-Shawna-J-C-Tenney/dp/1506497640
Synopsis: Ana Moose feels most comfortable when she is hiding. Hiding is much more fun than knowing what to say or being picked last for the team. She enjoys being "Anonymoose"! Until one day, when she sees her classmate Peter building a fort. A fort could be a very good place to hide! But also, Ana starts to feel a connection with Peter. Will Anonymoose have enough courage to come out of hiding to make a friend?
Critique: "Anonymoose" by author/illustrator Shawna J. C. Tenney will be especially appricated by children having to deal with being shy and wanting to make friends. Charming illustrations in full support of a 'kid friendly' storytelling style, this edition of "Anonymoose" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-7. It should be noted that "Anonymoose" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.99).
Editorial Note: Shawna J. C. Tenney was once a shy kid who felt most comfortable hiding in her room, drawing. While she outgrew her shyness (mostly!) she still tucks herself away from time to time to write and illustrate stories she would have loved to read as a kid. Shawna is also the author and illustrator of Pirates Don't Dance and Brunhilda's Backwards Day.
Nobody Likes Monday
Kelly Lee, author
Amy Calautti, illustrator
EK Books
c/o Exisle Publishing
www.exislepublishing.com.au
9781922539847, $19.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Nobody-Likes-Monday-Kelly-Lee/dp/1922539848
Synopsis: Its pretty tough being Monday - you are not named after a god like Thursday, and you are certainly not a two-day party like Saturday and Sunday. Instead, you are the start of the week, when people have to wake up early and head back to school and work. Monday even has a pile of complaint letters to prove that nobody likes her but wait, what's in that sparkly envelope?
"Nobody Likes Monday" is a charming picture book story about the impact of peoples perceptions of ourselves, and the fact that we all have value we just need to learn to see it. When Monday is feeling down, she tries to change, but only meets more dissatisfaction. It is only when she begins to see her own strengths and gifts that she finds joy in her role and in her life.
Told with vibrant illustrations by Amy Calautti and light-hearted humor by author/storyteller Kelly Lee, "Nobody Likes Monday" highlights the importance of self-acceptance and individuality. It emphasizes that everyone, no matter how they perceive themselves, has a unique value to offer, gently encouraging children to see beyond the negatives and to recognize their own talents and strengths
Critique: A fun and thought-provoking read from start to finish, "Nobody Likes Monday" is an original, thoroughly 'kid friendly', and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections and personal reading lists for children ages 4-8.
Editorial Note #1: Kelly Lee is a teacher, librarian and mum who loves nothing more than to read stories with her children and students. She has a wonderful husband, three cheeky children and a big fluffball named Kovu. Kelly lives in Australia and can see kangaroos over her back fence.
Editorial Note #2; Amy Calautti loved to draw from a young age and often made up games based around drawing to entertain her younger brother and cousins. She now lives with her small tribe of humans who inspire her every day. Amy's other books include Turning Cartwheels (also published by EK Books), Hector and his Highland Dancers and Mr Ming & the Mooncake Dragon. (https://amygorgeousness2.wixsite.com/amyillustrates/about)
The Little Witch Who Lost Her Broom!
Elaine Bickell, author
Raymond McGrath, illustrator
Flamingo Books
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
https://www.penguin.com
9780593692387, $18.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Little-Witch-Who-Lost-Broom/dp/0593692381
Synopsis: Little Witch couldn't wait for the full moon to rise,
when witches on broomsticks would take to the skies.
She called to her cat, "We fly tonight, Gloom!"
and they went to the cupboard to dust off her broom.
The cupboard door creaked as it swung open wide.
But oh, what a shock! There was nothing inside!
Poor Little Witch has lost her broom! She checks all the closets, the attic, the shed, even her cauldron and under the bed -- but it's nowhere to be found. So, without her broom, she tries out a scooter, a plane, and a bike, but none of them are right! Will Little Witch ever find her lost broom?
Critique: Featuring charming illustrations by artist Raymond McGrath that is a perfect backdrop for the accompany by bouncy, rhyming text by author/storyteller Elaine Bickell, "The Little Witch Who Lost Her Broom" is a fun (not-so-scary) read-aloud that is ideal for Halloween themed family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Little Witch Who Lost Her Broom" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Editorial Note: Elaine Bickell (www.ElaineBickell.com) was born and grew up in London until her family escaped the city and moved closer to the beach in West Sussex. Her love of books led her to undertake an honors degree in English literature at Bristol University. After that she worked selling advertising space in Woman's Weekly before becoming a magazine publisher. After moving to New Zealand in 2005, she worked at an advertising firm, Saatchi & Saatchi. She was the winner of the 2018 Storylines Joy Cowley Award. Elaine lives in central Wellington with her partner and three children, Max, Gus, and Greta.
Editorial Note #2: Raymond McGrath is an award-winning animation director and lecturer, animator, illustrator, designer, musician, and writer who has been working in children's television, film, publishing, and advertising for over twenty-five years. He loves gardening, photography, music and drawing, and is the creator and director of the educational preschool TV series Puzzle Inc.
Perla The Mighty Dog
Isabel Allende, author
Sandy Rodriguez, illustrator
Philomel Books
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
https://www.penguin.com
9780593623596, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Perla-Mighty-Dog-Isabel-Allende/dp/0593623592
Synopsis: Perla is a mighty dog who has two superpowers -- making people love her, and roaring like a lion. When she finds out her human brother, Nico Rico, is being bullied at school, she knows she has to step in! But what will Perla do?
Critique: A charming and poignant picture book story about the bond between child and pet, author/storyteller Isabel Allende makes her children's literary debut with the publication of "Perla: The Mighty Dog". Enhanced for the benefit of young children with the charming illustrations by Sandy Rodriguez, "Perla: The Mighty Dog" is a fun read from start to finish and will prove a welcome addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community/public library picture book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Perla: The Mighty Dog" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Editorial Note #1: Isabel Allende, a novelist, feminist, and philanthropist, is one of the most widely read authors in the world, having sold more than 77 million copies of her twenty-six books across forty-two languages. She has received fifteen honorary doctorates, was inducted into the California Hall of Fame, and received the PEN Center Lifetime Achievement Award and the Anisfield-Wolf Lifetime Achievement Award. In 2014, President Barack Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, and in 2018 she received the Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters from the National Book Foundation. You can visit Isabel Allende at IsabelAllende.com or follow her on Instagram @AllendeIsabel, on Facebook at Facebook.com/IsabelAllende, and on X @IsabelAllende
Editorial Note #2: Sandy Rodriguez is a self-taught artist and illustrator. She grew up in Mexico surrounded by lots of family. (She has more than 30 cousins!) Inspired by everyday moments, Sandy loves creating playful characters with quirky personalities. Her favorite medium is watercolor and ink, but she also experiments with colored paper and gouache. Sandy lives in London with her husband and two fantastic daughters. You can visit Sandy Rodriguez at SandyRodriguez.co.uk or follow her on Instagram @SandyRodriguezG and on X @Sandrelenrod
There Was a Shadow
Bruce Handy, author
Lisk Feng, illustrator
Enchanted Lion Books
www.enchantedlion.com
c/o Harry N. Abrams, Inc.
www.abramsbooks.com
9781592704064, $18.95, HC, 52pp
https://www.amazon.com/There-Was-Shadow-Bruce-Handy/dp/1592704069
Synopsis: As the sun makes its daily journey across the sky, light comes down to illuminate our world. Moving and dancing along with this light come a variety of shadows -- those cast by the sun and those cast by our feelings, minds, and memories.
In "There Was A Shadow" young readers will follow a girl from dawn through dusk into night as she and her friends play with their shadows, take refuge in the shade of a large tree, and set out again for home in the violet glow of twilight.
With a lyrical text from Bruce Handy and dramatic, sensitive art from award-winning illustrator Lisk Feng, "There Was a Shadow" invites young readers to look up and down, in and out -- to notice the position of the sun and the corresponding length or shortness of shadows, as well as the subtle ways in which light and shadow reveal and obscure things both in the world and in ourselves. With images that swell and overflow with light, this is a picture book that is sure to awe and delight.
Critique: With the author's text presented in a kind of free verse embedded within full two-page spreads of the illustrator's distinctive artwork, "There Was A Shadow" from Enchanted Lion Books will prove to be a unique, entertaining, thought-provoking, highly prized and valued addition to family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 5-7.
Editorial Note #1: Bruce Handy is a journalist, humorist, editor, and essayist. The Happiness of a Dog with a Ball in Its Mouth, his first book for kids, was named a Best Children's Book of 2021 by the New York Times. He is also the author of Wild Things: The Joy of Reading Children's Literature as an Adult and the picture book What If One Day..., illustrated by Ashleigh Corrin.
Editorial Note #2: Lisk Feng is an award-winning illustrator. She has worked with clients such as the New York Times, the New Yorker, and Apple, and has illustrated several children's books, including Everest, A Hug Is for Holding Me, and Our World. In addition to receiving recognitions from the Society of Illustrators and Communication Arts, she was selected for the 2019 Forbes "30 under 30" list for Art and Style.
Scooper and Dumper: The Pumpkin Parade
Lindsay Ward
https://www.lindsaymward.com
Two Lions
Amazon Publishing
9781662513831, $17.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Scooper-Dumper-Pumpkin-Parade-Lindsay/dp/1662513836
Synopsis: Crisp fall days are here, and working vehicle friends Scooper and Dumper are in high gear, getting ready for the pumpkin parade. From hanging lights to moving hay bales, they're a terrific team. The night of the parade, they have everything together but the pumpkins. So they head over to Maybelle's farm. But rounding everything up isn't so easy. And what's that spooky noise in the cornfield? Could it be a ghost?
Critique: A fun read from start to finish, "Scooper and Dumper: The Pumpkin Parade" by author/illustrator Lindsay Ward is a thoroughly 'kid friendly' and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, and elementary school picture book collections for children ages 3-7. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Scooper and Dumper: The Pumpkin Parade" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99).
Editorial Note: Lindsay Ward (www.lindsaymward.com) is the creator of the Dexter T. Rexter series as well as Jessie: Queen of the Road, Rosie: Stronger than Steel, Between the Lines, Pink Is Not a Color, This Book Is Gray, and Brobarians. She is also the author of Our Spot, illustrated by Gabrielle Grimard. Lindsay lives with her family in Peninsula, Ohio, where vehicles like Scooper and Dumper take care of the roads all year round.
Five More Minutes Sweet P
Miranda Thomas, author
Stefanie Geyer, illustrator
Sam Wright, editor
Sun States Group, LLC
9798989993703, $20.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Five-More-Minutes-Sweet-P/dp/B0D327SGZ4
Synopsis: "Five More Minutes Sweet P" by author/storyteller Miranda Thomas and artist/illustrator Stefanie Geyer is a delightful tale of a little girl's inventive ways to postpone bedtime. Every parent knows the drill: it's bedtime, but your little one has other ideas!
In this heartwarming picture book story, Sweet P and her mom navigate the all-too-familiar bedtime dance with giggles and games. From drawing to dancing, and even a playful chase, each page is a celebration of those precious, playful moments that parents and children cherish.
Whether it's scribbling with crayons, prancing around the room, or singing a sweet lullaby, Sweet P's bedtime is anything but boring. Perfect for a cozy read before bed, "Five More Minutes Sweet P" is a wonderful reminder to enjoy every minute with our little ones - even if it's just for five more minutes!
Critique: Charming, original, and fun, "Five More Minutes Sweet P" is a delightful and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community/public library children's picture book collections for ages 2-5. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Five More Minutes Sweet P" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9798989993734, $12.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.99).
Editorial Note #1: Miranda Thomas was inspired to write her first children's book, "Five More Minutes Sweet P", after seeing the joy she and her daughter shared when reading together.
Editorial Note #2: There is an informative interview with illustrator Stefanie Geyer online at https://sweetsoundsbook.com/meet-the-illustrator-qa-with-stefanie-geyer
Editorial Note #3: Sam Wright (www.fiverr.com/samwrightwrites) is a professional book editor based in Lancaster, PA.
Between Words: A Friendship Tale
Saki Tanaka
Orchard Books
c/o Scholastic
www.scholastic.com
9781338736250, $18.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Between-Words-Friendship-Saki-Tanaka/dp/1338736256
Synopsis: Kai is used to following the seasons with Pa, from place to new place where people speak languages unfamiliar to his ears. When they finally settle in a valley full of pools, Kai tries to invite the other children to join in his play, but the strangeness of his words drives them away. Frustrated, he kicks his most treasured stone into one of the pools and in his search for it, finds something even more valuable.
Critique: With the publication of "Between Words: A Friendship Tale", author/illustrator Saki Dive has created a whimsical and original tale of an unexpected friendship, presented with compassion, warmth and charm. Storyteller Saki Tanaka illustrates a radiant world where bonds are formed beyond language barriers. A fun read from cover to cover, "Between Words: A Friendship Tale" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community/public library picture book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that this edition of "Between Words: A Friendship Tale" from Orchard Books is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).
Editorial Note: Saki Tanaka (sakitales.com) is a Mexican-Japanese author and illustrator who grew up in different parts of the world. This transient upbringing made her foster friendships without a common language in imaginative ways; through gestured games, mimed plays, and drawings that transcended words and worlds to give her a sense of belonging.
Magenta
Sheri Fink
Whimsical World
https://whimsicalworldbooks.com
9781949213546, $24.95, HC, 28pp
https://www.amazon.com/Magenta-Fantasy-Picture-Magical-Finding/dp/1949213544
Synopsis: Magenta is a little kitten lost in the woods until she discovers a mysterious cottage filled with magic and wonders. Most magical of all is Iridessa, the young sorceress who accidentally enchants Magenta with wings and the ability to talk.
There's only one problem... Iridessa's white raven, Obsidian, doesn't like cats and isn't happy about this strange new companion.
Children will delight in discovering what matters most in this charming fairytale about Magenta's magical mishaps that lead to finally finding the purr-fect place where she truly belongs.
Critique: An original and fun picture book read from cover to cover for children ages 4-10, by storyteller Sheri Fink and charming illustrations by Bright Jungle Studios, it should be noted that this first edition of "Magenta" from Whimsical World features extra special holographic gold elements on the cover and is especially, unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.
Editorial Note: Sheri Fink (www.SheriFink.com) is the children's books, The Little Unicorn, The Little Monster, The Little Rose, The Little Gnome, The Little Firefly, The Little Seahorse, The Little Dragon, The Little Penguin, and more. She and her husband, author Derek Taylor Kent, created the Whimsical World brand to inspire, delight, and educate kids of all ages while planting seeds of self-esteem and high achievement.
The Last Leaf
S. Deborah Desser, author
Althea Botha, illustrator
www.sdeborahdesser.com
Tulu Publishing LLC
9780989716611, $24.99, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Last-Leaf-S-Deborah-Desser/dp/0989716619
Synopsis: Have you ever wondered how a child processes sadness and loneliness after the loss of a loved one? Are there fears and anxieties they never had to deal with before? Do they start questioning their own mortality?
"The Last Leaf" is an honest, simply told picture book story about the life cycle, as explained through the four seasonal changes and narrated from the perspective of one leaf on a tree.
While everybody works through their own emotions and experiences differently, "The Last Leaf" can help guide both child and adult as they embark on the first steps of their journey to coping, understanding, and healing.
Critique: "The Last Leaf", author/storyteller Deborah Desser's open-ended story about death and dying, loss and grieving, is gentle and nurturing. It is ideal place for a comforting conversation about the circle of life to begin. Visually enhanced by artist Althea Botha's exquisite illustrations, "The Last Leaf" reveals the wonders of nature and how it relates to us -- making it an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections for young children. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Last Leaf" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780989716635, $16.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99) as well.
Editorial Note #1: S. Deborah Desser (https://sdeborahdesser.com) is also the author of "Mumbo Jumbo Poetry and Haiku" (penned under Deborah Desser-Herchan), and reflects the multi-faceted emotions of growing up - the fun, the serious, and just about everything in between.
Editorial Note #2: Althea Botha (www.altheabotha.com) studied Visual Art at the University of Johannesburg where she further developed her artistic skills mainly in painting, printmaking and ceramics, which later developed her mixed-media illustration style by combining traditional art, notably in watercolor and gouache with digital painting.
I Heard a Bird
Rob Ramsden
Scallywag Press
9781915252616, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Heard-Bird-Garden-Rob-Ramsden/dp/191525261X
Synopsis: In "I Heard a Bird" by author/illustrato Rob Ramsden a little girl hears a bird, who is frightened away by some cats ?ghting.
As she searches for her bird, she encounters many other intriguing animals and insects. Then, after sitting down to listen to and enjoy the sounds of nature all around, suddenly her bird comes back!
"I Heard a Bird" is a truly enchanting exploration of the sights and sounds of the natural world brings in themes of music, mindfulness, and meditation and will be appreciated by adults and children alike. The simple text uses poetry and repetition and will be a joy to re-read many times.
Critique: An ideal pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections, "I Heard a Bird" is an especially appropriate and recommended for children ages 4-9. A fun read from cover to cover, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "I Head a Bird" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Rob Ramsden (www.robramsden.co.uk) is an illustrator who also teaches design. He lives in Suffolk, UK, where he is a keen gardener, and his type of gardening is strictly about the wildlife.
Mama's Magnificent Dancing Plantitas
Jesus Trejo, author
Eliza Kinkz, illustrator
Minerva
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
https://www.penguin.com
9781662651069, $18.99, HC, 48pp
https://www.amazon.com/Mam%C3%A1s-Magnificent-Dancing-Plantitas-Jes%C3%BAs/dp/1662651066
Synopsis: When a young boy named Jesus gets home after school, he has to fill the time until Mama can take him outside to play. It's tough, until Mama appoints him Chief Plant Officer -- he'll be like a big brother to her precious houseplants!
Jesus does an excellent job keeping them watered, entertained, and happy -- until an unfortunate accident during a dance party throws Jesus's entire job into crisis mode!
Young children will fully enjoy joining with Jesus and a hilarious cast of houseplants as they navigate the biggest challenge of all!
Critique: The high-spirited hero of "Papa's Magical Water-Jug Clock" is back in "Mama's Magnificent Dancing Plantitas" with another irresistible family misadventure by the team of author/storyteller Jesus Trejo and artist/illustrator Eliza Kinkz in a picture book story that is an original and fun read from start to finish. A welcome and recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-8, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Mama's Magnificent Dancing Plantitas" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).
Editorial Note #1: Jesus Trejo (www.jesustrejo.com) is a comedian, the creator of the Showtime special Stay at Home Son, and an actor on the Netflix series Mr. Iglesias and the TV Land series Teachers. Jesus is also the host of the web series Tacos Con Todo, in which he navigates the LA taco scene with celebrity guests. Born and raised in Long Beach, California, where he still lives, Jesus appears regularly at international comedy festivals and stand-up venues.
Editorial Note #2: Eliza Kinkz (www.elizakinkz.com) is a Tejana illustrator whose debut picture book was Goldie's Guide to Grandchilding, written by Clint McElroy. Eliza has worked on TV shows, music videos, and most happily on her own award-winning animated films.
Little Ruth Backpack Mishap
Dee White
Little Ruth LLC
https://littleruth.com
9798990332638, $19.99, HC, 34pp
https://www.amazon.com/Little-Ruth-Backpack-Mishap-Write/dp/B0D1W4QLBH
Synopsis:"Little Ruth Backpack Mishap" by Dee White is a fun and original picture book story in which Ruth and her siblings return home from school, bursting with excitement over their day's adventures. But when curiosity gets the better of her younger sisters, Abby and Annie, and they disobey Ruth's simple request, chaos ensues.
With peanut butter handprints, torn backpacks, and scattered charms, the Campbell household is thrown into disarray.
But fear not! With the guidance of their wise Grandma and the support of their loving parents, the Campbell kids learn the importance of communication, responsibility, and forgiveness.
Through laughter, tears, and the occasional twirl on Ruth's bed, they discover that even the messiest of mishaps can lead to the sweetest of memories.
Critique: What happens when a mishap leads to unexpected lessons? That's the question introduced in the the latest installment in the Little Ruth book series: "Backpack Mishap"!
Children will fully enjoy joining Ruth and her siblings where simple snack time turns into a chaotic adventure with mishaps, and valuable life lessons in "Little Ruth Backpack Mishap" as they navigate the ups and downs of sibling relationships, turning challenges into opportunities for growth and bonding. An ideal and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Life Skills/Life Lessons picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Little Ruth Backpack Mishap" is also available in a paperback edition (9798990332621, $16.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).
Editorial Note: Dee Write is the author and creator of the Little Ruth children's book series and products, which include books such as First Day of School, Backpack Mishap, and Halloween Drama Queen. Dee has enjoyed creating stories ever since she was a child. Her first published work, titled, If I Were a Crayon, was printed in her elementary school's journal when she was just a young girl, and Dee's zeal for creative writing never waned.
The Magic Ticket
David Hicks, author
Kateri Kramer, illustrator
Fulcrum Publishing
www.fulcrumbooks.com
9781682754559, $16.95, PB, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Ticket-David-Hicks-PhD/dp/1682754553
Synopsis: When his beloved sister dies and his parents are too grief-stricken to attend to him, a little boy must figure out on his own how to process what has happened. When he visits his local library and a kind librarian hands him a "magic ticket", he finds an unexpected sanctuary in the world of books. Could reading be the gateway to understanding, and coping with, such a devastating loss?
Critique: With the publication of "The Magic Ticket", author David Hicks and illustrator Kateri Kramer have collaborated to create a tender and moving picture book story of loss, grief, and the healing power of storytelling. Especially and unreservedly recommended for children ages 3 to 9 -- and for parents whose childhoods, like that of author David Hicks, was to be forever changed by the death of a loved one. This paperback edition of "The Magic Ticket" from Fulcrum Publishing is thoroughly 'kid friendly' in style and subject, making it an ideal pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community/public library Life Skills/Life Lessons picture book collections.
Editorial Note #1: David Hicks (https://david-hicks.com) is the author of the debut novel, White Plains, published by Conundrum Press/Bower House Books in 2017, and one of three finalists for the Colorado Book Awards (2018). Excerpts from the novel have been published as short stories in Glimmer Train, Colorado Review, Specs, Saranac Review, and South Dakota Review, along with other stellar journals. David also directs the Maslow Family Graduate Program in Creative Writing at Wilkes University.
Editorial Note #2: Illustrating and designing professionally for six years, Kateri Kramer (www.katerikramer.com) eventually paired that with a love for writing four years ago. She earned an MFA from the Mile High MFA at Regis University and has had numerous essays published. She is a regular contributor for The Rumpus where she illustrates the Sketch Book Reviews Series.
The Fly Who Flew to Space
Lauren Sanchez, author
Raleigh Stewart, illustrator
Collective Book Studio
https://thecollectivebook.studio
9781685550639, $19.95, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Space-removable-glow-dark-poster/dp/1685550630
Synopsis: Bold and inquisitive, Flynn is a little fly with big dreams. Fascinated by the stars, Flynn daydreams of becoming an astronaut. School is hard, but especially when there's an attention-grabbing rocket company just down the road. One day, while exploring, Flynn flies aboard a rocket ship that suddenly takes off!
Children will enjoy following Flynn on an exciting journey to space and will learn more about our precious planet -- from amazing natural wonders, like the rainforest, to the atmosphere that protects it all. After all, big dreams and a curious mind can lead to the most astonishing discoveries!
Critique: Featuring a unique book jacket that doubles as a glow-in-the-dark poster and an interior page that also glows, "The Fly Who Flew To Space" is a fun and informative picture book combining exquisitely detailed illustrations by Raleigh Stewart to visually enhance author/storyteller Lauren Sanchez uniquely 'kid friendly' tale. "The Fly Who Flew To Space" introduces important STEAM concepts, while encouraging exploration and conservation from its young readers. While available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.99), "The Fly Who Flew To Space" from Collective Book Studio is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community/public library picture book collections for children ages 4-8.
Editorial Note #1: Lauren Sanchez saw her own kids looking to the sky with wonder. That experience as a mom, coupled with her love of storytelling and adventure, motivated Lauren to write her first children's book. Lauren hopes "The Fly Who Flew To Space" can help kids everywhere find their passion and chase their dreams, even up into the clouds and beyond!
Editorial Note: Raleigh Stewart (www.artofthetitle.com/designer/raleigh-stewart) is an illustrator, animator, and motion designer based in Los Angeles. He began his career in 1998, designing graphical user interfaces for DVD authoring software. This led him to Hollywood where he designed and animated DVD and Blu-ray menus for titles such as Prometheus, The Alien Anthology, Boardwalk Empire, Pirates of the Caribbean, Transformers, and many others. He has worked with studios like Disney, Fox, Sony, Paramount, HBO, History, and Microsoft. Currently, Raleigh designs for feature films, documentaries, trailers, and interactive media with a primary focus on title design, visual effects, and motion graphics for film and television.
The Sun Never Hurries
Roxane Turcotte, author
Lucie Crovatto, illustrator
Pajama Press
9781772783070, $18.95, HC, 40pp
https://www.amazon.com/Sun-Never-Hurries-Roxane-Turcotte/dp/1772783072
Synopsis: Charlie's grandfather, Papa Jo, uses an hourglass to remind himself that every moment is precious. When Charlie asks Papa Jo what his hourglass is for, she doesn't really understand his answer. To teach Charlie the importance of taking her time and savoring her day, the pair spend their day at a leisurely pace, transforming every ordinary day into a wonderful time.
"The Sun Never Hurries" is a gentle story reminding children to enjoy the precious moments we spend together. As young Charlie learns to slow down and appreciate the beauty of nature and everyday life, so too will your young reader. This affectionately illustrated picture book will work as a perfect bedtime story that will encourage children to reflect on their day and treasure the little things that make their life special.
Critique: In "The Sun Never Hurries", Lucie Crovatto's rich and tender illustrations transport readers to a cozy day cooking and exploring the outdoors. Roxane Turcotte's writing showcases the special bond between a grandparent and grandchild. Together Lucie and Roxane have created a simply enchanting and original picture book that is an ideal and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 3-7.
Editorial Note #1: Roxane Turcotte (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roxane_Turcotte) is the author of over forty children's books. A French-Canadian author, "The Sun Never Hurries" is Roxane's USA debut. Roxane studied education and art history at the University of Montreal and now works as a teacher.
Editorial Note #2: Lucie Crovatto (www.crovatto.com) studied graphic design before pursuing a career as an illustrator. She started out in advertising, then created her greeting card company, and now illustrates children's books.
The Adventures of Kumakawa
Ross Hartshorn, author
Charlotte Harding, illustrator
Independently Published
9798848334234, $9.13, PB, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Kumakawa-Horse-That-Anything/dp/B0BCD7FZ95
Synopsis: "The Adventures of Kumakawa" is the delightfully entertaining picture book story for children about Kumakawa, a horse that will try anything! -- and today that thing is called Karate!
What's Next?
Critique: A charming, original, and fun story from start to finish with the message that children should trying new things -- even if they are not the perfect shape or size for it. The collaborative work of author/storyteller Ross Hartshorn and artist/illustrator Charlotte Harding, "The Adventures of Kumakawa: The Horse That Will Try Anything" is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Adventures of Kumakawa: The Horse That Will Try Anything" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.08) as well.
Editorial Note #1: Ross Hartshorn emerged as a compelling storyteller with his 2021 debut, "Life is not a rehearsal", captivating readers with his life's ups and downs, from business to racehorse ownership. His memoir "All Square", released the same year, poignantly captured the essence of community resilience during the lockdown.
The Language of Flowers
Shyala Smith, author
Aaron Asis, illustrator
Lantana Publishing
9781915244864, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Language-Flowers-Shyala-Smith/dp/1915244862
Synopsis: Juhi loves helping her Appa sell flowers to the local community. In Appa's flower shop, Juhi knows the language of love -- lilies for affection, irises for hugs and kisses. She knows the language of faith -- frangipani for full moon days, red hibiscus for the temple. She knows the language of celebration -- daffodils for the newborn, peonies for a birthday cake. But when her Appa tells her that her favorite customer has passed away, she does not know the language of grief. While Appa makes a bouquet of lilies and orchids to bring to Mr. Potter's funeral, Juhi decides to make him one final bouquet of her own. Which flowers will she choose to remember a man who was always so full of life?
Critique: Enhanced with the artwork of illustrator Aaron Asis in full support of author/storyteller Shyala Smith's charming picture book, "The Language of Flowers" is an ideal and unreservedly recommended pick for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections on the delicate subject of death, dying, and grieving for children ages 5-9.
Editorial Note #1: Shyala Smith (https://shyalasmith.squarespace.com) is a content strategist, author, and screenwriter whose stories center around navigating immigrant life and finding magic. Born and raised in Colombo, Sri Lanka, Shyala now lives in London, UK, with her family.
Editorial Note #2: Aaron Asis (www.aaronasis.com) is a Filipino illustrator, best known for his expressive brushstrokes. His illustrations have earned recognition from the Philippine Board on Books for Young People and the Society of Illustrators. He draws inspiration from childhood, nature, and everyday life.
Carla's Glasses
Debbie Herman, author
Sheila Bailey, illustrator
Flashlight Press
9781947277717, $18.95, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Carlas-Glasses-Debbie-Herman/dp/1947277715
Synopsis: Carla loves to be different. So when her teacher announces an upcoming vision screening, Carla hopes she'll be the only kid in class to need glasses. To prepare for her new look, she starts wearing homemade funky frames to school each day.
Turns out that the only one who needs glasses is Buster. But unlike Carla, Buster does NOT like to be different. He likes to blend in. When Carla concocts an ingenious plan to help Buster, it's clear to see that the power of friendship (and Carla's creativity) will save the day.
Critique: Carla's Glasses by the team of author/storyteller Debbie Herman and artist/illustrator Sheila Bailey is the long anticipated companion to their award-winning "Carla's Sandwich" picture book and will be especially appreciated by kids who are experiencing stress by having to wear glasses -- and to the benefit of those who don't. A unique and unreservedly recommended pick for family, elementary school, and community library Life Skills/Life Issues picture book collections for children ages 5-7, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Carla's Glasses" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).
Editorial Note #1: Debbie Herman (www.debbieherman.com) is the author of Carla's Sandwich, and other books for children. She's a full-time writer and editor, and a former elementary school teacher with an M.A. in Special Education.
Editorial Note #2: Sheila Bailey (www.sheilabaileyart.com) is the illustrator of Carla's Sandwich, and many other children's books. She is a firefighter on Sauvie Island near Portland, OR, where she lives with her daughter. Sheila's 19 pairs of reading glasses are strewn all over her home. Once she forgot to bring her reading glasses to a fire call and had to write up the incident report in huge letters because she could not see what she was doing.
Griselda Snook's Spectacular Books
Barry Timms, author
Laura Borio, illustrator
Tiger Tales
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9781664300460, $18.99, HC, 32pp
https://www.amazon.com/Griselda-Snooks-Spectacular-Books-Barry/dp/1664300465
Synopsis: When Henry finds a key on the sidewalk and gives it to its owner, he follows her into a huge bookstore. Griselda Snook's Spectacular Books, which features a vast array of Halloween-themed books and caters especially to Halloween characters, has books for every interest. Despite the variety in choices, Henry isn't convinced that he'll find anything for himself. Could a guest reader at the store, Magenta Screech, have the perfect book for Henry?
Critique: "Griselda Snook's Spectacular Books" by the collaborative team of author/storyteller Barry Timms and artist/illustrator Laura Borio is a welcome and especially recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community/public library picture book collections in celebration of Halloween, bookstores, and books for children ages 3-7. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Griselda Snook's Spectacular Books" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $11.99).
Editorial Note #1: Barry Timms likes the way that stories bring people together. He can often be found with pencil in hand, writing or drawing or both. He loves road movies and exploring forgotten side streets. (https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/5446234.Barry_Timms)
Editorial Note #2: Laura Borio (www.advocate-art.com/laura-borio) used to draw on the kitchen walls as a child, to the delight of her parents. Once she realized that she liked drawing on paper more, she decided to become a children's book illustrator and now her days are filled with sketches, colors, cats, and raspberry jam croissants.
Silly Boobies: A Love Story
Ame Dyckman, author
Christopher Weyant, illustrator
Two Lions
c/o Amazon Publishing
9781662504129, $17.99, HC, 48pp
https://www.amazon.com/Silly-Boobies-Story-Ame-Dyckman/dp/1662504128
Synopsis: Blue-footed boobies live on one rock. Red-footed boobies live on another. Blues and Reds keep apart... until one day a pair runs into each other and falls in love. Their families don't approve. Silly boobies! But when something wonderful happens, can everyone finally agree?
Critique: An original and fun picturebook story for children ages 3-7 by author/storyteller Ame Dyckman and artist/illustrator Christopher Weyant, "Silly Boobies: A Love Story" from Two Lions is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Silly Boobies: A Love Story" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $1.99) as well.
Editorial Note #1: Ame Dyckman (www.amedyckman.com) is the award-winning author of the New York Times bestselling Wolfie the Bunny, as well as Campingland, You Don't Want a Unicorn!, How Dinosaurs Went Extinct: A Safety Guide, Don't Blow Your Top!, the Misunderstood Shark series, and many other books for children.
Editorial Note #2: Christopher Weyant (www.christopherweyant.com) is the illustrator of Theodor Seuss Geisel Award winner You Are (Not) Small and five more books in that series, as well as Marker, Hudson and Tallulah Take Sides, and Christopher Award winner Eraser. Christopher's work can also be seen in the New Yorker and the Boston Globe, and his cartoons are syndicated worldwide.
Dreamtime Illustrations, LLC
https://dreamtimeillustrations.com
Dreamtime Illustrations is the publisher of children's picture books by artist/author Querida Lu Ahn Funck that include:
"The MerBabe"
9781957763002, $17.99 HC, $10.99 PB, $3.99 Kindle, 30pp
https://www.amazon.com/MerBabe-Querida-Lu-Ahn-Funck/dp/1957763000
Softly sleeping in her clam shell, a merbabe rests peacefully under the ocean. But her peace is about to be broken. A gentle kiss from a passing seahorse wakes her and draws her into an adventure through her coral reef playground.
As the currents draw her through the undersea wonderland she plays tag with the blue striped snappers, dances with jellyfish, and naps in the arms of an octopus far, far away from the safety of her clam shell. Yet when the fun is over, she must return home. Can the ocean guardians help her find her way back home to her mom?
"The MerBabe" is a creative underwater exploration experience that will help children ages 1-8 to understand the beauties of the coral reef gently.
"Jacoby's Magical Adventure"
9781957763071, $16.99 HC, $9.99 PB, $3.99 Kindle, 42pp
https://www.amazon.com/Jacobys-Magical-Adventure-Querida-Funck/dp/1957763078
Moving can be hard for children, just ask Jacoby. He feels stuck in his loneliness, missing his hometown and his old friends. But his new home holds a secret surprise. Jacoby discovers a mysterious, magical box in the attic that can transport him to wherever his heart desires.
Of course, he goes to his old house. A place where he never felt lost. But Jacoby is shocked to find out the girls living there are feeling just as lonely. Can he help them explore their new neighborhood so they can love it as much as he does? And what will he learn about how he should see his new home in the adventure?
You'll find the answers in this loneliness book that explores reality through fantasy.
Jacoby's Magical Adventure is a truly heartwarming tale from talented author and illustrator Querida Lu Ahn Funck. An author known for newfoundland kids books with a difference. It's written to help parents navigate loneliness for kids and embrace the courage to bravely explore new surroundings. A mental health book for kids ages 3-10, but presented as a children's picture book about adventure.
"Gramma's Cookies"
9781957763200, $19.99 HC, $11.99 PB, $7.99 Kindle, 64pp
https://www.amazon.com/Grammas-Cookies-Querida-Ahn-Funck/dp/1957763205
Kits will delight in joining Joey and Jimmy as they learn how to make sugar cookies. Little Joey and Jimmy visits Gramma Jane, she has a special day planned for them.
The chef's hat comes out and the aprons!
What exactly does Gramma have in mind for their day fun?
Gramma's Cookies is a heartwarming bilingual story narrated in both English and Spanish. It highlights how big-often overwhelming-tasks can be broken down into smaller steps for little fingers. Gramma's Cookies include easy baking recipes by the author. It will help you teach your children to get more confident in their Spanish and help you turn the lesson into a fun family project by baking a sugar cookie together.
"Gramma's Cookies" is is a bilingual (English/Spanish) picture book for kids ages 9-12. The beautiful illustration and the exciting method of baking cookies will captivate children and help them learn: HOW to bake cookies and various other recipes and WHY we need to wash our hands and keep our work area clean?
"Gramma's Cookies" is especially recommended for children who love to have a fun read and want to learn something new at the same time. Classroom teachers who want to build the confidence of children in engaging with a new language. Parents and care givers who are looking for wholesome stories on family bonding.
"Snow Day"
9781957763286, $17.99 HC, $11.99 PB, 44pp
https://www.amazon.com/Snow-Day-Bedtime-Stories-Collection/dp/1957763280
Sami, Ryan, and Matt are best friends who grew up living next door to each other. They do everything together but in their own individual ways. They like to challenge each other and are always setting up little competitions to see who can do something better or faster. And on this Snow Day, it's no different.
"Snow Day" is a bilingual (English/Spanish) picture book for kids of all ages and is especially appropriate for: Children who love to have a fun read and want to learn something new at the same time. Teachers who want to build the confidence of children in engaging with a new language. Parents and caregivers who are looking for wholesome stories on family bonding.
"The Magic Moment at Midnight"
9781957763248, $17.99 HC, $11.99 PB, $9.99 Kindle, 44pp
https://www.amazon.com/Magic-Moment-at-Midnight/dp/1957763248
The Magic Moment at Midnight is a modern day fable narrated side by side English and Spanish. The inspirational art and timeless storytelling reveal the magical transition of New Year's Eve and the roles of Baby New Year and Father Time. This is not just a children's storybook. It is a story for all ages that will make you laugh, cry, and think about the past year. Explore the world and time through the eyes of these two characters as they usher in a new year.
This bilingual (Spanish/English) edition of "The Magic Moment at Midnight" is an ideal pick for children ages 9-12 enjoy reading, as well as classroom teachers who want to build the confidence of children in engaging with a new language and parents/care givers who are looking for wholesome stories on family bonding.
"Zap!"
9781957763033, $15.99 HC, $9.99 PB, $3.99 Kindle, 30pp
https://www.amazon.com/Zap-hilarious-wordless-picture-book/dp/1957763035
Fluffy the newfoundland dog desperately wants to get his owner Chelsea's attention, but the young girl doesn't respond. She doesn't talk dog, so what can he do? Using the power of static electricity, he finds a mischievous way to get her to play. The result is electricity for dummies in a way you've never experienced before.
Zap! is a wordless book for kids from talented author and illustrator Querida Lu Ahn Funck. Her expressive illustrations in this newfoundland kids book bring the hilarious tale to life in a way that will make you and your children laugh out loud.
Wordless picture books for kids are a fun way to strengthen literacy by building listening skills, vocabulary, and comprehension. They gift children agency over the reading experience as they can read their interpretation of the story to you. This allows children to enjoy the books together with a parent or alone.
Critique: Each of this unique picture books for children by author/illustrator Querida Lu Ahn Funck is a fun read from start to finish and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library children's picture book collections.
Editorial Note: Querida Lu Ahn Funck grew up in Monroe, Wisconsin (USA). She learned to draw from her mother who was an accomplished landscape artist and began selling portraits while still a teenager. She turned to cartooning as a college student and wrote home in comic strip format with "The Adventures of Jacky and Sir" using the family dogs as a substitute for her adventures. While home on break, she created pen and watercolor fashion plates for a local boutique in Monroe, Wisconsin.
After college, she became known as "Sally," the pen-named political cartoonist of Two Cents Worth, for the Wisconsin Counties Magazine. Her first picture book was "The Christmas Leprechaun", written as a Christmas present for her father-in-law and his grandchildren. Years later she would study with Caldecott Medal Winner David McLiman, and venture into creating stories and books for her own grandchildren.
aka Books
www.akabooks.com
aka Books is a premier publisher of books for children. Two of their latest titles for young children ages 4-8 are by author/storyteller Kathleen Welton:
https://www.amazon.com/Choo-Train-Zoo-Peg-Pig/dp/1962202232
"Choo! Choo! Choo!: The Train at the Zoo" (9781962202237, $10.99 PB, 26pp) is illustrated by Tamara Joubert has children following along with a re-imagining of the classic tune "The Wheels on the Bus" as various animal friends join Peg the Pig for a train ride at the zoo! Lions, tigers, monkeys, and pigs-everyone is hopping on the train today. "Choo! Choo! Choo! The Train at the Zoo", will provide young readers with a memorable time giggling, singing, and pointing out the zoo creatures on their adventure from one exhibit to the next.
This catchy tale will have children wishing they could hitch a ride with all the exciting animals that make the train go choo, choo, choo!
https://www.amazon.com/Pigs-Have-Wings-Kathleen-Welton-ebook/dp/B0D2WMBF6T
"Pigs Have Wings" (9798989035748, $17.99 HC, $11.99 PB, 32pp) is illustrated by Chau Pham is a touching picture book story about Miz Peg, who wants nothing more than to dance and sing. With short legs and big feet, it's harder for a pig than you would think. Peg gets all tangled up trying to twirl. Everyone laughs and tells Peg "don't you know, pigs don't have wings." Peg is finally able to leap in the sky when a baby bird lands on her head and shows her how to hip and hop. A wise owl helps her learn that we all have our own wings when we believe.
From that day on, Peg dances with all her heart. She finds her own way to shine!
With light-hearted rhymes and high-stepping illustrations, this tale is gentle inspiration for everyone who wants to find their own wings within-and imagine they can accomplish anything.
Critique: Both "Choo! Choo! Choo! The Train at the Zoo" and "Pigs Have Wings" are unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that both of this fun picture books are also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99 & $2.99 respectively).
Editorial Note #1: Kathleen Welton (www.kathywelton.com) focuses on inspiring others and helping dreams take flight. An award-winning independent publisher and writer, her critically acclaimed books include a Mom's Choice Awards gold winner, an International Book Awards winner, and a Readers' Choice Book Awards finalist.
Editorial Note #2: Tamara Joubert has been illustrating professionally for the last 18 years. Her my areas of interest are illustrations for children's books and comics.
Editorial Note #3: Chau Pham is an illustrator from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Pham is a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators.
Candlewick Press
www.candlewickpress.com
New arrivals from Candlewick Press provide elementary-level libraries, read-aloud adults, and discriminating picture book readers with a host of fine, creative, well-done options.
https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Sidura-Ludwig/dp/1536225495
Sidura Ludgwig's Rising (9781536225495, $18.99) receives engaging drawings by Sophia Vincent Guy as it portrays a big ceramic bowl used for making challah for Shabbat. The blessings involved, the rituals explored, and family and spiritual connections presented will especially interest Jewish parents seeking to explore Shabbat for the very young.
https://www.amazon.com/Calculating-Chimpanzees-Mind-Blowing-Mathematical-Extraordinary/dp/1536230014
Stephanie Gibeault's Calculating Chimpanzees, Brainy Bees, and Other Animals with Mind-Blowing Mathematical Abilities (9781536230017, $17.99) gives young learners an inviting introduction connecting math and nature. The exploration will appeal to kids well beyond the picture book stage who are attracted to bright, colorful illustrations (by Jaclyn Sinquett) paired with equally inviting scientific explorations. Activities that accompany these insights invite kids to explore on their own, as well, as the stories reinforce applied mathematical concepts.
https://www.amazon.com/I-Was-Stories-Animal-Skulls/dp/1536223131
Katherine Hocker's I Was: The Stories of Animal Skulls (9781536223132, $18.99) employs a very creative take on animal physiology and skills, features exceptionally attractive, colorful illustrations by Natasha Donovan, and invites kids to learn about and identify different animals by their skulls. The dialogues, such as the one for the hummingbird ("See this beak, slender and strong and sharp as a thorn? It was my probe. I was the seeker of sweetness.") excel in reflections both scientific and literary.
https://www.amazon.com/Two-Wheels-David-Gibb/dp/1536231398
David Gibb and Brizida Magro's Two Wheels (9781536231397, $17.99) considers a little boy's desire not for a tricycle, but a two-wheel bike. His wise father must get him ready to graduate to the next level in this story of moving into a two-wheeled world and all the opportunities it offers for shared family enjoyment. Of special note is that this story is narrated in the first person and embraces not just the experience of two-wheel riding, as other picture books do, but the impact of new opportunities and transformation on emotional growth, as well: "I feel taller than I have ever felt before. I practice on my new bike A LOT."
https://www.amazon.com/That-Octopus-Built-Animal-Habitats/dp/1536226548
The Den That Octopus Built by Randi Sonenshine (9781536226546, $18.99) receives especially notable, colorful illustration by Anne Hunter as it follows an octopus that creates her den from found objects in the ocean in preparation for motherhood. Natural history blends with fictional dramatic embellishments as the survey brings the octopus and her world to life: "These are her snaky, sucker-lined limbs, sniffing and probing for prey while she swims close to the den that Octopus built."
https://www.amazon.com/Go-Get-Rex-David-LaRochelle/dp/1536222062
David LaRochelle's Go and Get with Rex (9781536222067, $17.99) features a game played by Jack, Jill, and Rex which holds simple rules and the challenge of getting something that begins with a certain letter. Mike Wohnoutka's simple yet whimsically engaging drawings accent a story that offers more than rote learning opportunities about letters, but instructs the very young on how to think outside the box when solving problems and viewing the world.
All of these new picture book titles for young children are excellent choices and highly recommended for discriminating school and community library collections seeking exceptional presentations.
Penguin Books
www.penguin.com/kids
New picture book publications from Penguin Books provide young readers with exceptional stories that should be on school and community library lending shelves, and on the radar of discriminating parents looking for colorful and attractive read-alouds.
https://www.amazon.com/Flicker-Hope-Story-Migration/dp/0593525760
Cynthia Harmony's A Flicker of Hope: A Story of Migration (9780593525760, $18.99) is not just about monarch butterflies. It comes from the perspective of young Lucia, whose annual ritual of watching the butterflies with her father holds added impact this year, when her beloved father heads north to work on farms to send money back to their family. This year, the monarchs thus represent further promises as Lucia interacts with her abuela and others, taking part in rituals such as basket-weaving which have been closely-held family traditions for her lifetime. More than a tale of butterfly migration alone, A Flicker of Hope brings Latin culture, traditions, the migrant experience, and natural history to life.
https://www.amazon.com/Whats-New-Daniel-Micha-Archer/dp/0593461304
Micha Archer's What's New, Daniel? (9780593461303, $18.99) tells of a grandfather who asks his grandson a thoughtful question, sparking the boy's curiosity and interest in gaining new experiences so his conversations with his grandfather will be more interesting. From new wildlife appearances at the local park to the boy's association of animal growth with his own evolutionary process, young readers will appreciate the vivid illustrations that accompany this exploration of nature and realization of his connections to it.
https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Places-Naturalist-David-Attenborough/dp/0593618092
Hayley and John Rocco's Wild Places: The Life of Naturalist David Attenborough (9780593618097, $19.99) enjoys exceptionally vivid illustrations, beginning with cover art that invites immediate attention from young picture book audiences. From how David, as a young boy, loved exploring wild places near his England home to how he cultivates this interest into adulthood, easy language and detailed descriptions of how wild places are shrinking not only portray Attenborough's life story, but incorporate the side story of how one man can make a difference in saving the world (of nature, that is). Libraries and teachers will find that pointing young audiences to Wild Places will spark interesting debates on the overall subject of wilderness preservation, making this book a top pick for more than just biography book reports.
https://www.amazon.com/House-Before-Falling-into-Sea/dp/0593530152
Ann Suk Wang's The House Before Falling Into the Sea (9780593530153, $18.99) takes place in Busan, on the southeastern shore of Korea, and follows young Kyung Tak's family's dilemma when refugees fleeing the war show up on their doorstep. Lovely illustrations by Hanna Cha reinforces the atmosphere and culture of Korea as the story evolves. The revised role of their home as a last-ditch place for survival crowds the household, but introduces new opportunities to Kyung as she comes to realize the importance of cultivating kindness and giving in times of adversity and hardship. Based on a true story of the author's family, this tale of sheltering refugees provides picture book readers and read-aloud adults with much food for thought.
https://www.amazon.com/Book-That-Almost-Rhymed/dp/0593406389
The Book That Almost Rhymed by Omar Abed (9780593406380, $18.99) is a story about what happens when a rhyming attempt goes wry due to a sister's antics and interruptions. How can a rhyme be developed, given such a problem? Through imagination, fantasy, and cooperative play. Hatem Aly's inviting illustrations are a whimsical and fun accompaniment to the action.
Anoosha Syed's Lost Stick (9780593405192, $18.99) tells of a game of fetch gone awry when Louise's game with dog Milo gives him the idea that she loves Stick as much as he does. When Stick is lost, Milo embarks on a journey to find him, not realizing that Louse is also searching for him. The problem is that all sticks look the same. How can he nose out Louise's special stick?
All of these new Penguin titles for young readers are highly recommended acquisitions.
Simon & Schuster
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
New Simon & Schuster picture book arrivals will attract young readers with exciting stories and approaches that stand out from many.
https://www.amazon.com/Kindness-Rescue-Superbuns-Diane-Kredensor/dp/1481490702
Diane Kredensor's Superbuns! Kindness to the Rescue (9781481490702, $18.99) is not your typical superhero stories, because Superbuns has a special mission - to insert kindness into her world. Ages 4-8 will appreciate a series of adventures which also embrace the notion that too much good intention may be questionable... or, it is? The action and adventure explores other elements of kindness, from differences and acceptance to the many ways kindness may be interpreted or presented in the world.
https://www.amazon.com/Suitcase-Daniela-Sosa/dp/1665911492
Daniela Sosa's The Suitcase (9781665911498, $18.99) reviews a summer with grandparents where there's nothing to do... until the bored grandson discovers a hidden suitcase in the attic that is filled with treasures and mysteries. Lovely illustrations follow the first-person narrator's foray into discovery and new worlds as he amasses clues about its contents.
https://www.amazon.com/Hornbeam-Gets-Done-Books/dp/1665924837
Cynthia Rylant and Arthur Howard's Hornbeam Gets It Done (9781665924832, $18.99) follows a moose and his various animal friends as he experiences pleasures, mishaps, and adventures. Three chapters ('March Worries', 'Food-Shopping', and 'Game Night') pose different problems and challenges that Hornbeam and his friends face during the course of daily living. This will prove the perfect transition to chapter books, holding the picture book's slim appearance, attraction and numerous illustrations - but with enhanced text that kids can use to further their reading skills.
https://www.amazon.com/Brian-Lion-Learned-Frances-Stickley/dp/1665958200
Frances Stickley and Chris Chatterton's Brian the Lion Who Learned (9781665958202, $18.99) tells of the lord of the jungle who is mighty, loved, and admired... but perhaps not so much as he thinks. He may feel that the jungle is a friendly environment, but just because he plays well with others doesn't mean that they think the same of him. In fact, many are secretly afraid of his size and roar. How can Brian understand their perspective and make changes to become a better friend? Adults who choose Brian the Lion Who Learned for its rollicking rhyming text and attractive artwork will find its underlying message even more appealing.
https://www.amazon.com/When-See-You-Brynne-Barnes/dp/1665914858
Brynne Barnes's When I See You (9781665914857, $18.99) enjoys lovely illustrations by Brianna McCarthy as it gives picture book readers ages 4-8 an exciting journey through an expectant mother's eyes as she imagines her child's current milieu. Verse combines with imaginative illustrations and journeys to provide just the right combination of whimsy and love that read-aloud parents will find particularly conducive to introducing a young child to the idea of a new baby's arrival.
https://www.amazon.com/Summer-Solstice-Story-Kelsey-Gross/dp/166592960X
Summer: A Solstice Story by Kelsey E. Gross (9781665929608, $17.99) enjoys engaging, colorful illustrations by Renata Liwska as it surveys the longest day of the year and what it means to the animals who celebrate it. A gentle story of love, giving, and celebration emerges as ages 4-8 receive a gentle story of animals that each present their 'loving wishes' for the season and their lives, concluding with a fine dance of appreciation.
https://www.amazon.com/Dalmartian-Rovers-Lucy-Ruth-Cummins/dp/1665911956
Lucy Ruth Cummins covers an unusual friendship in Dalmartian (9781665911955, $18.99), a 'Mars Rover' story about unusual visitors who come to Stephen's yard one dark night. As they catalogue odd things, one becomes Stephen's guest. In the process of introducing this stranger to his life, an unexpected friendship and truth evolve which will give young readers plenty to muse about.
https://www.amazon.com/Vacation-Three-Half-Stories/dp/1665930446
Vacation by Ame Dyckman and Mark Teague (9781665930444, $17.99) is a new Bat, Cat & Rat chapter book that revolves around competing vacation plans. Three (and a half) adventures are outlined through engaging, whimsical drawings as a dialogue-driven story emerges to help readers transition from picture books.
https://www.amazon.com/Rubys-Tools-Making-Friends-Apryl/dp/1665921641
Apryl Stott's Ruby's Tools for Making Friends (9781665921640, $18.99) will reach picture book audiences ages 4-8 with its lovely story about Ruby's first day at a new school. Unlike most, she comes armed with a tool kit of remedies for all kinds of emotional possibilities, from tackling overwhelm and assumptions to the need to remain open to new possibilities in life. An egg drop competition demands she employ these tools in a mindful way, resulting in whimsical results that will delight picture book readers and read-aloud parents with lovely illustrations and unpredictable scenarios of positive growth.
https://www.amazon.com/Trucky-Roads-Lulu-Miller/dp/1665919175
Trucky Roads by Lulu Miller (9781665919173, $18.99) features lovely color illustrations by Hui Skipp as it explores different kinds of trucks. The story will appeal to the very young and not only encourages kids to identify the usual dump truck or garbage truck, but extrapolate on fantasy truck possibilities, such as Cloud Rollers and Comet Mixers. What can a truck become? Anything the imagination wants.
All of these new Penguin titles for young readers are appealing, captivating picture book choices for school and community libraries, as well as the young patrons and their families.
The Elementary Fiction Shelf
Sanya's New Starts
Aditi Singh & Sharvi Singh
Raising World Children LLC
www.raisingworldchildren.com
9781956870060, $9.99 Paperback/$8.99 eBook
https://www.amazon.com/Sanyas-New-Starts-Diverse-Belonging/dp/1956870067
Sanya's New Starts: An Easy to Read, Diverse Chapter Book about Belonging is the first in the chapter book Sanya series, exploring an 11-year-old girl's search for a sense of self and place.
Readers ages 6-9 will find Sanya a compelling character whose courage in tackling new experiences drives her to make proactive, powerful choices in her life. Another big plus to this story is the wealth of Indian culture which is embedded into her life, philosophy, and world.
These elements give kids a solid introduction to dosas, turmeric milk, and other traditional foods and experiences to be absorbed in the course of Sanya's journey. The chapter book format lends to the feel of a series of scary (but enlightening) encounters which each require Sanya to step up to opportunities for different kinds of friendships and experiences.
An added bonus to these stories comes in the form of a (separate acquisition) classroom guide that helps identify and solidify discussions that adults can spark, about comprehension and social emotional skills, available from RaisingWorldchildren.com/guides.
Between its focus on new words and concepts and how Sanya absorbs and incorporates both into her life, Sanya's New Starts represents an outstanding opportunity for adults and elementary-level libraries to introduce subjects of diversity, friendships, belonging, and manners to chapter book audiences and young reader book clubs alike.
The Middle Grade Fiction Shelf
The Falls
Janet R. Macreery
Outskirts Press, Inc.
www.outskirtspress.com
9781977274137, $14.95, PB, 192pp
https://www.amazon.com/Falls-Janet-R-Macreery/dp/1977274137
Synopsis: It wasn't her choice to go. But from the moment the bush plane splashed down on the Alaskan lake, there was no turning back for 11-year-old Monty. Her widowed father's job brought them to the edge of wilderness. Her journey that summer of 1953 would take her through rugged terrain, dangerous wildlife and unlikely friendships to the wonder and mystery beyond the Falls.
Life at the camp at Brooks River comes with constant contradiction. The more beautiful and interesting something is, the more likely it is to be dangerous. Nothing embodies that more than the Falls.
As the only child at the fishing camp, Monty endeavors to make friends, both human and wild animal, while fending off bullies. She learns from her new friend, Mrs. Devon, that even though the plants in the fields are beautiful, some of them are poisonous. Mr. Charles teachers her to appreciate the animals who live at camp but also to respect their power to put her in peril at any moment.
But not all the adults at the camp at Brooks River are eager to warn Monty of potential dangers. One fishing guide named Doyle does not think children belong at a fishing camp and is determined to prove it.
Through her own loss, Monty is familiar with the harshness of life. She witnesses the fish struggle to survive the bears as they, in turn, struggle to survive the coming winter. Monty and her father come to grips with risk, loss, and life on their Alaskan adventure.
Critique: A compelling read from start to finish, "The Falls" by author Janet B. Macreery is an impressively original and deftly crafted historical novel set in the early 1900s that will have special appeal for young readers ages 9-12. While also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99), "The Falls" is an especially and unreservedly recommended pick for elementary school, middle school, and community library General Fiction collections.
Editorial Note: Janet R. Macreery (https://janetmacreery.wordpress.com) is the author of the multi-award-winning historical fiction adventures A Little Noble and A Little Wicked.
The Titus Gift
Jennifer C. Weil
https://www.jennifercweil.com
Independently Published
9781959086000, $16.50, PB, 282pp
https://www.amazon.com/Titus-Gift-Jennifer-C-Weil/dp/1959086006
Synopsis: On a rural, isolated road, eleven-year-old Tommy Hillman and his younger sister, Erica, face a long sure-to-be-dull summer, made dreadful by their father's serious illness. Their lives shaken, they turn for company to their one neighbor, whose surprising friendship takes them places they never dreamt of going and teaches them the rewards of asking the simplest question: Why?
Critique: A deftly crafted, original, and entertaining read from start to finish, "The Titus Gift" by author Jennifer Weil will prove to be of particular appeal to young readers ages 6-12 with an interest in stories with the theme of magic and fantasy. While also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99), "The Titus Gift" is an especially and unreservedly recommended for elementary school and community library Children's Fantasy Fiction collections.
Editorial Note: Jennifer C. Weil (www.jennifercweil.com) lives, writes, and dreams in Michigan and Florida. She is also an actor, teacher, director, and artist. She is also the author of "And Peter Said Goodbye" and "William's Gift" for young readers ages 5-8.
The Young Adult Fiction Shelf
L.E.A.P.
Toni Bellon
Artemesia Publishing, LLC
http://artemesiapublishing.com
9781951122911, $15.95, HC, 275pp
https://www.amazon.com/L-P-Toni-Bellon/dp/1951122917
Turning fourteen, Linn Gurke suffers from the adolescent ABCs: Acne, Boobs, and Crushes. Her alcoholic mother and co-dependent father don't provide help or support. While being labeled a liar, Linn is expected to keep her mother's addiction quiet. It's the big secret shaping everyone's truth. Linn wants to quit lying, in particular to her best friend, Nadine.
Feeling alone, Linn reads self-help articles and creates Linn's Emerging Adult Plan (L.E.A.P.). This eight-point checklist is designed to prevent Linn from succumbing to her mother's genetic makeup and predisposition toward alcoholism. But when an unbalanced aunt arrives, Linn and her snarky older brother, Brendan, learn that their thirty-nine-year-old mother is pregnant. The family spirals downward as Linn's priorities change from growing up to survival for herself and her siblings. Linn must find a way to conquer the family demons.
Critique: A classic coming-of-age novel by an author with a distinctive and narrative driven storytelling style that will be particularly effective with teens and young adults, "L.E.A.P." by Toni Bellon is an inherently fascinating read from start to finish. Dealing with such issues a parental drug addition and/or alcohol abuse in the family (and its impact on the children in such a family), "L.E.A.P." is especially and unreservedly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library YA Fiction collections for young readers ages 13-15.
Editorial Note: Toni Bellon retired as Assistant Dean of Education from the University of North Georgia. She left to care for her alcoholic mother who suffered from dementia and Parkinson' s. During that time, writing became cathartic. Toni uses humor, hoping that her snarky view of life brings a smile to anyone who's reading. After living in nine states, Toni now resides in Atlanta Georgia. She is a member of the Atlanta Writers Club, A Novel Idea, and multiple critique groups. "L.E.A.P." is her first novel.
Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told
Stacy A. Padula
Briley & Baxter Publications
https://brileybaxterbooks.com
9781733153638, $24.95, HC, 210pp
https://www.amazon.com/Gripped-Part-Truth-Never-Told/dp/1733153632
Synopsis: In high school, Taylor Dunkin broke more records than any other athlete to step foot in Montgomery, Massachusetts. As a sophomore in college, he was ranked by ESPN as one of the NFL's top 100 prospects. However, his aspirations came to a jarring halt when a season-ending injury sent him spiraling into a dark world of pain, depression, and addiction.
One year later, Taylor is a person of interest in a highly confidential investigation headed by the Boston Police Department. He has entangled himself in a crime ring notorious for pushing drugs on local college campuses. Montgomery's hometown hero has fallen hard, and he's taking a lot of people down with him.
Luke Davids has become the middleman between Taylor and teens in Montgomery who want to buy drugs. Freshmen Cathy Kagelli, Chris Dunkin, and Jason Davids are just a few of the students at Montgomery Lake High who have fallen victim to the benzos and opiates supplied by Taylor and Luke.
When Taylor's youngest brother Marc discovers that Taylor is behind the copious amount of pills circulating around his high school, he sets off to not only reverse the damage Taylor has caused, but also save his lifelong role model from becoming a casualty of America's deadly opioid epidemic.
Critique: Although a brilliantly crafted work of fiction, "Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told" will resonate with the reader as being accurately reflecting similar drug/alcohol related tragedies well known to the sports community of baseball, football, and basketball players. A riveting read from start to finish, "Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told" by author Stacy A. Padula is especially and unreservedly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library YA Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Gripped Part 1: The Truth We Never Told" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781735016832, $16.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.99).
Editorial Note: Stacy Padula (https://stacyapadula.com) is the founder of Briley & Baxter Publications, the founder of South Shore College Consulting & Tutoring, a co-founder of BLE Pictures, and the author of thirteen books. She was asked to serve as a judge for the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards, the nation's oldest and most prestigious contest for creative young adults, sponsored by Bloomberg Philanthropies, The New York Times, and Scholastic.
Miya's Mountain
Cathy Ringler
www.cathyringler.com
Crystal Publishing, LLC
9781942624844, $16.95
https://www.amazon.com/Miyas-Mountain-Cathy-Ringler/dp/1942624840
Cowgirl storyteller Cathy Ringler presents middle grade to young adult readers with another Miya adventure in Miya's Mountain.
Now a teenager, Miya experiences more learning opportunities when an issue involving the Forest Service and lease dates draws her into adult concerns. Questions of how Miya does (and does not) take responsibility in life, her choices and their consequences, and the issues that stem from a "dumb idea" turned dangerous power a story filled with insights about land management, encounters with bears, and more.
Cathy Ringler's storytelling prowess enables her readers to smoothly move from prior adventures (in which the girl was eight) to present-day challenges as Miya teeters on the cusp of adulthood, but sometimes still reacts as a child. Awareness of animals and people permeate the tale as Miya grows into new realizations about life and her role in taking charge and making decisions. As she fields friend Tanner's asthma attacks, undertakes trips that test her resources and mettle, and tackles new adventures with Jake (trail riding in the back country), Miya searches for her place in the community of humans and nature, absorbing lessons from both.
The special strength to this story lies not just in Ringler's ability to spin a vivid yarn filled with adventurous twists, but in her dedication to considering Miya's challenges, choices, decisions, and camping's pros and cons. The result is a vivid outdoors adventure highly recommended for teens, who will find themselves riding the trail of new adulthood and responsibility alongside Miya and her horse Dream.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Death at Morning House
Maureen Johnson
HarperTeen
c/o HarperCollins Children's Books
www.harpercollinschildrens.com
9780063255951, $19.99, HC, 384pp
https://www.amazon.com/Death-Morning-House-Maureen-Johnson/dp/0063255952
Synopsis: The fire wasn't Marlowe Wexler's fault. Dates should be hot, but not hot enough to warrant literal firefighters. Akilah, the girl Marlowe has been in love with for years, will never go out with her again. No one dates an accidental arsonist.
With her house-sitting career up in flames, it seems the universe owes Marlowe a new summer job, and that's how she ends up at Morning House, a mansion built on an island in the 1920s and abandoned shortly thereafter. It's easy enough, giving tours. Low risk of fire. High chance of getting bored talking about stained glass and nut cutlets and Prohibition.
Oh, and the deaths. Did anyone mention the deaths?
Maybe this job isn't such a gift after all. Morning House has a horrific secret that's been buried for decades, and now the person who brought her here is missing.
All it takes is one clue to set off a catastrophic chain of events. One small detail, just like a spark, could burn it all down -- if someone doesn't bury Marlowe first!
Critique: With a deft blending of romance, mystery and humor, "Death at Morning House" by accomplished novelist Maureen Johnson is a fun read from cover to cover and will prove a welcome and enduringly popular pick for highschool and community library YA Mystery/Suspense Fiction collections for young readers ages 9-12. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Death at Morning House" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Editorial Note: Maureen Johnson (www.maureenjohnsonbooks.com) is the author of several novels, including 13 Little Blue Envelopes, the Truly Devious series, the Suite Scarlett series, and the Shades of London series. She has also written collaborative works such as Let It Snow with John Green and Lauren Myracle and the Bane Chronicles with Cassandra Clare and Sarah Rees Brennan. Maureen is also online on Twitter @maureenjohnson
War of the Wind
Victoria Williamson
Neem Tree Press
www.neemtreepres.com
9781915584618, $12.95
https://www.amazon.com/War-Wind-Victoria-Williamson/dp/1915584612
War of the Wind blends ecological themes with a mystery that teens will relish. Teen Max loses much of his hearing in a boating accident, and so must navigate the world with new skill sets that include the confusion from wearing hearing aids that only partially resolves his condition.
Placed in a special ed class, Max struggles to build relationships with a group he once held in disdain while facing the possibilities that a new wind farm is not all that it seems. As people around him begin acting strangely, Max's fears blossom. But, how can a newly handicapped kid enter into and resolve such adult concerns?
This fine story's intrigue and engrossing insights into special needs and extraordinary adventure make it a winner.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Hearts That Cut
Kika Hatzopoulou
Razorbill
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
https://www.penguin.com
9780593528747, $19.99, HC, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Hearts-That-Cut-Threads-Bind/dp/0593528743
Synopsis: It's been five weeks since Io left Alante to follow the golden thread, and she's no closer to finding the god on the other end. She spends her days in constant, grueling travel and her nights worrying over the fate-thread she shares with Edei -- which seems to be fraying. Making matters worse, she and Bianca soon realize that their only lead has shaken them off, snapped the golden thread, and disappeared.
But not before Io gathers some crucial clues. Her investigation leads her to a new mystery, a rash of sibling disappearances across the Wastelands that seems to be connected to the murders in Alante. And all signs point to Nanzy, the golden city, as the center of the whole conspiracy.
As Io and Bianca make their way to Nanzy, they face powerful enemies, find allies new and old, and uncover a horrifying plot that traces back centuries. The more Io learns, the more she begins to suspect that the future of the world may truly rest on her shoulders. But she will have to determine how much of the future is her choice -- and how much is simply her fate.
Critique: "Hearts That Cut" is the sequel to "Threads That Bind" and continues the adventures of Io, who continues to face ever more dangerous threats as she discovers what it will mean to follow (or defy) her fate. A fun read from cover to cover for fans of Sword & Sorcery style action/adventure fantasy, "Hearts That Cut" is unreservedly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library YA Fantasy Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Hearts That Cut" is also available in a paperback edition (9780241614662, $12.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Editorial Note: Kika Hatzopoulou (https://kikahatzopoulou.com) holds an MFA in writing for children from the New School and works in foreign publishing. She currently splits her time between London and her native Greece, where she enjoys urban quests and gastronomical adventures while narrating entire book and movie plots with her partner. You can find her on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok @kikahatzopoulou
Holly Horror: The Longest Night
Michelle Jabes Corpora
Penguin Workshop
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
https://www.penguin.com
9780593523117, $19.99, HC, 352pp
https://www.amazon.com/Holly-Horror-Longest-Night-2/dp/0593523113
Synopsis: It's been two weeks since Evie escaped the mines after solving the mystery of Holly's disappearance only to discover that Desmond followed her but never came back. Evie knows he's alive, lost wherever the Patchwork Girl resides. When Evie tries to reach out to Holly again for help, she realizes that her connection to the Lost Girl (and the shadow world itself) has been severed. Desmond is gone, and it's all her fault.
Ravenglass slowly begins to move on from the tragedy of losing Desmond, but as winter creeps closer and the days grow shorter, a sinister being begins to threaten the lives of Ravenglass residents, stealing them away and bringing them back different. Wrong.
Evie knows that the only way to stop it is to connect to Holly again. With the help of her friend Tina, and the troubled newcomer Sai, Evie begins to follow the clues Holly left behind, determined to find the Lost Girl once more, at any cost.
Critique: "Holly Horror: The Longest Night" is the thrilling sequel to Michelle Jabes Corpora's novel "Holly Horror". A deftly crafted and fun action/adventure read from start to finish for fans of horror fantasy novels, "Holly Horror: The Longest Night" is especially and unreservedly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library YA Fantasy Fiction collections for young readers ages 12-17.
Editorial Note: Michelle Jabes Corpora (www.michellejcorpora.com) always wanted to be a writer. But despite the fact that she knew from a very young age that she wanted to write books for children, she became an editor and concept creator in children's book publishing, which led her to becoming an author.
The StarWriters Club
Mary K. Savarese
www.maryksavarese.com
Indignor House
9781953278371, $34.95 Hardcover/$24.95 Paperback/$6.99 eBook
https://www.amazon.com/StarWriters-Club-Mary-K-Savarese/dp/195327837X
The StarWriters Club is the second adventure in the trilogy and opens with the life (or, is it?) of sixteen-year-old tomboy Em Iverson, who is newly experiencing another realm and the challenges that come with it.
Teens may not expect religious questions to evolve from a fantasy setting, but a spiritual component embracing life purpose, missions, and efforts to thwart evil and support His Plan come to light when Em joins others on a similar journey and discovers that the world (and the afterlife) are not what she once believed.
Familiarity with the opening novel of the trilogy, The Girl in the Toile Wallpaper, will lend to the continuation of theme and understanding that plays out in this character's encounters. Young adults who appreciated the romance, adventure, and blends of history and mystery that intersected with the fantasy following 12-year-old Tyler Charles in the first book will find the expanded ideas and different experiences of another who enters this realm to be equally captivating.
While this second book can stand alone, ideally it will be chosen as a fine follow-up to the first. Mary K. Savarese writes with an eye to building intrigue, starting with Em's ethereal journey and then moving to ordinary daily life at the breakfast table with her family. This then segues to a horrible discovery made by her roommate Danni. Teens will have little trouble following these transitions as Em is invited to participate on a team training to be a StarWriter whose goal is to deliver His Plan to the universe. There are only twelve StarWriters. Em's opportunity is thus rare and inviting.
As Savarese unfolds this world and its undercurrents of good and evil, teens receive plenty of insights into ideal worlds and new realities: "Below is the village of Wis." Ja Crof pointed at a countryside village that was tucked into a snowy hillside. "Over there is U-ing." She pointed to a distant dark green area. "A wild jungle filled with every animal ever created by Him."
"Wow," Milos sighed, "do bilocators play with the tigers and lions."
"Yes, they do." Ja Crof laughed. "There is only love here."
As exploration dovetails with challenge, Em and the other potential StarWriters delve into deeper purposes and thinking that challenge both their growth and their goals. Savarese cultivates a quirky tone surrounding the meeting of different worlds that will attract teens looking for genre-busting fantasy that doesn't evolve on a formula level, but continually poses surprises and new revelations.
Tests, quests, and questions permeate the efforts of the StarWriters as they find their new world and mission filled with magic, intrigue, and a renewed sense of purpose about their abilities to step into their destinies and change fate. The result is a powerful story that captivates, prompts thinking and discussion about philosophical and spiritual matters, and entertains with a vivid hand to encounters and twists readers won't see coming.
School and community libraries and young adults looking for original, creative works that excel in bigger-picture thinking will find The StarWriters Club a major attraction.
Viking Children's Books
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
https://www.penguin.com
Viking Books for Young Readers is an imprint of the Penguin Young Readers Group and a premier publishing of children's books. They now present a new fantasy series by Poly Holyoke for young readers ages 8-12.
https://www.amazon.com/Skyriders-Polly-Holyoke/dp/0593464419
"Sky Riders"
9780593464410, $18.99 HC, 9780593464434 $9.99 PB, $9.99 Kindle, 320pp
Thirteen-year-old Kiesandra's best friend isn't human, but that doesn't stop her from sharing jokes and secrets with her winged horse, N'Rah. She, like every other person with a skysteed, can communicate with N'Rah through her mind. Their bond is critical when one day, monsters from long ago reemerge to ravage a nearby village. No one knows how to fight the fearsome chimerae except Kie's uncle . . . and now Kie.
Injured in the battle, Uncle Dug makes her promise to bring his attack plan and weapons to the capital. Kie reluctantly agrees. At the palace, she and N'Rah attempt to gain the trust of the royals and train the army in Dug's lessons. But how can a young girl and her skysteed convince anyone that only they know how to defeat the deadly monsters?
https://www.amazon.com/Sky-King-Skyriders-Polly-Holyoke/dp/059346446X
"The Sky King"
9780593464465, $9.99 PB, $9.99 Kindle, 336pp
Fresh from their victory over the frightening chimerae monsters, Kie and N'Rah are looking forward to a quiet life on her uncle's orchard, far from the turmoil of the capital city. They miss the friends they made there, but as sky couriers, their job keeps them busy.
Then Kie unexpectedly receives a message from the emperor himself! He has an urgent mission for Kie and N'Rah - they need to find the Sky King, the elusive ruler of the wild skysteeds that soar across the land. After losing so many fighters in the Battle of a Thousand Chimerae, the empire is in desperate need of a hundreds of winged horses for their soldiers to ride. The wild herds are the only source, but bitter betrayals in the past have made the Sky King distrustful of humans.
Kie's unique gift of communicating with all skysteeds makes her the best person for the job, but it would take a miracle for the Sky King to trust a young girl. Then a new threat emerges in the form of huge birds of prey called vultiren. With the fearsome creatures heading straight for the wild skysteeds' hidden refuge, Kie must convince the Sky King to ally with her -- before their world is destroyed forever.
Critique: These first two titles in Poly Holyoke's new fantasy series are original, deftly crafted, and fun reads from start to finish and will leave young fantasy fans looking eagerly towards more! Both "Sky Riders" and "The Sky King" will prove to be immediate and enduringly popular picks for personal, elementary school, middle school, and community library Action/Adventure and Fantasy Fiction collections.
Editorial Note: Polly Holyoke (www.PollyHolyoke.com) grew up in Colorado, where she spent her childhood skiing, camping, reading, and dreaming up fantastical stories. Polly went on to graduate from Middlebury College and become a middle school social studies teacher. She lives with her husband and their two daughters, as well as two cats, two Chihuahuas, and a beagle.
The Western Fiction Shelf
The West: Land of Opportunity
Johnny Gunn
Condor Publishing
www.condorpublishinginc.com
9781931079631, $26.95 Hardcover/$14.95 Paper
https://www.amazon.com/WEST-LAND-OPPORTUNITY-Collection/dp/1931079633
The West: Land of Opportunity is a collection of Western stories filled with a storyteller's penchant for high drama and strong characterization. Any advanced elementary to middle grader readers who have thought of Western history as dry and one-dimensional would do well to read these vivid stories.
Johnny Gunn's tall tales outline not just events, but concepts about the West and its characters. Gunn doesn't just cover positive people seeking opportunity in the Wild West: the stories include characters with more nefarious attitudes and motivations. Tales range from 'Not This Time', about cattle-rustling on the frontier and efforts to thwart it, to 'Rage on the Range,' which outlines feuds, justice, and the law in a relatively lawless time and place.
Each story is designed to feature different characters that represent disparate facets of Western experience, from lawmen and strangers to individuals concerned with either upholding or thwarting the forces of frontier justice. Through these tales, young readers will gain a renewed appreciation for the opportunities, obstacles, encounters, and characters attracted to the American West.
Gunn is especially adept at creating compelling scenarios which embrace problem-solving, social and political situations (as they pertain to frontier living, of course), and encounters that test not only the mettle of each character, but their perception of and place in the West. All these features are why The West: Land of Opportunity is highly recommended for libraries seeking lively discourses that will attract not just young history buffs, but leisure readers who will find its "you are here" atmosphere compelling, realistic, and thoroughly engrossing.
The Graphic Novel Shelf
The Great Turkey Walk
Kathleen Karr, author
Leonie Bischoff, illustrator
Michelle Baitat-Jones, translator
Helvetiq
9783039640638, $29.95, HC, 144pp
https://www.amazon.com/Great-Turkey-Walk-Adaptation-Thousand/dp/3039640631
Synopsis: Missouri 1860: Simon Green is a bad student. His mother is dead and his father has disappeared. But he's daring, and so when he hears that turkeys fetch a higher price in Denver, he borrows his teacher's life savings and buys a herd of a thousand birds. Then he sets off on the thousand-mile trek with his dog and a pair of mules. To survive the odyssey that follows, Simon will need grit, luck and smarts -- and a colorful cast of friends.
Kathleen Karr's beloved middle-grade novel of a resourceful boy and his herd of a thousand turkeys has enchanted readers everywhere since it was first published in 1998. Now it will reach a whole new audience in Leonie Bischoff's enchanting graphic novel, finally available in English. The adaptation has already garnered two of the world's most prestigious graphic novel awards: the grand prize at the Angouleme International Comics Festival as well as the ACBD (French Comic Book Critics Association's Award).
The translation of this title was made possible by ProHelvetia, the Swiss Arts Council.
Critique: This large format hardcover edition of "The Great Turkey Walk" from Helvetiq is a graphic novel adaptation of the classic story of a boy, his dog, a thousand turkeys, and a thousand mile trek. A fun read from cover to cover, this unique edition of Kathern Karr's "The Great Turkey Walk" is brought vividly to life by the illustrations of Leonie Bischoff and the translation into English by Michelle Baitat-Jones -- making it an extraordinary pick for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library Graphic Novel collections for young readers ages 8-12. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Great Turkey Walk" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9783039640676, $19.95).
Editorial Note #1: Kathleen Karr seriously began writing fiction on a dare from her husband. After honing her skills in women's fiction, her children asked her to write a book for them, (It Ain't Always Easy, Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 1990), and she discovered she loved writing for young readers. She is the author of more than twenty novels for young readers. Her book The Boxer won the Golden Kite award. She died in 2017.
Editorial Note #2: After graduating in comics from the Institut Saint-Luc in Brussels, Leonie Bischoff became a bookseller and then an editor. She is the author of a graphic novel about the diarist Anais Nin. Her adaptation of Kathleen Karr's The Great Turkey Walk is her first book for children. Born in Geneva, Switzerland, Leonie currently lives in Belgium.
Editorial Note #3: Michelle Bailat-Jones is a translator and novelist living in Switzerland. She has translated several short stories as well as two novels by C. F. Ramuz, Beauty on Earth and What if the Sun...? Her other translations include work by Clarisse Francillon, Claude Cahun, Julia Allard Daudet, Laure Mi-Hyun Croset, and Celine Cerny.
The Music CD Shelf
All Together Now
Steve Elci & Friends
steveelciandfriends.com
Privately Published
$TBA CD / $9.49 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D3FLVN7P
All Together Now is a new family-friendly album by award-winning recording artist and activist Steve Elci. All songs are original creations, and convey positive messages to listeners of all ages. Song themes include fighting internal bias, learning to love oneself, pursuing one's dreams, working for peace, saving the environment, and more. All Together Now is a welcome addition to family and public library children's music collections, highly recommended. The tracks are The Power Of The Sunflower; We Rise Above; Fireflies; The Sound Of Trees; Dreams; Pirate Sails, Ginger Ales and Tall Tales; Hey World This Is Me; Rain Rain Go Away, I'll See You Again; Smile; Everyone Seems To Know This Song; Puppy; Under The Nutmeg Sky; and Believe.
Dreamland
Jenn Cleary
JennCleary.com
Privately Published
$TBA
https://hypeddit.com/jenncleary/dreamland2
Intended for young listeners ages 3-10, Dreamland is a soothing album designed to help children unwind. Award-winning singer-songwriter Jenn Cleary performs gentle, relaxing original songs that invite peaceful dreams. The final track is a guided relaxation exercise, where Jenn Cleary's voice encourages listeners to unwind and find calm amid light background music. Dreamland is a beautiful children's album ideal for bedtime, highly recommended. The tracks are Celtic Dream, Sail Away, Rocking Chair to the Stars, Smile, Relax on an Island, Clouds, Slow Blues Wind Down, Dreamland, Soothing Rain, and Guided Relaxation with Jenn Cleary.
Love Is...
Suzanne Jamieson and Jason Rabinowitz
www.suzannejamiesonsings.com
Pop Up City Records
$15.00 CD / $10.99 digital
https://suzannejamiesonsings.com/merch/love-is
Award-winning singer-songwriter Suzanne Jamieson and three-time Grammy-nominated producer Jason Rabinowitz of The Pop Ups present Love Is..., an album of love songs for children and families. Most tracks are original pop-style songs; "Things Change" is a classic 70's folk ballad, and "What Is Love?" is not the famous radio song by Haddaway, but rather an anti-bullying ballad. Love Is... features songs about family love, community love, universal love, self-love, friendship love, and romantic love (expressed through a delightful tale about a meeting between penguins). Love Is... is a charming pick for celebrating Valentine's Day or any day, highly recommended. The tracks are I Turn Towards Love, 8 Hugs, What Is Love? Best Bud, Lift Each Other Up, It Is What It Is, Love At First Sight, Unconditional, Kid I Love You, Things Change, and Sycamore.
Books in Series
The Creative Company
www.thecreativecompany.us
https://thecreativecompany.us/collections/series-look
Synopsis: Since 1932, when The Creative Company was founded by George Peterson Sr., they are renowned for publishing children's books of the highest quality. The six title series "Look!" is their latest, one of their best, and features an engaging story of the life cycle of Apples, Tomatoes, Sunflowers, Oak Trees, Corn, and Beans. Each volume is a middle-grade level book that features eye-catching photographs, insightfully simple language, and biological facts.
"Apples" by J. F. Quick (9781640268500, $37.50 HC, $10.99 PB, 23pp)
"Tomatoes" by J. F. Quick (9781640268555, $37.50 HC, $10.99, 23pp)
"Sunflowers" by J. F. Quick (9781640268548, $37.50 HC, $10.99, 23pp)
"Oak Trees" by Lori Dittmer (9781640268531, $37.50 HC, $10.99, 23pp)
"Corn" by Joe Tischler (9781640268524, $37.50 HC, $10.99, 23pp)
"Beans" by Joe Tischler (9781640268517, $37.50 HC, $10.99, 23pp)
Critique: Featuring a sturdy library binding for shelf longevity, the "Look!" series from The Creative Company is an ideal, informative, 'kid friendly', and unreservedly recommended addition to elementary school and community library non-fiction books-in-series collections for young readers ages 8-12.
Black Rabbit Books
https://blackrabbitbooks.com
Black Rabbit Books is an imprint of The Creative Company and a premier publisher of children's books for family, school, and community libraries. One of their new series of humorous Hi/Low nonfiction series is "Holiday Crafter" for grades 2-6.
https://www.amazon.com/Make-Birthday-Crafts-Holiday-Crafter/dp/1623109191
"Make Your Own Birthday Crafts" by Kayla Rossow (9781623109196, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp). It's birthday time! Hang some party swirls, top the treats with funny riddles, and get ready to crown the birthday kid. These awesome DIY decorations, party prep, and games will make the perfect birthday celebration for friends and family.
https://www.amazon.com/Make-Christmas-Crafts-Holiday-Crafter/dp/1623109205
"Make Your Own Christmas Crafts" by Kayla Rossow (9781623109202, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp) is a step-by-step guide to make five simple Christmas crafts and activities. It includes detailed supplies lists and clear directions for a cardboard tree, reindeer ornament, emoji snowman, ring toss, and Santa gift bag.
https://www.amazon.com/Make-Your-Own-Halloween-Crafts/dp/1644666278
"Make Your Own Halloween Crafts" by Kayla Rossow (9781623109219, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp) is a step-by-step guide to make five simple Halloween crafts. Included is a detailed supplies lists and clear directions for a string art pumpkin, mini pumpkin bat, spider web, ghoulish garland, and haunted hand.
https://www.amazon.com/Make-Independence-Crafts-Holiday-Crafter/dp/1623109221
"Make Your Own Independence Day Crafts" by Kayla Rossow (9781623109226, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp) is a step-by-step 'kid friendly' guide to make five simple Independence Day crafts and activities. Included is a detailed supplies lists and clear directions for a star-spangled banner, wind sleeve, painted rock flag, rocket ring toss, and ping pong game.
https://www.amazon.com/Make-Thanksgiving-Crafts-Holiday-Crafter/dp/162310923X
"Make Your Own Thanksgiving Crafts" by Kayla Rossow (9781623109233, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp) is a fun step-by-step guide to make five simple Thanksgiving crafts and activities. Included are detailed supplies lists and clear directions for a pinecone turkey, thankful banner, painted rocks, football fling, and dice game.
https://www.amazon.com/Make-Valentines-Crafts-Holiday-Crafter/dp/1623109248
"Make Your Own Valentine's Day Crafts" by Kayla Rossow (9781623109240, $35.70 Library Binding, $10.99 PB, 24pp) is a step-by-step guide to make five simple Valentine's Day crafts and activities. Includes detailed supplies lists and clear directions for a love bug, a robot, a catapult, and two cards.
Critique: Kids will enjoy learning just how easy and fun making crafts can be through simple instructions delivered with a colorful design. Each of these Holiday Crafter titles includes detailed lists of supplies keep young readers prepared and step-by-step directions make sure they succeed. Follow-up questions encourage kids to add personal touches to their crafts and a career profile highlights professional event planning. This simply outstanding and thoroughly 'kid friendly' series is unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library DIY instructional crafts collections for children ages 8-12.
Suzie Housley's Bookshelf
Wave Makers: How to Become an Ocean Superhero
Gabrielle Raymond McGee, author
Anastasiya Halionka, illustrator
More Lemonade
9798989797707, $27.99 PB, 41pp
9798989797714, $16.99 PB, $9.99 Kindle
https://www.amazon.com/Wave-Makers-Become-Ocean-Superhero/dp/B0D2LPPC6B
Synopsis: Step into a world where the sea is teeming with superheroes as Dr. Sylvia Earle, the renowned oceanographer, scientist, and explorer, mesmerizes a classroom full of students with tales of extraordinary marine life.
With a vibrant palette and infectious enthusiasm, Halionka, the book's illustrator, brings to life the wondrous creatures that inhabit our oceans. Each marine marvel, from the humble oyster to the elusive octopus and the mystical starfish, receives a celebration for its unique capabilities by Halionka, the book's illustrator.
As Dr. Earle delves into the crucial role, these creatures play in maintaining the health of our oceans, she implores the audience to become guardians of the sea. The students, depicted as a diverse group with smiles and wide eyes, hang on her every word as she stresses the urgent need to protect these oceanic wonders. She warns that the more we interfere with their habitat, the less they can protect us, highlighting the delicate balance between humanity and the marine world.
In this captivating presentation, Dr. Earle inspires the students to become Wave Makers, who will support the cause of ocean conservation and ensure a brighter future for our aquatic allies. Join this thrilling journey into the ocean's depths, where every creature, no matter how small, plays a vital role in the intricate tapestry of marine life.
Critique: Wave Makers is an exceptional book that beautifully captures the uniqueness of sea creatures and skillfully relates it to the diversity of human personalities. Embark on a captivating adventure where you'll discover the profound connections between the residents of the sea and ourselves.
Gabrielle Raymond McGee is a remarkable author whose latest book overflows with a treasure trove of essential life lessons. Through her captivating storytelling, McGee reminds us that each human or creature possesses unique qualities and strengths.
Join in celebrating the profound insights and creativity found within the pages of her exceptional book.
The Puzzle Piece
Andrea Mendoza, author
Rita Nilson, illustrator
Wholesome Children Books LLC
https://www.wholesomechildrenbooks.com
9798988022992, $18.99, HC, 124pp
9798988022985, $13.99 PB, $1.99 Kindle
https://www.amazon.com/Puzzle-Piece-Childrens-Authenticity-Self-Love-ebook/dp/B0D36LT6P6
Synopsis: Embark on a journey of self-discovery and embracing your individuality. Like pieces of a puzzle, each of us holds a unique shape and color that contributes to the beauty of the whole picture and gently nudges children to ponder their place in this vast world, encouraging them to stay true to themselves amidst societal pressures to conform.
In a world that often pushes us to change to fit in, this book serves as a powerful reminder to listen to our inner voice, our intuition, guiding us to where we truly belong. Its core message is about embracing our authenticity, finding our rightful place in the grand puzzle of life, and unlocking the door to sharing our exceptional gifts with the world.
So, take a moment to imagine yourself as a vital piece of this intricate puzzle, envisioning the unique contribution only you can make. This book is a powerful tool that not only inspires children to embrace their individuality but also fills parents and educators with hope for the future. It will guide them to find their space in this world, creating lasting memories and meaningful connections along the way.
Critique: The Puzzle Piece is a beautifully crafted book that not only highlights the traits that make us unique but also celebrates the diversity that enriches our world. This book beautifully captures the essence of uniqueness and the joy of celebrating our differences.
Andrea Mendoza is a remarkable author whose book beautifully captures the essence of individual uniqueness and how it intertwines with the world. She shows how a unique blend of personalities and backgrounds fills the world, making it a better place.
This beautifully crafted book is recommended for children aged 4-8 years old, and a perfect choice for parents and educators who want to instill the values of individuality and self-acceptance in their young ones.
Four Teens on Everest
Linda LeBlanc
Ama Dablam, Inc.
9780978535377, $9.99 PB, $2.99 Kindle, 235 pages
https://www.amazon.com/Four-Teens-Everest-Linda-LeBlanc-ebook/dp/B0D29ZX6FM
Synopsis: Embark on an exhilarating adventure as four determined teenagers brave the treacherous journey to Mount Everest, all for a noble cause. As they confront their inner fears, doubts, and family conflicts, each must make profound choices that will alter their lives forever. Battling blizzards, avalanches, and the unforgiving elements, they face the looming threats of altitude sickness and frostbite at every turn.
Amidst the challenges, tensions rise between the group and a rival Brazilian team, leading to explosive confrontations fueled by hidden truths and jealousy. Romance blossoms in the thin mountain air as Jaya, a member of the American team, draws herself to their charismatic Sherpa guide, sparking a cross-cultural teenage love story that adds a layer of complexity to their already arduous journey.
Will these courageous teens overcome their struggles and reach the summit of Everest? Can they withstand the adversities that test their resilience, unity, and friendships? Join this gripping expedition as we witness the triumphs, trials, and a series of unexpected twists that await these young adventurers in their quest for personal growth and the greater good.
Critique: Four Teens on Everest is a heart-pounding book about four brave teenagers who embark on a daring mission to conquer the majestic Mount Everest. In a world where courage, unity, and resilience are more important than ever, this book serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit's ability to triumph over adversity.
Linda LeBlanc is an exceptional author who weaves a captivating tale filled with courage, determination, and the spirit of never giving up. The powerful message within these pages is a beacon of inspiration, sure to uplift and motivate readers of all ages. Get ready to embark on a journey that will touch your heart and soul.
Suzie Housley, Senior Reviewer
https://housleysliteraryservices.com
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
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e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
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