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Children's Bookwatch
Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
Far Apart, Close in Heart
Becky Birtha, author
Maja Kastelic, illustrator
Albert Whitman & Company
250 South Northwest Highway, Suite 320, Park Ridge, IL 60068
www.albertwhitman.com
9780807512753, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Children can experience many emotions when a parent is in jail or prison. They may be angry,
sad, lonely, or scared. Sometimes friends act differently toward them. Sometimes the children
begin acting differently too. Deftly written by Becky Birtha and gently illustrated by Maja
Kastelic, "Far Apart, Close in Heart: Being a Family when a Loved One is Incarcerated" is a
unique and important picture book for young readers age 4 to 8 who will learn that even when it
feels like nothing can get better again, there are ways they can improve their circumstances.
Sending letters, talking to a trusted grown-up about their feelings, and even visiting a parent in
jail or prison can help keep a parent close in their hearts. Especially and unreservedly
recommended as a critically important addition to preschool, elementary school, and community
library collections, "Far Apart, Close in Heart: Being a Family when a Loved One is
Incarcerated" will prove to be an informative and a helpful tool to start a conversation with any
child in this situation and to remind them they are not alone.
Mapping My Day
Julie Dillemuth, author
Laura Wood, illustrated
Magination Press
c/o American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242
www.maginationpress.com
9781433823336, $15.95, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Flora loves drawing maps and uses them to tell us about her life! "Mapping My Day" (who was
mystified by maps until she figured out how to read them and make them, and it was a
particularly difficult map that inspired her to become a spatial cognition geographer) and
accomplished illustrator Laura Wood is a distinctively original picture book by the team of
author Julie Dillemuth and introduces children ages 4 to 8 to spatial relationships and
representation: where things and places are in relation to other things. "Mapping My Day" was
specifically written show children how maps can convey information, inspire those children to
draw their own maps, as well as introducing basic map concepts and vocabulary. Spatial thinking
is how we use concepts of space for problem solving and is shown to be a key skill in science,
technology, engineering, and math. Enhanced with the inclusion of a "Note to Parents and
Caregivers" with extra mapping activities, "Mapping My Day" is an original and very highly
recommended addition to family, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture
book collections.
Jilly's Terrible Temper Tantrums
Martha Heineman Pieper, author
Jo Gershman, illustrator
Smart Love Press
400 East Randolph Street, Suite 205, Chicago, IL 60601
www.smartlovepress.com
9780983866411, $12.99, Library Binding, 32pp, www.amazon.com
When Jilly, a happy little kangaroo, has a series of Terrible Temper Tantrums, her parents
lovingly help her through them. Children will be very familiar with the frustrations that trigger
Jilly's upset feelings, and will applaud her dawning understanding that seeking help and a hug is
far superior to the misery of a temper tantrum. An impressive blend of original and entertaining
storytelling with colorfully charming illustrations, "Jilly's Terrible Temper Tantrums: And How
She Outgrew Them" is very highly recommended and certain to be an enduringly popular, 'kid
friendly' addition to family, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book
collections. It should be noted that "Jilly's Terrible Temper Tantrums: And How She Outgrew
Them" is also available in a Kindle format ($9.98).
Summer Vacation With The Grizzbears
Aviva Hermelin
Mazo Publishers
PO Box 10474, Jacksonville, FL 32247
www.mazopublishers.com
9781946124074, $18.95, HC, 50pp, www.amazon.com
"Summer Vacation With The Grizzbears" is the fifth and newest volume in author/illustrator
Aviva Hermelin's 'Animals Build Character' series of illustrated stories that are deliberately
structured upon thoughtful and respectful ways to live life through the eyes of a group of unique
animals sure to captivate young children. The lovable Grizzbear family joins Giveret Deer, the
McDucks, Buster the Horse, Mister Moose and their animal friends to create heartwarming
stories with a message. At the end of each chapter, there are questions to initiate conversation
with children, focused on the importance of living a life based on positive values and good
character traits. Whether these stories are read aloud to a child, or if a child is reading them
directly, these stories will create an ideal atmosphere to introduce themes and concepts for
personal growth and development. Exceptionally entertaining and thoroughly 'kid friendly' in
organization and presentation, "Summer Vacation With The Grizzbears" is very highly
recommended for family, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections. It
should be noted for personal reading lists that "Summer Vacation With The Grizzbears" is also
available in a paperback edition (9781946124067, $12.44).
The Health Shelf
No, No, No Nuts for Me
Carol Florio
Mascot Publishing
560 Herndon Parkway, #120, Herndon, VA 20170
http://mascotbooks.com
9781631779770, $14.95, HC, 34pp, www.amazon.com
A food allergy in children is a serious threat to their health -- and even their lives. One of the
most common of food allergies are nut allergies. "No, No, No Nuts for Me " by Carol Florio (a
registered nurse and after forty-five years working in hospitals, emergency rooms, schools, and
home car) is a much-needed help for parents and their children having to deal with nut allergies.
Geared for the younger children ages 4 to 8, a teddy bear learns about and manages his nut
allergy in a non-threatening way and stresses the avoidance of nuts for full protection against a
serious allergic reaction. "No, No, No Nuts for Me" starts the learning process for the child and
can be a useful tool for families, health practitioners, schools, and all caregivers. Thoroughly 'kid
friendly' in organization and presentation, "No, No, No Nuts for Me" is an especially
recommended addition to family, preschool, elementary school, and community library
Health/Medicine collections. If you as a parent ever have to explain to a nut allergic and your
preschool through third grade child why they can't have a peanut butter sandwich like all their
friends, the "No, No, No Nuts for Me" is an absolutely vital and effective means of
explanation.
The American History Shelf
Double Victory
Cheryl Mullenbach
Chicago Review Press
814 North Franklin Street, Chicago, IL 60610
www.chicagoreviewpress.com
9781613735237 $12.99 pbk / $8.77 Kindle amazon.com
Written to be accessible to young adults and adults alike, Double Victory: How African
American Women Broke Race and Gender Barriers to Help Win World War II chronicles the
contributions of African-American women during World War II. They worked in factories; raised
troop morale; provided medical assistance; and more. A handful of black-and-white photographs,
a bibliography, and an index round out this excellent, educational and fascinating chronicle of
groundbreaking women, highly recommended for high school and public library collections.
The Biography Shelf
Unsung Heroes
Toby Reynolds & Paul Calver
Barron's
250 Wireless Boulevard, Hauppauge, NY 11788
www.barronseduc.com
9780764168871, $8.99, HC, 64pp, www.amazon.com
Compiled and written by the team of Toby Reynolds and Paul Calver, each succinct biographical
entry in "Unsung Heroes: Fearless Men and Women who Changed the World" explores the many
ways that these men and women had an extraordinary impact on life on our planet, and came
from all four corners of the globe, all walks of life, and across many different disciplines. In
"Unsung Heroes", elementary school children will find the stories of people who made incredible
contributions to mankind. "Unsung Heroes" features Alan Turing, Asa Philip Randolph, Clara
Barton, Nikola Tesla, Sojourner Truth, Patrick Steptoe, Robert Edwards, Wangari Maathai,
Henrietta Lacks, Harvey Milk, and others. There are men and women of science and medicine,
war and peace, politicians and peacemakers, social activists and resistance fighters, and more.
Exceptionally informative and impressively enhanced for young readers with bold color schemes
and a stylized photographs or illustrations, "Unsung Heroes" is especially recommended for
elementary school and community library biography collections for children. Also very highly
recommended by the writing team of Toby Reynolds & Paul Calver is their companion volume:
"Fearless Women: Courageous Females who Refused to be Denied" ( 9780764168864, $8.98,
HC, 64pp).
Josef, the Indy Car Driver
Chris Workman, author/illustrator
In collaboration with Josef Newgarden
Leigh Diffey, foreword
Apex Legends
c/o Apex Communications Group
9780996286930 $19.99 www.apexlegends.com
"Josef, the Indy Car Driver" is an exciting juvenile biographical sketch of a day at the races with
Josef Newgarden. Written and illustrated by Chris Workman, this fast moving book details
exciting events in a race at the famous Road America track, with its challenges of tight corners,
long sweeping turns and flat-out straights. To begin, Josef meets young fans Avery and Cooper
along with their Grandpa Jamie, a friend of Josef's. Josef introduces Cooper and Avery to the
racing details of his Indy car, describes the challenges of the Road America track, and even
highlights his favorite 'push-to-pass' feature on the car, which can only be used 10 times in a race.
Josef also shares how his love of racing began when he was young, racing on a motorized scooter
and later on a go-kart. The thrilling story continues with a lap by lap description of the Road
America race the next day, with Josef starting as 9th qualifying racer. An important factor in a
racer's speed is his pit team's support. Pit teams are so skilled and fast that they can add fuel and
change tires in under 8 seconds. In racing, teamwork is essential to achieving your goal. After
many thrilling race moments and ups and downs, Josef is able to take the checkered race flag and
win, putting himself in third place in the Championship for the Verizon Indy Car Series season.
Cooper and Avery cheered for Josef, and later sent him a letter. Josef gave a list of good health
tips to future Indy Car Drivers, including eat right and exercise, study hard, try driving to see if
you really like it, and stay positive! With its fast moving narrative, and bright against dark comic
book style illustrations, "Josef the Indy Car Driver" rivets attention and encourages young readers
to work hard to follow their dreams. Also highly recommended for young racing fan readers is
the following title from Apex Legends which is also by Chris Workman: "The Spectacle:
Celebrating the History of the Indianapolis 500 (9780996286954, $19.99)".
The Holiday Shelf
Simon of Cyrene and the Legend of the Easter Egg
Terri DeGezelle, author
Gabhor Utomo, illustrator
Pauline Books & Media
50 St. Paul's Avenue, Boston, MA 02130
0819890707 $13.95 www.pauline.org
Simon of Cyrene and the Legend of the Easter Egg is a children's picturebook about Simon of
Cyrene, a figure in the New Testament who helped Jesus Christ carry his cross, and whose life
changed forever after he met Jesus face-to-face. An old German legend about how eggs changed
color in a miracle parallel to Christ's resurrection is incorporated into Simon's story. A simple
prayer for courage and compassion rounds out this heartwarming, beautifully illustrated
picturebook, ideal for sharing the Christian meaning of the Easter celebration with young
children.
God's Easter Miracles
Lee Ann Mancini, author
Dan Sharp, illustrator
GLM Publishing
PO Box 812633, Boca Raton, Florida 33481-2633
9780997332513 $12.99 GLMpublishing.net
Part of the award-winning "Adventures of the Sea Kids" Christian picturebook series, God's
Easter Miracles is set during the Easter holiday and follows anthropomorphic sea creatures as
they grapple with challenges. On Easter, a manatee's little brother is seriously hurt by a boat
propeller, and a separate squabble over who gets to keep an Easter egg painted with a cross
threatens to destroy a friendship. "'Daddy, do I have to share my egg with Paul because he is
autistic?' asked Jimmy. 'No, son, you don't have to share your egg with Paul because he is
autistic. Paul is special to God, just like you are. If you want to share your egg with Paul, do it
because you want to be kind to your friend,' answered his father.'" Bright, cartoon-like
illustrations bring this heart-touching story to life. God's Easter Miracles is especially
recommended for Christian children and church library picturebook collections.
The Folktale/Fairytale Shelf
The Rock Maiden
Natasha Yim
Wisdom Tales Press
1501 E. Hillside Dr., Bloomington, IN 47401
www.wisdomtalespress.com
9781937786656 $17.95, amazon.com
The Rock Maiden: A Chinese Tale of Love and Loyalty will reach ages 4 and older with the
lovely story of a woman whose husband is lost at sea, prompting her to steadfastly await his
return, which catches the eye of the Goddess of the Heavens who turns her into stone to stop her
intense mourning. Trouble emerges when her lost husband does return against all odds, to find
his wife and child rocks. Good reading skills or parental read-aloud assistance will lend
appreciation to this Chinese folk story, especially recommended for picture book collections
strong in ethnic tales.
Princess Sophie and the Six Swans
Kim Jacobs, author & illustrator
Wisdom Tales Press
1501 E. Hillside Dr., Bloomington, IN 47401
www.wisdomtalespress.com
9781937786670, $16.95, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Princess Sophie finds herself faced with an incredible challenge and some lessons to learn. She
had forgotten her departed mother's warning to temper loyalty and strength with a compassionate
heart. Antagonized by Sophie's resentful words, her powerful new stepmother turns Sophie's six
brothers into swans and sets her the task of saving them. Will Sophie succeed in helping her
brothers? Can she spin six shirts made from the thorny thistle, while never speaking a word, even
in her defense? And what will happen when King Yoren captures Sophie and takes her prisoner?
Featuring stunning artwork by renowned illustrator Kim Jacobs, her retelling of this classic
Brothers Grimm fairytale also contains an author's note with fascinating details on family
heraldry and mute swans. An extraordinarily beautiful and very highly recommended retelling of
a classic fairy tale, "Princess Sophie and the Six Swans" will prove to be an enduringly popular
addition to family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for
children ages 4 to 8.
The Monkey King
David Seow, author
L. K. Tay-Audouard, illustrator
Tuttle Publishing
364 Innovation Drive, North Clarendon, VT 05759-9436
www.tuttlepublishing.com
9780804848404, $9.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
This extraordinary picture book edition of "The Monkey King: A Classic Chinese Tale for
Children" is inspired by Chinese folktales and legends about Monkey, King of the Mountain of
Flowers and Fruit, Great Sage Equal to Heaven. But his friends just call him Monkey!
Hilariously mischievous and full of energy, Monkey has uniquely amazing magical powers. Long
ago, the Jade Emperor, the ruler of the Heavens, was so unhappy that China was in great turmoil
that he even considered destroying its people. The Goddess of Mercy, Guan Yin, suggested
another way. Find Lord Buddha's scriptures in India and bring them back to China. This would
help the Chinese to become peaceful and kind. "The Monkey King" is a beautifully illustrated
and memorable Chinese children's story for young readers ages 3 to 9 that is about the beginnings
of this epic journey, and how Monkey, Pigsy, and Sandy join this quest. Wonderfully entertaining
from beginning to end, "The Monkey King" is an especially recommended addition to family,
preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections. It should be noted
that "The Monkey King" is also available in a Kindle format ($7.46).
Ming's Adventure in the Mogao Caves
Li Jian, author & illustrator
Yijin Wert, translator
Shanghai Press
c/o Better Link Press
www.chinabooks.ch/catalog/index.php?manufacturers_id=110
c/o Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781602209978, $16.95, HC, 42pp, www.amazon.com
The sandstorm was blowing hard over the Gobi Desert. Xiao Ming got separated from his parents
on their way to the Mogao Caves. As it was getting dark. Xiao Ming along with the other
travelers who were separated from the group were huddling in the sand helplessly. In the
darkness of the Gobi Desert, Xiao Ming vaguely saw a little light flashing in the dust. The light
got closer and closer and finally he saw a deer with nine shades of color in his fur. His antlers
were as white as snow and his body was wrapped with a touch of bright light. The nine-colored
deer told Xiao Ming to follow him. The story unfolds with Ming being guided to the caves where
ancient paintings and come to life! This bilingual (English/Chinese) edition of "Ming's
Adventure in the Mogao Caves" is an unusually impressive and beautifully rendered
multicultural picture book for young children ages 4 to 8. Original, engaging, and exceptionally
entertaining from cover to cover, "Ming's Adventure in the Mogao Caves" will prove to be an
enduringly popular and appreciated addition to family, preschool, elementary school, and
community library picture book collections.
The Autism Shelf
The ASD and Me Picture Book
Joel Shaul
Jessica Kingsley Publishers, Inc.
400 Market Street, Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19106
www.jkp.com
9781785927232 $24.95, amazon.com
The ASD and Me Picture Book provides young readers with a visual guide to understanding the
autism spectrum, and encourages kids to understand challenges, the process of gaining insights
about autism, and how to use common resources to develop understanding and encourage
self-assessment. Parental assistance will help in this process since it requires a good degree of
comprehension and reading skills; but the result is a powerful survey that is highly recommended
for any picture book reader looking to better understand their own strengths and weaknesses in
the face of autism.
I Have a Question about Death
Arlen Grad Gaines, author
Meredith Englander Polsky, author
Jessica Kingsley Publishers, Inc.
400 Market Street, Suite 400, Philadelphia, PA 19106
www.jkp.com
9781785927508, $14.95, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Death is a difficult topic for any parent or educator to explain to a child, perhaps even more so
when the child has an Autism Spectrum Disorder or other Special Needs. Collaboratively written
by Arlen Grad Gaines (a licensed clinical social worker with a decade of professional experience
in hospice work) and Meredith Englander Polsky, (who has been a social worker and worked in
the field of special education for more than 15 years), "I Have a Question about Death: A Book
for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder or Other Special Needs"is specifically designed to
help children ages 5 to 11 with these additional needs to understand what happens when someone
dies. The first book of its kind, "I Have a Question about Death" uses a straightforward text and
images to walk young children through what it means when someone dies, as well as ways they
might want to react or to think about the person. Using clear illustrations throughout and with
information for parents and guardians, "I Have a Question about Death" is essential tool for
counselors and families needing to assist a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder or other special
needs to understand and deal with the loss of a friend or family member. Simply stated, "I Have a
Question about Death" should be a part of every family counseling clinic, elementary and
community library collection.
The Pets/Wildlife Shelf
125 Pet Rescues
National Geographic Press
101 West 104th Street, Suite 8, New York, NY 10025
www.nationalgeographic.com
9781426327360 $12.99 amazon.com
Featuring full-color pet photography on every page, 125 Pet Rescues is an anthology of true
stories about pets fortunate enough to be rescued and adopted. From pet dogs and cats to rabbits,
pigs, horses, and even goats, these heartwarming stories will appeal to animal lovers of all ages.
125 Pet Rescues is especially recommended for junior high, high school, and public library
children's collections. "Bubba loved his new family, but he was not a happy indoor cat... Soon he
was exploring - first in his backyard, then his neighbors' yards, and finally at school! These days
Bubba follows his human brother to the neighborhood high school every day."
The Skydiving Beavers
Susan Wood, author
Gijsbert van Frankenhuyzen, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
315 East Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.sleepingbearpress.com
9781585369942, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Just after World War II, the people of McCall, Idaho, found themselves with a problem on their
hands. McCall was a lovely resort community in Idaho's backcountry with mountain views, a
sparkling lake, and plenty of forests. People rushed to build roads and homes there to enjoy the
year-round outdoor activities. It was a beautiful place to live. And not just for humans. For
centuries, beavers had made the region their home. But what's good for beavers is not necessarily
good for humans, and vice versa. So in a unique conservation effort, in 1948 a team from the
Idaho Fish and Game Department decided to relocate the McCall beaver colony. In a daring
experiment, the team airdropped seventy-six live beavers to a new location. One beaver,
playfully named Geronimo, endured countless practice drops, seeming to enjoy the skydives, and
led the way as all the beavers parachuted into their new home. Readers and nature enthusiasts of
all ages will enjoy this true story of ingenuity and determination. Colorfully illustrated and
consistently engaging from cover to cover, "The Skydiving Beavers: A True Tale" is an
especially recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library
Pets/Wildlife picture book collections for young readers ages 6 to 9. It should be noted that "The
Skydiving Beavers: A True Tale" is also available in a Kindle format ($15.30).
Being Brave for Bailey
Corey Gut, author
Jaime Myers, illustrator
Archway Publishing
1663 Liberty Drive, Bloomington, IN 47403-5161
www.archwaypublishing.com
9781480807204, $25.95, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Bailey is a wonderful dog who has been a great companion to his family, including the littlest
members. But as Bailey grows old and sick, his tail barely wags, he refuses to play, and he seems
sad. Bailey's veterinarian tells the family that since he is suffering, it's time to do what is best for
him, and now they must say goodbye. As the children learn that it is okay to cry and remember
the good times they have had with their pet, they are gently guided through the process of
euthanasia and pet loss. Deftly written by veterinarian Corey Gut and gently illustrated by Jaime
Myers, "Being Brave for Bailey provides loving guidance, gentle support, and practical tools that
help young children understand and accept the death of a beloved pet. Inspired, original,
compassionate, and thoroughly 'kid friendly' in tone, organization and presentation, "Being Brave
for Bailey" is strongly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library
Pets/Wildlife picture book collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Being
Brave for Bailey" is also available in a paperback edition (9781480807198, $16.89) and in a
Kindle format ($3.99).
Scholastic, Inc.
557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012-3999
www.scholastic.com
Martin Brown's Lesser Spotted Animals: The Coolest Creatures You've Never Heard Of
(9781338089349, $18.99) requires good reading skills but will appeal to elementary grades
interested in unusual animals and many an adult who may not have heard of the Cuban
Solenodon, the Long-Tailed Dunnart, or the Banded Linsang. Readers who come to associate
such animal books with color close-up photos will find these receive different embellishments in
the form of drawings which are nearly cartoon-like in their animal expressions, but which add a
sense of fun to the natural history surveys of why each animal is rarely seen. Small maps, quick
overviews of where they live and what they eat, and a lively dialogue format makes this a winner.
Molly Bang and Penny Chisholm's Rivers of Sunlight: How the Sun Moves Water Around the
Earth (9780545805414, $18.99) explores the connections between solar and earth energy cycles
as it follows the sun around the planet and its effects on water cycles. Human water use and what
would happen if the sun did not move water makes for a lively discussion of possibilities. Nic
Bishop's Penguin Day: A Family Story (9780545206365, $16.99) uses full-page color photos and
simple text to explore a colony of rockhopper penguins, and is an attractive choice for young
readers interested in penguin natural history. From the care and feeding of baby penguins to the
habits of the southern rockhopper penguin in particular, this is a lively, appealing coverage the
very young can enjoy.
The Board Book Shelf
Seashore Stroll
Jane Sanders, author/illustrator
Whispering Words
Gibbs Smith
P.O. Box 667, Layton, Utah 84041
9781423647126 $9.99 www.gibbs-smith.com
"Seashore Stroll" is a brilliant, brightly illustrated board book about seashore observations for
young children. Descriptive three word sentences are perfectly illustrated in bright splashes of
color. The hypnotic rhythm of the poetic narrative is exactly countered and enhanced by the
colorful sea scenes. "Foam laps shores. Legs dodge swells. Fish lurk deep. ...Seals ride
crests...Vast boats sail. Breezes lull slumber." Gradually the pictures in sequence paint a full,
lovely day at the seashore, with all the accompanying sights and wonders. "Seashore Stroll" is a
multisensory experience for very young readers that enhances awareness and enjoyment of every
moment of the day.
The Story of Noah's Ark
Helen Dardik
Running Press
c/o Perseus Book Group
250 W. 57th St., Suite 1500, New York, NY 10107
www.runningpress.com
9780762461844, $9.95, Board Book, 24pp, www.amazon.com
Helen Dardik is a professional illustrator and a surface pattern designer based in Canada. With
"The Story of Noah's Ark" she turns her storytelling and artistic talents to provide children ages 3
to 6 with one of the best known stories of the Old Testament. It the story of how, a long time ago,
the people of the world were not treating each other kindly. God was very sad, and so he decided
to send a flood to cover the entire world. However, one man, Noah, and his family were very
good people, so God told Noah to build a big boat and to gather two of every kind of animal to
be kept safe in the boat when the floor arrived. Noah did as God commanded and soon he, his
family, and all the animals were drifting in the flood waters. After many weeks of waiting, the
flood went away and Noah, his family, and the animals were able to again return to land. God set
a rainbow in the sky, promising Noah that he would never again flood the earth. Thoroughly 'kid
friendly' in organization and presentation, "The Story of Noah's Ark" is very highly
recommended for family, preschool, elementary school, and community library Children's Board
Book collections.
'Tinyville' stories
Brian Biggs
Adams Appleseed
c/o Abrams/Amulet
115 West 18th Street, New York, NY 10011
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
Board Books $7.95 each; Kindle $7.55 each
Three new board books for preschoolers provide a fictional focus on careers as they employ a
cartoon style of drawing to pair with one to two sentences per page teaching toddlers about the
world of work. I'm a Firefighter (9781419721342) surveys the daily work of Charlie the
firefighter, whose job entails more than battling flames; I'm a Veterinarian (9781419721359)
features a vet who is tasked with taking care of a wide range of animals; and I'm a Librarian
(9781419723223) provides not just a review of a librarian's job, but what happens when a book
goes missing. Each board book personalizes the job, adds fun insights into sometimes-quirky
situations, and allows the very young to understand where an adult may be going to, each
day.
The Picturebook Shelf
Lucy Lou's Magical Phone
Jaime Trainor
Warren Publishing
8145 Ardrey Kell Road, Suite 207, Charlotte NC 28277
9781943258314, $16.95, HC, 26pp, www.warrenpublishing.net
Lucy Lou's Magical Phone will reach elementary-level readers and those parents who look for
family-oriented read-alouds with its fun story of a girl who has a new red flip phone that she
deems 'magical' because it requires a magical phrase to open it. Lucy Lou's phone has been
passed down between generations - but it holds the added magic of returning to life the memories
of a beloved grandmother whose special form of magic transferred from phone to listeners on
both sides of the device. Readers with good reading skills will enjoy reading about Lucy Lou's
magical phone; but most of all, they will feel warmed by the story's exploration of close family
connections. Kids who expect 'real magic' in the form of witches, brews, or amazing supernatural
abilities may be disappointed to find that the phone holds none of these elements; but it actually
features something better: the magic of love and compassion between different generations.
Adults who want to pass along this legacy to kids will find Lucy Lou's Magical Phone an
enchanting, encouraging read.
Beebs Goes Fishing!
Donald W. Kruse, author
Billy Barron, illustrator
Zaccheus Entertainment
P.O. Box 23, Minong, WI 54859
9780996996440, $12.95, PB, 52pp, www.amazon.com
Uh, oh! Now what's Beebs up to? Fishing? You gotta be kidding! Is it safe for the bumbling,
fumbling Beebs to be in a boat, out on a lake? What if he falls overboard? Does he know how to
swim? Poor Beebs means well, but he just can't seem to get anything right. Instead of catching a
fish, he manages to catch a wig and yanks it right off the head of a lady fisherman who is
anchored nearby. Not the best way to make friends! And if that's not enough, Beebs does in fact
fall overboard and his young grandson has to rescue him with an oar. And when Beebs finally
scrambles back into the boat, he discovers two lake creatures still clinging to him. Later, back at
the cabin, things aren't much better for Beebs. Somehow a furious bat has entered the cabin at
night and it's up to Beebs to save Grandma and their grandson from the low-flying creature.
Finally, after tearing up half the house, Beebs manages to rid the cabin of the flying beast, only to
have another forest creature sneak in past him. And this creature can make a BIG stink if he's not
treated well. Children ages 4 to 10 will join the fun and find out what else happens when Beebs
goes fishing in the newest picture book from the team of author Donald W. Kruse and illustrator
Billy Barron. Delightfully entertaining from cover to cover and thoroughly 'kid friendly' in story
driven, black-and-white illustrations, organization and presentation, "Beebs Goes Fishing!" is
unreservedly recommended and certain to be an enduringly popular addition to family, preschool,
elementary school, and community library collections.
Ukaliq and Kalla Go Fishing
Nadia Mike, author
Amanda Sandland, illustrator
Inhabit Media
www.inhabitmedia.com
9781772271355, $16.95, HC, 36pp, www.amazon.com
Ukaliq and Kalla are two friends who could not be more different. Ukaliq is loud, excited and
always looking for adventure. Kalla on the other hand, is calm, quiet and knows it's best to be
well prepared before traveling out on the land or sea ice. When the two friends head out for a day
of fishing, Ukaliq can barely wait to get his line in the water - but his eagerness to catch a fish
may just leave him empty handed in the end. There is a lot Kalla could teach Ukaliq about a
successful fishing trip, if only Ukaliq would sit still long enough to listen! Author Nadia Mike is
an Inuit educator, who has lived in many communities across the North, though she considers
Iqaluit, Nunavut her home. Her lively and original picture book story is charmingly illustrated by
Canadian artist Amanda Sandland. The result is a wonderfully entertaining children's picture
book story for children ages 3 to 5 that is very highly recommended and certain to be an
enduringly popular addition to family, preschool, elementary school, and community library
collections.
Barnyard Bully
Dawn Marie Thompson, author
Anna Benczedi Oana Cochea, illustrator
Mascot Publishing
560 Herndon Parkway, #120, Herndon, VA 20170
http://mascotbooks.com
9781631770241, $14.95, HC, 38pp, www.amazon.com
Dawn Thompson is a writer, a speaker, an ordained minister, and currently works at a child
welfare agency helping children throughout the world. Featuring the utterly charming artwork of
Anna Cochea, "Barnyard Bully" is a thoroughly entertaining picture book story of how barnyard
animals cope with differences and bullying. The horses cannot get along with each other, the cats
are in a mess, the goats are fighting amongst themselves, and the rooster is the biggest bully of
them all. "Barnyard Bully shows children ages 4 to 6 on how to get along and how to stop
bullying before it even starts. Thoroughly 'kid friendly' in its organization, presentation, and
message, "Barnyard Bully" is very highly recommended for family, preschool, elementary school,
and community library picture book collections.
Mama's Kisses
Kate McMullan, author
Tao Nyeu, illustrator
Dial Books
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
345 Hudson Street, 15th floor, New York, NY 10014
http://us.penguingroup.com
9780525428329, $16.99, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
It's bedtime in the jungle, but baby panda, elephant, orangutan, and leopard are nowhere to be
found. Their mamas set out to look for their wayward little ones, calling them to bed with a soft
lullaby. But look! The baby animals are crawling, creeping, hiding, and giggling, playfully
staying just one step ahead of their loving mamas. Kate McMullan's lilting rhymes pair perfectly
with Tao Nyeu's rich illustrations, creating a dreamy picture book that is a perfect new baby or
mother's day gift. An ideal picture book (especially for bedtime) for children ages 3 to 5,
"Mama's Kisses" is an especially recommended addition to family, preschool, elementary school,
and community library collections. It should be noted that "Mama's Kisses" is also available in a
Kindle format ($10.99).
Mr. Tanner
Harry Chapin, author
Bryan Langdo, illustrator
Ripple Grove press
PO Box 86740, Portland, OR 97286
www.RippleGrovePress.com
9780991386680, $17.99, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Mr. Tanner runs a dry cleaning shop in Dayton, Ohio, where he spends his days greeting his
customers with his beautiful baritone voice. His friends and neighbors encourage him to sing
professionally instead of cleaning clothes. He eventually takes a chance and travels to New York
City to be heard by a concert agent and critics, only to find they weren't hearing what he was
feeling. The song Mr. Tanner was released in 1973 off Harry Chapin's Short Stories album. The
song was inspired by a mediocre review about a baritone singer in The New York Times. A
portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book will go to help support WhyHunger, a charity
championed by Harry Chapin himself. Impressively original, wonderfully entertaining,
thoroughly 'kid friendly' for children ages 5 to 7, "Mr. Tanner" is an especially recommended and
certain to be an enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school, and community library
picture book collections.
A Symphony of Cowbells
Heather Preusser, author
Eileen Ryan Ewen, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
315 East Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.sleepingbearpress.com
9781585369683, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Petra just loves spring in Gimmelwald. Each season she and her family lead their prize dairy
cows into the pastures to graze and each cow wears her own jingling, jangling, clanging bell.
What a symphony! But when Petra's favorite cow, Elfi, loses her bell the whole herd is out of
harmony and refuses to move. Will Petra be able to find Elfi's bell before it's too late? With
colorfully charming illustrations by Eileen Ryan Ewen, "A Symphony of Cowbells" is a
whimsical and original story by Heather Preusser is sure to delight children ages 5 to 8. Certain
to be an enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school, and community library picture
book collections, it should be noted that "A Symphony of Cowbells" is also available in a Kindle
format ($11.03).
Animal Ark
Kwame Alexander, author
Joel Sartore, photographer
National Geographic Press
101 West 104th Street, Suite 8, New York, NY 10025
www.nationalgeographic.com
9781426327674, $15.99, HC, 48pp, www.amazon.com
A howling wolf, a stalking tiger, a playful panda, a dancing bird, "Animal Ark" pairs the
stunning photography of National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore with the delicate poetry
of Newbery award-winning author Kwame Alexander. "Animal Ark" lush picture book
celebrates the beauty, diversity, and fragility of the animal world and features more than 40
unique animal portraits. Children ages 4 to 8 will explore each creature's markings, textures, and
attributes in stunning detail. While calling on all of us to help protect each and every one, the
three picture-packed gatefolds inside showcase even more familiar and exotic species. These
images are part of Sartore's lifelong project to photograph every animal in the world, with special
attention given to disappearing and endangered species. Original, informative, entertaining,
"Animal Ark" is unreservedly recommended for family, preschool, elementary school, and
community library picture book collections for children.
Pirates in the Library
Nadia Ali, author
Jake Tebbit, illustrator
Star Bright Books
13 Landsdowne Street, Cambridge, MA 02139
www.starbrightbooks.com
9781595727657, $16.99, HC, 40pp, www.amazon.com
Children ages 5 to 8 can prepare to set sail for the adventure of a lifetime as the fierce Captain
Jake discovers a treasure map that leads him and his pirate crew (and parrot, too) right to the --
library! Ms. Benitez, the librarian, welcomes the pirates to the library-as long as they behave!.
And the search is on for the treasure promised to be hidden within the library. It's not too long
before all the pirates (and the parrot, too) are captivated by the jewels they find on the
bookshelves. Now the dilemma is how to get all the newfound treasure back to the pirate ship?
Young readers will be eager to set course for their own libraries after following Captain Jake
through his library adventure. The map of the Dread Pirate Dewey decorates the end papers
leading library users through the Dewey Decimal system making this colorfully illustrated picture
book a valuable learning tool for parents, teachers, and librarians! Simply stated, every
elementary school and community library should have a copy of "Pirates in the Library" as a part
of their picture book collection. It should be noted for parents that "Pirates in the Library" is also
available in a paperback edition (9781595727664, $6.99).
The Gold Leaf
Kirsten Hall, author
Matthew Forsythe, illustrator
Enchanted Lion Books
67 West Street, Studio 317A, Brooklyn, New York, NY 11222
www.enchantedlionbooks.com
9781592702145, $17.95, HC, 48pp, www.amazon.com
A gold leaf appears in the forest. As soon as the animals notice it, each wants it more than
anything else in the world. But in their struggle for it, the leaf is destroyed. Heartbroken, the
animals wonder: Will we ever again see such a leaf? The colorful illustrations by Matthew
Forsythe rise to the standard of fine art and wonderfully support the original and engaging story
of Kirsten Hall. A truly elegant and consistently entertaining picture book for children ages 4 to
8, "The Gold Leaf" is an unreservedly and enthusiastically recommended addition to family,
preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.
Princesses of Bread
She Shil Kim, author
Eun Hwa Jung, illustrator
Tantan Math Stories
4005 West Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90019-3258
www.tantanpublishing.com
c/o Independent Publishers Group
9781939248138, $16.95, HC, 38pp, www.amazon.com
The Queen of Bread tries to teach her three daughters how to cook her famous dish. But the three
princesses are busy with other things, and they don't want to learn how to bake bread. When the
Queen of Bread falls ill, the princesses don't know what to do! Can they learn to bake bread to
save the kingdom and heal their mother? Children ages 3 to 5 will learn the importance of
measuring in this whimsical picture book story. Activities and questions will engage children as
they measure quantities and evaluate the information within this original and charmingly
illustrated story. "Princesses of Bread" is an extraordinary and highly recommended addition to
family, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.
Hand Over Hand
Alma Fullerton, author
Renne Benoit, illustrator
Second Story Press
20 Maud Street, Suite 401, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5V 2M5
http://secondstorypress.ca
9781772600155, $16.95, HC, 24pp, www.amazon.com
Nina can't convince her lolo to take her fishing on the old banca boat with him. Lolo's reply is the
same as always: "A boat is no place for a girl." When Nina promises to bait her own hook and
remove her own catch, her grandfather finally relents, "just for today". Much to the amusement of
the other fishermen in their Filipino village, Lolo shows Nina how to jig the lines, set the hook
and pull in a fish hand over hand. But no one is laughing when Nina brings in the biggest fish of
the day! An original and consistently entertaining story by Alma Fullerton that is colorfully and
charmingly illustrated by Renne Benoit, "Hand Over Hand" is especially recommended for
children ages 5 to 8 and will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to family, elementary
school, and community library picture book collections.
Brave
Stacy McAnulty, author
Joanne Lew-Vriethoff, illustrator
Running Press
c/o Perseus Book Group
250 W. 57th St., Suite 1500, New York, NY 10107
www.runningpress.com
9780762457823, $16.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Superheroes seek adventure, never give up, and stay calm when others are afraid. Superheroes
are brave. But they aren't the only ones. Kids are brave every day. When they are told they are too
little, but accomplish something big. When they check for monsters under the bed, just in case.
When they face something uncertain, whether a thunderstorm or a hospital visit. When they stand
up for what's right, even when it means facing consequences. Like superheroes, brave kids can
save the world, just by being brave. An especially 'kid friendly' and entertaining picture book for
children ages 4 to 8, "Brave" is certain to be an enduringly popular and highly appreciated
addition to preschool, elementary school, and community library collections. It should be noted
for parents that "Brave" is also available in a Kindle format ($16.99).
Don't Dilly Dally, Silly Sally
Marc Ferrai, author
Felipe Diaz Huarnez, illustrator
Belle Isle Books
c/o Brandylane Publishers
5 South First Street, Richmond, VA 23219
www.brandylanepublishers.com
9781939930811, $18.95, PB, www.amazon.com
Sally was always joyful, energetic, carefree -- and chronically late for everything! Despite
everyone's prods, nudges, and exasperated pleas, Sally's procrastination always caused delays.
Children ages 4 to 8 will find out what happens one momentous day when Sally just could not be
late for an important event, and how she overcame her initial disappointment to learn the secret
to being on time! Told in playful rhyme by author Marc Ferrai and charmingly illustrated by
Felipe Diaz Huarnez, "Don't Dilly Dally, Silly Sally" is an impressively entertaining picture book
tribute to all the Silly Sallys of the world who march to the time of their own beat, and to the
parents, grandparents and caregivers who love them. This thoroughly entertaining picture book
story celebrates uniqueness, shares a valuable lesson, and plants the seed for ultimate success --
making it an ideal and highly recommended addition to family, preschool, elementary school,
and community library picture book collections.
The Leaky Story
Devon Sillett, author
Anil Tortop, illustrator
EK Books
https://ekbooks.org
9781925335392, $17.99, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
A book sits abandoned on a living room shelf. While the Blossburn family happily gets on with
other things like watching TV and playing video games, the book aches to be read. The longer it
sits abandoned, the more it aches. At last the book can't take it any longer. Slowly it starts to
swell. Then it starts to leak! At first it's only a small trickle, but eventually the Blossburns can no
longer ignore the octopus, crabs and other marine life that are swirling around their suburban
home. And when pirates sail out of the book, the family must band together to reclaim their
living room. Can J.J. and his parents find a way to get the characters back in the book? And in
the process, will they discover that sometimes books are the best fun of all? "The Leaky Story" is
an action-packed picture book adventure into the wonderful world of books, the power of the
imagination, the art of storytelling and the importance of family. Original, entertaining, and
thoroughly 'kid friendly' from cover to cover, "The Leaky Story" is an especially recommended
addition to family, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections
for children ages 4 to 7. It should be noted that "The Leaky Story" is also available in a Kindle
format ($4.99).
Bill Bowerbird and the Unbearable Beak-Ache
Tyler Clark Burke, author & illustrator
Owlkids Books Inc.
1700 Fourth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710
www.owlkidsbooks.com
9781771471541, $16.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Bill has a terrible, unbearable, lousy beak-ache. He also happens to be a bowerbird: a type of bird
that collects scraps to create elaborate color-sorted nests. So Bill turns to his friends the zebra,
frog, yak, and others for objects that might help alleviate his ache. Nothing works. But as it turns
out, the pain is from a new tooth! The ache goes away on its own. "Bill Bowerbird and the
Unbearable Beak-Ache " by writer, illustrator, designer, and freelance brainstormer Tyler Clark
Burke is a fun, wacky story about teething is told in playful cadence with rhyme and refrain. The
vibrantly showcased artwork is deliberately childlike, stylized in bold, energetic colors just like a
bowerbird's eccentric nest design. A truly entertaining read from cover to cover, "Bill Bowerbird
and the Unbearable Beak-Ache" is a picture story for children ages 3 to 7 that offers some
practical wisdom on getting through tough times with patience and a little help from your friends.
"Bill Bowerbird and the Unbearable Beak-Ache" is enthusiastically recommended for family,
preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.
Reach for the Moon, Little Lion
Hildegard Muller
Holiday House
425 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10017
9780823437771 $16.95, www.holidayhouse.com
Reach for the Moon, Little Lion tells of a little lion who finds his hidden strength and tells of
how a small animal who is laughed at and teased about his stature becomes big in the eyes of
those who would bully him. Good reading skills or parental read-aloud assistance will lend to
this story of a little lion whose only goal in life is to be big, so that he can touch the moon with
his paws and belay teasing from his peers. But is this goal worthy enough, on its own? A crow
questions and a little lion learns.
Too Many Things!
Tracy Bryan
http://tracybryan.com
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
www.createspace.com
9780692830147, HC, $19.99; 9780692816141, PB, $ 9.99
9780692831533, eBook $2.99; Audiobook $3.46, www.amazon.com
Young Jamie loves the weekend. He has many choices on how to spend his time with his family,
and the only thing he hates is going shopping. However, this is a problem for him because his
parents love to shop - and insist on bringing him along! Illustrator David Barrow provides
engaging, fun, and very colorful drawings that capture Jamie's reluctance to shop and the
conundrum he faces from parents who "just need a few things" at the store even as Jamie insists
that "we already have too many things!" Tracy Bryan offers a fine story that holds a powerful
message for ages 4 and older. It's a gentle reminder about life values couched in the realistic story
of how a family handles the problem of having too many material goods. Even more fun is the
concluding page, which features black and white drawings of the author and illustrator produced
by the illustrator himself: a great conclusion to a winning picture book story that should be in
every collection!
Harry and Clare's Amazing Staycation
Ted Staunton
Tundra Books
350 Front Street West, Suite 1400, Toronto, ON, Canada M5V 3B6
9781770498273 $22.99, www.penguinrandonmhouse.ca
Harry and Clare's Amazing Staycation will reach ages 4-8 with lovely story of sibling rivalry
when brother and sister are stuck at home together for a week of vacation time that involves no
fun plans. Mika Song adds the visual embellishments to a story of siblings who get into nothing
but trouble, as a result. The very different approach of a vacation which requires some creative
imagination to prove successful provides a satisfying alternative to stories of exotic destinations
and expensive travel, and will delight parents looking for a different take on vacations and
sibling relationships.
Great, Now We've Got Barbarians!
Jason Carter Eaton
Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
9780763668273 $15.99, www.candlewick.com
Great, Now We've Got Barbarians! is illustrated by Mark Fearing, whose oversized and fun
drawings accompany the story of a little boy who doesn't think his mother's fixation on
cleanliness is anything to pay much attention to. What are a few ants or mice, after all? The
messy boy receives a come-uppance when his slovenly habits lead to a problem with barbarians
which affects the entire family in this whimsical story of why cleanliness is important even if
barbarians are not involved!
When the Rain Comes
Alma Fullerton
Pajama Press
http://pajamapress.ca
9781772780123 $19.95, amazon.com
When the Rain Comes features lovely color drawings by Kim LA Fave, is set in a Sri Lankan
community, and tells what happens when a little girl participates in her village's rice crop
planting for the first time. There's a lot of responsibility involved in being old enough to plant -
but when a monsoon comes, Malini is separated from her family and charged with protecting the
precious rice. Free verse captures the sounds, sights, and experiences of Malini's first job.
Dormouse Dreams
Karma Wilson
Disney Hyperion
125 West End Avenue, New York, NY 10023
www.disneyhyperionbooks.com
9781423178743 $16.99, www.DisneyBooks.com
Dormouse Dreams receives gorgeous illustrations by Renata Liwska and tells of a dormouse who
faces winter in the woods, snug and safe in his home, asleep, while winter animals play. Spring's
arrival awakens him with a rare gift - or is this just a dream, as well? Very simple text and
gorgeous illustrations make this gentle story of winter wonders and dreams a fine, inviting
production recommended for parents who look for beautiful color drawings and evocative
scenes.
Child's Play
250 Minot Avenue, Auburn, ME 04210
www.childs-play.com
Aurora Cacciapuoti's Baking with Dad (9781846437557, $16.99) will reach ages 3-8 with its
simple, fun story of a father/daughter home baking team and their creations. How can they
choose the right ingredients, and how do they handle kitchen mishaps? With fun and a healthy
dose of disaster, the two attempt the seeming impossible in a different cookbook story on many
levels that emphasizes a fun father-daughter relationship. Seb Braun's Mayday Mouse
(9781846637595, $12.37 hc / $7.99 pbk) tells of Captain Mouse, who sets sail with a birthday
gift for her brother, only to find dangers on the high seas that might keep her from her goals.
Fortunately, Captain Mouse is an optimist, and her courage and resourcefulness allow her to
navigate even the most treacherous of waves and life obstacles until she spies her ultimate goal.
This fun story is highly recommended for any who would use a picture book tale to teach about
fortitude and perseverance.
Gecko Press
PO Box 9335, Marion Square, Wellington, 6141, New Zealand
www.geckopress.com
Lee Komako Saki's The Lost Kitten (9781776571260, $16.99) presents gorgeous full-page
drawings of Hina and her mother who are asked - by a cat - to take in a kitten. Good reading
skills or parental read-aloud assistance will lend to this story of a stray lovingly adopted by a
mother and child, who despite Hina's initial wish for a cleaner, better cat. Just as Hina is getting
accustomed to her new charge, something unexpected happens. This realistic, warm story of a
stray kitten's new family will delight any youngster who has longed for a cat of their own.
Dorothee de Monfreid's A Day With Dogs (9781776570980, $19.99) is a whimsical survey that
packs fun cartoon-like drawings of dogs into the story of what dogs do all day. From dressing up
and attending school to learning numbers, participating in sports, and taking field trips afar, this
is a fun, whimsical story of anything but a typical dog day, and will delight kids with its
numerous small drawings and detail.
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
Alexandra Pichard's Pen Pals (9781481472470, $17.99) tells of an unlikely friendship that
springs up between an octopus and an aunt who are charged with writing letters for a school
project for an entire year. At first the assignment to be pen pals is difficult: the two are entirely
different in interests, so what do they write about. The fun takes place when they discover that,
despite many differences, they actually have much in common. The story will invite kids to seek
their own pen pals, and to embrace differences rather than just seeking similarities to form bonds.
Jonah Winter and Jeanette Winter's The Secret Project (9781481469135, $17.99) brings a
mother/son writing team strengths together for young picture book readers, telling of the atomic
bomb project "Gadget" and how it evolved. This secret history is provided in a simple picture
book story that provides a short history of the atomic bomb's development using language young
picture book readers can easily understand. How a peaceful desert mountain landscape changes
young lives is revealed in a story that pairs color images with simple descriptions. While reading
skills or parental read-aloud assistance will be required, the story will prove appealing to any
adult who wants to explain atomic bomb development to a younger audience than is usual for
this topic. Lori Richmond's Pax and Blue (9781481451321, $17.99) tells of Pax, who is always
the littlest child anywhere he goes. When Pax befriends a pigeon he names 'Blue', their friendship
changes things - he's finally found something smaller than him, who understands his dilemmas.
Their friendship leads to some unusual side-benefits in this fine story of a little boy who makes
some discoveries about the value of buddies. Jessie Sima's Not Quite Narwhal (9781481469098,
$17.99) is also about finding a better place in life and comes from an author and illustrator who
tells of Kelp, who has grown up in the ocean long believing he is a narwhal like others in his
family. His differences don't lead him to believe he's really that far removed from them, until a
current sweeps him to the surface where he finds another creature that looks like him, differences
and all. Can he actually be something than what he'd known all his life - and what does this mean
for his family and world? A sweet story, this is involving and lovely. Kelly DiPucchio and
Christian Robinson's Antoinette (9781481457835, $17.99) return the puppy protagonists of
Gaston back to new attention as poodle Antoinette discovers her own special talents. Compared
to her boisterous brothers, she doesn't seem to have much to show in the way of abilities; but
Antoinette just needs to find out what makes her special. When she's playing in the park with her
friend Gaston, a missing sister uncovers this special ability at last in a lovely tale of
problem-solving and personal strength.
Scholastic Press
557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012-3999
www.scholastic.com
Mary GrandPre's Cleonardo: The Little Inventor (9780439357647, $18.99) presents the fun story
of the daughter of Leonardo who has her own great ideas and inventions. But her too-busy father
never wants her help, and doesn't consider a girl to be especially talented. How can she prove her
worth? An invention contest seems just the ticket, and Cleo builds something amazing, only to
find her father is a competitor. Who will win? A creative, fun story evolves, perfect for picture
book readers with good reading skills and an affinity for gorgeous, detailed, colorful
embellishments. David Shannon's Duck on a Tractor (9780545619417, $16.99) tells of a duck
with too much time on his hands and too many wild ideas for a staid farm life. When he spots a
new red tractor, the temptation is just too great, and trouble erupts. But it's in the nature of
troublemakers to often involve others - and so a barnyard of fun evolves, creating chaos not just
on the farm but downtown, as well. Good reading skills or parental read-aloud assistance will be
required, though the big, bold drawings are beautifully compelling and no adult involved in the
read will regret the effort. Mem Fox and Judy Horacek's This & That (9781338037807, $17.99)
is a fun, rhyming, easy reader that parents will relish for read-aloud enjoyment as they uncover
the adventures of two little boys who "raced down the road with a cat" and the fun worlds that
evolve. From giraffes to fat speckled hens, 'this and that' are actually a variety of fun encounters
that will keep young listeners giggling and parents entertained with many unexpected twists and
turns. Carmen Agra Deedy and Eugene Yelchin's The Rooster Who Would Not Be Quiet!
(9780545722889, $17.95) is set in the noisy but happy Latin village of La Paz where there is no
peace and quiet. Even a noisy village covets quiet sometimes, and so an ambitious mayor is
elected to bring this peace, and goes overboard in his determination to let not a sound escape.
Only one dares defy his rigid rules. Good reading skills will enhance the experience of a fun story
with a subtle political edge to it.
The Fiction Shelf
Lucky Broken Girl
Ruth Behar
Nancy Paulsen Books
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
345 Hudson Street, 15th floor, New York, NY 10014
9780399546440, $16.99, HC, 256pp, www.amazon.com
Ruthie Mizrahi and her family recently emigrated from Castro's Cuba to New York City. Just
when she's finally beginning to gain confidence in her mastery of English (and enjoying her reign
as her neighborhood's hopscotch queen) a horrific car accident leaves her in a body cast and
confined her to her bed for a long recovery. As Ruthie's world shrinks because of her inability to
move, her powers of observation and her heart grow larger and she comes to understand how
fragile life is, how vulnerable we all are as human beings, and how friends, neighbors, and the
power of the arts can sweeten even the worst of times. "Lucky Broken Girl" is a deftly written,
multicultural, coming-of-age novel that is based on author's Ruth Behar's own childhood in the
1960s as a young Cuban-Jewish immigrant girl is adjusting to her new life in New York City
when her American dream is suddenly derailed. Compelling and ultimately inspiring, "Lucky
Broken Girl" is very highly recommended for ages 10 to 16 and certain to be an enduringly
popular addition to school and community library General Fiction collections young readers. It
should be noted for personal reading lists that "Lucky Broken Girl" is also available in a Kindle
edition ($10.99). Librarians should be aware that "Lucky Broken Girl" is available as a complete
and unabridged audio book (Listening Library, 9781524755058, $40.00 Trade, $22.72
Amazon).
The Making of Mollie
Anna Carey
O'Brien Press
c/o Dufour Editions, Inc.
PO Box 7, 124 Byers Road, Chester Springs, PA 19425-0007
www.dufoureditions.com
9781847178473, $12.60, PB, 303pp, www.amazon.com
Mollie Carberry lives a boring life in the Dublin suburbs of 1912. That is, until her older sister
Peggy and the family's maid Maggie are discovered with a stash of leaflets demanding suffrage
for women. Mollie and her friend Nora gradually become converted to the cause, sneaking into
meetings and dispersing leaflets. While Mollie and Nora's youthful activities get them into
trouble with their parents and school, Peggy and Maggie face more serious consequences when
the grown-up suffrage campaign takes a more serious turn, and Mollie and Nora must face the
question of how far a girl should go for her beliefs. In "The Making of Mollie" author Anna
Carey has taken great pains to accurately reflect the women's suffrage movement in Ireland and
provides young readers ages 10 to 14 with an inherently engaging and consistently entertaining
read from cover to cover. While very highly recommended, especially for school and community
library General Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Making
of Mollie" is also available in a Kindle format ($6.37).
One Brave Summer
Kiersi Burkhart & Amber J. Keyser
Darby Creek Publishing
c/o The Lerner Publishing Group
241 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1607
www.lernerbooks.com
9781467792547, $27.27, Library Binding, 217pp, www.amazon.com
Paley Dixon is not excited about six weeks on a horse ranch without access to the virtual world
of Dragonfyre. In-game, she's the Blue Elf, strong and powerful. In the real world, she's coming
off a bad year after moving from Los Angeles to Denver. At least Prince, the majestic horse she's
paired with at Quartz Creek Ranch, makes her feel like royalty. To gain Prince's trust, Paley has
to find her own confidence, which isn't easy with jerks like Bryce around. When she makes an
exciting discovery near the ranch, life finally seems as interesting as Dragonfyre. But to protect
her real-world treasure, she'll have to figure out how to turn courage into action. "One Brave
Summer" by the collaborative team of Kiersi Burkhart and Amber J. Keyser is a consistently
entertaining and impressively engaging novel that is especially recommended for young readers
ages 8 to 12. While very highly recommended for both school and community library collections,
it should be noted for the personal reading lists of kids in grades 3 to 7 that "One Brave Summer"
is also available in a paperback edition (9781512430882, $6.99) and in a Kindle format
($6.64).
Scholastic, Inc.
557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012-3999
www.scholastic.com
Jay Cooper's The Spy Next Door: Mutant Rat Attack! (9780545932974, $9.99) provides a little
under 140 pages of detail with black and white illustrations accenting the fun story of Dexter and
his science teacher, whose secret experiment goes awry when a lab rat eats some radioactive
broccoli and turns into a dangerous threat. It's up to Dex to save the day - and, perhaps, the
world. Zany fun and a action story blend in a chapter book perfect for those past the picture book
stage but not quite into the next level. Norman Bridwell's classic Clifford stories return to life for
new generations in two books recommended for any collection fond of Clifford's adventures.
Clifford's Good Deeds (9781338124279, $8.99) presents classic red/black/white drawings as the
story follows a would-be helpful dog who just keeps making situations worse because of his big
size. Oblivious to the problem, Clifford and his girl persist in thinking their helpfulness is
welcome. Clifford the Small Red Puppy (9781338124248, $8.99) portrays the big red dog's
origins as a small red puppy, and will especially attract kids who long for their own dog of any
size. Here Emily goes back in time to explore how she got Clifford in a whimsical, fun narrative
that will reach from picture book readers to very early chapter book followers.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Mutant Mantis Lunch Ladies!
Bruce Hale
Disney Hyperion
125 West End Avenue, New York, NY 10023
9781484713242 $14.99, www.disneybooks.com
Mutant Mantis Lunch Ladies! pairs humor with adventure and strange scenarios in this second
book in the 'Monstertown Mystery' series, which requires no prior familiarity in order to prove
compelling. This time the focus is on lunch servers in the school cafeteria, who may initially
seem innocuous, but who have the potential of being deadly when suddenly they change. Meals
are different, monsters are spied in corners, and the boys uncover a dangerous situation in this
zany story recommended for advanced elementary grade levels into early middle school.
The Graphic Novel Shelf
Lords of the Plain
Derib and Job
Cinebook Ltd.
www.cinebook.com
c/o National Book Network (dist.)
4501 Forbes Boulevard, Suite 200, Lanham, MD 20706
www.nbnbooks.com
9781849183185, $11.95, PB, 48pp, www.amazon.com
After a buffalo hunt that brought the tribe much needed supplies, a little Native American boy
named Yakari is visited in his dreams by the female buffalo that was killed the day of his birth,
and whose pelt still serves as his blanket. Intrigued, the young Sioux and his pony Little Thunder
go see the great herd. From encounter to encounter, and by helping a young mother and her
newborn calf against a particularly nasty wolf and his pack, Yakari learns to know those majestic
animals so important to his own people's survival. The fourteenth volume in the Yakari graphic
novel series (creative team Derib and Job have been writing Yakari stories for over 30 years and
have both received lifetime achievement awards for their outstanding work), "Lords of the Plain"
is another wonderfully entertaining story with a valued underlying message concerning Native
American values for appreciating and valuing all life on Earth. While especially recommended
for children ages 6 to 10 and certain to be an enduringly popular addition to elementary school
and community library graphic novel collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that
"Lords of the Plain" is also available in a Kindle format ($8.99).
Lunazul Publishing, Inc.
PO Box 761, Micaville, North Carolina, 28755
www.heavysketches.com
Author and illustrator Red Rohl has published two outstanding and unique graphic novels for
young readers ages 8 to 12. "Heavy Sketches: Among Worldly Distractions" features zombies,
pizza, aliens, video games, and the apocalypse as just a few of the worldly distractions that
capture Red's wandering mind in an ultimate graphic novel anthology unlike anything seen
before. The pages of "Heavy Sketches Among Worldly Distractions" (9780996561198, $13.99
PB, $2.99 Kindle, 111pp) are comprised of engaging stories on Vikings, pirates, Lincoln, Greek
Mythology, TV & more. Accompanied by hundreds of captivating sketches, Mini-Comics,
Drawing Tips, Facts, and Spoofs. "Heavy Sketches Among Worldly Distractions" features all this
and more. "Heavy Sketches Among Worldly Distractions, Volume II" (9780966361150, $13.99
PB, 111pp) continues Red Rohl's graphic novel series with another volume that features french
fries, giants, football, ancient Egypt and another roster of worldly distractions for young readers
in grades 3 to 6. Wild, wacky, wonderful, both these graphic novels are original, consistently
entertaining, and will prove to be enduringly popular additions to personal, elementary school,
and community library graphic novel collections. Of special note is Red Rohl's approach will
have broad appeal for engaging both avid readers, reluctant readers, comic fans, and art
enthusiasts alike.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Evil Speaks
Sandra Woffington
Red Summit Publishers
https://redsummitpublishers.wordpress.com
https://warriorsandwatcherssaga.com
9781944650001, $14.99, PB, 384pp, www.amazon.com
Original and consistently entertaining from cover to cover, "Evil Speaks" is the story of fifteen
year old Benny who is solitary by circumstance more than choice. Benny counts each move to a
new town as "a life". He's now on Life Number Seven. His last! He plans to run away from his
paranoid mother, who's been on the run since the disappearance of his father when he was three.
Benny has no memory of it, except for weird dreams of a firestorm and a hideous dragon. After a
fight with his mother, Benny packs his bags. Boom! The house explodes, catapulting Benny into
a world he never imagined existed. The trail leads him to a gated Neoclassical building in the
woods and to six teens he vaguely remembers: Kami is deaf, Amir is blind, Zuma is overweight,
Layla is gorgeous but lazy, Chaz is in a wheelchair and Raj is as angry as the purple
dagger-shaped birthmark running down the side of her face. These unlikely heroes share a
common thread: Benny lost his father and they lost their mothers on the same day. The only clue
to the mystery is Benny's grandfather, Domenico H. Adez, a strange and dangerous man. Author
Sandra Woffington is an impressively talented storyteller and "Evil Speaks" is unreservedly
recommended for community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that
"Evil Speaks" is also available in a Kindle format ($4.99).
Motley Education
S. A. Larson
Leap Books
PO Box 63, Otego, NY 13825
http://leapbks.net
9781616030773, $16.99, PB, 334pp, www.amazon.com
Forget having a lively after school social life, Ebony Charmed is fighting to keep the entire
afterlife alive. Ebony's less-than-average spirit tracking abilities are ruining more than sixth grade
at Motley Junior High: School for the Psychically and Celestially Gifted. Her parents argue so
much her dad's moved out. And, even though he's scared of his own shadow and insists on
bringing his slimy, legless lizard everywhere they go, Ebony wouldn't survive without her best
friend, Fleishman. When Ebony's Deadly Creatures & Relics' project goes missing she learns her
missing project is one of the keys to saving the spirit world. Now Ebony and Fleishman must
battle beasts from Norse mythology to retrieve her project before spirits are lost, the Well of Urd
dries up, and Ebony loses all hope of reuniting her family. But someone lies in wait, and he has
other plans...including creating a new world of spirits without them in it. A deftly crafted and
consistently entertaining read from cover to cover, "Motley Education" has an underlying
message regarding the important of friend ship and family and is on of S. A. Larson's best fantasy
fictions so far -- and is especially recommended young readers ages 8 to 12. Indeed, "Motley
Education" is certain to be an enduringly popular addition to elementary school and community
library collections.
The Far Corners
Elaine Gartner
CreateSpace
4900 LaCross Rd., North Charleston, SC 29406
www.createspace.com
9781534634817, $7.99, PB, 120pp, www.amazon.com
In the untamed wilderness of Elderbrook Forest, all manner of creatures enjoy the beautiful
simplicity of a natural life. For hundreds of years, birds, squirrels, and animals of all sizes have
lived in these woods without any human interference -- but as those who know about the Legend
are aware, these days won't last forever. As ancient prophecy predicts, one day the humans will
return to nature and must learn to live side by side with their animal friends. And when a human
voice rings out over the forest, for the first time in several centuries, it seems the events described
in the Legend are about to come to pass. When he learns the truth about his long-lost father, who
once set out to jump-start the prophecy, Willoughby the squirrel decides to set out on a quest of
his own - with his mother, Mrs. Elmsford, and the wise old snapping turtle, Mrs. Augusten, by
his side. Guided by the spirits of a mystical cave to a city of people, the group finds there are
plenty of surprises in store -- ones that will forge new connections with human civilization and
showcase how the actions of one tiny squirrel can make a difference. "The Far Corners" by
Eliane Gartner is an impressively crafted novel for young readers ages 8 to 12 and clearly
showcases the author's original and genuine flair for creatively entertaining storytelling with
deftly positive underlying message. While very highly recommended for both school and
community library Children's Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that
"The Far Corners" is also available in a Kindle format ($2.99).
Pokemon: Talent Showdown
Adapted by Tracey West
Scholastic, Inc.
557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012-3999
www.scholastic.com
9781338175912 $4.99 amazon.com
Ideal for young readers who are just beginning to read their first chapter books, Pokemon: Talent
Showdown adapts an episode from the wildly popular "Pokemon" cartoon, about a world where
people of all ages can befriend, collect, and battle with mysterious creatures known as Pokemon.
In Talent Showdown, Ash, a dedicated Pokemon trainer, seeks to defeat his rival Gary in a
Pokemon Talent Showdown! The competition includes a juggling Exeggutor, a singing
Charmander, and a dancing Farfetch'd - but can Ash think of a good Pokemon act in time? Plus,
Team Rocket has their own nefarious plans to steal the performing Pokemon! A handful of
black-and-white illustrations enliven this charming adventure, ideal for encouraging young
Pokemon fans to read. Also highly recommended are other chapter books in the Pokemon series,
including "Pokemon: Race to Danger" (9781338175851, $4.99).
Scholastic, Inc.
557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012-3999
www.scholastic.com
Six new books for young adults are top picks that stand out in various ways, providing young
adult readers with lively stories that are each hard to put down. Fonda Lee's Exo
(9780545933438, $17.99) presents a future peaceful Earth which has happened since the planet
become a colony of an alien race. Hardly any defy this arrangement - including Donovan, whose
father is the Prime Liaison, elevating his son's social standing. When Donovan is kidnaped by a
revolutionary group determined to defy alien control, he's in for an eye-opening awakening
experience in the story of a hostage, terrorism, and a newfound threat of war. Sarah Rubin's The
Impossible Clue (9780545940252, $17.99) will reach middle school readers with the story of
Alice, a crime-busting young lady who is both a math genius and a solver of mysteries. Her latest
case revolves around the disappearance of a local scientist from a locked room, and a top secret
experiment he'd been working on that could change everything. Jane B. Mason's Without Annette
(9780545819954, $18.99) tells of Josie's move cross country to attend a famous boarding school
with her girlfriend - a move that goes wry when elitism separates the two former friends, and
causes Josie to question her goals and world. Annette moves away from her closeness and Josie
becomes involved in her first romance even as Annette embarks on a course that could require
Josie to rescue her - if she even cares enough, any longer. David Baldacci's books are well known
to adult thriller audiences, but The Width of the World (9780545931964, $17.99) departs from
many of his books to provide a solid fantasy read for older teens. Vega is on a mission to uncover
the truth in her life and escapes Wormwood, her 'home', to enter a world where people are
enslaved by ignorance, where beasts roam freely. Can Vega, Delph, and a dog along with their
new friend defy and bring down a repressive order that nobody is even aware of? Many an adult
will find this an engrossing read, as well. Garth Nix's Frogkisser! (9781338052084, $18.99) tells
of a princess forced to live with an evil stepmother's new husband - who is also evil. Princess
Anya can break curses just by kissing, and her power sees new threats by this evil stepfather who
is determined to change her realm. Going underground, Anya begins a quest that involves her
power, impossible goals, and a confrontation that will require all of her courage. Sharon
Cameron's The Forgetting (9780545945219, $18.99) tells of Nadia, who lives in Canaan where
life is structured, protected, and secluded. The city's inhabitants have no memory of the past,
which helps keep it peaceful - but every twelve years the Forgetting brings chaos and amnesia -
unless memories are written down. But what if what is written is false? Nadia's challenges are
many when she uses her memories to uncover secrets about Canaan and her life. All are
engrossing, memorable leisure choices.
The Judaic Shelf
I Go to Eretz Yisroel
Rikki Benenfeld
Hachai Publishing
527 Empire Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY 11225
www.hachai.com
9781929628926, $10.95, HC, 30pp, www.amazon.com
Children ages 4 to 6 can join a young brother and sister as they take their very first airplane trip,
all the way to Eretz Yisroel! ("Eretz Yisroel" is Hebrew for "The Land of Israel".) Reading this
charmingly illustrated picture book is also a great way to prepare toddlers for what to expect
when traveling by air -- from the busy, crowded airport, to waiting in long lines, to checking in
their suitcases. Once on the plane, they say Tefillas HaDerech, follow rules and instructions, and
enjoy the flight. "When the plane lands, it's sunny and bright, In Eretz Yisroel, my heart feels so
light." In "I Go to Eretz Yisroel" the whole family goes to the Kosel, to Kever Rochel, and to
Me'aras Hamachpeila. They may be little, but even small children know it's important to daven at
these holy places. And of course, they take a break to eat falafel, their most favorite treat! Every
aspect of this exciting experience is presented in a perfectly age-appropriate manner. "I Go to
Eretz Yisroel" highlights mitzvah opportunities, safety and polite behavior in every situation.
Impressively entertaining and informative from cover to cover, "I Go to Eretz Yisroel" is an
especially recommended addition to family, preschool, elementary school, and community library
picture book collections.
The Audiobook Shelf
Middle School: Escape to Australia
James Patterson and Martin Chatterton, authors
Read by Michael Crouch
Hachette Audio
1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10104
9781478916796 $18.00 www.HachetteAudio.com
Middle School: Escape to Australia is the unabridged audiobook adaptation of an adventure
novel in the popular "Middle School" series for young adults. In Escape to Australia, the gutsy
and talented middle schooler Rafe wins a school-wide art competition, earning him a trip to
Australia. But Australia is more harrowing than Rafe could have guessed - his host siblings are
borderline hostile, the heat is oppressive, and the local wildlife is exceptionally venomous! But
Rafe is resilient - with the help of some misfit new friends, he just might turn the land down
under upside-down! Middle School: Escape to Australia is highly recommended for school and
public library children's audiobook collections. 3 CDs, 3 hours.
The Music CD Shelf
Bubbles
The Salamanders
www.salamandersmusic.com
$12.00 CD / $10.00 download cdbaby.com
Bubbles is a family-friendly rock-'n'-roll album brimming with songs about love, personal
growth, tolerance, and just plain silly fun. The delightful original songs are perfect for car trips,
children's parties, or everyday entertainment. Highly recommended! The tracks are "Let's Sing a
Song" (3:22), "Poppy" (3:02), "Bubbles" (4:44), "Mancub" (3:41), "Skeleton Rag" (3:58), "Golly
G. Gus" (2:52), "Matt Damon Magnetized Me" (2:21), "The Cat" (4:26), "Pirate Santa" (3:20),
and "Lovely Goodbye" (5:52).
Brooklyn Baby
Joanie Leeds and the Nightlights
www.joanieleeds.com
Limbostar
$15.00 CD / $9.99 download cdbaby.com
Award-winning singer/songwriter Joanie Leeds presents Brooklyn Baby, an energetic music CD
especially for children ages 4-9. The songs draw upon a wide variety of genres from folk to
southern rock, hip hop, pop, and punk, and embody a love of the Brooklyn, New York
neighborhood and people. These upbeat songs will delight parents as well as little ones, and the
physical CD includes liner notes with complete song lyrics for sing-along fun! The tracks are
"Ferry Nice", "Subway", "By Myself", "Stoop", "Library Book", "Brooklyn Baby", "Pizza",
"Rainbow Bagels from Outer Space", "Love is Love", "Shayne Punim", "Hipster in the Making
(Remix)", "Apples in My Apples", and "Sunday Morning". 43 min.
Kimbo Educational
PO Box 477, Long Branch, NJ 07740-0477
www.kimboed.com
Two music CDs from Kimbo Educational are an excellent resource to encourage young people to
move their bodies and develop their motor skills. "Brain Smart Moves" ($15.95) incorporates
actions such as twisting, turning, spinning, drawing figure eights, balancing, and more. The
musical activities are "brain smart" strategies, ideal for daily use in the classroom or at home, and
prepared with the guidance of early childhood brain development expert Dr. Pam Schiller.
"Shake, Wave, & Jingle Rhythm Time: Bean Bags, Scarves, & Rhythm Band Activities"
($15.95) uses inexpensive props to help young children practice gross motor control. The
engaging musical tempos and beats lend appeal to this stimulating album! Both music CDs are a
choice pick for elementary school library collections, highly recommended for classroom
physical activities, or simple rainy-day fun.
The DVD Shelf
Wolfie the Bunny
Written by Ame Dyckman
Illustrated by Zachariah O'Hora
Weston Woods
90 Old Sherman Turnpike, Danbury, CT 06816
www.scholastic.com/westonwoods
9781338161953 $59.95
Ideal for young viewers ages 3-6 (or grades PreK-1), Wolfie the Bunny is the DVD adaptation of
an award-honored children's picturebook. When a bunny family adopts a wolf son, only bunny
daughter Dot realizes that her new brother Wolfie just might eat the rest of them up! But when
Wolfie is in danger, can Dot save the whole family? Wolfie the Bunny is a choice pick for public
library children's collections and viewing during homeroom, highly recommended. 8 min.,
optional English subtitles, closed-captioned.
The Psychology Shelf
Grow Happy
Jon Lasser & Sage Foster-Lasser, authors
Christopher Lyles, illustrator
Magination Press
c/o American Psychological Association
750 First Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002-4242
www.maginationpress.com
9781433823312, $15.95, HC, 32pp, www.amazon.com
Kiko is a little girl who gardens. She takes care of her garden with seeds, soil, water, and
sunshine. In "Grow Happy", Kiko also demonstrates how she cultivates happiness, just like she
does in her garden. Using positive psychology and choice theory, "Grow Happy" by the team of
Jon Lasser (a psychologist, school psychologist, professor, and Program Director of the School
Psychology Program at Texas State University) and Sage Foster-Lasser (a psychology student at
the University of Texas at Austin) shows children ages 4 to 8 that they have the tools to nurture
their own happiness and live resiliently. Charmingly illustrated throughout by Christopher Lyles,
"Grow Happy" also includes a "Note to Parents and Caregivers" with information on how our
choices and paying attention to our bodies and feelings affects happiness. Wonderfully
entertaining from beginning to end and with an invaluable life affirming message, "Grow Happy"
is unreservedly and enthusiastically recommended for family, preschool, elementary school, and
community library picture book collections.
The Literary Shelf
Edgar Allan Poe's Hop-Frog
Original story by Edgar Allan Poe
Adapted by Jerome Tiller
Illustrated by Marc Johnson-Pencook
ArtWrite Productions
artwriteproductions.com
9781939846129 $8.99 www.adaptedclassics.com
Part of the excellent "Adapted Classics" series, Edgar Allan Poe's Hop-Frog adapts a classic short
story by celebrated author Edgar Allan Poe to a format ideal for middle grade readers. The text is
lightly modified to be more accessible to young people, and striking black-and-white illustrations
intersperse the story of a dwarf jester driven into a vengeful rage by the injustice he sees around
him. Edgar Allan Poe's Hop-Frog is an excellent tool to introduce young people to the amazing
world of classic literature, and a choice pick for public or school library children's collections.
Also highly recommended is the "Adapted Classics" rendition of another timeless yet suspenseful
tale, "Edgar Allan Poe's Thou Art the Man" (9781939846044, $8.99).
The Holocaust Studies Shelf
The Hiding Game
Gwen Strauss
Pelican Publishing Company
1000 Burmaster Street, Gretna, LA 70053-2246
9781455622658 $17.99, www.pelicanpub.com
The Hiding Game receives lovely, realistic drawings by Herb Leonhard as it tells of Aube and
her family who are used to things being secret in their village. The time is Nazi Germany and this
is a picture book story of hiding, refugees, and a journey to safety that is based on the author's
family story. It requires good reading skills but its involving, moving scenario of a family's
journey from hiding to safety is evocative and compelling.
Books in Series
A Refugee's Journey From Afghanistan
Helen Mason, author
Crabtree Publishing Company
PMB 59051, 350 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10118
9780778731252 $27.60 HC, $8.95 PB, www.crabtreebooks.com
"A Refugee's Journey From Afghanistan" is a guided reading R level book about an Afghan
family with a girl named Sonita. Sonita was born in 2008 in Islamabad, Pakistan, where her
parents had gone for refuge during the Afghan conflict. Her story reflects the lives of many
Afghan refugees during the period from 2001 to 2014, when the Afghan War ended. Many parts
of Afghanistan are still quite dangerous, but Afghans who have left the country as refugees are
beginning to return. Sonita's mother, Mora, and father, Baba, first lived in Kabul for a while, in
Afghanistan. There Sonita's brother, Izat was born. Because of threats from the Taliban, Baba
and Mora and their family moved to Islamabad, Pakistan. Many organizations from the UN
provided help during these moves and living in refugee camps. Another group that helps is the
HTAC, Help the Afghan Children, which partners with the Afghan government to create healthy,
nonviolent-oriented school programs for children. At the age of two, Sonita moved with her
family to a refugee camp. her father, Baba, drove a rickshaw to earn money. A letter from Mora's
brother came that told of his life being smuggled out of Afghanistan by his mother. He nearly
drowned in an overcrowded boat off the coast of Greece. But he was saved and helped by a kind
host family in Germany. In 2015, over 88,300 child refugees without parents applied for asylum
in Europe, over half of which were Afghan. later, there were repatriation programs to help bring
refugees home to Afghanistan from Pakistan and other places. Sonita's family was eventually
able to return to Kabul, where they were able to find her grandmother, Anaa. Many steps remain
to make Afghanistan a healthy, safe place to live. The UNHCR helps returning refugees by
giving them information about staying safe in a war torn land. "A Refugee's Journey From
Afghanistan" ends with a list of ways to help, discussion ideas, a glossary, and a list of resources
including books and web sites that give more information about Afghanistan. "A Refugee's
Journey From Afghanistan" is an excellent resource to educate elementary grade children about
the problem of aiding and providing shelter for refugees. Other titles from the Leaving My
Homeland Series that are also highly recommended include: "A Refugee's Journey from Iraq"
(9780778731278, $27.60 HC, $8.95 PB), by Ellen Rodger, "A Refugee's Journey from the
Democratic Republic of the Congo" (9780778731269, $27.60 HC, $8.95 PB), by Ellen Rodger,
and "A Refugee's Journey from Syria" (9780778731283, $27.60 HC, $8.95 PB) by Helen
Mason.
Looking Inside a 3D Printer
Quenton Oakes, author
Cherry Lake Publishing
c/o Sleeping Bear Press
1750 Northway Drive, Suite 101, North Mankato MN 56003
9781634721899, $28.50 (list), $19.95, S/L, $24pp, www.cherrylakepublishing.com
"Looking Inside a 3D Printer" is a Grade 3 book about the many uses and working of a 3D
printer. Pictures of inside parts of the 3D printer help explain how the machine works by drawing
very thin layers of melted filament, then stacking the layers on top of each other. to help children
understand this process, a sidebar suggests: "Think like a 3D printer. Try drawing yourself like a
3D Printer draws. Start with the bottoms of your feet. Then draw the tops of your feet. Then draw
your legs. Keep going all the way to the top of your head. That's how 3D printers print out
shapes." There are many fascinating facts and finds about the uses for 3D printers. "Looking
Inside a 3D Printer" ends with a glossary and list of related books and web sites to help young
readers find out more. "Looking Inside a 3D Printer" is part of a new series called Makers as
Innovators Junior. Look for more exciting titles in this series for young readers soon. Also highly
recommended from the same publisher is the following title in the 21st Century Junior Library
women Innovators series: "Stephanie Kwolek and Bulletproof Material (978163472837, $27.07
list, $18.95, S/L)," by Ellen Labrecque. this exciting nonfiction text tells all about the woman
who invented Kevlar, and the amazing protective uses of it.
Crabtree Publishing Company
350 Fifth Avenue, 59th Floor, New York, NY 10118
www.crabtreebooks.com
Gill Arbuthnott's Your Guide to Electricity and Magnetism (9780778733980, $31.93) joins
others in the 'Drawn to Science' series and promotes an interactive approach to learning science
that pairs an illustrated guide packed with cartoons and images with discussions of atoms,
electric circuits, magnets, and inventions. Kinds in grades 3-5 will relish the discussions of how
electricity and magnetism are used and distributed. The 'What Is Entrepreneurship' series offers
four titles that focus on various kinds of entrepreneurship. Each provides 48 pages including an
index, glossary, and bibliography and each provides a different focus. Margaret Hoovegen's
Social Entrepreneurship (9780778727576, $31.93) examines the main goal of social effort to
make positive improvements on peoples' lives; Alexander Offord's Environmental
Entrepreneurship (9780778727569, $31.93) considers the efforts of 'ecopreneurs' to help solve
environmental challenges, Helen Mason's Digital Entrepreneurship (9780778727408, $31.93)
considers how digital technology is used to sell products and ideas, and Natalie Hyde's general
What is Entrepreneurship? (9780778727583, $31.93) considers what makes a company owner an
entrepreneur. The result is an excellent collection that can be used individually but is strongest
when read as a unit: a good, basic introduction to business for an elementary age that usually
doesn't receive such insights.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
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