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Children's Bookwatch

Volume 30, Number 9 September 2020 Home | CBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Social Issues Shelf Health Shelf
Pets/Wildlife Shelf American History Shelf Board Book Shelf
Picturebook Shelf Bilingual Shelf General Fiction Shelf
Mystery/Suspense Shelf Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Christian Shelf
Religion/Spirituality Shelf Folktale/Fairytale Shelf Mythology Shelf
Graphic Novel Shelf Music CD Shelf Agriculture Shelf
Science Shelf Environmental Shelf Music Shelf
Story Monsters Ink Shelf    


Reviewer's Choice

Read a Book with Me
Lawrence Schimel, author
Thiago Lopes, illustrator
Beaming Books
PO Box 1209, Minneapolis, MN 55440
https://www.beamingbooks.com
9781506465258, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Read-Book-Me-Lawrence-Schimel/dp/1506465250

Antonio wants someone to read with him, but nobody seems to have any time -- not his mom, not their neighbor, and not any of his friends on the street. It's only when he looks in an unexpected place that he discovers the perfect reading partner, and a chance to make a new friend. A celebration of the power of stories and communities, "Read a Book with Me" will remind children ages 4-8 that there's nothing to bring people together like the power of a good book! Original, fun, and with an important underlying message about the joy and benefits of learning how to read, "Read a Book with Me" is certain to be a welcome and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.

A Girl Like You
Frank Murphy, author
Carla Murphy, author
Kayla Harren, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
315 East Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.sleepingbearpress.com
9781534110960, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Like-You-Frank-Murphy/dp/1534110968

Every young girl is a wonder! "A Girl Like You" by Frank and Carla Murphy encourages girls to embrace what makes them unique, to choose kindness, and to be their own advocates. In an age when girls can be whatever they want, "A Girl Like You" will remind them of all the ways to be beautiful, brilliant, and uniquely themselves. Beautifully illustrated by the artwork of Kayla Harren, "A Girl Like You" is an extraordinary and highly recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 5-7. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "A Girl Like You" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.53).

From Maybe to Forever: An Adoption Story
M. L. Gold, author
N. V. Fong, author
Jess Hong, illustrator
Creston Books
www.crestonbooks.co
9781939547750, $18.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Maybe-Forever-Adoption-Story/dp/193954775X

Waiting for a baby brother or sister is hard to do when you aren't sure what happened or when. But it helps when you can tell yourself a story about how a maybe baby can become your very own little sister or brother. Told from an older sister's point of view, "From Maybe to Forever: An Adoption Story" by the team of author and storytellers M. L. Gold and N. V. Fong, and artist/illustrator Jess Hong collaborate to created is an endearing story about adoption for children ages 4-8. An impressive blend of information and entertainment, "From Maybe to Forever: An Adoption Story" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.

A Doll for Grandma: A Story About Alzheimer's Disease
Paulette Bochnig Sharkey, author
Samantha Woo, illustrator
Beaming Books
PO Box 1209, Minneapolis, MN 55440
https://www.beamingbooks.com
9781506457383, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Doll-Grandma-Story-Alzheimers-Disease/dp/150645738X

Kiera loves spending time with her grandma. They play dress up. They paint their nails. They make cookies for picnics with Kiera's doll. But then Grandma starts to change. She starts misplacing items and forgetting how to do everyday tasks. Soon she has to move out of her home into a memory-care center for people with Alzheimer's. She starts calling Kiera by a different name. Then Kiera has an idea and finds a new way to enjoy time with her Grandma.

"A Doll for Grandma: A Story About Alzheimer's Disease" by the team of author/storyteller Paulette Sharkey and artist/illustrator Samantha Woo is a poignantly and sensitively presented picture book story for children ages 4-8 that is about a young girl's empathy and kindness in the face of her grandmother's growing dementia. Perfect for children grappling with their changing relationship with a family member who has dementia or Alzheimer's disease is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.

It should be noted for personal reading lists that"A Doll for Grandma: A Story About Alzheimer's Disease" also includes a parent page to encourage family discussion and reflection and is readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99) as well.


The Social Issues Shelf

The World's Poorest President Speaks Out
Gaku Nakagawa, author
Yoshimi Kusaba, illustrator
Andrew Wong, translator
Enchanted Lion Books
67 West Street, Studio 317A, Brooklyn, New York, NY 11222
www.enchantedlion.com
9781592702893, $16.95, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Worlds-Poorest-President-Speaks-Out/dp/1592702899

"A poor person is not someone who has little, but one who needs infinitely more, and more, and more." Thus spoke Jose Mujica, then the President of Uruguay, before the United Nations in 2012. Paraphrasing the wisdom of the great thinker Seneca, he asked the world to question the dogma of consumption that has driven us into environmental and economic crisis.

Often referred to as the worlds "poorest" president, in part because of his practice of donating 90% of his $12,000 monthly salary to charity, Jose Mujica lived his words and proved that one need not have money to be rich.

In "The World's Poorest President Speaks Out", Jose Mujica's famous speech comes to life as he asks us to remember our neighbors, our children, and the Earth.

Ably translated into English by Andrew Wong, "The World's Poorest President Speaks Out" is an entertaining, inspiring, and unique picture book for children ages 4-8 by the team of author Gaku NakaGawa and illustrator Yoshimi Kusabi and especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.

A Journey Toward Hope
Victor Hinojosa, author
Coert Voorhees, author
Susan Guevara, illustrator
Six Foot Press
https://www.sixfootpress.com
9781644420089, $19.95, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Journey-Toward-Hope-Victor-Hinojosa/dp/1644420082

Every year, roughly 50,000 unaccompanied minors arrive at the US/Mexico border to present themselves for asylum or related visas. The majority of these children are non-Mexicans fleeing the systemic violence of Central America's "Northern Triangle": Honduras, El Salvador, and Guatemala. "A Journey Toward Hope" tells the story of four unaccompanied migrant children come together along the arduous journey north through Mexico to the United States border.

Rodrigo, a 14-year-old escaping Honduran violence; Alessandra, a 10-year-old Guatemalan whose first language is Q'eqchi'; and the Salvadoran siblings Laura and Nando. Though their reasons for making the trip are different and the journey northward is perilous, the four children band together, finding strength in one another as they share the dreams of their past and the hopes for their future.

Superbly illustrated by artist Susan Guevara, "A Journey Toward Hope" is a compelling commentary on one of the primary social issues of today. Ideal for children ages 5-10 and strongly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library contemporary social issues picture collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "A Journey Toward Hope" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: "A Journey Toward Hope" is written in collaboration with Baylor University's Social Innovation Collaborative, with illustrations by the award-winning Susan Guevara (Chato's Kitchen, American Library Association Notable Book, New York Public Library's 100 Great Children's Books / 100 Years). It includes four pages of nonfiction back matter with additional information and resources created by Baylor University's Global Hunger and Migration Project.

How Selfish
Clare Helen Welsh, author
Olivier Tallec, illustrator
Words & Pictures (W&P)
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9780711244474, $18.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Selfish-Duck-Clare-Helen-Welsh/dp/0711244472

One day a little girl named Dot and her friend Duck find a stick. Dot thinks it's a sword and Duck thinks it's a flag. When Dot refuses to share the new toy, she goes to any lengths to make sure Duck doesn't try to take it. How will Duck react to such selfish behavior?

Simple, funny, and ultimately touching and with an important underlying message about sharing, "How Selfish" by the team of author/storyteller Clare Helen Welsh and artist/illustrator Olivier Tallec will have a very special appeal to children ages 3-5 and is especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that 'How Selfish" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.09).


The Health Shelf

What's All the Commotion?
Jessie Glenn, author
Kevin King, illustrator
Eldredge Books
https://eldredgebooks.com
9780997749144, $11.99, PB, 35pp

https://www.amazon.com/Whats-All-Commotion-Social-Distancing/dp/0997749148

The changes in children's lives around the world due to the coronavirus pandemic are startling and stressful in many cases with mandates for wearing masks, keeping a 'social distance' from others, frequent handwashing, Covid-19 testing and contact tracing.

Strongly, even urgently, recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections for children ages 3-6, "What's All the Commotion?: A Book about Social Distancing" by Jessie Glenn and illustrated by Kevin King seeks to answer children's questions simply and directly with an optimistic outlook.

Also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.99), it should be noted that all proceeds from the sale of this book will be donated to No Kid Hungry.

The Case of the Covid Crisis
Pendred Noyce
Tumblehome Inc.
http://tumblehomebooks.org
9798657239294, $12.95, PB, 163pp

https://www.amazon.com/Covid-Crisis-Galactic-Academy-Science/dp/B08DC6GRVH

Young readers will enjoy join Mae and Clinton, middle school students and special recruits of the Galactic Academy of Science, as they travel through time and space to learn about epidemics in general and Covid-19 in particular. From Africa to Colonial America to Bangladesh, studying measles, capturing bats, tracking the 1918 flu and more, "The Case of the Covid Crisis" by Pendred Noyce is an entertainingly action-packed and fully informative adventure in the math and science of epidemics.

Of special note are the accompanying book club activities piloted with Boston Museum of Science's first-ever online book club. Incredibly timely in view of the current pandemic, "The Case of the Covid Crisis" is the perfect introduction for young readers to help them understand about the importance of wearing masks, social distancing, testing and tracing. Simply stated, "The Case of the Covid Crisis" is urgently and unreservedly recommended for every family, elementary school, middle school, and community library collection for young readers. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Case of the Covid Crisis" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

Pounce!: A How To Speak Cat Training Guide
Tracey West & Gary Weitzman, D.V.M.
National Geographic Kids
c/o National Geographic
1145 17th St. N.W., Washington, D.C.20036
www.natgeokids.com
9781426338472, $22.90 HC, Library Binding
9781426338465, $12.99, PB, 176 pages

https://www.amazon.com/Pounce-How-Speak-Training-Guide/dp/1426338473

"Pounce! A How To Speak Cat Training Guide " is an exciting and profusely illustrated manual teaching kids age 10 years and up and adults how to understand and train their cats to become happy, healthy, well adjusted felines. Much education about felines of all ages is included, presented with possibly making a cat's "bad" behavior worse.

There are so many exciting activities, training or fun, to explore with cats. "Pounce!" teaches kids who are proud cat owners many tools and ways to help their cats enjoy a long, healthy, enriched, safe feline life with their human families.

There are wonderful tips and suggestions for cat toys and games or activities, as well as special cat tricks such as jumping, crawling, ringing a bell, and waving. But also, cat training tips can help an owner to litter train their cat, teach them to use a scratching post, use a cat door, or to walk on a cat leash.

Much more specialized information is presented in "Pounce!" that will help cat owners everywhere to appreciate and care for their unique feline better.

Animal Olympics
Carron Brown, author
Katy Tanis, illustrator
Ivy Kids
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9781782409878, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Animal-Olympics-CARRON-BROWN/dp/1782409874

In the pages of "Animal Olympics: Creatures Great and Small Competing in Incredible, Impressive, and Extraordinary Events! Discover Nature's Sporting Stars" by author Carron Brown and illustrator Katy Tanis, children ages 5-7 will fully enjoy meeting some of the most incredible Olympians in the world! These animal athletes are at the top of their game, and they're ready to go for gold!

An inherently fascinating book of animal facts, "Animal Olympics" deftly examines the incredible abilities of animals from all around the globe with a captivating and original conceit -- in the Animal Olympics these various creatures are competing against one another, and the young reader has a front row seat to the action!

In each event, animals are awarded bronze, silver or gold for their skills. Events featured in the "Animal Olympics" include diving, wrestling, rock climbing and gymnastics. Young readers will discover all kinds of astounding animals, from the bar-headed goose, which flies at heights of up to 6,300 metres, to the flic-flac spider, which cartwheels across the Moroccan desert. Fun vignettes show the animals in their heat, and are accompanied by absorbing, fact-packed captions.

Simply stated, "Animal Olympics: Creatures Great and Small Competing in Incredible, Impressive, and Extraordinary Events! Discover Nature's Sporting Stars" is an original, fun and informative addition to elementary school, middle school, and community library Pets/Wildlife collections for young readers.

Pika Country
Dorothy Hinshaw Patent, author
Marlo Garnsworthy, author
Dan Hartman, photographer
Web of Life Children's Books
www.weboflifebooks.com
9781970039023, $17.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Pika-Country-Climate-Change-World/dp/1970039027

Beautifully illustrated with full color photography on each page, "Pika Country: Climate Change at the Top of the World" will take young readers ages 5-9 on a journey to a place they have never ventured before that is beneath a rock pile on a lonely mountain top. There they will meet the pikas, or rock rabbits.

These scurrying, squeaking, industrious, and exceedingly cute mammals make their living harvesting grass and wildflowers during the brief alpine summers. But despite the remoteness of their homes, the pikas' lifestyle and survival are threatened by Climate Change.

Children will enjoy following the story of pikas which is told with lavish photographs by Dan Hartman, and the clear prose of collaborative authors Dorothy Patent and Marlo Garnsworthy, and learn how small actions on our part can have global benefits. "Pika Country: Climate Change at the Top of the World" is an extraordinary, fun and informative addition to elementary school and community library Wildlife and Environmental Studies picture book collections and reading lists.

The Great Grizzlies Go Home
Judy Hilgemann
Harbour Publishing
www.harbourpublishing.com
9781550179071, $23.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Great-Grizzlies-Go-Home/dp/1550179071

"The Great Grizzlies Go Home" by author and illustrator Judy Hilgemann is the picture book story of two curious young grizzly bears go on a very long swim, far from their usual home in the Great Bear Rainforest.

They crunch tart red cranberries in the bog then dig for crabs on the beach. They wander through backyards and feast on plums. Then they sniff something even more delicious -- mmm, barbecued salmon. But a village full of people is no place for grizzly bears, no matter how sweet the plums or how tasty that salmon smells. Time for a helicopter ride home!

"The Great Grizzlies Go Home" tells the story of the bears' adventurous journey, ending in their safe relocation back to the mainland. Featuring detailed watercolour paintings, engaging text and a concluding section with bear safety tips, this is a highly recommended addition to the family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library wildlife picture book collections will capture the imagination of readers ages 3-5. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Great Grizzlies Go Home" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.99).

The Puffin Plan
Stephen W. Kress & Derrick Z. Jackson
Tumblehome Books
https://tumblehomebooks.org
9781943431571, $16.95, HC, 200pp

https://www.amazon.com/Puffin-Plan-Restoring-Seabirds-Beyond/dp/1943431574

Fifty years ago, a young ornithologist named Steve Kress fell in love with puffin. After learning that hunting had eradicated their colonies on small, rocky islands off the coast of Maine, he resolved to bring them back.

So began a decades-long quest that involved collecting chicks in Canada, flying them to Maine, raising them in coffee-can nests, transporting them to their new island home, watching over them as they grew, and then waiting (for years) to see if they would come back.

"The Puffin Plan: Restoring Seabirds to Egg Rock and Beyond" is the story of how the Puffin Project reclaimed a piece of our rich biological heritage, and how it inspired other groups around the world to help other species re-root in their native lands.

Critique: Very nicely illustrated throughout, "The Puffin Plan: Restoring Seabirds to Egg Rock and Beyond" is an extraordinary and inspiring story that will have a very special appeal to young readers ages 12 to 16. An inherently fascinating and exceptionally well written history, "The Puffin Plane" is especially and unreservedly recommended for middle school, high school, and community library Pets/Wildlife collections and the personal reading lists for anyone who has admired the Puffin and has come to appreciate the impact that climate change and habitat loss has had on this endangered species.

Maria The Monarch
Homero Aridjis, author
Juan Palomino, illustrator
Mandel Vilar Press
https://www.mvpublishers.org
9781942134343, $19.95, HC, 64pp

https://www.amazon.com/Maria-Monarch-Young-Eco-Fiction/dp/1942134347

Each year, in the Mexican town of Contepec, migrating Monarch butterflies spend the winter in the temperate forests of Mexico. "Maria The Monarch" is an adventurous picture book story about two courageous cousins Erendira and Corina. With the help of their community as well as Maria the Monarch butterfly, who speaks to them in their dreams, they save the lives of millions of Monarch butterflies threatened by illegal logging and traffickers of wild animals. Together they help preserve the natural and cultural wealth of their homeland.

In an afterword "The Monarch: A Tireless Traveler" Betty Ferber describes the life and evolution of the Monarch butterfly, its migration from North to South America, and the establishment of the sanctuaries in Mexico and the laws that protect them.

Beautifully illustrated, and as informative as it is entertaining, "Maria The Monarch" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 8-12. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Maria The Monarch" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781942134336, $12.99).

Sounds of the Sky
Moira Butterfield, author
Jonathan Woodward, illustrator
360 Degrees
http://www.littletiger.co.uk/special/360degrees
9781944530273, $19.99, HC, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/Sounds-Sky-Moira-Butterfield/dp/1944530274

Featuring some of the most amazing birds on the planet, children ages 5-8 will enjoy pressing the pages of "Sounds of the Sky" to hear some of the most amazing birds on the planet. Each section of this unique volume features a unique bird in its habitat along with the other animals that live in the same habitat. Children will discover a world of fascinating facts so ably showcased in this stunningly illustrated book that features the mighty bald eagle calling from the sky, an ostrich booming in the Serengeti, and a nightingale chirping in the mountain trees, including other interesting and fun facts along with 9 bird sounds!

A unique, beautiful and informative collaboration between author/storyteller Moira Butterfield and artist/illustrator Jonathan Woodward, "Sounds of the Sky" is an extraordinary, fun and informative addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, middle school, and community library Pets/Wildlife collections. Also highly recommended for these same collections is the companion book by Moira Butterfield "Sounds of the Wild" (360 Degrees, 9781944530280, $19.99, HC, 24pp, www.amazon.com).

TINKERBELL, the LONG-HAIRED CHIHUAHUA
Glenda Sue Paradee, author
Candyce Tracy, illustrator
Thanks For The Music
9780578652078, $14.95, HC, 38pp

https://www.amazon.com/TINKERBELL-LONG-HAIRED-CHIHUAHUA-Glenda-Paradee/dp/0578652072

"TINKERBELL, the LONG-HAIRED CHIHUAHUA" is the story of author Glenda Sue Paradee's canine companion, Tinkerbell, who was a beautiful, loving companion giving unconditional love and comfort to her. Illustrated by Candyce Tracey and featuring a page of full color photographs at the end, "TINKERBELL, the LONG-HAIRED CHIHUAHUA" describes some of the adventures and highlights of Tinkerbell's life with Glenda Sue Paradee.

The underlying moral message of "TINKERBELL, the LONG-HAIRED CHIHUAHUA" is that it is perfectly okay to be different because you can be happy and you are still loved! While highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Pets/Wildlife picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "TINKERBELL, the LONG-HAIRED CHIHUAHUA" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).


The American History Shelf

The True West
Mifflin Lowe, author
William Luong, illustrator
Bushel & Peck Books
www.bushelandpeckbooks.com
9781733633512, $19.99, HC, 48pp

https://www.amazon.com/True-West-Sharpshooters-Native-American-Pioneering/dp/1733633510

When a child's information about the American Old West comes from movies and television they will be left with an incorrect and incomplete image of who lived, worked, fought, and died west of the Mississippi. They won't know that the Lone Ranger was likely inspired by a black lawman, or that some of the most famous sharpshooters in the West were women, or how a Native American rodeo star could ride even a buffalo! Historians estimate that 1 in 4 cowboys were actually black, latino, or Native American-or even women!

"The True West: Real Stories About Black Cowboys, Women Sharpshooters, Native American Rodeo Stars, Pioneering Vaqueros, and the Unsung Explorers, Builders, and Heroes Who Shaped the American West" by author Mifflin Lowe and illustrator William Luong provides an informative and entertaining tour of the Wild West with some of history's most unsung heroes enabling children ages 8-12 to discover how the great Western story really is when it's everyone's story!

"The True West" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library American History collections for young readers.

Dreaming of Rocky Mountain National Park
Grant Collier, author
Stephanie Lowman, author/illustrator
Collier Publishing
www.collierpublishing.com
9781935694427, $12.95, HC, 36pp

https://www.amazon.com/Dreaming-Mountain-National-educational-childrens/dp/1935694421< br>
"Dreaming of Rocky Mountain National Park" tells the story of Orion the Owl, who does not want to go to sleep. But when he does doze off, he dreams that he can travel back in time. Orion goes on several journeys and sees dinosaurs, woolly mammoths, and Native Americans.

Each of Orion's adventures is based on real events that occurred in and around Rocky Mountain National Park. History can be a challenging subject to teach to young children. That's why Grant Collier and Stephanie Lowman decided to use time-traveling animals to turn historical events into exciting adventures.

Featuring museum quality artwork on every page, "Dreaming of Rocky Mountain National Park" is a truly extraordinary, elegant, informative and entertaining picture book for young readers that is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library Pets/Wildlife picture book collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Dreaming of Rocky Mountain National Park" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99).


The Board Book Shelf

Life Cycles of Caribou
Monica Ittusardjust, author
Emma Pedersen, illustrator
Inhabit Media
9781772272802, $12.95, Board Book, 26pp

https://www.amazon.com/Life-Cycles-Caribou-Monica-Ittusardjuat/dp/1772272809

Synopsis: A is bilingual board book (with text in Inuktitut syllabics, Inuktitut Roman orthography, and English), "Life Cycles of Caribou" shares six Inuktitut terms for caribou throughout their life cycles, giving the youngest of readers an understanding of the rich Inuktitut terminology for these important animals.

Critique: Featuring the exquisite artwork of Emma Pedersen, "Life Cycles of Caribou" is a unique, wonderfully fun and informative board book developed by indigenous author Maanika Ittuksaarjuat that is especially commended for children ages 1-5 and will prove to be a popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, kindergarten, and community bilingual (Inuktitut/English) board book collections.

Raven Squawk, Orca Squeak
Roy Henry Vickers, author
Robert Budd, illustrator
Harbour Publishing
www.harbourpublishing.com
9781550179040, $9.95, Board Book, 20pp

https://www.amazon.com/Raven-Squawk-Squeak-First-Coast/dp/1550179047

With bright and bold illustrations by celebrated Indigenous artist Roy Henry Vickers, "Raven Squawk, Orca Squeak" is a sturdy board book in which author Roy Henry Vickers introduces iconic sounds of the West Coast and supports the language development of babies and toddlers. From the "geek geek" of the eagle, to the creak and rustle of cedar branches in the wind, to the sacred drumming of a potlatch and the crashing waves of the Pacific Ocean, the rhythmic text, vibrant illustrations and glossy tactile finish of "Raven Squawk", Orca Squeak will delight the very youngest readers and is especially appropriate for children ages 1-3, making it an ideal and highly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, kindergarten, and community library board book collections.

Peep!
Kevin Luthardt
Peachtree Publishers, Ltd.
1700 Chattahoochee Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30318-2112
www.peachtree-online.com
9781682632000, $6.99, Board Book, 22pp

https://www.amazon.com/Peep-Kevin-Luthardt/dp/1682632008

A duckling breaks through its shell and immediately attaches itself to the first thing it sees - a warmhearted young boy. The newly hatched duck follows the boy home and soon the two are inseparable. But the duckling is growing up. One day, when a flock of ducks flies by, the boy realizes with a great pang of sorrow that his friend will have to return to live among its own kind.

Unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, kindergarten, and community library board book collections for children ages 2-6, "Peep!" is author and illustrator Kevin Luthardt's deceptively simple story poignantly and humorously dramatizes the special tale of friendship and demonstrates the importance of learning to let go of something you love.

Curious About Mammals
Cathryn Sill, author
John Sill, illustrator
Peachtree Publishers, Ltd.
1700 Chattahoochee Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30318-2112
www.peachtree-online.com
9781682631980, $6.99, Board Book, 22pp

https://www.amazon.com/Curious-About-Mammals-Discovering-Nature/dp/1682631982

This board book beginner's guide offers a thoughtful first glimpse into the world of mammals.

In her new board book, "Curious About Mammals", educator and author Cathryn Sill introduces very young children ages 2-6 to some basic facts about mammals with the help of beautifully detailed illustrations from noted wildlife illustrator John Sill. Simple and clear descriptions of how mammals look, where they live, what they eat, and how they move around make this first title in the Discovering Nature series a dependable and informative beginning resource for learning about mammals. Offering an ideal beginner's guide offers a thoughtful first glimpse into the world of mammals, "Curious About Mammals" is especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library children's board book collections.

Pride 1 2 3
Michael Joosten, author
Wednesday Holmes, illustrated
Little Simon
c/o Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781534464995, $7.99, Board Book, 22pp

https://www.amazon.com/Pride-1-2-Michael-Joosten/dp/1534464999

Parents and caregivers can each little ones ages 1-5 about the Pride Parade with this colorful, energetic counting book! Featuring a diverse cast of characters and families, this entertaining and informative little board book highlights and celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community, love, and standing up for who you are while counting to ten. Perfect for all families, this counting board book should be shared and read with pride! While also highly recommended for daycare center, preschool, and community library board book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Pride 1 2 3" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99).

Antiracist Baby
Ibram X. Kendi, author
Ashley Lukashevsky, illustrator
Kokila
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
https://www.penguin.com
9780593110416, $8.99, Board Book, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/AntiRacist-Baby-Ibram-X-Kendi/dp/0593110412

Children ages 2-3 follow Antiracist Baby's nine easy steps for building a more equitable world with this board book by the team of author Ibram Kendi and illustrator Ashley Lukashevsky. Featuring bold colorful art combined with a thoughtful yet playful text, "Antiracist Baby" introduces the youngest readers (and their grown-ups) to the concept and power of antiracism. Providing the language necessary to begin critical conversations at the earliest age, "Antiracist Baby" is the perfect gift for readers of all ages dedicated to forming a just society -- and is unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, and community library board book collections for young children.


The Picturebook Shelf

Winging It!: A Monarch Love Story
Bev Davis, author
Elena Stowell, illustrator
www.bevdavisauthor.com
Thewordverve Inc.
9781948225786, $19.99, HC, 38pp

https://www.amazon.com/Winging-Monarch-Story-Bev-Davis/dp/1948225786

In "Winging It!: A Monarch Love Story" a picture book for children ages 5-12 by the team of author/storyteller Bev Davis and artist/illustrator Elena Stowell, a grandmother and her granddaughter share a special bond as they watch a Monarch butterfly form and take flight.

Unreservedly recommended for family, daycare, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, "Winging It!: A Monarch Love Story" is an entertaining and elegant picture book tale that reminds children that they (and their parents!) can each do their part in keeping the Monarch butterfly population alive and well in the face of climate change and habitat reduction.

I Didn't Do It!
Michael Foreman
Andersen Press USA
https://www.andersenpress.co.uk/usa
c/o The Lerner Publishing Group
241 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1607
www.lernerbooks.com
9781541596290, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/I-Didnt-Do-Michael-Foreman/dp/1541596293

Quick, quick! The Big Cycle Race is coming to town, and Milo does not want to miss it. On his way to the finish line, Milo unwittingly causes havoc that follows him all along the route -- but when someone tries to steal the trophy, who will save the day?

"I Didn't Do It!" by artist and author Michael Foreman (who has won the Kate Greenaway Medal twice and has been the UK nominee for the Hans Christian Andersen Award twice) is a delightfully entertaining and colorful picture book particularly recommended for children ages 4- 9 and will prove to be a welcome, fun and popular addition family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school and community library collections and reading lists.

The Mountain Lion at Crab Lake
David Mulford, author
Christine Cathers Donohue, illustrator
www.DavidMulfordBooks.com
Brown Books Kids
c/o Brown Books Publishing Group
www.BrownBoksKids.com
9781612544359, $19.99, HC, 64pp

https://www.amazon.com/Mountain-Lion-Crab-Lake-Tales/dp/1612544355

There is a newcomer at Crab Lake this winter, big and fierce and intimidating. He is a mountain lion, and none of the creatures of Crab Lake - nor Jeannie - have ever met an animal like this, and they've never been so nervous. Where did he come from? Why is he here? Is he dangerous? Some of the animals think so, but Jeannie is brave, and wants to welcome Mr. Mountain Lion to the lake even though his large paws, long white teeth and bright yellow eyes are a little scary.

The third book in the Crab Lake Tales series by David Mulford and nicely illustrated by Christine Cathers Donohue, "The Mountain Lion at Crab Lake" will teach children ages 5-8 the importance of not judging someone by their appearance, and of embracing those things that make us unique. Very highly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections, young readers will enjoy discovering who Mr. Mountain Lion really is and visiting Jeannie's enchanting world in the picture book pages of "The Mountain Lion at Crab Lake!"

Babbit and Joan, a Rabbit and a Phone
Denise Turu
Flyaway Books
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40202
https://www.flyawaybooks.com
9781947888203, $17.00, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Babbit-Joan-Rabbit-Phone-Denise/dp/194788820X

Sometimes friends are best off with a little time apart. That's true for Babbit, a rabbit, and Joan, his phone. Yet Babbit has never left Joan at home before. Does he dare go out on a solo excursion? How will he know what to do? What if he gets lost?

"Babbit and Joan, a Rabbit and a Phone" by artist and storyteller Denise Turu is a charming, low-tech picture book story for children ages 3-7 about how a small adventure can open up into big possibilities for seeing new places, meeting new friends, and coming home to share all about it. While highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Babbit and Joan, a Rabbit and a Phone" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.00).

Cannonball Coralie and the Lion
Grace Easton
Frances Lincoln Children's Books
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9780711252158, $18.99, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Cannonball-Coralie-Lion-Grace-Easton/dp/0711252157

Coralie is a young girl who longs to join the circus -- but the Man in the Big Hat says her tricks just aren't good enough. With the help of her new friend, Lion, Coralie realizes she's perfect just the way she is.

"Cannonball Coralie and the Lion" by Grace Easton is a heart-warming story about the friendship between a girl and a lion. This fun, quirky picture book by Grace Easton wonderfully and entertainingly celebrates daring to be different and the importance of standing up for yourself. While highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 1-5, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Cannonball Coralie and the Lion" is also readily available in a digital book format Kindle $16.25).

Oh No, Bobo!
Donna David, author
Laura Watkins, illustrator
QEB Publishing
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9780711251113, $17.95, HC, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/Oh-No-Bobo-message-Storytime/dp/0711251118

Bobo is an orangutang who is sure one of his jungle friends will be able to help him in his quest to find the perfect pillow and ensure a good night's sleep. He plucks a feather here and a tuft of hair there but only causes upset! Bobo is left despondent and still without a pillow. But when Elsie the elephant enthusiastically strokes Bobo and wraps him up in her trunk in an effort to play, Bobo gets very upset indeed. Will Bobo and Elsie both learn an important lesson about asking permission?

Beautifully illustrated by Laura Watkins, "Oh No, Bobo!" is a sweet and entertaining story with a gentle message about personal space and part of the QEB's Storytime series which introduces young children to the pleasures of reading and sharing stories. Of special note is 'A Next Steps' page at the back provides guidance for parents and teachers. While very highly recommended for family daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-6, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Oh No, Bobo!" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780711251090, $10.38) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.25).

Yoga at the Zoo: Little Mouse Adventures
Teresa Anne Power, author
Emma Allen, illustrator
Stafford House Books
https://staffordhousebooks.com
9780998107097, $16.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Yoga-Zoo-Little-Mouse-Adventures/dp/0998107093

Little Mouse and his family live in a cozy burrow nestled in young Tammy McDoodle's backyard. Tammy and her mother love to practice yoga together, and Little Mouse loves to follow along!

Author and storyteller Teresa Anne Power's "Yoga at the Zoo: Little Mouse Adventures" is beautifully illustrated by artist Emma Allen as children ages 4-8 enjoy reading about adorable Little Mouse and the wise and lovable lazy cat, Mr. Opus, as they follow Tammy on a field trip to the zoo and meet new animal friends, while learning simple yet meaningful yoga poses along the way.

Very highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library story-time picturebooks, "Yoga at the Zoo" gently imparts important lessons about friendship, dealing with new situations, and meeting new people. Kids will delight in the interactive adventures of Little Mouse and Mr. Opus, while parents and educators will love watching children apply their new-found yoga skills to quiet their minds and manage stressful situations.

It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Yoga at the Zoo" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.95). Of special note is the associated web site at: www.abcyogaforkids.com

Prairie Days
Patricia MacLachlan, author
Micha Archer, illustrator
Margaret K. McElderry Books
c/o Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781442441910, $17.99, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Prairie-Days-Patricia-MacLachlan/dp/1442441917

Cool summer mornings begin with the rose orange sun and the smell of earth, and fade into hot summer nights with a yellow moon, covered in a quilt of stars. There are wagon rides, farm dogs, trips into town, and games of kick the can. These are prairie days.

A delicate, stunning, informative and impressively entertaining account of life on the prairie from Newbery medalist Patricia MacLachlan., "Prairie Days" applies her lyrical, sparse voice, while the vibrant and tender art from Micha Archer to transport young aged readers ages 4-8 to the prairie of her youth in a stunning picture book celebration of the beauty in the world.

While especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Prairie Days" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).

Outside In
Deborah Underwood, author
Cindy Derby, illustrator
HMH Books for Young Readers
c/o Houghton Mifflin Company
215 Park Avenue South, New York, NY 10003
https://www.hmhbooks.com
9781328866820, $17.99, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Outside-Deborah-Underwood/dp/1328866823

Outside is waiting, the most patient playmate of all. The most generous friend. The most miraculous inventor.

"Outside In" by the creative team of author Deborah Underwood and illustrator Cindy Derby is a thought-provoking picture book that poetically underscores our powerful and enduring connection with nature, not so easily obscured by lives spent indoors.

Rhythmic, powerful language shows us how our world is made and the many ways Outside comes in to help and heal us, and reminds us that we are all part of a much greater universe. Emotive artwork evokes the beauty, simplicity, and wonder that await us all... outside.

"Outside In" will remind emerging young readers ages 4-7 of the ways nature creates and touches our lives in homes, apartments, and cars, and is the perfect home schooling tool to reflect on the world's connectedness.

While especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library children's picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Outside In" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).

Elsie
Nadine Robert, author
Maja Kastelie, illustrator
Harry N. Abrams
195 Broadway, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10007
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781419740725, $16.99, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Elsie-Nadine-Robert/dp/1419740725

On nice and sunny Sundays, Elsie goes fishing with her six siblings. But she doesn't quite fit in. They want to walk through the woods, but she wants to walk along the water. They like to cast their fishing rods directly into the water, but she prefers to use buttercups as bait. They eat their sandwiches, while Elsie feeds them to the ducks.

But by the end of the day, Elsie's siblings realize that though they may see the world differently, they can learn from their unique perspectives and love one another all the same.

The collaborative project of author/storyteller Nadine Robert and artist/illustrator Maja Kastelic, "Elsie" is sweet sibling picture book story gently introduces young readers ages 4-8 to important themes like diversity and acceptance and encourages us all to widen our world views and open our hearts. Delightfully entertaining from first page to last, "Elsie" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library children's picture book collections.

Construction Site Mission: Demolition!
Sherri Duskey Rinker, author
AG Ford, illustrator
Chronicle Books
680 Second Street, San Francisco, CA 94107
www.chroniclebooks.com
9781452182575, $17.99, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Construction-Mission-Sherri-Duskey-Rinker/dp/1452182574

In "Construction Site Mission: Demolition!", the construction team we all know and love has an exciting job to do -- smashing, crushing, sorting, hauling. Ultimately, this picture book by the team of author/storyteller Sherri Rinker and artist/illustrator Ag Ford is about working together, breaking things down, and cleaning it all up at the end of the day.

Demolition is tough work, but these powerful vehicles are up to the task -- and once the job is done, there will be a freshly cleared and tidy construction site ready for building something new.

Filled with playful rhyming text and vibrant illustrations to inspire cleanup; featuring the same beloved trucks and construction site from their original picture book "Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site", "Construction Site Mission: Demolition!' is about teamwork, perseverance, how to overcome obstacles, and have fun!

Entertaining and informative, "Construction Site Mission: Demolition!" is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, kindergarten, and community library picture book collections for children age 2-6.

National Regular Average Ordinary Day
Lisa Katzenberger, author
Barbara Bakos, illustrator
Penguin Workshop
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
http://us.penguingroup.com
9781524792404, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/National-Regular-Average-Ordinary-Day/dp/1524792403

Peter does not like being bored, so he comes up with a way to have some festive fun -- he'll celebrate a different holiday each day! He even rates them on a scale of 1 to 10. But when he wakes up one morning to discover there isn't any holiday, he realizes he'll have to take matters into his own hands and make up his own! That's easier said than done, though, and nothing seems to go right -- until Peter realizes that even a regular, average, ordinary day can be something worth celebrating!

A unique and wonderfully fun picture book for children ages 4-8 by the team of author/storyteller Lisa Katzenberger and artist/illustrator Barbara Bakos, "National Regular Average Ordinary Day" is certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that 'National Regular Average Ordinary Day" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781524792411, $4.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).

Jelly Beans the Cheetah and Hope
SissyMarySue, author
Jacob Peterson, illustrator
www.sissymarysue.org
Beaver's Pond Press
www.BeaversPondPress.com
9781592989119, $24.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Jelly-Beans-Cheetah-Hope-Sissymarysue/dp/159298911X

In "Jelly Beans the Cheetah and Hope" by the team of author/storyteller SissyMarySue and artist/illustrator Jacob Peterson, the unlikely pairing of a sad little girl and a captured cheetah discover how much they share in common when they embark on an adventure in friendship. They've both experienced profound loss, but persevere through sharing empathy, kindness, joy, and love. Together they learn about their connection to the human family and to all, which provides for their self-esteem and a feeling of wholeness.

"Jelly Beans the Cheetah and Hope" is a vehicle for empowering youth with empathy to spring into compassionate action! Compassionate action refers to the positive impact youth can make by caring about the plight of all people.

Set in Tanzania, Africa with the Barabaig tribe, "Jelly Beans the Cheetah and Hope" encourages children ages 5-10 to identify with the characters as they experience difficulty, persevere, model empathy, and then are shown empathy by the tribe. Together, these special friends demonstrate our connection to all, including the endangered cheetah, showing that we all belong.

"Jelly Beans the Cheetah and Hope" is award-winning and extraordinary, making it certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school, middle school, and community library picture book collections.

Also very highly and unreservedly recommended from Beaver's Pond Press is a sequel picture book of this award winning series from the imagination of author/storyteller MissyMarySue, "Jelly Beans the Cheetah and Hope: Empathy Airlines - Book 2" (9781592986163, $24.95, HC, 38pp).

Editorial Note: SissyMarySue is a lifelong Minnesota educator with an MA in Human Development. During her doctoral studies in education, she was awarded a Fielder Graduate Fellowship through the Marie Fielder Center for Democracy, Leadership, and Education. SissyMarySue is the author of the award-winning, five star rated children's book Jelly Beans the Cheetah and Hope, and the playwright and lyricist of the accompanying children's musical. The musical was first produced in association with H2O for Life Schools and Children's Performing Arts of Minnesota at Hanifl Performing Arts Center.

Nola's Scribbles Save the Day
Cristina Lalli
https://www.cristinalalli.com
Page Street Kids
c/o Page Street Publishing
www.pagestreetpublishing.com
9781624149429, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Nolas-Scribbles-Save-Cristina-Lalli/dp/1624149421

Nola loves her scribbles. They go with her wherever she goes. But she can't seem to share her scribbles with others -- no one seems to understand the imaginative world she's created for herself. Frustrated and uninspired, Nola draws a blank. A big, boring blank. But when Nola falls deep into a creative slump, she discovers she's not alone. If she can find the courage to share her scribbled ideas again, she may just inspire others to think outside the box and give their ideas a try too.

With playful illustrations, this imaginative tale by author and illustrator Cristina Lalli shows children ages 4-8 the power in persevering to create and embrace unique expression. A thoroughly charming and fun picture book, "Nola's Scribbles Save the Day" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for young readers.

Editorial Note: Cristina Lalli has always believed that books have a special power. She received a Masters of Children's Book Illustration from Cambridge School of Art and has worked in Chicago, New York, and London as a designer, illustrator, and educator. Now settled in Portland, Oregon, she is an active member of SCBWI. She received a Portfolio Honor Award at SCBWI LA 2018, and was the recipient of the SCBWI 2018 Don Freeman Grant for a pre-published work. This is her debut picture book.

Raja's Pet Camel: The Magic of Hope
Anita Nahta Amin, author
Parwinder Singh, illustrator
Cardinal Rule Press
9781733035941, $16.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Rajas-Pet-Camel-Magic-Hope/dp/173303594X

Smashed Pots! Broken Fences! Raja loves his new pet: a mischievous, date-loving baby camel named Kamal. But his father is fed up and determined to sell it at the next fair. Will Raja find a way to keep Kamal or will they lose each other forever?

A thoroughly charming and wonderfully fun picture book for children ages 5-8, "Raja's Pet Camel: The Magic of Hope" by author/storyteller Anita Nahta Amin and artist/illustrator Parwnder Singh will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections for young readers. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Raja's Pet Camel: The Magic of Hope" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781733035958, $10.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $1.99).

The Blue Giant
Katie Cottle
Pavilion Children's
https://www.pavilionbooks.com
9781843654452, $16.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Giant-Katie-Cottle/dp/1843654458

Coral and her mom are enjoying a break at the seaside. Until a creature emerges from the waves! It's a giant. A blue giant. It is made of water, fish, and sea plants and has a stirring plea to help clean up the ocean. Coral and her mom agree to help, donning their scuba-diving outfits and setting off to sea. But they can't do it alone...can they?

"The Blue Giant" is the stunning follow-up to Katie Cottle's debut picture book "The Green Giant" and is another entertaining and beautiful eco-tale from the 2017 winner of the Batsford Prize. "The Blue Giant" introduces young readers to the issues of pollution, waste management, and the oceans, with suggestions of lifestyle changes to help clean up our seas, making it an unreservedly recommended addition to family, elementary school, middle school, and community library ecology themed picture book collections for children.

Guess This Ginger Cat's Name
Carroll Lutz, author
Alaina Luise, illustrator
Mascot Books
http://mascotbooks.com
9781645430438, $14.95, HC, 38pp

https://www.amazon.com/Guess-This-Ginger-Cats-Name/dp/164543043X

The collaborative work of author/storyteller Carroll Lutz and artist/illustrator Alaina Luise, children ages 5-8 will thoroughly enjoy "Guess This Ginger Cat's Name" as they follow a ginger cat's adventurous travels. Each stop along the way suggests a new name for him. Young readers will have fun as they are invited to think of other rhyming names that fit the story! A thoroughly fun read from first page to last, "Guess This Ginger Cat's Name" will prove to be an enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.

Superheroes Don't Babysit
Amber Hendricks, author
Kyle Reed, illustrator
Beaming Books
PO Box 1209, Minneapolis, MN 55440
https://www.beamingbooks.com
9781506458762, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Superheroes-Dont-Babysit-Amber-Hendricks/dp/1506458769

Superheroes leap buildings, chase bad guys, and save the city from the evil Emperor Zog. Superheroes do not babysit! Except when their dad asks them to. In an epic battle of sibling rivalry, will this superhero finally meet her match? Or will she find exactly what she's been missing all along?

In "Superheroes Don't Babysit", author Amber Hendricks tells an original and entertaining story filled with of humor and heart, while illustrator Kyle Reed's superpowered illustrations pack a punch with their bold colors and sharp lines. Fun to look at and to read with siblings who consider themselves rivals or friends, or maybe something in between, "Superheroes Don't Babysit" is especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Superheroes Don't Babysit" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).

Frozen 2: Bruni's Big Adventure
Suzanne Francis, author
Griselda Sastrawinata-Lemay, illustrator
Disney Press
c/o Disney Hyperion
www.disneyhyperionbooks.com
9781368064781, $12.99, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Frozen-2-Brunis-Big-Adventure/dp/1368064787

Children ages 3-5 will enjoy discovering what Olaf and his friend Bruni are up to in the Enchanted Forest. Are they behaving under Elsa's watchful eye, or are they running wild and breaking out on their own? Especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, "Bruni's Big Adventure" is a beautifully illustrated picture book by author/storyteller Suzanne Francis and artist/illustrator Griselda Sastrawinata-Lemay that takes place after Frozen 2.

Along Came a Fox
Georgiana Deutsch, author
Cally Johnson-Isaacs, illustrator
Tiger Tales
PO Box 70, Iron Ridge, WI 53035
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9781680102260, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Along-Came-Fox-Georgiana-Deutsch/dp/1680102265

Down by the moonlit lake, Bramble fox is in for a BIG SURPRISE... There's another fox! "That fox startled me!" grumped Bramble. "How RUDE!" Will these two foxes be able to be friends? Charmingly illustrated by artist Cally Johnson-Isaacs, "Along Came a Fox" is a joyfully original picture book story by author Georgiana Deutsch for children ages 3-7, making it an ideal and highly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.

Lola Hopscotch and the First Day of School
Marie Whittaker, author
Lily Uivel, illustrator
Petrichor Press
9781949906042, $19.99, HC, 52pp

https://www.amazon.com/Lola-Hopscotch-First-School-Adventures/dp/1949906043

Feeling bashful about the first day of school, Lola Hopscotch is off to the playground. This timid bunny's world is shaken when other children make fun of her long ears and big feet. But Lola has much to say and it's time to play! She meets new friends and stands up for herself, even teaching the children how to play her favorite game.

This charming and thoroughly 'kid friendly' picture book story by author/storyteller Marie Whittaker for children ages 3-12 deals with the issue of childhood bullying and rounds out with a wonderful communication hook, picturesque prose, and artistic illustrations by Lily Uivel whose artwork perfectly captures Lola's personality and surroundings perfectly as the little bunny triumphs past bashfulness and spreads kindness.

Also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99), "Lola Hopscotch and the First Day of School" is certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.

Scruff
Alice Bowsher
Cicada Books
https://www.cicadabooks.co.uk
9781908714787, $14.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Scruff-Alice-Bowsher/dp/1908714786

A man wanted a dog and found one that was perfect! Nobody wanted him because he looked scruffy -- but the man was himself a scruffy guy so that suited him just fine. After picking out the scruffiest dog at the pound, he is surprised to find that Scruff isn't what he initially seemed. As a dog he doesn't want to catch sticks, or roll in the mud, or swim in the pond! What could be the problem? It turns out that Scruff just loves being pampered! So the man goes along with it. They wash, brush, trim and polish together, until they are anything but scruffy! In their newly groomed state they go to the dog show -- but have they done enough to win? "Scruff" by storyteller and artist Alice Bowsher is a charmingly funny and unique picture book story for children ages 3-7 that is sure to charm dog-mad little ones and their parents -- making it highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.

Miss Olive Finds Her "Furever" Friends
Susan Mare & Miss Olive, authors
Kim Ranson & Rebekah Phillips, illustrators
The Doggy Diva Show, Inc
9780578672861, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Miss-Olive-Finds-Furever-Friends/dp/0578672863

"Miss Olive Finds Her "Furever" Friends" is the second book in the heartwarming and inspirational series The Doggy Diva Diaries. When rescue pup Miss Olive is faced with a bullying situation, she learns valuable life lessons: that her superpower is kindness, and that it doesn't matter what you look like on the outside. It's the kindness and love you have on the inside that counts. A joyfully entertaining and charming illustrated picture book for children ages 3-7, "Miss Olive Finds Her "Furever" Friends" will prove to be an immediately and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Miss Olive Finds Her "Furever" Friends" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9798640127874, $9.99).

Dudley's Day at Home
Karen Kaufman Orloff, author
Renee Andriani, illustrator
Flash Light Press
527 Empire Boulevard, Brooklyn, NY 11225
www.flashlightpress.com
9781947277267, $17.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Dudleys-Home-Karen-Kaufman-Orloff/dp/194727726X

"What does Dudley do all day while we're away?" Sam wonders about the family pet. Mom explains that Dudley does ordinary dog things: he eats, naps, guards the house, and plays. But in Sam's mind, Dudley's day at home is anything but ordinary.

Delightful digital paintings by artist Renee Andriani depict the human activities Sam imagines Dudley is doing -- which don't quite match Mom's explanations! "Dudley's Day at Home" is a funny, fetching picture book by author Karen Orloff which features minimal text and maximal visual storytelling to share a day in a dog's life.

While especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 3-6, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Dudley's Day at Home" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).

Madame Badobedah
Sophie Dahl, author
Lauren O'Hara, illustrator
Walker Books
c/o Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
www.brillianceaudio.com
9781536210224, $18.99, HC, 56pp

https://www.amazon.com/Madame-Badobedah-Sophie-Dahl/dp/1536210226

There's a strange new guest at the Mermaid Hotel -- a very old lady with a growly voice, bags stuffed with jewelry and coins and curiosities, and a beady-eyed pet tortoise. Mabel, whose parents run the hotel, is suspicious.

Who is this "Madame Badobedah" who has come to stay indefinitely and never has any visitors? To find out, Mabel puts on her spy costume and observes the new guest. Conclusion? She must be a secret supervillain hiding out from the law!

The grown-ups think Madame Badobedah is a bit rude and sad, but when she invites "dahlink" Mabel for a cup of forbidden tea and a game of pirates, the two begin a series of imaginary adventures together, and Mabel realizes that first impressions can sometimes be very wrong.

Conjuring two quirky heroines that young readers ages 5-8 will love, with "Madame Badobedah" author and storyteller Sophie Dahl adds her talented voice to a grand tradition of books that celebrate the alliance of the old and young in the face of humdrum adults, while Lauren O'Hara's wonderfully charming illustrations are as packed with intriguing details as Madame Badobedah's suitcases.

While especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Madame Badobedah" is also readily available as a complete and unabridged audio book (Brilliance Audio, 9780655640578, $19.99, CD).

A Quiet Girl
Peter Carnavas
Pajama Press
https://pajamapress.ca
9781772781229, $18.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Quiet-Girl-Peter-Carnavas/dp/1772781223

Mary was a quiet girl. She thought quiet thoughts, stepped quiet steps, and whispered quiet words. Mary knows how to savor the small things. Wonder is everywhere: in the rustle of leaves, in the sigh of a sleeping dog, in the wingbeats of the birds who visit her upcycled feeders.

But Mary's family couldn't be more different. Amidst the sound of blow-dryers, blenders, lawnmowers, and her brother's trombone, Mary goes almost unnoticed. It isn't until her family starts searching the neighborhood for her that they begin to see the world through her eyes.

Critique: A gentle, engaging, entertaining, and thoroughly 'kid friendly' picture book for children ages 5-8, "A Quiet Girl" by author and artist Peter Carnavas is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for young readers.

Kindness Grows
Britta Teckentrup
Tiger Tales
PO Box 70, Iron Ridge, WI 53035
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9781848578777, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Kindness-Grows-Peek-through-Picture-Teckentrup/dp/1848578776

Angry words cause a crack to open up, but in the charmingly illustrated pages of "Kindness Grows", children ages 3-7 will enjoy finding out what happens when kindness begins to blossom in this thought-provoking and wonderfully entertaining 'peek-through' style picture book by author and artist Britta Teckentrup. While very highly recommended, especially for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Kindness Grows" is also readily available in a paperback edition ( 9781838910389, $13.86).

I Love My Fangs!
Kelly Leigh Miller
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781534452107, $17.99, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Fangs-Kelly-Leigh-Miller/dp/1534452109

Young Dracula loves his fangs. They are pointy. They are sharp! They are a cherished family trait. So one day, when a fang wiggles...and jiggles...and falls loose, Dracula doesn't know what to do! He tries pushing it back in. Then taping it. Then sticking it. Because a vampire can't have only one fang!...Right?

A charmingly illustrated and wonderfully entertaining picture book for children ages 4-8 by storyteller and artist Kelly Leigh Miller, "I Love My Fangs!" is a picture book that asks and answers the question of whether or not a vampire still a vampire if his fang is all wobbly. Kids will truly enjoy finding out in this funny and endearing spin on the classic first lost tooth story.

While especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for young readers, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "I Love My Fangs!" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).

Little Blue House Beside the Sea
Joe Ellen Bogart, author
Carme Lemniscates, illustrator
Tilbury House Publishers
https://www.tilburyhouse.com
9780884486718, $16.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Little-Blue-House-Beside-Sea/dp/0884486710

What child doesn't love walking in the surf, feeling the water steal the sand from beneath her toes as a wave retreats? Who doesn't love the salty smell of the air and the sight of ships far out on the horizon? What happens in the oceans is critically important to life on Earth. That's why the girl in her little blue house wants to believe that the children gazing back from far over the horizon love the oceans as she does and wants to keep them safe, alive, and beautiful.

Enhanced with the colorful artwork of illustrator Carme Lemniscates, "Little Blue House Beside The Sea" is a truly charming, entertaining, original, and thoughtful picture book by author and storyteller Jo Ellen Bogart for children ages 3-8. While especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Little Blue House Beside The Sea" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.10).

Hello, Little One: A Monarch Butterfly Story
Zeena M. Pliska, author
Fiona Halliday, illustrator
https://zeenamar.com
Page Street Publishing
www.pagestreetpublishing.com
9781624149313, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Hello-Little-One-Monarch-Butterfly/dp/1624149316

In "Hello, Little One: A Monarch Butterfly Story" by author/storyteller Zena Pliska and artist/illustrator Fiona Halliday a caterpillar crawls from leaf to leaf, eating and waiting, all alone in a big, green world. Then Orange appears -- Orange floats, and flits, and flies, graceful and beautiful.

A sweet, moving picture story for children ages 4-8 of intergenerational friendship, a small caterpillar is befriended by a glorious monarch butterfly, and together they learn to see the world through each other's eyes. Thoughtful and thoroughly entertaining, "Hello, Little One: A Monarch Butterfly Story" is an especially recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book Pets/Wildlife collections for young readers.

The Little Kitten
Nicola Kileen
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781534466968, $16.99 HC, $10.99 Kindle, 32pp, Ages 4-8

https://www.amazon.com/Little-Kitten-My-Animal-Friend/dp/1534466967

The Little Kitten is a gentle, fun picture book story about a lost kitten discovered by Ollie and her cat Pumpkin. The two are set to adopt their new charge until they see "Lost Kitten" posters hanging on trees in the forest. It's apparent that their real rescue mission involves returning the lost pet to its rightful home. It's especially pleasing to see a Halloween theme wound into an overall Fall story about animal rescue. Black and white and orange illustrations are simple yet engaging and parental read-aloud assistance will help enliven this story for the very young, while those with rudimentary reading skills will find it an accessible, gentle story about love.

How to Give Your Cat a Bath In Five Easy Steps
Nicola Winstanley and John Martz
Tundra Books
https://tundrabooks.com
9780735263543, $17.99, www.penguinrandomhouse.ca

https://www.amazon.com/How-Give-Your-Cat-Bath/dp/073526354X

How to Give Your Cat a Bath In Five Easy Steps is a hilarious survey of what can go wrong with the idea that kitty needs a bath, and will prove especially fun reading for kids familiar with cats and their disinclination to bathe human-style. As the young protagonist follows simple instructions for preparing the bath for Mr. Flea, steps to success are revised in a fun manner, with whimsical and fun drawings by John Martz adding the creative visuals that will attract young readers. Parents looking for a fun story about cats and kids will find How to Give Your Cat a Bath In Five Easy Steps lends to read-aloud and independent pursuit alike, with very easy descriptions and a fun story kids will relish.

Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com

These new books from Candlewick Press are highly recommended picks for adults looking for different, standout leisure reads for their kids. Each one offers a superior blend of artistry and adventure that will attract and hold young reader attention.

Pete Oswald's Hike (9781536201574, $17.99) tells of a father and child who embark on a rigorous hike together, using a largely-wordless picture book format that holds only occasional sound efforts that enhance the story line. The child's excitement over the plans for the day and the mechanics of moving from an urban to a mountain environment creates a fun account of a shared nature experience outdoors that particular lends to father/child interactions and discussion.

Emma Dodd's What Matters Most (9781536210170, $14.99) asks "What matters most to you? What matters most to me?" as it follows an adult and young horse exploring their world. Does value lie in having lots of stuff or a minimalist existence? Does it mean being brave, or sometimes admitting fear? The fun milieu of the horses exploring their world and the backdrop of bigger-picture thinking will delight adults who want to use this gentle story to teach the very young adult values in living.

Naomi Howarth's What's That Noise? (9781536213522, $16.99) tells of Mangus the Arctic seal who experiences a strange rumbling sound in his world. He enlists the help of his friends to identify this problem and seems to have it solved...until another rumbling noise disturbs paradise. Kids will enjoy the lovely full-page paintings of Arctic wildlife and the fun discussions that blend natural history insights with the fictional tale of seals, walrus, and other Arctic creatures who explore their worlds.

Randi Sonenshine's The Nest That Wren Built (9781536201536, $16.99) receives especially gorgeous drawings by Anne Hunter as it surveys the life cycle of wrens using a 'House That Jack Built' cumulative tale that builds upon the wren's habits. Some built-in rhyme enhances the gentle story that will delight parents looking to blend an appreciation of poetry and nature like: "There are the feathers, petals, and thread/placed on the moss to soften the bed/that waits in the next that Wren built."

Welcome to Your World by Smriti Prasadam-Halls (9781536206227, $16.99) enjoys lovely drawings by Jaime Kim as it surveys animal parents and babies around the world, and the world which lends to different environments. A gentle rhyme weaves a tale around a new mother's discussion with her baby about the wonders of a day. Forests, butterflies and bees, blue oceans, and more each receive an exceptionally lovely series of drawings by Kim, who perfectly captures all these different natural worlds.

The Same But Different Too by Karl Newson (9781536212013, $16.99) enjoys whimsical, fun drawings by Kate Hindley as it explores contrasts between people and the ways they are different, even as humans are connected by their species and interests. The pleasing contrasts between ways in which individuals are "the same but different, too" makes for a gentle lesson parents will enjoy using as read-aloud wisdom to their kids.

James Howe's Houndsley and Catina at the Library (9780763696627, $15.99) is illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay and will appeal to young chapter book readers looking for a vivid tale of friendship and change. Three best friends have always gone to the library, but it's closing because the librarian is retiring, and there's nobody to take her place. The three decide to tackle this problem to keep their favorite space accessible. Readers will find their skills in considering and developing new options to be fun and engaging as the trio struggles to resolve a major problem.

Maribeth Boelts's Kaia and the Bees (9781536201055, $16.99) is illustrated by Angela Dominguez, who reviews the story of a brave girl who has one bugaboo: bees. It's a major problem for her because her father is a beekeeper, and she's always being called upon to participate in his important job. And because thousands of bees live on her roof as a result of his efforts. A fun story enhanced by lovely, whimsical drawings outlines the problem, employing the first person insights of Kaia as she faces her fears and finds 'magic happening in her own kitchen' as a side benefit. Hazel and Twig:

The Lost Egg by Brenna Burns Yu (9781536204926, $16.99) tells of mouse sisters who find an egg in the meadow and embark on a mission to hatch it by sitting on it to keep it warm. They have big dreams for the egg's inhabitant, but an egg takes a long time to hatch. And it's a lot of work, presenting dilemmas they hadn't anticipated. The gentle story of a lost egg and their ultimate mission to handle it creates a story perfect for beginning readers moving from two-line picture books to something that falls just before chapter books begin.

Yasmeen Ismail's Joy (9781536209341, $16.99) receives simple yet appealing drawings by Jenni Desmond as it explores a playful, bouncy kitten's fun game with yarn. A very easy rollicking rhyme lends to parental read-aloud with the very young as a kitten in a tangle bounces, shakes, rolls, and runs with the fun. The involvement of understanding cat parents in the kitten's play and mishaps enhances the fun.

Atinuke's Catch That Chicken! (9781536212686, $16.99) receives engaging, colorful drawings by Angela Brooksbank as it tells of Lami, the best chicken catcher in her village. The other village children have different abilities or attributes, but Lami holds her own special skill, until one clever chicken challenges her identity. Is she really braver, faster, and more clever than a chicken? A clever child's problem-solving abilities are tested in this celebration of village life and rural mishaps.

Jancee Dunn's I'm Afraid Your Teddy is in the Principal's Office (9781536201987, $16.99) is especially appealing between its lovely colorful, whimsical drawings by Scott Nash paired with the unusual story of a stowaway teddy who comes to school and gains the principal's attention for being naughty. Good reading skills will enhance this story of a bear who gets his fellow stuffed animals to sneak into children's backpacks all across town, coming out to wreck havoc on the school when they escape. A hilarious, zany story emerges which is particularly compelling for its unexpected moments and uniquely revolutionary bears.

All are outstanding leisure choices that lend particularly well to shared read-aloud experiences.

Sleeping Bear Press
315 East Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.sleepingbearpress.com

These picture book stories are standouts from the crowd, and excel in whimsical subjects and presentations that will delight young leisure readers looking for something different.

Gina Cascone and Bryony Williams Sheppard's Unicorn Yoga (9781534111066, $16.99) will reach ages 3-8 with 32 pages of fun drawings and a zany story by a mother-daughter writing team. Anyone familiar with yoga positions may know some of the descriptions, but when a yoga class is conducted by a unicorn, everything can change. Kids are taught ten poses and concrete information on yoga and mindfulness as a fun story evolves.

Brooke Hecker's Letters from My Tooth Fairy (9781534110557, $16.99) is illustrated by Deborah Melmon, and tells of a little girl whose pen pal is a tooth fairy. The letters reflect the fine art of growing older and capture fun moments as the fairy describes: "...flying in to grab your latest incisor, and I crash right into a crib that wasn't there before." Kids with good reading skills will appreciate the hilarious evolution of this relationship and the letters between them, while parents will find the story refreshingly original and fun.

Frank Murphy and Carla Murphy's A Girl Like You (9781534110960, $16.99) receives excellent color drawings by Kayla Harren in this companion volume to A Boy Like You. The story celebrates being a girl and provides a series of celebratory observations and advice on how girls can be empowered and more effective in life. The message, written by a pediatric nurse and a teacher, encourages girls to explore their wide range of skills and opportunities to use them in the modern world.

Lindsey McDivitt's Truth and Honor: The President Ford Story (9781534110625, $16.99) receives lovely drawings by Matt Faulkner as it provides a 32-page biography of Gerald Ford for ages 6-10. From the early life influences which helped build a strong man to the style of leadership Ford brought to the White House, the history and biographical blend will appeal to young report writers looking for an attractive survey of President Ford.

Tundra Books
https://tundrabooks.com

Two fun new picture book stories from Tundra Books are delightful explorations that offer whimsical, fun reading for kids.

Vikki VanSickle's Teddy Bear of the Year (9780735263925, $17.99) tells of Ollie, who loves his job as a teddy bear taking care of his girl. But when Ollie finds himself at a nighttime Teddy Bears' Picnic where his kind go once a year to celebrate, he feels inadequate and powerless as the other bears all seem to have special talents he does not. Good reading skills or parental read-aloud assistance will lend to enjoyment of this engaging story of Ollie, his girl Amena, and the adventures he has encountering other teddy bears very different in their lives, abilities, and perspectives about life as a bear.

Jay Fleck's Tilly & Tank (9781101917862, $17.99) tells of Tilly the elephant who thinks she sees another elephant and wants to befriend it, even as Tank thinks he's seeing another tank who may be an enemy. Their two very perspectives about friends and enemies color their perceptions and threaten friendship unless Tilly and Tank can overcome their worldviews to engage on a different level. A fun, pointed story evolves that will delight adults looking to impart basic life lessons
about friendship and adaptation within the guise of a fun encounter.

Sleeping Bear Press
315 East Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.sleepingbearpress.com

Three new picture book stories from Sleeping Bear Press are delightfully whimsical and fun reads for youngsters, and stand out from the crowd as notable new recommendations for parents and schools alike.

Keri Claiborne Boyle's Otis P. Oliver Protests (9781534110434, $16.99) is illustrated by Daniel Duncan, who tells of a boy who hates baths so much, he thinks they should be banned. Otis likes dirt. He doesn't see why he should bathe four times a week, and decides to stage a protest. His campaign slogan ("The only thing e have to fear is soap itself") enlivens a fun tale many kids will relate to as Otis stages a protest and challenges his mother to come up with a solution amenable to all.

Memoirs of a Tortoise by Devin Scillian (9781534110199, $16.99) again adds illustrator Tim Bowers to the writing prowess of Scillian, here exploring a new world that adds to the 'Memoirs Of' series. Oliver is eighty years old and facing the loss of his beloved owner Ike. Seeking wisdom on how to accept death, Oliver journey to visit his mother, five gardens away, in search of answers. Parents looking to teach kids valuable lessons about love and loss will find this a wonderful, gentle story spiced by colorful drawings throughout.

Gail Bush's Our World is Whole (9781534110274, $16.99) receives fun drawings by Jennie Poh as it discusses the kinds of interactions and connections between people that make life worth living. A young girl observes these connections between people in her world and begins to understand the simple pleasures that foster these connections. Easy, lyrical text bring her experiences and reflections to life in a multicultural story of change, differences, and celebrating life's meaning.


The Bilingual Shelf

Will You Be Friends With Me?
Kathleen Long Bostrom, author
Jo de Ruiter, illustrator
Worthy Kids
c/o Hachette Book Group
1290 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10104
www.hachettebookgroup.com
9781546033804, $7.99, Board Book, 24pp, Ages 1-3

https://www.amazon.com/Will-You-Be-Friends-Me/dp/1546033807

Will You Be Friends With Me? is an inviting, kid-friendly board book illustrated by Jo de Ruiter for parents interested in reading aloud to babies to three-year-olds, and provides an early celebration of differences. Kids who will be going to school or social situations for the first time will find this primer outlines differences in habits, preferences, likes and dislikes, and more than just outward appearance, with each noted difference concluding in the question "Will you be friends with me?" This approach holds an important, basic lesson for early learners on how differences can be noted but not obstacles to friendship and caring, making this a positive educational tools adults will want to use to maximum benefit.

Birdie's Beauty Parlor
Lee Merrill Byrd, author
Francisco Delgado, illustrator
Cinco Puntos Press
701 Texas, El Paso, Texas 79901
www.cincopuntos.com
9781947627284, $15.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Birdies-Beauty-Parlor-Lee-Byrd/dp/1947627287

Birdie and Grandma are having a girls' day! But Grandma's all worn out now. Birdie has a solution: a makeover! It'll give Grandma a chance to relax. Birdie insists that Grandma lie down because this beauty parlor has a lot of moving parts -- chinny-chin-chin hair removal, long stretches of blush, slashes of lipstick, and eyeshadow. Earrings, scarves, the works! Birdie knows best: she owns this beauty parlor!

Especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library bilingual (English/Spanish) children's picture book collections for children ages 3-7, Birdie's Beauty Parlor is the second collaboration between Lee Byrd and Francisco Delgado. Lee tells the stories of her grandchildren, but the images belong to Francisco's kids.


The General Fiction Shelf

Knee Deep
Karol Hoeffner
Regal House Publishing
https://www.regalhousepublishing.com
9781646030095, $15.95, PB, 218pp

https://www.amazon.com/Knee-Deep-Karol-Hoeffner/dp/1646030095

Named after a hurricane, Camille is the rebellious sixteen-year-old daughter of a New Orleans bar-owner who grows up in the shadow of Bourbon Street, raised on stories of hauntings, lusty encounters and voodoo magic. And even though her family loses their home in a hurricane, she counts herself among the lucky until she discovers that her eighteen-year-old neighbor whom she secretly loves goes missing in the storm.

In Camille's own words: "This is the story of what happened to me on Fat Tuesday, how I ended up on the steps of St. Mary's, the hem of my pirate's petticoat soaked in somebody's else's blood. Although I know the story to be true, I don't totally believe it myself. Like all good tales born out of the bayou, mine involves the dead, the living and the one trapped in the brackish waters between heaven and hell. It is the story of true love and true disaster, and at the end of it, I'll leave it up to you to decide which is the harder to survive."

A deftly crafted novel by an author with a critically impressive skill as a narrative driven storyteller, "Knee Deep" by Karol Hoeffner is certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to middle school, highschool, and community library contemporary fiction collections for young readers ages 7-9. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Knee Deep" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle $9.99).

A Little Noble
Janet R. Macreery
Outskirts Press, Inc.
www.outskirtspress.com
9781977228352, $14.95, PB, 200pp

https://www.amazon.com/Little-Noble-Janet-R-Macreery/dp/1977228356

Synopsis: Stranded in the wilds of 1694 Scotland, 13-year-old Mercy must rely on Calum, a duty-bound Highland lad, and her talent with plants to fulfill her life's mission of delivering a cryptic message to a Scottish nobleman and learn about the family she never knew. Their journey takes Mercy places she had never imagined and Calum back to the one place he vowed never to return.

Critique: A deftly crafted and inherently interesting historical novel for young readers ages 8-14, "A Little Noble" showcases author Janet Macreery's impressively entertaining narrative storytelling skills and attention to background detail, engaging characters, and reader riveting plot twists and turns. "A Little Noble" is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to elementary school, middle school, and community library Historical Fiction collections.

The Bookshop Girl
Sylvia Bishop, author
Poly Bernatene, illustrator
Peachtree Publishers, Ltd.
1700 Chattahoochee Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30318-2112
www.peachtree-online.com
9781682630457, $17.99, HC, 135pp

https://www.amazon.com/Bookshop-Girl-Sylvia-Bishop/dp/1682630455

The Joneses have just won the Great Montgomery Book Emporium in a contest, and it's every book lover's dream! The pull of a lever calls forth a room full of marvelous wonders -- from the Room of Woodland tales with its squirrels and mice, to the rocket ship in the Room of Space Adventures, and the aquarium ceiling in the Room of Ocean Tales.

But there is more to the Emporium than its thousands of books in extravagant displays. In fact, the previous owner is hiding something that could destroy absolutely everything for the Joneses.
Property Jones has a whopper of a secret too -- and it might just be the key to saving her family and their bookshop from the clutches of a nasty villain.

A whimsical delight, crafted with quirkiness and a touch of classic charm, "The Bookshop Girl" is author Sylvia Bishop's impressive American debut and features a cast of memorable, quirky characters, including the resourceful Property Jones herself and her cantankerous kitten side-kick, beautiful descriptions of the tactile pleasures of books, and the magical transporting quality bookstores can have for young readers ages 8-12.

While especially and unreservedly recommended for elementary school, middle school, and community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Bookshop Girl" is readily available in a paperback edition (9781682631997, $8.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.60).

Ice Queen: High School Outcast vs. Class Mean Girl
Felicia Farber
Pyramid Press
9780996470841, $14.99, PB, 320pp

https://www.amazon.com/Ice-Queen-School-Outcast-Class/dp/0996470840

Synopsis: How can an innocent high school junior get caught up in a sexting scandal? Blair Evans learns that it's pretty easy. Getting out of it is the hard part. Even worse, Blair discovers that the very laws that are meant to protect her end up turning her into a criminal.

All the while, Blair endures the relentless bullying of the Ice Queen and her obnoxious friends, which escalates to new heights when she falls for the Queen's ex-boyfriend. She desperately tries to escape the Queen's wrath, but a nasty chain of events lands her in the midst of a cyberwar.

When Blair is finally making headway to get her life back on track, mysterious new cyberattacks threaten both her freedom and her future. Blair and her closest friends must race against time to figure out who is behind them before her entire world comes crashing down.

Critique: With an all too believable plot line in today's age of teenage social media and highschool bullying, "Ice Queen: High School Outcast vs. Class Mean Girl" is an exceptional YA novel by author Felicia Farber and one that will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to highschool and community library YA Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Ice Queen: High School Outcast vs. Class Mean Girl" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Paris on Repeat
Amy Bearce
Jolly Fish Press
c/o North Star Editions, Inc.
http://www.jollyfishpress.com
9781631634376, $11.99, PB, 224pp

https://www.amazon.com/Paris-Repeat-Wish-Wander-Bearce/dp/1631634372

Fourteen-year-old Eve Hollis is ready to push through her fears and finally let her crush know how she feels. And what better place to tell him than on top of the Eiffel Tower in the City of Love? But things don't go as planned, and Eve is sure she's had the worst day of her life until she wakes up the next morning to realize the whole disaster of a day is happening again. She's trapped in a time loop. Desperate to make it stop, Eve will have to take some big risks and learn from her mistakes or she's destined to live the most awkwardly painful day of her life over and over again, forever.

A new 'groundhog day' style story gets a hilarious French twist in "Paris on Repeat", a delightful upper middle grade novel by author Amy Bearce about first crushes and friendship when an eighth-grade class trip to Paris goes horribly wrong and the worst day of one girls life keeps happening over and over.

A delightfully charming and fully entertaining novel for children ages 5-9, "Paris on Repeat" is fully endorsed and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library fiction collections for young readers. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Paris on Repeat" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.49).

Opulence, Kansas
Julie Stielstra
Meadowlark
www.meadowlark-books.com
9781734247701, $9.95, PB, 190pp

https://www.amazon.com/Opulence-Kansas-Julie-Stielstra/dp/1734247703

Synopsis: When Katie Myrdal's father is found dead in his Porsche, everything she thought she knew about her family is shaken. Her uncle Len and his wife Maggie (relatives she barely knew existed) show up at the funeral and offer an escape for the summer to their Kansas farm. Katie abandons her Chicago Gold Coast high-rise life to land beneath the wider skies of the prairie. Grappling with loss and disillusionment, Katie must forge new skills and new friendships in a small town called Opulence, a town holding secrets and riches she will need before she can go back home.

Critique: A superbly crafted, inherently interesting, and thoroughly 'reader friendly' novel for ages 13-18, "Opulence, Kansas" by Julie Steilstra is an exceptional and unreservedly recommended addition to middle school, highschool, and community library YA Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Opulence, Kansas" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.95).


The Mystery/Suspense Shelf

7th Grade Revolution
Liana Gardner
Vesuvian Books
https://vesuvianmedia.com
c/o Independent Publishers Group (dist.)
www.ipgbook.com
9781944109479, $15.95 HC, 240pp
9781944109462, $12.99 PB, $6.99 Kindle

https://www.amazon.com/7th-Grade-Revolution-Liana-Gardner/dp/1645480135

Combine a detective mystery for children ages 9-12, blend in history from Colonial America, and include the usual 7th grade school angst and what do you have? 7th Grade Revolution, a genre-defying children's story that revolves around 7th graders who stage a successful school revolt that ejects adult guidance, only to stumble into a treasure hunt that pits them against the FBI. At first this whirlwind of a middle-grade book feels too wide-ranging. There is a lot going on. But, powered by the characters of troublemaker Dennis Alexander and the reclusive Rhonda Snodgrass, 7th Grade Revolution quickly becomes a compelling survey of not just a student revolt, but its unexpected aftermath. It's unusual to have an adventure mystery wound into actual history based on real-world events. Its premise originated with a charter school's classroom experiences with a bloodless 'revolt' scenario that encouraged students to learn about and emulate the challenges faced in early America. This story evolves a scenario in which the 7th Grade wins, but now has to form a student government, determine policies, and run the school. Gardner imagined what would happen if this fictional task were true...and 7th Grade Revolution was born. To further support the real roots of the tale, the complete Twitter stream from the actual classroom experience at Exploris Middle School appears at the end of the book. As young readers pursue this exciting story, they will find it far different than the usual historical approach, more challenging and wide-ranging than the typical mystery, and more exciting than either genre. Decades ago, Henry Winterfield wrote Trouble at Timpetill, about a group of spoiled kids whose parents disappear and leave them to run the town. The students in Gardner's story, in contrast, have taken a more proactive hand in their future, rather than having adults force their independence and decision-making process. But now they have to support their decisions and struggle with some very adult processes: "We can't agree on how to run the school, how can we fight the FBI?" Brooke's voice trailed up to a squeak." Lovely color illustrations by Luke Spooner pepper this adventure, adding visual strength to an already-formidable story that proves hard to put down.

Young readers interested in a problem-solving adventure story strengthened by evolving interpersonal relationships and student connections will find 7th Grade Revolution an outstanding read. It offers delightful action paired with thought-provoking insights not just on leadership and decision-making, but how a group of disparate students bands together for a greater purpose and ultimately reaches their goals, with an unexpected lesson for all. 7th Grade Revolution is very highly recommended for middle graders looking for lively adventure leisure reading.

The Lake Never Tells
Alex Tully
https://www.alextullywriter.com
Independently Published
9798632617598, $8.99 Paper/$2.99 Kindle, 321pp

https://www.amazon.com/Lake-Never-Tells-Alex-Tully/dp/B088T2KHX6

Zoe is a trailer park resident who well knows the routines of her home and the snobby reactions of vacationers who visit the area on holiday. But when she encounters Ethan, a visitor from a nearby wealthy community, an unexpected relationship develops to counter much of what she's come to believe in her life, in The Lake Never Tells. Young adults who choose this story for its blossoming friendship between peers and siblings will find it holds a darker, more inspective undertone when a body washes up on the beach to bring the children not just new relationships and possible young love, but a clash of worlds that threatens Zoe's home and future.

Readers delve into a story that surveys privilege, politics, social differences, and connections between very different individuals who learn to not just tolerate one another, but love each another's unique perspective on life and their special abilities. There's a lot more going on in The Lake Never Tells than a simple story of an evolving relationship. The other thing that is changing is a clash of cultures and perspectives that brings Zoe and Ethan to the brink of misunderstanding and danger. Alex Tully provides a summer story of change in a manner that toes the line between a sweet tale of growth and understanding and the changes life brings to each character's perception of their world and social standing. As Detective Zeller moves closer to the truth about the dead body and Ethan and Parker's involvement, readers find themselves thoroughly engrossed in a mystery and a secret that could change everything not just for Zoe, but all who are involved in her life. Tully's ability to provide a story that touches upon many different points lends to a multifaceted read that maintains reader interest with strong characterization and a shifting plot that continually introduces new elements into the story. The author's move from romance to intrigue will keep young adults guessing until the unexpected conclusion. This approach crafts a riveting story that's more than a simple summer beach tale, but the engrossing saga of worlds colliding and extraordinary friendships forged from adversity and new dreams. The Lake Never Tells's unique blend of mystery, romance, and discovery is highly recommended for teens who want a story replete with relationship challenges and change.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Kenny & the Book of Beasts
Tony DiTerlizzi
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781416983163 $17.99 hc / $10.99 Kindle

https://www.amazon.com/Kenny-Book-Beasts-Dragon/dp/1416983163

Kenny & the Book of Beasts is a fantasy novel especially ideal for young adult readers ages 8-12. Set in a charming world populated with anthropomorphic animals both mundane and mythical, Kenny & the Book of Beasts follows the adventures of Kenny Rabbit. Life in Kenny's village of Roundbrook has drastically changed; Kenny has a dozen new sisters, and his friends are at different schools. Kenny remains close to his best friend, the dragon Grahame, until a legendary manticore named Dante arrives. Dante is an old friend of Grahame's, Kenny feels like he's on the outside looking in while the two catch up with one another. An urgent set of new quests is underway - there's a pal in need of rescue, a sealed book to unlock, and a scary Witch to defeat. But are these quests meant for "best" friends, or "old" friends? Kenny & the Book of Beasts is engaging, heartwarming, and highly recommended especially for school and public library collections. Also highly recommended is the award-winning previous novel of Kenny's adventures, Kenny & the Dragon (9781442436510, $8.99 pbk / $8.99 Kindle).

The Shadow of Kyoshi
F.C. Yee with Avatar co-creator Michael Dante Dimartino
Amulet Books
http://amuletbooks.com
9781419735059 $18.99 hc / $9.99 Kindle

https://www.amazon.com/Avatar-Last-Airbender-Shadow-Kyoshi/dp/1419735055

Written for fans of fantasy and the popular "Avatar" saga ages eight to eighty-eight, The Shadow of Kyoshi concludes the tale of Avatar Kyoshi, a gifted elemental warrior tasked to restore peace amid a world where violence and corruption are endemic. Though Kyoshi has been at last accepted as the Avatar, a threat from the Spirit World manifests. Her travels bring her to the Fire Nation, where she must track down a conspiracy nestled amid a web of conflicting political motivations, before war can erupt. A captivating adventure featuring a strong-willed female protagonist, The Shadow of Kyoshi is highly recommended for school and public library fantasy collections.

Mayhem
Estelle Laure
Wednesday Books
www.wednesdaybooks.com
c/o St. Martin's Publishing Group
https://us.macmillan.com/smp
9781250297938, $18.99, HC, 304pp

https://www.amazon.com/Mayhem-Novel-Estelle-Laure/dp/1250297931

It's 1987 and unfortunately it's not all Madonna and cherry lip balm. Mayhem Brayburn has always known there was something off about her and her mother, Roxy. Maybe it has to do with Roxy's constant physical pain, or maybe with Mayhem's own irresistible pull to water. Either way, she knows they aren't like everyone else.

But when May's stepfather finally goes too far, Roxy and Mayhem flee to Santa Maria, California, the coastal beach town that holds the answers to all of Mayhem's questions about who her mother is, her estranged family, and the mysteries of her own self. There she meets the kids who live with her aunt, and it opens the door to the magic that runs through the female lineage in her family, the very magic Mayhem is next in line to inherit and which will change her life for good.

But when she gets wrapped up in the search for the man who has been kidnapping girls from the beach, her life takes another dangerous turn and she is forced to face the price of vigilante justice and to ask herself whether revenge is worth the cost.

A beautifully written and complex story by an author whose narrative skills as a novelist fully engage and entertain her readers, "Mayhem" by Estelle Laure will prove to be an immediate and enduring addition to highschool and community library YA Fantasy Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Mayhem" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Ignite the Sun
Hanna C. Howard
Blink
c/o HarperCollins
10 East 53rd Street, New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollinschildrens.com
9780310769736, $18.99, HC, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Ignite-Sun-Blink-Hanna-Howard/dp/0310769736

Sixteen-year-old Siria Nightingale has never seen the sun. That's because Queen Iyzabel shrouded the kingdom in shadow upon her ascent to the throne, with claims it would protect her subjects from the dangerous Light.

The Darkness has always left Siria uneasy, and part of her still longs for the stories of the Light-filled days she once listened to alongside her best friend Linden, told in secret by Linden's grandfather. But Siria's need to please her strict and demanding parents means embracing the dark and heading to the royal city (the very center of Queen Izybel's power) for a chance at a coveted placement at court.

What Siria discovers at the Choosing Ball sends her on a quest toward the last vestiges of Light, alongside a ragtag group of rebels who could help her restore the sun -- or doom the kingdom to shadow forever.

An original, deftly crafted, and fully entertaining fantasy fiction novel for ages 13 and older, "Ignite The Sun" by Hanna C. Howard is especially and unreservedly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library YA Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Ignite The Sun" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

The One Great Gnome
Jeff Dinardo
One Elm Books
Red Chair Press
www.redchairpress.com
9781947159594, $12.99, HC, 128pp

https://www.amazon.com/One-Great-Gnome-Jeff-Dinardo/dp/1947159593

Eleven-year-old Sarah moves with her family from New York City to rural Hadley, Connecticut. She's eager to explore her new home and meet new friends, but she never expected to befriend an old garden gnome. Young readers will enjoy joining Sarah as she is drawn into a secret world under our feet. Sarah uses her instincts to calm old rivalries and help the underworld elves, gnomes, and more join her in the upper world!

"The One Great Gnome" by Jeff Dinardo is an original and wonderfully entertaining fantasy novel that introduces young readers ages 7-11 to the hidden magical and mysterious world of gnomes, elves, and trolls. While certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to elementary school, middle school, and community library Fantasy Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The One Great Gnome" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99).

Gobbledy
Lis Anna-Langston
SparkPress
www.gosparkpress.com
9781684630677, $16.95, PB, 232pp

https://www.amazon.com/Gobbledy-Novel-Lis-Anna-Langston/dp/1684630673

Synopsis: Ever since eleven-year-old Dexter Duckworth and his brother, Dougal, lost their mom, everything has been different. But "different" takes on a whole new meaning when, one day just before Christmas (or Kissmas, as they call it), Dexter finds a golden rock in the forest that hatches into an adorable alien named Gobbledy.

Gobbledy is smarter than he seems and is lost on planet Earth. Before long, Gobbledy takes Dexter, Dougal, and their best friend Fi on an adventure of friendship, family, and loss -- one that requires them all to stay out of trouble, protect Gobbledy from a shadowy group called the Planetary Society, and prepare for their school's Winter Extravaganza Play, where Dexter has to be a dreaded Gingerbread Man.

"Gobbledy" is a fun-filled holiday story that adds up to two brothers, three friends, unlimited jars of peanut butter, a ketchup factory, and one little alien far, far from home.

Critique: A delightfully entertaining novel by an author with a genuine flair for originality and the kind of narrative storytelling style that will fully engage the imaginative attention of appreciative young readers ages 8-11, "Gobbledy" by Lis Anna-Langston (who is a Parents' Choice Gold and a Moonbeam Children's Book Award Winner) will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to elementary school, middle school, and community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Gobbledy" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.49).

Gruntz: Finding zO
Trish Teske
Balboa Press AU
https://www.balboapress.com/en
9781504320016, $17.99, PB, 276pp

https://www.amazon.com/Gruntz-Finding-zO-Trish-Teske/dp/1504320018

Ten-year-old Flynn lost his mum and dad in a devastating bush fire five years ago and it seems like forever he's been trying to fit in. Now just when he's made in onto the under-thirteen Dragons football team, the bully Spike challenges him to a most despicable dare that will cost him everything.

"Gruntz: Finding zO" by Trish Teske is set in the fantasy world of human-like koala creatures called Gruntz, and takes young readers ages 8-12 on a wonderfully entertaining journey of hope, adventure and finding a best friend. While especially and unreservedly recommended for elementary school, middle school, and community library Science Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Gruntz: Finding zO" is readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).


The Christian Shelf

The World of the First Christians
Marc Olson, author
Jemima Maybank, illustrator
Beaming Books
PO Box 1209, Minneapolis, MN 55440
https://www.beamingbooks.com
9781506460499, $19.99, HC, 64pp

https://www.amazon.com/World-First-Christians-Curious-Church/dp/1506460496

Curious Kids' Guides from Beaming Books present cool and surprising information about Christian history and beliefs in an entertaining, visually engaging way for kids of all ages. The latest title in this outstanding series is "The World of the First Christians: A Curious Kid's Guide to the Early Church" by author Marc Olson and illustrator Jemima Maybank.

The life and teachings of Jesus changed the world forever -- but what happened after the events of the Gospels? How did Christianity grow from a small group of followers to one of the largest religious movements in human history? How did the first Christians survive in an oppressive Roman Empire? What did the early church believe, and how did they worship?

Especially and unreservedly recommended for family, Sunday School, elementary school, middle school, and community library collections, "The World of the First Christians" answers these questions and more, with colorful illustrations, charts, graphs, maps, and other infographics that will keep kids' attention for hours and give them new insight and understanding into the early growth of the Christian faith.

To Jennye: What I Want My Little Sister to Know
Michelle Moses
Westbow Press
c/o Thomas Nelson Publishers
PO Box 141000, Nashville, TN 37214
www.westbowpress.com
9781973684879, $28.45, HC, 108pp

https://www.amazon.com/Jennye-What-Want-Little-Sister/dp/197368487X

Written from a big sister to a little sister, "To Jennye: What I Want My Little Sister to Know" by Michelle Moses is comprised of advice and guidance from a Christian perspective about current issues that are likely a concern for most teenaged girls.

In a down-to-earth style, Moses deftly addresses a range of relevant topics including school, getting organized, developing hobbies, manners, dating, menstruation, taking care of your body, smoking, drinking, drugs, and planning for the future.

Geared toward girls from ages ten to twenty, this thoroughly 'reader friendly' guide empathizes, teaches, and reassures. It offers information as well as suggestions for positively handling a variety of situations. "To Jennye" provides a host of helpful tips on living life to the fullest during what can often be a difficult time period in the life of any girl.

Informed and informative, exceptionally well organized and presented, "To Jennye: What I Want My Little Sister to Know" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, middle school, highschool school, and community library Christian Personal Growth, Self-Help and Self-Improvement collections for girls ages 10 and older. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "To Jennye: What I Want My Little Sister to Know" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781973684886, $11.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $3.99).


The Religion/Spirituality Shelf

Shiva
Demi
Wisdom Tales Press
1501 E. Hillside Drive, Bloomington, IN 47401
www.wisdomtalespress.com
9781937786830, $17.95, HC, 36pp

https://www.amazon.com/Shiva-Demi/dp/1937786838

Worshiped by millions of Hindus worldwide, Shiva ("the auspicious one") is the god of love, righteousness, forgiveness, longevity, protection, health, and prosperity. He is said to bring good fortune, grace, and compassion.

Shiva is depicted as clothed in ashes, with the crescent moon crowning his head, the holy river Ganges flowing from his matted hair, a third eye on his forehead, a serpent around his neck, and a tiger skin around his waist.

As Nataraja, or "Lord of the Dance", he controls the forces of creation, preservation, and destruction.

In "Shiva", author and illustrator Demi, presents the life and teaching of this central god within the Hindu pantheon, replete with stunning artwork that faithfully reflect the ancient traditions of Hindu painting and iconography. Of special note is the inclusion of an appendix of Hindu prayers to the god Shiva and notes on his representation as "Lord of the Dance".

Informative and entertaining, "Shiva" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Mythology/Hindu picture book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Shiva" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).


The Folktale/Fairytale Shelf

Sion's Misfortune
Chen Jiafei, author
Wang Ran, illustrator
Karadi Tales
https://www.karaditales.com
9788193654255, $13.95, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Sions-Misfortune-Chen-Jiafei/dp/8193654250

Sion is a fortune-teller who lives in an ancient Chinese kingdom with his son and a beloved horse. When Sion begins to experience a series of unlucky events, he shocks everyone in town by saying that it is a sign of good things to come. Will Sion lose his reputation for being the wisest man in the kingdom, for how could misfortune ever be a blessing?

"Sion's Misfortune" is profound and entertaining children's folktale from China that is translated into English by Chen Jiafei and beautifully illustrated by artist Wang Ran. "Sion's Misfortune" is certain to be an immediately welcome and enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school and community library picture book fable and folklore collections for young readers ages 7-9.

The Legend of the First Unicorn
Lari Don, author
Natasa Ilincic, illustrator
Kelpies
9781782506478, HC, 17.95, 36pp

https://www.amazon.com/Legend-First-Unicorn-Traditional-Scottish/dp/1782506470

Once upon a time, a young prince lost his smile. It seemed nothing would make Prince Donald smile, not songs from the musician or cakes from the baker. The court magician tried to make a new magical beast for the prince, but it was so frightening he let it go.

Still determined to help Donald, the magician's granddaughter, Hana, invents a majestic creature with the body of a horse and the horn of a gazelle, and calls him 'a unicorn'.

Hana and Donald playfully chase the unicorn through the forest, and it seems that this magical animal might hold the key to the prince's smile. But then they discover a darker beast, lurking in the trees!

Based upon a retelling of Scottish folklore by Lari Don, "The Legend of the First Unicorn" is beautifully illustrated throughout with museum quality artwork by Natasa Ilincic and will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-7. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Legend of the First Unicorn" is also redily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.95).

The Sorcerer's Apprentice
Gerda Muller
Floris Books
www.florisbooks.co.uk
9781782506287, $17.95, HC, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/Sorcerers-Apprentice-Gerda-Muller/dp/1782506284

When poor orphan boy Oliver becomes a sorcerer's apprentice, he enters an incredible new world. He learns wonderful magic spells, the secrets of nature, and how to make healing potions and oils from his kindly new master.

One day the sorcerer goes on a journey. Bored with his endless chores, Oliver enchants some brooms to do the work for him. But when the spell gets out of control, how can Oliver stop the magic?

"The Sorcerer's Apprentice" is a classic tale for children ages 4-7 about the importance of hard work and was the inspiration for Disney's Fantasia. Now presented in a beautifully illustrated edition from Floris books and by the renowned artist Gerda Muller (creator of USBBY-honored "A Year in Our New Garden"), "The Sorcerer's Apprentice" is wholeheartedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.


The Mythology Shelf

The Mermaid Atlas: Merfolk of the World
Anna Claybourne, author
Miren Asiain Lora, illustrator
Laurence King Publishing
https://www.laurenceking.com
9781786275851, $19.99, HC, 48pp

https://www.amazon.com/Mermaid-Atlas-Merfolk-World/dp/1786275856

Wherever there are lakes, streams, rivers, seas and oceans, there are stories, legends and eyewitness accounts of mermaids. These magical, mesmerizing people of the deep have been well known for thousands of years, and almost every country and culture has a tale to tell about them. People have written, sung and passed on rumours about mermaids since ancient times, and often reported their own mermaid encounters, too.

"The Mermaid Atlas: Merfolk of the World" is a gorgeously illustrated new book for children ages 7-12 that includes everything known about these mysterious and captivating creatures. Young readers will enjoy discovering merfolk secrets in this beautiful compendium, written by children's author Anna Claybourne and illustrated throughout by award-winning Spanish illustrator Miren Asiain Lora.

The colorful spreads will take the young reader on an informative and fun around-the-world journey, starting in Europe and the warm Mediterranean to the icy Baltic, as well as through countless isles, lakes and waterfalls, continuing to Africa with its immense lakes, cave pools and swampy deltas. Asia is the next stop with its thousands of islands, beaches, rivers and lakes while Oceania, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean with its scattered islands, seems to be the perfect environment for these mysterious creatures. The journey ends with North and South America, where there are sightings of water spirits and fish-tailed ocean goddesses throughout the whole continent, home to the freezing Arctic, the tropical Caribbean as well as the world's largest jungle.

Especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library collections, "The Mermaid Atlas" will introduce the merfolk of the world, whether it's the beautiful Selkies of the Scottish seas, the wily Iara of Brazil who love to outwit travelers or the fearful Ningyo of Japan who can give you eternal life.


The Graphic Novel Shelf

School for Extraterrestrial Girls #1: Girl on Fire
Jeremy Whitley, author
Jamie Noguchi, illustrator
Papercutz
160 Broadway, Suite 700E, New York, NY 10038
www.papercutz.com
9781545804926, $19.99, HC, 128pp

https://www.amazon.com/School-Extraterrestrial-Girls-Girl-Fire/dp/1545804923

Tara Smith's parents are super strict with all their rules and routines, and Tara is a dutiful daughter. Rule #1: No friends her own age. Rule #2: keep her bracelet on, or else. But when she breaks her routine (and then loses her bracelet) she's in trouble.

Now outed as an extraterrestrial after wielding fire and losing her humanoid form, Tara is captured by the government. She's given two options: get shipped far away where she won't be a danger to anyone or stay on Earth and join a school for other extraterrestrial girls like her.

Things at the school aren't easy -- especially for the girl whose only friends were textbooks. But Tara's goal to learn how to control her powers is soon sidelined by the discovery that the people she's called Mom and Dad all these years aren't really her parents. With her not-parents still out there, Tara must rely on others for the first time to figure out who she really is before she's kidnapped a second time!

A fully entertaining graphic novel for young readers ages 8-12 by the team of author/storyteller Jeremy Whitley and artist/illustrator Jamie Noguchi, "School for Extraterrestrial Girls #1: Girl on Fire" launches a fun and original science fiction series that is especially and unreservedly recommended for elementary school, middle school, and community library graphic novel collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of all young science fiction fans that "School for Extraterrestrial Girls #1: Girl on Fire" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781545804933, $12.99), and in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.22).

Papercutz
160 Broadway, Suite 700E, New York, NY 10038
www.papercutz.com

https://www.amazon.com/Asterix-Omnibus-Collects-Golden-Sickle/dp/1545805660

https://www.amazon.com/Asterix-Omnibus-Collects-Gladiator-Cleopatra/dp/1545805679

https://www.amazon.com/Asterix-38-The-Chieftains-Daughter/dp/1545805695

Asterix fans of all ages are in for a treat with three new graphic novel collections from Papercutz.. Asterix is celebrating 60 sensational years as an international comics superstar, and in the first collected Papercutz editions from Papercutz, the stories are newly translated into American English for a new generation of fans!

The story of Asterix starts with "Asterix Omnibus #1" (9781545805657, $22.99 HC, $14.99 PB, $9.99 Kindle, 152pp) and is comprised of the first three adventures of Asterix as he defends his tiny village from the overwhelming forces of the Roman Empire. Readers will join the short, spunky, and super-powerful warrior from Gaul and his faithful friends (including the boar-eating delivery man Obelix and the ecologically-minded canine, Dogmatix) as they battle to protect their village against impossible odds. Asterix Omnibus volume one collects "Asterix the Gaul," "Asterix and the Golden Sickle," and "Asterix and the Goths."

"Asterix Omnibus #2" (9781545805671, $22.99 HC, $14.99 PB, $9.99 Kindle, 152pp) features Astrix the Gladiator; Asterix and the Banquet; Asterix and Cleopatra. After conquering Europe, where this feisty, little warrior is a true pop culture super-star, Asterix is invading America with another three classic adventures, newly translated into American English. Asterix conquered Europe ironically by keeping his tiny village in Gaul from being conquered by the Roman Empire. Turns out, Asterix and his fellow villagers have a secret weapon, a potion that imbues them all with super strength. But the Romans aren't about to give up no matter how many times Asterix and his friends fend them off.

In "Asterix #38: The Chieftain's Daughter" (9781545805695, $9.99 HC, $6.74 Kindle, 48pp), upheavals and pandemonium are definitely on the horizon! Adrenaline, the daughter of the famous Gaulish chieftain is being hunted down by the Romans. She secretly finds refuge in the village of our indomitable Gauls -- the only place in Roman-occupied Gaul that can guarantee her protection. And let's just say that having this very special teenager around will cause plenty of confusion, and not just for Obelix!

Critique: These re-issued three volumes of classic Astrix adventures from Papercutz is certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to personal reading lists, and elementary school, middle school, and community library graphic novel collections -- especially for young readers ages 7-12.


The Music CD Shelf

D.a.D.
Pierce Freelon
piercefreelon.com
Privately Published
$TBA CD / $14.49 MP3 amazon.com

D.a.D. is a hip-hop family album by Pierce Freelon, created as a celebration of fatherhood for listeners of all ages to enjoy together. A lively, vibrant expression of the joys of parenthood, particularly from Freelon's perspective as a black father, D.a.D. is a treasure of positive values, creativity, and love. D.a.D. is highly recommended for personal and public library music collections alike! The tracks are "Tuck Me In", "Daddy Daughter Day (feat. J Gunn)", "My Body (feat. Rissi Palmer)", "Bubble", "Voice Memo - Oatmeal", "Tooth Bruh", "Swirly Cup", "Make New Friends (feat. Carlitta Durand)", "Voice Memo - Gather Your Clothes", "Gather Your Clothes (feat. KronoZ Time)", "Movies and Popcorn and Video Games", "Voice Memo - Get Well Soon", "Space Jam", "Voice Memo - Phil Freelon", and "Ascend (feat. Ami Kim)".


The Agriculture Shelf

The Farm That Feeds Us
Nancy Castaldo, author
Ginnie Hsu, illustrator
Words & Pictures
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9780711242531, $18.95, HC, 80pp

https://www.amazon.com/Farm-That-Feeds-Us-organic/dp/0711242534

In the pages of "The Farm That Feeds Us", children ages 7-11 will enjoy exploring the workings of a small-scale, organic family farm and the rhythms of farm life. In the spring, visit the chicken coop, till the fields, and tour the farm machinery. When summer comes, plant corn, meet the pollinators, and head to the county fair. In the fall, make pies and preserves, harvest pumpkins, and put the fields to sleep. Winter activities include trimming and pruning the orchard, seed shopping, and baking bread.

To conclude a year on the farm, young readers will learn what they can do to support the farmers who pick our carrots and raise the cows for our milk. A glossary defines key sustainable farming terms. Through this colorful and intimate look at life on a small-scale farm, children will learn not only how the farm feeds us, but how the farmer must feed and care for the farm.

While especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library picture book collections for children, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Farm That Feeds Us: A Year in the Life of an Organic Farm" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).


The Science Shelf

The Kitchen Pantry Scientist: Chemistry for Kids
Liz Lee Heinecke
Quarry Books
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9781631598302, $19.99, PB, 128pp

https://www.amazon.com/Kitchen-Pantry-Scientist-Experiments-Activities/dp/1631598309

People have been tinkering with chemistry for thousands of years. Whether out of curiosity or by necessity, Homo sapiens have long loved to play with fire: mixing and boiling concoctions to see what interesting, beautiful, and useful amalgamations they could create. Early humans ground pigments to create durable paint for cave walls, and over the next 70 thousand years or so as civilizations took hold around the globe, people learned to make better medicines and discovered how to extract, mix, and smelt metals for cooking vessels, weapons, and jewelry. Early chemists distilled perfume, made soap, and perfected natural inks and dyes.

Modern chemistry was born around 250 years ago, when measurement, mathematics, and the scientific method were officially applied to experimentation. In 1896, after the first draft of the periodic table was published, scientists rushed to fill in the blanks. The elemental discoveries that followed gave scientists the tools to visualize the building blocks of matter for the first time in history, and they proceeded to deconstruct the atom. Since then, discovery has accelerated at an unprecedented rate. At times, modern chemistry and its creations have caused heartbreaking, unthinkable harm, but more often than not, it makes our lives better.

Featuring DIY homemade science experiments and activities for children ages 7-12 that are inspired by past and present chemists, (and launching their new "The Kitchen Pantry Scientist" series from Quarry Books) "Chemistry for Kids" by Lin Lee Heinecke is an engaging and thoroughly 'kid friendly' guide that offers a series of snapshots of 25 scientists famous for their work with chemistry, from ancient history through today. Each lab tells the story of a scientist along with some background about the importance of their work, and a description of where it is still being used or reflected in today's world.

A step-by-step illustrated experiment is paired with each story offers kids a hands-on opportunity for exploring concepts the scientists pursued, or are working on today. Experiments range from very simple projects using materials using materials probably already on hand, to more complicated ones that may require a few inexpensive items that can be purchased online.

"Chemistry for Kids" features: Galen (b. 129 AD) Make soap from soap base, oil, and citrus peels. Modern application: medical disinfectants; Joseph Priestly (b. 1733) Carbonate a beverage using CO2 from yeast or baking soda and vinegar mixture. Modern application: soda fountains; Alessandra Volta (b. 1745) Make a battery using a series of lemons and use it to light an LED. Modern application: car battery; Tu Youyou (b. 1930) Extract compounds from plants. Modern application: pharmaceuticals and cosmetics; and twenty-one others!

This fascinating, entertaining, informative, hands-on exploration of the history of chemistry will serve to inspire the next generation of great scientists! While very highly recommended, especially for elementary school, middle school, and community library Science & Chemistry collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Kitchen Pantry Scientist: Chemistry for Kids" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.82).

Mega Rex: A Tyrannosaurus Named Scotty
W. Scott Person IV
Harbour Publishing
www.harbourpublishing.com
9781550179057, $13.95, PB, 128pp

https://www.amazon.com/Mega-Rex-Tyrannosaurus-Named-Scotty/dp/1550179055

"Scotty," the largest Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton in the world, was discovered by an elementary school teacher in Saskatchewan's Frenchman River Valley in 1991. It took twenty-three years to excavate the bones and prepare the skeleton for study. Now Scotty has found a new home in the Royal Saskatchewan Museum, where the giant T. rex is the star of a new exhibition. As the largest and longest-lived T. rex ever discovered, Scotty offers fascinating research possibilities, and Dr. Scott Persons is the lead paleontologist on an in-depth scientific report on this unique fossil.

In "Mega Rex: A Tyrannosaurus Named Scotty, Scott Persons distills these findings, plus thrilling details about the discovery of Scotty and the lives of tyrannosaurs, into an exciting illustrated account. "Mega Rex: A Tyrannosaurus Named Scotty" covers topics ranging from the details of Scotty's discovery and the process of digging up a fossil, to deciphering the meaning behind Scotty's unusual features, including its large facial horns and many wounds. Persons engages dinosaur-obsessed kids with facts based on the latest discoveries that are challenging current ideas about the world's most famous dinosaur species, including what it would feel like to pet a T. rex, how T. rex hunted, whether they were good parents, and if they had forked tongues like snakes.

Featuring profiles of paleontologists, field crew members, museum artists and other members of "team rex," and illustrations by award-winning paleoartist Beth Zaiken and over thirty photos, "Mega Rex: A Tyrannosaurus Named Scotty" offers an in-depth look at a new superstar of the fossil world and new insight into tyrannosaurs and the world they inhabited.

A 'must' for all dedicated dinosaur fans ages 9-12, "Mega Rex: A Tyrannosaurus Named Scotty" will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school, middle school, and community library dinosaur book collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Mega Rex: A Tyrannosaurus Named Scotty" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.49).

Editorial Note: Dr. W. Scott Persons IV is a paleontologist and professor at the College of Charleston and the Mace Brown Museum of Natural History. He has taken part in fossil-hunting expeditions throughout the badlands of the American West, the Gobi Desert of Mongolia, the canyons of Tanzania's Olduvai Gorge, the pampas of Argentina, and the volcanic ash beds of Northern China. His work has been featured on the National Geographic and Discovery channels and in Smithsonian and Discover Magazine. He is also the author of "Dinosaurs of the Alberta Badlands" (Harbour Publishing, 2018).

Dream Big, Little Scientists: A Bedtime Book
Michelle Schaub, author
Alice Potter, illustrator
Charlesbridge Publishing
85 Main Street, Watertown, MA 02472
www.charlesbridge.com
9781580899345, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Dream-Big-Little-Scientists-Bedtime/dp/158089934X

Parents and caregivers can spark curiosity and exploration with "Dream Big, Little Scientists: A Bedtime Book" by the team of author Michelle Schaub and illustrator Alice Potter. This is an innovative and inherently interesting bedtime picture story for budding scientists ages 3-7 that introduces eleven branches of science. From astronomy to physics to chemistry to geology, this STEM picture book will help kids get excited to explore. Includes further information about each branch of science.

As fun and entertaining as it is informative and instructive, "Dream Big, Little Scientists: A Bedtime Book" is especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book science collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Dream Big, Little Scientists: A Bedtime Book" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).


The Environmental Shelf

The Adventures of Bubba Jones: Grand Canyon National Park
Jeff Alt, author
Hannah Tuohy, illustrator
www.jeffalt.com
Beaufort Books
27 West 20th Street, Suite 1102, New York, NY 10011
www.beaufortbooks.com
https://www.bubbajones.com
9780825309274, $9.99, PB, 200pp

https://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Bubba-Jones-National-Park/dp/0825309271

Tommy "Bubba Jones" and his sister, Jenny "Hug-a-Bug," uncover amazing facts about the Grand Canyon while on a mission to solve a park mystery. This is no ordinary brother and sister duo; they are part of a legendary time travel family with a mission to preserve and protect our national parks and have developed a reputation for solving mysteries. As they time travel back hundreds, thousands, and millions of years, they not only learn about the past, but also experience it. They encounter all sorts wild creatures and plants, meet the people involved in the establishment of the national park, learn about the Native Americans that call this land home, and unravel some of the park's secrets.

The fourth book of this award-winning national park series by author/storyteller Jeff Alt, "The Adventures of Bubba Jones: Grand Canyon National Park" is an inherently fun and impressively informative read and one that is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library collections for young readers ages 8-12. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Adventures of Bubba Jones: Grand Canyon National Park" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99).


The Music Shelf

Music: A Fold-Out Graphic History
Nicholas O'Neill & Susan Hayes, authors
Ruby Taylor, illustrator
What On Earth Books
www.whatonearthbooks.com
9781999967949, $19.99, HC, 22 fold-out pages

https://www.amazon.com/Music-Fold-out-Graphic-Nicholas-ONeill/dp/1999967941

"Music: A Fold-Out Graphic History" is an amazing, brightly illustrated 22 page foldout history/timeline of music from prehistoric times to the latest popular examples of 2020.

Designed to appeal to an audience of students ages 10-14 years, this amazing document includes fascinating mini-biographical information about known and lesser known musicians and composers over the ages. The unfolded pages extend to over 22 feet.

A beginning foldout page on ancient music presents a world map with 18 different examples of known early music, located on the map where it was source. Some examples include: 41,000 CE, early flute music is pictured on a cave wall on a flute made from a griffin vulture's bone or a woolly mammoth's tusk located in present day Germany, 100 CE oldest piece of music in musical symbols engraved on Seikilos' wife's tombstone in modern day Turkey, and 2000 BCE earliest composer Enheduanna, high priestess in the Mesopotamian city of Ur, wrote hymns for the gods on stone tablets .

Each of the 18 entries is briefly explained, sourced, and illustrated with lively sound suggestion expressions. Moving through the pages take the reader through the timeline at the bottom of the page from 500 CE through 2020, ending with an amazing portrait of the Royal Albert Hall of Fame including a representative orchestra, and a lineup of modern day popular performers who have performed there from Jimi Hendrix to Ravi Shankar.

Sidebars explain some of the variety and complexity of music in concert today, an illuminated diagram of the orchestra by sections, an explanation of the conductor's role with conducting patterns for 2 to six beats, and a thumbnail sketch of the Royal Albert Hall in London, UK, open since 1871.

The 18 foldout pages in between the beginning and ending pages cover representative music history and musicians between prehistory and 2020, with spectacular examples, descriptions, and colored portraits.

To add to the visual and written music history information, the back cover includes a playlist of famous music examples that can be found on Spotify or searching for "Music: A Fold-Out Graphic History."

Some of the musical selections include: Waratoh Spirit (Aboriginal Didgeridoo), Jaquin: Missa De Beata Virgine (the Tallis Scholars), the Mass in B Minor, Sanctus (Johann Sebastien Bach), String Quartet No. 2, Op 10, 4 (Arnold Schoenberg), and Alexander Hamilton (Leslie Odom Jr.)."

In summary, "Music: A Fold-out Graphic History" is a stunning hit list that spans present knowledge of musical offerings from prehistory to the present day of this amazing planet Earth.
Readers of all ages will be fascinated by this incredible vivid, far reaching compilation.


The Story Monsters Ink Shelf

www.storymonsters.com

Story Monsters LLC is dedicated to helping authors of all genres strive for excellence through our marketing and publicity services, Dragonfly Book Awards contests, Story Monsters Approved! awards program, opportunities for connecting with schools, and the award-winning Story Monsters Ink(R) magazine.

When the Babies Came to Stay
Christine McDonnell, author
Jeanette Bradley, illustrator
Viking Books
www.penguin.com
9781984835451, $16.99

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

A tender tale of love and belonging. Family is not always defined by blood. It often comes from openness, and the ability to adapt. There is a deep secret place along the lining of the heart. A special place not all find. But those who do slip into a warmth that defines belonging. This is a true story of union and humanity at its best! The illustrations are as tender and loving as the heart of the tale itself. (Ages 2-5)

Talitha, the Traveling Skirt
Becky Van Vleet, author
Courtney Smith, illustrator
Elk Lake Publishing
www.elklakepublishinginc.com
9781951080273, $9.99

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Traditions are family history recorded in the heart and expression if every household. Whether it's a favored article of clothing like Talitha or a favorite food or holiday activity, we all have one. This skirt, fashioned in the love of a grandma, is passed down to each granddaughter as they come, forming a beautiful thread that ties each generation together. (Ages 2-10)

The Camping Trip
Jennifer K. Mann
Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9781536207361, $17.99

Julianne Black Diblasi
Reviewer

Endearing and inviting, The Camping Trip is a beautiful story about trying new things, pushing beyond comfort zones, and making s'mores! Laid out much like a graphic novel, the text and images seamlessly play back and forth to tell a deeper story than either could have done alone. Expression through simplicity, Mann's line drawings are engaging and full of emotion, while not being over complicated. Perfect for any age city kid looking to try something new! (Ages 3-7)

In the Woods
David Elliott, author
Rob Dunlavey, illustrator
Candlewick
www.candlewick.com
9780763697839, $17.99

Dr. Dawn Menge
Reviewer

What do we see when we wander into the woods? A racoon, skunk, bear, opossum, porpupine, beaver, or a bobcat. "Those tufted ears, the amber eyes, that ambushed second of surprise when the bobcat leaps! The silent spring, the empty space, and all the world is spotted grace when the bobcat leaps!" This intricately illustrated picture book is wonderful to introduce young readers to the world of forest animals. It describes each animal in a flowery verse, keeping them engaged but learning. I highly recommend this book to add to your home collection. (Ages 3-7)

Beautiful, Wonderful, Strong Little Me!
Hannah Carmona Dias, author
Dolly Georgieva-Gode, illustrator
Eifrig Publishing
www.eifrigpublishing.com
9781632331694, $9.99

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

This bright, delightfully illustrated book will lift every heart! Self-acceptance and confidence are very attractive features, and should be learned in the early stages of life. Often, they are not. Whether darkness or just a loss of knowing how, many women live in the lack of such things. The author has made it not only possible to correct such deficits, but does it with a flare, a buoyancy that will last. A book every little girl should read more than once. (Ages 3-10)

Cosmo's Cosmic Adventure
Patti Carpenter, author
Tracy Hill, illustrator
Patricia Carpenter
9781087862941, $12.95

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

This is a loving tale of a happy dog's life. Love and satisfaction are the sweet rewards of union. Hearts connect and bond across many lines, and this little pup found his forever friend. Losing a pet is always hard, but the lifetime of joys and memories always lessen the blow. It portrays the peaceful balance between love and loss. (Ages 3-10)

Kaia and the Bees
Maribeth Boelts, author
Angela Dominguez, illustrator
Candlewick
www.candlewick.com
9781536201055, $16.99

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Have you ever been humiliated into a great victory? If so, you'll love this story. Kaia is strong! But, no matter what we can do, there may be that one small thing that still leaves her undone. For Kaia, it's bees! And, her father is a beekeeper. Find out how she manages to face and overcome her fear. Also available in audio. (Ages 4-8)

One Little Bag: An Amazing Journey
Henry Cole
Scholastic Press
www.scholastic.com
9781338359978, $18.99

Dr. Dawn Menge
Reviewer

This is a beautifully illustrated book with great detail. This wordless story begins with a father making his son's school lunch. He places a heart on the bag and the journey begins. This very special bag follows the little boy and creates memories - the boy and his bag camp, play music, fix the car, and as he grows into a young man and finds a wife, has a child, and becomes a grandpa. This story would be an excellent addition to an Earth Day lesson and the children would enjoy creating their own personal lunch bag to begin storing lifelong memories. (Ages 4-8)

Fly, Firefly!
Shana Keller, author
Ramona Kaulitzki, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
www.sleepingbearpress.com
9781534110335, $16.99

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

This simple story will never lose its ability to impress and inspire. Its delicate layers will grow and surface along with its reader. From those flying lights childhood will forever chase, to the discovery of the amazing creature that carries that excitable light. They are not flies at all, but flying beetles. A simple tale packed with learning and discernment. Worthy of a place on every young reader's shelf. Moving illustrations and fun facts tie this tale with a bright and pleasing bow. (Ages 5-7)

I Am Purpose
Icia Ragsdale, author
Zsade Fleming, illustrator
Independently Published
9798639644849, $9.99

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

This is tale of a little seed that had great hopes for what he will be. But, as his journey begins, he finds conflict and disappointment. While trying to adjust to his circumstances and adapt to his current conditions, he begins to lose heart. When the little seed finds that everything he needs to attain his true desire and purpose is already within him, he lets it define him as it needs to be. (Ages 5-8)

Georgette's Day... series
Monica McGue, author
Toby Cowan, illustrator
McGue Enterprises
https://mcgueshop.com

Julianne Black Diblasi
Reviewer

Lovable animal friend adventures in a variety of settings told from the animal's perspective. The Mom's Choice Award-winning series, are perfectly balanced early readers that K-3 kids will adore. They have enough detail to be engaging but not distracting, have enough words to tell a fun story but not feel overwhelming, and have a good variety of sound words and names to make each page move along at a fun pace. The sentence structure is also a wonderful balance of statements that will allow early readers to follow along and set their own pace. Really well done and completely on-point for both educational settings or at home! (Ages 5-8)

The Magical Day
Sandra Elaine Scott, author
Jasmine Mills, illustrator
http://www.sandraelainescott.com
Vision Your Dreams
9780996904902, $22.00

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Donovan is on vacation in the United States where he is spending some time with his cousin, Maria Luisa. But when Maria Luisa gets ill, Donovan must go by himself. He's a bit timid at first, but everyone he meets is very friendly and makes him feel welcome. I like the book because it has great illustrations and a good message. There are also some extra pages in the back of the book where readers can go for more information about the professional jobs mentioned in the book and a glossary of terms for the Spanish words used throughout the text. (Ages 5-9)

Sight to See: Seeing is Believing
Dr. Qooz, author
Irena Urosevic, illustrator
https://drqooz.com
Independently Published
9781697849882, $7.49

Julianne Black Diblasi
Reviewer

An important message about eyesight testing within a cute story filled with vibrantly illustrated characters. When Tote the turtle is playing with friends, one of his companions recognizes that his eyesight might be an issue and persuades him to go have his eyes checked. The story's message is clear, useful, and presented in a fun way. A great tool to open the subject and educate at an elementary grade level. (Ages 5-9)

The Village Blacksmith
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, author
G. Brian Karas, illustrator
Candlewick
www.candlewick.com
9781536204438, $16.99

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

The author of this tale opens a fresh new view to an old classic poem by Longfellow. His tribute to the quiet presence of the blacksmith, diligently working his trade to the benefit of the town folks, cries of community and whispers of compassion. A strong, yet gentle presence that forms a sense of constancy and well-being while carrying his own heavy weight. We are reminded that we should never carelessly judge matters and people, for we may not know the underlying cares and weights born by others. (Ages 6-9)

Didi Dodo, Future Spy: Double-O Dodo
Tom Angleberger, author
Jared Chapman, illustrator
Amulet Books
http://amuletbooks.com
9781419740978, $12.99

Matthew Voils, age 11
Reviewer

Didi Dodo, the heroic spy, and Koko Dodo, the cookie chef, are off to solve another kooky caper! Koko has a big problem: His trusty assistant has been kidnapped! Over a frantic phone call, she tells Koko that she's been kidnapped by a human, which is preposterous - everyone knows that humans aren't real! Luckily, Didi is on the case. I read this to my 3-year-old sister, and she loves it. Afterward she said that she was going to read it "by herself," which usually means she likes the book and wants to read it again. So my sister's rating would probably be a 9 or 10 out of 10. (Ages 6-9)

Sparky Helps Mary Make Friends (Helper Hounds)
Caryn Rivadeneira, author
Priscilla Alpaugh, illustrator
Red Chair Press
www.redchairpress.com
9781634407748, $12.99

Diana Perry
Reviewer

Sparky knows a thing or two about moving. He moved four times as a puppy, and learned to make new friends along the way. Sparky knows he can teach Mary all his best tricks and help her meet new friends, too. At least Sparky thinks he can until he meets Custard, Mary's persnickety cat.... early readers will have fun reading this book and will learn much from the activity pages and fun facts at the end. (Ages 6-9)

Sam Wu Is NOT Afraid of Spiders
Katie Tsang and Kevin Tsang, authors
Nathan Reed, illustrator
Sterling Children's Books
www.sterlingpublishing.com
9781454937364, $12.95

Matthew Voils, age 11
Reviewer

Sam Wu is NOT afraid of anything. Well, maybe some things, like ghosts, sharks, and the dark's pretty scary, too. And now he has something new to worry about: Tulip, the big, hairy pet tarantula that lives in the sixth-grade science lab and is coming to visit his class. This book makes for an amazing beginner's novel, a boy who others think is a scaredy cat who is afraid of spiders. I'd recommend it to anyone who wants a book for their children who are beginning to read novels. (Ages 7-12)

Morgan and the Forty Thieves: A Magic Math Adventure
Addie Abacus, author
Elisabeth Alba, illustrator
https://www.addieabacus.com
Phantom Hill Press
9781732881310, $8.99

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Hardship and uncertainty can barge in, overturning all that is familiar. And yet, the abrupt start can lead us into amazing places and things we would have never experienced any other way! Morgan's happy, settled life changes when her father is lost on one of his exploring expeditions. Forced to sell all they have, her mother takes a staff position with a mysterious family they have never met. And the adventure begins! The writing flows effortlessly and draws the reader's interest with ease. (Ages 8-12)

Shirley and Jamila Save Their Summer
Gillian Goerz
Dial Books
https://www.penguin.com
9780525552864, $10.99

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Told in the form of a graphic novel, this story features two middle-grade girls, Jamila and Shirley. Shirley is very smart and analytical, which makes her very standoffish. But, Shirley also has trouble making friends and is lonely. Jamila is very outgoing, but she's not sure how to handle Shirley. Jamila is new in the neighborhood, and Shirley is the same age as she is. They are not very much alike, but they discover they have something in common. Together they solve mysteries in their neighborhood and learn lessons about friendship along the way. (Ages 8-12)

Pony on the Twelfth Floor
Polly Faber, author
Sarah Jennings, illustrator
Candlewick
www.candlewick.com
9781536209303, $16.99

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Kizzy loves ponies and wants one of her own. Problem is, she lives on the twelfth floor of a high-rise apartment building, and there is no place for a pony there. But, when she finds a pony in the local grocery story, standing by itself, munching on donuts, she pretends it is hers and calmly leads it out of the store. Now what is she going to do with it? You might be surprised. (Ages 8-12)

To Dance: A Ballerina's Graphic Novel
Siena Cherson Siegel, author
Mark Siegel, illustrator
Atheneum Books
www.simonandschuster.com
9781416926870, $11.99

Diana Perry
Reviewer

Part family history, part backstage drama, this beautifully updated graphic memoir - which features a refreshed design and a brand-new scrapbook of Siena's mementoes - is an original, firsthand look a young dancer's beginnings. Young Readers will have so much fun reading this story that depicts how anyone can achieve their goals with courage, determination, and a refusal to give up. (Ages 8-12)

The Tantalizing Tale of Grace Minnaugh
Alice Kaltman
Regal House Publishing
https://www.regalhousepublishing.com
9781947548978, $15.95

Diana Perry
Reviewer

Grace Minnaugh is not a fan of big changes. She's miserable during her first weeks in the seaside town of La Toya, sulking like a spoiled brat. Her family embraces the California lifestyle and Grace decides to embrace the seductive beauty of the sea. One fateful morning, while taking a predawn swim, she is caught in a thunderstorm. Without the ocean skills to survive, she's sucked below the surface, convinced she will drown. Instead, a new life begins... This is the perfect bedtime story for any middle-grader. (Ages 9-12)

Reeni's Turn
Carol Coven Grannick
Regal House Publishing
https://www.regalhousepublishing.com
9781646030125, $15.95

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Reeni is growing up and she's not liking it much. Her older sister will be leaving for college soon, her body is changing and she feels fat, her ballet teacher is retiring, and she has been asked by her ballet teacher to do a solo for the teacher's final recital. With all the changes in her life that she can't control, Reeni tries to control her weight, and goes on a near starvation diet, which doesn't work and alienates her from her best friend, who doesn't approve of her change of eating habits. The story is told in beautiful poetic language that fits perfectly with the poetry of ballet movements. (Ages 9-12)

Gold Rush Girl
Avi
Candlewick
www.candlewick.com
9781536206791, $17.99

Diana Perry
Reviewer

Victoria Blaisdell longs for independence and adventure, and she yearns to accompany her father as he sails west in search of real gold! But it is 1848, and Tory isn't even allowed to go to school, much less travel all the way from Rhode Island to California. Determined to take control of her own destiny, Tory stows away on the ship. This book is packed with action and dangers, mystery and suspense, and is several stories weaved into one. Most exciting to delve into at bedtime. (Ages 9-12)

Fig Newton Summer
Lisa Gammon Olson, author
Lauren Rutledge, illustrator
Eifrig Publishing
www.eifrigpublishing.com
9781632332455, $9.99

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Summer holds the whisper of comfort as 12-year-old Lizzie anticipates another vacation at the lake. Every year they meet up with long-time friends and neighbors at their woodsy cottages In Wisconsin. This year held the excitement of every year before it, but packed its own bags with disappointment, frustration, and opportunities to adjust. Nothing is going as usual, and Lizzie is faced with conflicts with old friends, and reluctance with new ones. A coming-of-age story where upheaval seems to bridge the gap from who we were, to who we are becoming. (Ages 10-12)

Written in Time
Deborah L. Edmisten
Independently Published
9781075383311, $9.99

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Emarie Gordon is only 12 years old, but she loves anything and everything about the past. One of her favorite places is an antique store that is filled with wonderful knickknacks and household items. When she sits down to play with an antique Underwood typewriter, the moment her fingers touch the keys, strange things happen. She is whisked away, back in time, to the early 1900s. Luckily for her, she winds up in the house of someone who believes in time travel. How will she get back home? This is the first book in the new In Time series. (Ages 10-14)

Memory Superpowers! An Adventurous Guide to Remembering What You Don't Want to Forget
Nelson Dellis
Abrams
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781419731877, $19.99

Matthew Voils, age 11
Reviewer

Guided by national memory champion Nelson Dellis, readers will learn the tricks and secrets to remembering everything from the world capitals to the elements of the periodic table to speeches. I love this book, and it was extraordinary, using an interactive adventure story to help improve memory. This book was very helpful and entertaining for me. I give this a 10 out of 10. (Ages 10-14)

B*WITCH
Paige McKenzie and Nancy Ohlin
Little, Brown
https://www.lbyr.com
9781368028769, $17.99

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Iris is one of the new kids at school. She doesn't know if she will fit in because, well, she is a witch and she doesn't know if there will be any other witches in her school. She is anxious to find out, but also scared, because being a witch is against the law, and revealing her secret could put her in danger. She soon discovers that there are, indeed, other witches in her school, and she joins one of the two covens. The two covens are rivals, and while they battle each other with silly spells and pranks, the situation turns deadly serious when one of them is murdered. The two covens must work together to discover the killer before it happens again. (Ages 12-18)


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Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
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Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
e-mail: mwbookrevw@aol.com
http://www.midwestbookreview.com


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