I enjoy reading picture books on a daily basis – which is good, since I’m passionate about writing them! I also study them in-depth.
Below, I share some of my insights about what makes a great picture book, as well as offer 50- or 100-word (ish) reviews of some picture books I recommend. And because The Rule of Three is so important in picture books (with exceptions, of course…more to come on this), in addition to Spotlight Reviews, I also review three books which follow a particular theme.
Spotlight Review for
Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2024:
I’m happy to once again be a book reviewer on Multicultural Children’s Book Day! #ReadYourWorld
Food For The Future: Sustainable Farms Around the World
by Mia Wenjen
Illustrated by Robert Sae-Heng
With an increasing interest in environmentally friendly methods of growing food for a swelling worldwide population, Food For The Future: Sustainable Farms Around the World offers inspiring insights into twelve approaches from around the globe. Using short, rhyming couplets (“Can we feed the world without pollution? Sustainable farms are one solution”), this picture book travels from salt and rooftop farms in the U.S. to vertical farms in Singapore, an oceanic biosphere farm in Italy, circular gardens in Senegal, and other new or time-tested, creative ways to grow food while caring for the earth it comes from, both today and tomorrow. Simple yet vibrantly-colorful digital and hand-drawn art complements each spread’s text, and inset boxes offer definitions of key concepts and terms. Extensive back matter for older readers offers additional information on sustainable farming and food justice, as well as a world map highlighting the featured countries and a deeper dive into each country’s methods.
This timely picture book written by the Pragmaticmom.com blogger Mia Wenjen and illustrated by U.K. artist Robert Sae-Heng will be a nice addition for teachers to lessons about the environment, sustainability, food justice, cultural studies, and food sources. In addition, young readers will find plenty to enjoy as they see how a diverse range of people around the world sustainably grow and harvest their food.
Theme: Gorgeously-Illustrated New Picture Books
It’s Fall!
Written and Illustrated by Rénee Kurilla
This rhyming celebration of all things autumn is bursting with joy about the season’s best offerings. Beautiful digitally-illustrated scenes feature cozy, black-outlined drawings saturated in shades of orange, yellow, and red, and feature a classroom of children sharing all they love about the season from nature-related changes such as colorful leaves and honking geese to celebrations of apple-picking, Halloween and Thanksgiving and the food and fun related to each. A final question to the reader, “What things do you love about fall?” will spark many conversations and the urge to get out and enjoy Fall. Delightful!
A River of Dust: The Life-Giving Link Between
North Africa and the Amazon
Written by Jilanne Hoffmann
Illustrated by Eugenia Mello
In this gentle, lyrical ode to Earth and its interconnectedness, Hoffmann shares the remarkable story of “the river of dust” which flows from Africa, across the Atlantic Ocean, and on to the Amazon Rainforests and beyond. This dust is of vital importance; it shares the phosphorous and iron needed specifically in these areas of the world by phytoplankton, and thus positively affects food webs and climate change. Vibrant, colorful art by Mello sweeps the reader along as the dust travels from desert to clouds to ocean to forests, adding unique perspectives throughout. Significant back matter delves much deeper. Beautiful!
If I Was a Horse
Written and Illustrated by Sophie Blackall
In her signature two-time Caldecott winning style, Blackall captures the delight and imagination of children everywhere who wonder, “What if I was a ___,” this time filling in the blank with Horse. Using a mix of watercolor, fabric, pencil, gouache, wallpaper, and digital media, the artist’s imaginer (revealed at the end) experiences a new kind of freedom, that of galloping in fields, rolling in rain and mud and not being told to take a bath, sleeping standing up, and other wonderful experiences. Delightful patterns serve as colorful backgrounds to the brown speckled horse with a flowing mane and tail. Charming!
Spotlight Review for
Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2023
I’m happy to once again be a book reviewer on Multicultural Children’s Book Day! As part of this annual event, I was gifted a book to review, in order to provide my honest opinion. Read on to discover more. #ReadYourWorld
Leaves to My Knees
by Ellen Mayer
Illustrated by Nicole Tadgell
Published by Star Bright Books
It’s a gorgeous fall day and Camille is ready to help her father rake leaves in the backyard, along with her little brother Jayden. Each of them has their own rake, sized just right, and Camille is determined to rake a pile of leaves as high as her knees. When setbacks occur—a slow start with leaves only reaching her ankles, twigs snarling her rake, a big gust of wind that forces a restart, and other frustrations—Camille redoubles her efforts with great results. In the end, readers learn why she wanted a pile of “leaves to my knees”!
Ellen Mayer’s Leaves to My Knees from Star Bright Books is a sweet story about a common event—raking leaves—but is really about much more. It’s a story about family. It’s a story about setting goals, perseverance, and enjoying the rewards of reaching those goals. It’s a story that offers a look at how math is part of everyday life by introducing early math concepts such as size comparison and measurement. Featuring gentle watercolor illustrations by award-winning artist Nicole Tadgell depicting a loving family of color, a beautiful autumn day, and facial expressions showing a range of emotions, young readers ages 3-6 will connect with the story and with Camille as she tries to reach her goal. Back matter also provides a special note to parents and caregivers from a senior scientist and mathematics learning expert which explains how to use the book to teach math concepts with children, and how to explore size and measurement in a child’s everyday environment as well.
Find out more at: ellenmayerbooks.com; nicoletadgell.art; www.starbrightbooks.com
Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2023 (1/26/22) is in its 10th year! This non-profit children’s literacy initiative was founded by Valarie Budayr and Mia Wenjen; two diverse book-loving moms who saw a need to shine the spotlight on all of the multicultural books and authors on the market while also working to get those books into the hands of young readers and educators. Ten years in, MCBD’s mission is to raise awareness of the ongoing need to include kids’ books that celebrate diversity in homes and school bookshelves continues.
THEME: SEASONAL CELEBRATIONS
Twelve Dinging Doorbells: An Every-Holiday Carol
by Tameka Fryer Brown
Illustrated by Ebony Glenn
This lively, love-filled, rhyming and cumulative delight is set to the tune of “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” but matches any family gathering or reunion filled with food, fun, dancing, and laughter. The main character has her eye on the sweet potato pie her Granny made (just for her?), but with all the chaos surrounding her, will she succeed in getting a slice? In addition to the buoyant and colorful depictions of Black joy, Glenn’s cut-paper collage illustrations bring the party to life with both humor and heart, offering fun things for readers to discover on every spread.
Harvest Days: Giving Thanks Around the World
by Kate DePalma
Illustrated by Martina Peluso
So Not Ghoul
by Karen Yin
Illustrated by Bonnie Lui
THEME: NEW POETRY IN FUN, LYRICAL & TRADITIONAL FORMS THAT SING
Bug on the Rug
by Sophia Gholz
Illustrated by Susan Batori
Filled with a cast of -ug characters adorably brought to life by illustrator Batori, this phonics-full rhyme-fest is both hilarious and sweet. Young listeners and emerging readers will return again and again for the crazy antics, heartfelt friendship, and surprise ending, all while developing vocabulary and reading skills.
Marshmallow Clouds: Two Poets Play among Figures of Speech
by Ted Kooser and Connie Wanek
Illustrated by Richard Jones
Playful imagery, unexpected metaphor, whimsical wordplay…delightful language and gorgeous, digitally-edited paint illustrations fly together in this must-have collection of thirty poems framed by Fire, Water, Air, and Earth. Focusing on the everyday—July, sleep, marshmallows—and more, Kooser, Wanek, and Jones waken the senses, figuratively and literally.
Serengeti: Plains of Grass
by Leslie Bulion
Illustrated by Becca Stadtlander
During Serengeti monsoons, a great migration of zebras, wildebeest, and more begins. Using a traditional East African Swahili poetry form—the utendi—Bulion showcases the migration’s rhythms while highlighting the ecosystem’s complex web through interconnected verses. Stadtlander’s lush illustrations of gouache and pastels, and extensive back matter, also make this a standout.
Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2022
Theme: Sibling Viewpoint When a Child Changes Gender Identity
Spotlight Review
I’m happy to once again be a book reviewer on Multicultural Children’s Book Day! As part of this annual event, I was gifted a book to review, in order to provide my honest opinion. Read on to discover more. #ReadYourWorld
My Sister, Daisy
By Adria Karlsson
Illustrated by Linus Curci
Published by Capstone
Based on the true story of the author’s children, My Sister, Daisy by Adria Karlsson is a straightforward yet sensitive and hopeful look at how a child’s change in gender identity affects a sibling, while offering a path to understanding and acceptance through the unfolding of “aha moments” and loving parental guidance.
Narrated by the sweet and kind older brother of this mixed-race family (no names except Daisy are ever used, this being the new name chosen by the youngest boy in the family when he changes his gender identity), we learn how the boys played together as children until after the youngest finished kindergarten, when he tells his brother “I am a girl.” As the older brother works to understand (for instance: “I knew you wore dresses sometimes, but I thought it was because they were fun to twirl in,” he states as the adorable illustrations by gender-affirmed Linus Curci show the two of them dancing in fun, gauzy dresses), he sees his sibling is still the same person inside, still fun to play and be with, while showing how he also feels worried, jealous, or angry at times as well, as things are changing.
This warm picture book offers a new perspective for learning about and discussing an important topic, offering windows and mirrors for families, children, grandparents, educators, and others in a world in need of kindness and compassion for all who live here. The family depicted in the story is one already somewhat versed in gender identity topics (the older brother has a friend who wants to be referred to as they/them and the mother states, “We must’ve had it wrong” when explaining that they thought she was a boy), but even those readers starting with the basics will find this a gentle and caring introduction. It will make a lovely addition to any home, school, or public library.
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Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2022 (1/28/22) is in its 9th year! This non-profit children’s literacy initiative was founded by Valarie Budayr and Mia Wenjen; two diverse book-loving moms who saw a need to shine the spotlight on all of the multicultural books and authors on the market while also working to get those books into the hands of young readers and educators. MCBD’s mission is to raise awareness of the ongoing need to include kids’ books that celebrate diversity in homes and school bookshelves.
For more details and resources for teachers and parents, please visit:
https://www.multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/
SPOTLIGHT REVIEW:
Night Becomes Day: Changes in Nature
by Cynthia Argentine
A year, month, week, day, hour, or even minute in nature is never the same as before. Nature is always transforming, changing in ways that are big, small, quick, slow, old, new, and many other amazing ways. Cynthia Argentine leads readers on a fascinating discovery of some of nature’s beautiful transformations with an eye toward Earth’s wonders. Bright, mesmerizing photos capture each concept, while an author’s note and back matter offer supporting material for each example and more on the science of change for older readers. This lovely book is deceptively simple but packs a hefty scientific punch and is sure to be one kids and teachers reach for again and again!
A special thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an advanced reviewer’s copy in exchange for an honest review.
Theme: Bears, Bears, Bears 2
by Hannah E. Harrison
Bear Came Along
by Richard T. Morris
Illustrated by LeUyen Pham
Please Don’t Eat Me
by Liz Climo
Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2021
Theme: Being Brave
Spotlight Reviews
I’m happy to once again be a reviewer on Multicultural Children’s Book Day! As part of this annual event, I was gifted two books to review, in order to provide my honest opinion. Read on to discover more. #ReadYourWorld
Mermaid Tales #18: Fairy Chase
by Debbie Dadey
Illustrated by Tatevik Avakyan
Published by Simon & Schuster
Debbie Dadey’s mer-velous Mermaid Tales series features third-grade mermaids Shelly, Echo, Kiki, and Pearl, along with classmate merboy Rocky, in fantastical underwater adventures. In this eighteenth installment, Fairy Chase, Echo’s Aunt Crabella visits her, with long, black-tipped braids, bead and bangle-decorated arms and dress, and red-clay covered skin. She shares with Echo the tale of the tricky Hairy Fairy, who tangles mermaids’ hair while they sleep. Echo’s black, curly hair is often twisted into these fairy locks by morning, so she is determined to catch the Hairy Fairy to prevent this and receive some of her treasure. But are fairies even real? Though Echo isn’t sure, and despite her nervousness, she’s determined to find out. So she and her friends make a plan to catch one, and what they encounter on their fairy chase surprises both them and the reader. Filled with fun “mer-words”, ocean facts, a glossary, plentiful illustrations, the Mermaid Tales song, and even informational True/False quizzes about sea birds, Fairy Chase allows readers to immerse themselves in life under the sea with a diverse and delightful cast of characters.
Quigley the Quiet Hedgehog
by Claudine Norden
Illustrated by Bonnie Wiegand
Published by Hoberman
In an extrovert world, kids need to see it’s okay to be quiet, and that quiet doesn’t necessarily mean submissive or bored. Quigley the Quiet Hedgehog aims to do just that with its story of Quigley, who prefers reading, pretending alone, and other solitary ventures to large crowds and loud gatherings. Told in rhyme and featuring gentle watercolor illustrations, Quigley is written for preschool and early elementary school students. With lines such as, “I am quiet, and I am free,” and “In big crowds I don’t need to shout, I am seen…I have clout,” author Claudine Norden captures the bravery shown by introverts who just want to live their lives in a way that makes them feel happy and safe and reveals why it’s so important for all of us to see introversion as an equally delightful worldview and personality trait as extroversion.
Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2021 (1/29/21) is in its 8th year! This non-profit children’s literacy initiative was founded by Valarie Budayr and Mia Wenjen; two diverse book-loving moms who saw a need to shine the spotlight on all of the multicultural books and authors on the market while also working to get those books into the hands of young readers and educators.
MCBD 2021 is honored to be Supported by these Medallion Sponsors!
FOUNDER’S CIRCLE: Mia Wenjen (Prgamaticmom) and Valarie Budayr’s (Audreypress.com)
Platinum Sponsors: Language Lizard Bilingual Books in 50+ Languages, Author Deedee Cummings and Make A Way Media.
Gold Sponsors: Barefoot Books, Candlewick Press, Capstone, Hoopoe Books, KidLit TV, Peachtree Publishing Company Inc.
Silver Sponsors: Charlotte Riggle, Connecticut Association of School Librarians, Author Kimberly Gordon Biddle, Pack-N-Go Girls
Bronze Sponsors: Agatha Rodi and AMELIE is IMPRESSED!, Barnes Brothers Books, Create and Educate Solutions, LLC, Dreambuilt Books, Dyesha and Triesha McCants/McCants Squared, Redfin Real Estate, Snowflake Stories, Star Bright Books, TimTimTom Bilingual Personalized Books, Author Vivian Kirkfield, Wisdom Tales Press, My Well Read Child
MCBD 2021 is honored to be Supported by these Author Sponsors!
Poster Artist: Nat Iwata
Authors: Afsaneh Moradian, Author Alva Sachs & Three Wishes Publishing Company, Author Angeliki Stamatopoulou-Pedersen, Author Anna Olswanger, Author Casey Bell, Author Claudine Norden, Author Debbie Dadey, Author Diana Huang & Intrepids, Author Eugenia Chu & Brandon goes to Beijing, Green Kids Club, Author Gwen Jackson, Author Janet Balletta, Author Josh Funk, Author Julia Inserro, Karter Johnson & Popcorn and Books, Author Kathleen Burkinshaw & The Last Cherry Blossom, Author Keila Dawson, Maya/Neel Adventures with Culture Groove, Author MiaWenjen, Michael Genhart, Nancy Tupper Ling, Author Natalie Murray, Natalie McDonald-Perkins, Author Natasha Yim, Author Phe Lang and Me On The PagePublishing, Sandra Elaine Scott, Author Shoumi Sen & From The Toddler Diaries, SISSY GOES TINY by Rebecca Flansburg and B.A. Norrgard, Susan Schaefer Bernardo & Illustrator Courtenay Fletcher, Tales of the Five Enchanted Mermaids, Author Theresa Mackiewicz, Tonya Duncan and the Sophie Washington Book Series, Author Toshia Stelivan, Valerie Williams-Sanchez & The Cocoa Kids Collection Books©, Author Vanessa Womack, MBA, Author Veronica Appleton & the Journey to Appleville book series.
For more details and resources for teachers and parents, please visit https://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/
Theme: Wordless Picture Books Set in Nature*
One Summer Up North
by John Owens
One Summer Up North is a wordless picture book about one family’s adventure in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness of northern Minnesota, a “place of wordless wonder,” according to the author. As Alex and her parents canoe through the summer in this tranquil setting of one thousand lakes, distant from humans while communing with nature, they experience the bounty of the water, the thick and wild forests, and the seemingly-endless sky itself. John Owens’ pencil-style illustrations rely on the colors of this natural world—brown, green, and blue—as the backdrop to Alex’s red hat and the family’s colorful red canoe, while capturing the serenity and vastness of this national treasure. And while it might have been nice to see Alex’s growth throughout the summer stemming from her incredible adventure (going from her seeming boredom upon arrival to eventually helping with the canoe portaging, perhaps?), this quiet but lovely story does portray a close family in tune with nature and each other for One Summer Up North.
Hike
by Pete Oswald
Grand adventures in nature don’t have to take weeks: one day is enough when you have dreamed and planned, and get up early to explore a mountain with your father by your side! In Hike, Oswald’s gently lush panoramic scenes alternate with more detailed close-up panels to highlight this child and parent’s exploration, while text is kept to just a few onomatopoeic words. The duo’s close relationship is easily felt through facial expressions and actions (small adversities are overcome together) and the majesty of nature is easily felt through perspective and chosen scenery. One caveat to the story, though, caught my eye (indeed, a disclaimer on the copyright/dedication page addresses this issue): the pair bring a sapling with them to plant on the mountain. While this story line is promoted as helping to play a small role in the forest’s survival, it can also be illegal to plant in public spaces, as well as dangerous through the possible spread of diseases. Nevertheless, this warm tale is a loving story of bonds with both nature and each other, and of a memorable adventure experienced all in one day.
At the Pond
by Geraldo Valerio
Geraldo Valerio gently, yet powerfuly, explores themes of friendship, love, nature, empathy, and ownership in this wordless picture book. When a young boy walks his dog—who is wearing a bright yellow chained collar—on a dreary, colorless day, he discovers a beautiful blue pond full of white swans who befriend him. As the boy, his dog, and the swans explore, full-bleed spreads of the nearby vivid pink, yellow, and green flora and fauna help spread the message of paradise, where animals roam free to frolick. But when the boy unchains his dog so it can play, then chains instead the swan he is riding, the sky turns bleak and stormy. Realizing the swan’s sadness, and shedding a tear himself, the boy releases the swan and throws away the chain forever. A lovely picture book to help young children begin to realize their responsibilities when engaging with the natural world.
*Note: I usually limit my themed picture book reviews to 50 or 100 words, but because these are wordless picture books, I decided to use more words than usual to provide a more thorough synopsis of the storyline in each book.
Theme: Adorable Animals
I Found a Kitty!
by Troy Cummings
Arfy is back and his heart is as big as ever in Troy Cummings’ adorable sequel to Can I Be Your Dog?! When Arfy discovers Scamper, a homeless kitten, he reaches out once again via letters to his neighbors to help find Scamper a home (sadly, his person is allergic to cats). With puns and personality, his missives not only entertain, but also help to eventually find Scamper a forever home. Sweet, colorful illustrations, an interesting cast of characters, and a focus on pet adoption make this a purrfect story for dog and cat (and all animal) lovers!
Hound Won’t Go
by Lisa Jean Rogers
Illustrated by Meg Ishihara
Sometimes simple is simply wonderful, and that’s the case with this adorable story about a hound who stops and plops in the middle of the road, causing havoc all around him. Short rhyming text propels the story while bright, vibrant illustrations add extra heart and warmth. A fun, funny dog-lover’s delight!
Play Like an Animal!: Why Critters Splash, Race, Twirl, and Chase
by Maria Gianferrari
Illustrated by Mia Powell
Animals of all stripes and colors love to play just like we do, and for a variety of reasons: to learn new skills and ways of moving, to enhance cooperation and communication with others, to practice defending themselves against predators, and yes, even to have fun! Featuring joyful, playful illustrations of rhinos, monkeys, dolphins, elephants, and other animals, Gianferrari and Powell have created a rollicking look at animals at play. Back matter extends the learning with additional facts about each featured animal, the importance of play to animals in general, and additional reading to learn more on the subject.
SPOTLIGHT REVIEW:
Two Bicycles in Beijing
by Teresa Robeson
Illustrated by Junyi Wu
Readers will zip through the sights and sounds of Beijing along with Lunzi and Huangche, two colorful bicycles destined to be best friends, in Teresa Robeson’s newest delightful picture book.
Manufactured together, Lunzi and Huangche hope to never part. But when a young girl buys Huangche, Lunzi worries it will never again see its friend in the big city. However, a delivery boy soon chooses Lunzi to help with his errands, and off they go. As Lunzi flies on two wheels through the crowds, it watches carefully for a flash of yellow. But there are many festive yellow sights in Beijing. Just when Lunzi is about to give up hope, one last flash of yellow – along with a new friendship between the girl and boy – ensure Lunzi and Huangche will be able to remain friends no matter where they travel in Beijing.
Robeson’s joyful and optimistic text offers many wonderful opportunities for Wu’s softly colorful artwork to shine. Chinese words stand side by side with English for a nice introduction to a new language (a glossary of Mandarin Chinese terms used in the book follows the story), and back matter offers a bit more information on some of the sights highlighted in the story, including Nanguan and Beihai Parks and Tiananmen Square. This sweet story of friendship set in a bright, bustling city is a perfect addition to any bookshelf.
THEME: BOOGIE DOWN: PICTURE BOOKS ABOUT DANCING
Let’s Dance!
by Valerie Bolling
Illustrated by Maine Diaz
Musical rhyming couplets will inspire readers to get up and move in this fun, joyful celebration of dance styles from around the world. Exuberant illustrations feature children of diverse backgrounds and abilities, and back matter offers another look at each dance in a colorful ode to different eras and forms.
Feel the Beat: Dance Poems that Zing from Salsa to Swing
by Marilyn Singer
Illustrated by Kristi Valiant
In this delightful collection of poems celebrating dances from across the globe, each poem’s meter and style reflect that dance’s beat. Singer’s poems partner wonderfully with Valiant’s vibrant illustrations to capture each dance’s true heart. Back matter discusses styles, while a CD features the poems set to original music by Jonathan Roberts.
I Got the Rhythm
by Connie Schofield-Morrison
Illustrated by Frank Morrison
A walk in the park turns into a dance extravaganza for a girl who uses her senses and feels the beat in everything around her. With joy and rhythm, she encourages others to join in – snap, clap, tip, tap – as she expresses herself. Energetic illustrations will have readers clapping along!
Theme: Feeling Close to Someone Far Away
Besos de sol, abrazos de luna (Sun Kisses, Moon Hugs) Bilingual Spanish-English version
by Susan Schaefer Bernardo
Illustrated by Courtenay Fletcher
I’m happy to be taking part in Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2020! As part of this event, I was provided a copy of Besos de sol, abrazos de luna (Sun Kisses, Moon Hugs) to review. This sweet, loving picture book was published by Inner Flower Child Books in December of 2019.
Author Susan Schaefer Bernardo and illustrator Courtenay Fletcher’s well-loved Sun Kisses, Moon Hugs can now reach even more children and parents in this delightful and beneficial Spanish-English bilingual version. Lyrical text — in both Spanish and English on each page — pairs with bold, colorful design and digital-style illustrations to spread the message of love and comfort to children who are separated from a loved one, whether it be through divorce, death, illness, distance, or another reason. The book’s message is clear: through nature and connecting to the big, beautiful world we live in — be it via the sun or moon, trees or flowers, rain or snow, sand or butterflies — children can still feel close to their loved one. One spread is a great example:
“I’m leaving signs to show I care, like the wind whispering through your hair. Whenever I miss you, I will find a way to hug and kiss you.”
The gently reassuring tone of this story makes this an ideal bedtime read, plus the bilingual text offers a chance for non-English speakers to share the message with loved ones as well.
THEME: OUT OF THIS WORLD
Red Rover: Curiosity on Mars
Written by Richard Ho
Illustrated by Katherine Roy
Simply told and gorgeously illustrated, this atmospheric look at the rover Curiosity on Mars encourages readers to open their minds to both current realities and future possibilities of space exploration. Ho’s friendly, succinct style and illustrator Katherine Roy’s creative perspective and use of red tones provide the feel of roaming the planet alongside Curiosity. Backmatter offers depth (The Anatomy of Curiosity, information about Curiosity’s history on Mars and more on the red planet itself), and breadth (Curiosity’s Friends, a look at other rovers that came before) for the “curious” minds who will be enthralled with the small but mighty rover.
Just Right: Searching for the Goldilocks Planet
Written by Curtis Manley
Illustrated by Jessica Lanan
Curtis Manley’s love for and curiosity about space shine through in this expanded picture book which asks the question: Is there another planet that, like Earth, is not too big, not too small, not too hot, not too cold, but “Just Right” for life? In an accessible way, Manley moves quickly through the history of this question into modern day, while following a young girl and her family as they explore a museum exhibit about these exoplanets. Lanan’s gentle and varied illustrations help bring concepts to life for young readers while encouraging “What if” and “Perhaps” daydreaming about this timely question.
Pluto Gets The Call
Written by Adam Rex
Illustrated by Laurie Keller
Chock full of heart, humor, and helpful information, Rex’s expanded picture book uses every bit of “space” to tell Pluto’s story of demotion to a Dwarf Planet and its hilarious ensuing search for answers. When Pluto, previously known as our ninth planet, gets a call from scientists on Earth with the bad news, he sets out to talk to the other planets – each with its own delightful personality based in facts and a bit of fancy – about why. Keller’s vivid and lively mixed-media style adds to the hilarity. Who knew our solar system could be so fun, funny, and fascinating?
SPOTLIGHT REVIEW
The Bear and The Star
by Lola Schaefer
Illustrated by Bethanne Andersen
Lola Schaefer brings us a seasonal story of humanity, harmony, and community in this lovely and lovingly-told tale. Bear awakes one early December morning, seeing a star on the horizon, and knows it is time. Time for every person and creature around the world to come together. So he bellows to all ends of the earth and they come, joining together at last on a beautiful snowy night under a majestic tree, as the star rises high in the sky. Award-winning illustrator Bethanne Anderson’s soft style and snowy scenes bring this delightful holiday story to life, while Schaefer’s text flows gently across the page as it builds to the final point of the gathering – peace.
SPOTLIGHT REVIEW
Queen of Physics:
How Wu Chien Shiung Helped Unlock the Secrets of the Atom
by Teresa Robeson
Illustrated by Rebecca Huang
As we celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child, what could be more fitting than to read about a young Chinese girl – named Chien Shiung, meaning “courageous hero” – who grew to be a truly inspirational woman in the field of physics, eventually named by Newsweek as The Queen of Physics.
Born in 1912 and raised by parents who ran a school for girls, Chien Shiung quickly discovered the value of learning. When she needed to further her education, she bravely left home at a young age to study biology, chemistry, math, and her most beloved subject, physics, all while leading classmates against those with abusive power in her homeland. Eventually moving to the U.S. in her early twenties, Chien Shiung began to study the physics of atoms, specifically beta decay, making great discoveries and helping others in the scientific field in their research and experiments. Despite the fact she was overlooked many times for the Nobel Prize for her accomplishments, Chien Shiung – called Madame Wu by her students – persevered and became a leader in her field, as well as the first woman instructor for Princeton, first woman to be elected president of The American Physical Society, and many other “firsts” and honors.
Teresa Robeson’s inspiring debut picture book brings Wu Chien Shiung and her love for physics to life, while not shying away from hard facts of racism, sexism, political upheavals, and other important topics. In addition, Robeson’s writing allows sometimes tough-to-understand scientific ideas to be accessible to young readers, both in the story and in back matter. Huang’s illustrations feature a variety of colors, softened to great effect, and helps to highlight both Chien Shiung’s amazing life and the scientific principles she loved so dearly.
THEME: FOREST-SET FUN & INSPIRATIONAL STORIES
The Boy Who Grew A Forest
by Sophia Gholz
Illustrated by Kayla Harren
An inspirational true story about how even the youngest among us can make a world of difference, Gholz tells of Jadav Payeng, an Indian boy whose river island village suffered from erosion and deforestation. When hundreds of snakes died, Jadav’s concern prompted his elders to give him 20 bamboo seedlings to plant. Over time, he devised a watering system, added grasses and fruit trees, and eventually planted over 1,300 acres, transforming the area into a lush haven. Kayla Harren’s beautiful illustrations transport readers into Jadav’s world, while Gholz’s lovely storytelling helps them come to understand and appreciate Jadav’s efforts and commitment.
When A Tree Grows
by Cathy Ballou Mealey
Illustrated by Kasia Nowowiejska
Cathy Ballou Mealey has written a fun, clever book that’s all about a forest, animal friends and the possibilities and choices they face one day which lead them on a delightful adventure. When itchy Moose uses a tree as a scratching post, causing the tree to sway, two things could happen. The story moves forward with a chain reaction of (mostly) two possible outcomes, leading Squirrel to head to “the big city” and Moose to eventually bring him back home to celebrate with all their friends in an even better forest. Kasia Nowowiejska’s adorable, spirited illustrations add greatly to the humor!
The Lost Forest
by Phyllis Root
Illustrated by Betsy Bowen
Phyllis Root has created a lovely and reverent story about a parcel of forest in Minnesota that still holds big, beautiful trees which are hundreds of years old. In the 1800s, when land and trees were being seized from Native Americans by the U.S. government, sold off in parcels, and logged, a surveying crew’s mistake placed a lake where 114 acres of trees actually lived. Because this “lost forest” wasn’t discovered until 1958 when it was part of a National Forest, those trees still live on today. Extensive back matter and detailed, interesting illustrations round out the lyrically-told story.
THEME: WELCOME, LITTLE ONES
Nine Months: Before a Baby is Born
by Miranda Paul
Illustrated by Jason Chin
Award-winning pair Miranda Paul and Jason Chin have paired up again to create a delightful month-by-month look at the development of baby inside its mother. With gently rhyming text focusing on baby’s growth and milestones, plus a parallel look at an older sibling’s waiting experience, Nine Months will entrance young readers. Chin’s softly realistic watercolor-and-gouache illustrations are bright and loving, with accurate-size depictions of the baby as it develops, while Paul’s story allows readers an accessible peek into the womb. Back matter offers additional developmental information, fun facts in a conversational tone, and suggested reading.
Babymoon
by Hayley Barrett
Illustrated by Juana Martinez-Neal
The term “babymoon” was coined by anthropologist Sheila Kitzinger and is used by midwives and birthing professionals alike. This lovely book shares information about this important bonding time of baby and parents’ first days at home together, alone, where they get to know one another, rest, cuddle, eat, and enjoy life as a new family, before others or the world appear on the doorstep to distract them from each another. Barrett’s gently rhyming text pairs nicely with Martinez-Neal’s soft illustrations featuring a diverse couple and newborn to remind parents of the importance of this getting-to-know-you phase.
This is Our Baby, Born Today
by Varsha Bajaj
Illustrated by Eliza Wheeler
When a baby is born, parents, family, and members of the community celebrate with joy and thanksgiving. This isn’t limited to humans, though, as the animal kingdom also comes together to make the little one feel welcome and loved. Varsha Bajaj’s gently repetitive phrases capture this time of sweet enchantment when a baby elephant is born as its mother, aunts, sisters, cousins, herd, friends, neighbors – and indeed the earth and sky itself – welcome it with open arms. Eliza Wheeler’s soft watercolor illustrations, which evoke the richness and peacefulness of the Indian landscape, lovingly support the soothing story. Perfect for bedtime!
THEME: FUN NEW PICTURE BOOKS SUMMER 2019
Noah Noasaurus
by Elaine Kiely Kearns
Illustrated by Colin Jack
Everyone can relate to having a bad day, a “NO!” kind of day, and this book can help young readers see how to turn that around. In Noah Noasaurus, Elaine Kylie Kearns takes something kids love – dinosaurs – and something kids say – NO! (because they are in a bad mood) – and pairs them together with hilarious results, showing that even a bad day can turn out okay with friends. Illustrator Colin Jacks’ brightly colorful, adorably fun illustrations highlight the story and humor as well (the facial expressions on the dinos are especially delightful). Makes for a fun read aloud too!
Hello
by Fiona Woodcock
Fiona Woodcock is back after her charming book LOOK with this delightful ode to summer. Hello is a story about a brother and sister visiting a seaside amusement park and beach for the day, followed by a family camp out. The story is told mostly in words featuring double L’s – hello, roller coaster, thrill, jellyfish, shells, marshmallows, etc. – and Woodcock’s softly colored illustrations, created from stencils, children’s BLO pens, and other techniques and incorporating the highlighted words into the illustrations themselves, pair well with just enough white space to make this a gentle and fun look at the perfect summer day.
If You Had Your Birthday Party on the Moon
by Joyce Lapin
Illustrated by Simona Ceccarelli
Imagine doing all the usual birthday party activities – bouncing, dancing, and playing games; exploring around you; singing Happy Birthday; blowing out candles; eating cake; hitting the pinata; and more – on the moon, where EVERYTHING will be different! Lapin’s fun and funny look at a party on the moon offers easy-to-understand scientific explanations for these differences, packing pages with cool facts about space, the moon, gravity, astronauts, and much more, while Ceccarelli’s bright and lively illustrations help young readers imagine that it could happen for them one day soon. A Glossary and other back matter add to the learning.
THEME: ILLUSTRATIONS THAT POP IN
NATURE-THEMED PICTURE BOOKS
Birds
by Carme Lemniscates
Vibrant digital illustrations highlight this look at the variety of birds children might see in their tree homes or in the air, while text reminds readers how birds make our lives more full, loving, and peaceful. Bold black and blue feathers on the bright white end papers offer extra POP.
From Tree to Sea
by Shelley Moore Thomas
Illustrated by Christopher Silas Neal
Neal’s soft mixed-media illustrations support the gently lyrical free-verse text in this ode to nature’s lessons for all of us. Readers will see how the sun, soil, trees, ocean, clouds, and even birds, bees, whales, and other animals can teach us about ourselves and the world around us.
I’ve Got Eyes
by Julie Murphy
Illustrated by: Hannah Tolson
Bright, varied illustrations bring to life this interesting look at animals and their eyes. Focusing on shape, function, size, number, and other aspects, Murphy offers a glimpse of both common and unusual animals and the roles their eyes play in their lives, while asking readers to consider their own eyes as well.
SPOTLIGHT REVIEW
Theme: SIBLINGS WITH AUTISM OR SPECIAL NEEDS
Leah’s Voice
by Lori DeMonia
Illustrated by Monique Turchan
I’m happy to be taking part in Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2019! As part of this event, I was provided a copy of Leah’s Voice to review. This award-winning picture book is published by Halo Publishing International.
Logan and her sister Leah have lots of fun together, swimming and painting pictures (Leah’s favorite). So Logan is excited one day to have her friend Abby come over to play with them, until Abby grows frustrated with Leah and her different way of communicating and playing. Logan herself also feels frustrated another day when Leah’s actions prevent her from being able to see her first movie in a movie theater. Then her parents explain that Leah has autism, and what that means for all of them, but mostly for Leah and Logan. Eventually, Leah’s art draws the attention of the local paper, and Abby comes to realize how important it is to treat everyone with kindness and understanding.
Leah’s Voice is a gentle, easy-to-understand story about the sometimes difficult situation of having a sibling or friend with autism, and how to explain autism to friends and others who may never have been exposed to it. Soft watercolor illustrations make this a good read-aloud for early elementary students.
Leah’s Voice has won several awards:
- 2014 Dr. Temple Grandin Outstanding Literary Work of the Year Award presented by The Autism Society
- Sibling Support Project’s recommended reading list
- Mom’s Choice Award winner for Children’s Books – Developing Social Skills
It is a nice addition to any family or school library, especially as a way to open up discussions about autism, accepting others’ differences, showing respect, and being kind.
A little more information on Multicultural Children’s Book Day (and their Twitter Giveaway)…
Multicultural Children’s Book Day 2019 (1/25/19) is in its 6th year and was founded by Valarie Budayr from Jump Into A Book and Mia Wenjen from PragmaticMom. Our mission is to raise awareness of the ongoing need to include kids’ books that celebrate diversity in home and school bookshelves while also working diligently to get more of these types of books into the hands of young readers, parents and educators.
MCBD2019 is honored to have some amazing Medallion Level and Author Sponsors on board.
*View our 2019 Medallion Sponsors here: https://wp.me/P5tVud-
*View our 2019 MCBD Author Sponsors here: https://wp.me/P5tVud-2eN
We’d like to also give a shout-out to MCBD’s impressive CoHost Team who not only hosts the book review link-up on celebration day, but who also works tirelessly to spread the word of this event. View our CoHosts: http://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/about/co-hosts/
TWITTER PARTY Sponsored by Make A Way Media: MCBD’s super-popular (and crazy-fun) annual @McChildsBookDay Twitter Party will be held 1/27/19 at 9:00pm. E.S.T.
Join the conversation and win one of 12 five book bundles and one Grand Prize Book Bundle (12 books) that will be given away at the party. We will be giving away a prize every 5 minutes!
FREE RESOURCES from MCBD
Free Multicultural Books for Teachers: https://wp.me/P5tVud-1H
Free Empathy Classroom Kit for Homeschoolers, Organizations, Librarians and Educators: http://multiculturalchildrensbookday.com/teacher-classroom…/
Hashtag: Don’t forget to connect with us on social media and be sure and look for/use our official hashtag #ReadYourWorld.
#Lafrontera #barefootbooks #barefootinfredericton #picturebooks#immigration
#immigrationstory #kidlit #multiculturalbooks#childrensbook #politics #MCBD2019
THEME: INSPIRING BIOGRAPHIES
Nature’s Friend: The Gwen Frostic Story
by Lindsey McDivitt
Illustrated by Eileen Ryan Ewen
Nature’s Friend is the delightful biography of Gwen Frostic, a woman passionately in love with nature who is determined to overcome a physical disability to pursue that love through her art. Author Lindsey McDivitt lovingly highlights one of Michigan’s beloved environmental pioneers and artists, from childhood to today, with an emphasis on Frostic’s perseverance and belief in caring for the beautiful world around us. Enchanting artwork by Eileen Ryan Ewen offers a look at Frostic’s ideas and triumphs with bright colors as well as nice use of white space. In addition, backmatter offers further biographical information, plus a craft for readers.
The Diamond and The Boy: The Creation of Diamonds
& The Life of H. Tracy Hall
by Hannah Holt
Illustrated by Jay Fleck
An inspiring parallel story of a diamond’s birth and transformation in the earth, and a young boy’s birth and transformation into becoming the inventor of a world-changing diamond-making machine. Holt weaves a wonderful story of both, with a special focus on her grandfather H. Tracy Hall and his persistence and patience through pressure and poverty, while Fleck’s simple illustrations allow the parallel structure to shine. Back matter brings to light the diamond industry’s sometimes dark past, while shedding light as well on Hall’s later life and Holt’s relationship with her grandfather, plus the history of diamonds in culture.
Pass Go And Collect $200: The Real Story of
How Monopoly Was Invented
by Tanya Lee Stone
Illustrated by Steve Salerno
A fascinating look at Elizabeth Magie, who invented Monopoly as a way to teach adults and children about unfair landlord/renter practices in the late 1800s, but was cheated out of her rightful compensation and credit by dishonest men and men-led companies as the game surged in popularity. Stone allows readers to think about fairness, equality, economics, justice, and other themes in an easily accessible way as she uncovers the truth about the inventor, the game, and unscrupulous business practices. Vivid, fun illustrations by Steven Salerno carry the story along, and backmatter offers additional insights plus fun facts along with Monopoly-related math.
THEME: FANTASTIC FEATHERED FRIENDS
AND THEIR FEATHERS
Fly with Me: A Celebration of Birds Through
Pictures, Poems, and Stories
by Jane Yolen, Heidi Stemple, Adam Stemple, and Jason Stemple
Yolen and her family paired with National Geographic to create this gorgeous “ode to birds,” featuring 192 pages filled to the brim with fascinating facts, poetry, history, beautiful photos, and numerous other educational and loving ways to appreciate our feathered friends. This stunning treasure is sure to become a classic!
Counting Birds: The Idea That Helped Save Our Feathered Friends
by Heidi E.Y. Stemple
Illustrated by Clover Robin
Using her family history of counting owls during the Audubon Christmas Bird Count as inspiration, Stemple lovingly shares how the event began: through the conservation efforts of ornithologist Frank Chapman as he encouraged Americans to help save birds. Delightful collage-style illustrations and simple back matter make it accessible for young naturalists.
Birds and Their Feathers
by Britta Teckentrup
Featuring breathtaking, soft-toned illustrations, Teckentrup introduces us to feathers in all their glory and usefulness. Young readers can learn about plumology, including what feathers do and what they are made of, as well as feathers’ roles in culture and other interesting facts. An enchanting combination of science and art!
THEME: FALL INTO HALLOWEEN
Stumpkin
by Lucy Ruth Cummins
What happens when a pumpkin’s greatest desire is to be taken home and made into a jack o’lantern, yet its appearance deters everyone from seeing its possibilities? Simple, straightforward text paired with interesting pop-of-orange illustrations tell the sweet story sure to inspire readers to look a little deeper.
Mother Ghost: Nursery Rhymes for Little Monsters
by Rachel Kolar
Illustrated by: Roland Garrigue
Not-too-spooky black, white, and purple-heavy illustrations are the highlight of this fun twist on classic nursery rhymes. Young readers and storytelling listeners can laugh too at Mary Had a Little Ghost; Zombie Miss Muffet; Mary, Mary, Tall and Scary; and other Halloween-themed takes on Mother Goose favorites.
Mary, Who Wrote Frankenstein
by Linda Bailey
Illustrated by Júlia Sardà
The tale of how Mary Shelley’s young life led her to imagine, perhaps even dream, of Frankenstein as part of a stormy-night parlor game, using her travels and knowledge of new scientific experiments as fodder for the story. Sardà’s sharp angles, pale colors, and chilling settings add to the creepy atmosphere.
THEME: FUN & FUNNY FOR SUMMER 2018
The Big Bed
by Bunmi Laditan
Illustrated by Tom Knight
The Honest Toddler’s creator captures the quirky, straightforward, yet charmingly cunning personality of a very honest toddler as she offers her father a new sleeping arrangement AWAY from her beloved Mommy. Readers will giggle and delight in the passionate plan made all the more fun with inviting and colorful illustrations.
Monster & Mouse Go Camping
by Deborah Underwood
Illustrated by Jared Chapman
This slapstick, everything-goes-wrong camping trip is A Walk in the Woods for the very young! When Mouse convinces Monster to go camping, readers see what is going wrong well before the campers thanks to clever illustrations. But the sweet friends still have a great trip and a surprise ending.
Dude!
by Aaron Reynolds
Illustrated by Dan Santat
One word says it all in this clever and hilarious summer adventure story. Platypus and Beaver are surfing when Shark shows up. Dude! Will ice cream save the day? Gnarly silly and vibrant illustrations, plus a fun and zany tale of friendship, make this an awesomely bodacious read! Dude!
THEME: BEARS, BEARS, BEARS!
10 Reasons to Love a Bear
by Catherine Barr, Natural History Museum
Illustrated by Hanako Clulow
Short, simple text makes this easy to read, and sweet yet realistic illustrations offer readers a chance to see eight species of bears in a variety of habitats and activities (ten to be exact!). Short sidebars also suggest ways readers can “Show You Love a Bear” with an environmental angle.
A Perfect Day
by Lane Smith
Softly textured mixed-media illustrations are a true highlight of this hilarious look at different perspectives. Cat, Dog, Chickadee, and Squirrel are enjoying the perfect day UNTIL Bear comes along, disrupting theirs while enjoying his. Spot-on pacing, repetitive text, and sweet humor combine in a perfect way. Simply delightful!
Mother Bruce
by Ryan T. Higgins
Grumpy Bruce doesn’t like much, except cooking eggs using online recipes (!). But when one organic egg delivers four goslings, who think he’s their mother, hilarity ensues in his creative efforts to convince them to head south. Laugh-out-loud funny, sweet, and absurd all at once, with a surprise ending!
THEME: AMAZING AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR BOOKS
WITH ANIMALS
Can I Be Your Dog?
by Troy Cummings
Readers will find it impossible to NOT fall in love with Arfy, a clever letter-writing pooch searching for a forever home on Butternut Street. As his options dwindle (even his letter to the boarded up house at the end is “Returned to Sender”), an unexpected friend writes to Arfy with a wonderful proposal: “Can I be your person?”. Cummings’ sweet and often funny story blends seamlessly with his bold and colorful digital illustrations to create a fun read-aloud story with heart and hope. A short note from Arfy in the backmatter also offers simple ways to help homeless animals.
Hello Hello
by Brendan Wenzel
Focusing on Near Threatened, Vulnerable, Endangered, and Critically Endangered animals, Wenzel uses mixed media to create eye-catchingly cute and clever renditions with a twist: as we meet them, we see what they have in common, be it “pattern, pose, shape, or show” (or numerous other categories such as sounds they make or size). Simple rhyming text pulls it all together, and abundant white space allows the fun, textured animal illustrations to pop. Backmatter offers a short message on how readers can help creatures in trouble, plus provides a “shadow-shape” index of animals Wenzel features in the book.
How to Be an Elephant
by Katherine Roy
What must it be like for a baby elephant, with so many things to learn in order to survive to adulthood in the African wild? Roy paints a thorough portrait of life in a herd on the savanna, offering expert insights into anatomy, herd dynamics, family relationships, and other aspects of the development and growth of these majestic animals through the story of an infant learning its way. Award-winning Roy’s stunning watercolor illustrations pair perfectly with the information to offer additional insights while tugging at heartstrings. In addition, backmatter discusses modern threats to elephants, plus suggests sources for learning more.
THEME: TERRIFIC TREE BOOKS
Redwoods
by Jason Chin
Discovering a book on redwoods, a young boy is magically transported into the forest where he climbs and measures these magnificent historical giants while researching the life found high in their canopy. Chin’s lovely watercolors capture the joy and amazement of discovery while providing educational and environmental details as well.
The Tree Lady: The True Story of How One
Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever
by H. Joseph Hopkins
Illustrated by Jill McElmurry
An inspiring biographical story showing how tree lover and scientist Kate Sessions turned the dry, empty city park in San Diego into a lush forest at the turn of the last century. Upbeat and light, with beautiful (and educational) illustrations, Tree Lady captures the passion and spirit of a true pioneer.
Treecology: 30 Activities and Observations for
Exploring the World of Trees and Forests
by Monica Russo
Thirty hands-on activities inspire children to observe, learn, and apply knowledge about trees and their roles in our world in this kid-friendly nonfiction book chock full of facts and ideas. Full color photos, plus numerous additional resources, help make this title a 2017 Outstanding Science Trade Book for Students K-12.
THEME: LYRICAL BOOKS ON INSECTS
Cricket in the Thicket: Poems About Bugs
by Carol Murray
Illustrated by Melissa Sweet
Thirty short poems offer charming, fun insights into favorite (dragonfly, ladybug, firefly) and not-so-favorite (cockroach, mosquito, dung beetle) bugs, while additional text and back matter add educational heft. Even better: Caldecott-winner Melissa Sweet adds whimsy to the excitement with her delightful mixed-media, collage-style illustrations.
Good Trick, Walking Stick!
by Sheri Mabry Bestor
Illustrated by Jonny Lambert
Using lyrical storytelling, Bestor’s nonfiction book shows how this favorite insect survives and thrives throughout its life cycle. Readers learn the tricks it employs – blending in, changing color, losing and regrowing limbs, and more – to survive as an egg, grow and molt numerous times, and mate in its short but interesting life.
Some Bugs
by Angela Diterlizzi
Illustrated by Brendan Wenzel
A simple rhyming look at backyard bugs that will encourage even the most reluctant “bug lover” into outdoor exploration. With adorable, colorful illustrations, children will enjoy this adventure featuring caterpillars, bees, moths and butterflies, ants, crickets, and many more bugs! Back matter provides bugs’ names in a What’s That Bug? chart.
THEME: GIRL POWER
Shaking Things Up: 14 Young Women Who Changed the World
by Susan Hood
Illustrated by Selina Alko, Sophie Blackall, Lisa Brown, Hadley Hooper, Emily Winfield Martin, Oge Mora, Julie Morstad, Sara Palacios, LeUyen Pham, Erin K. Robinson, Isabel Roxas, Shadra Strickland, and Melissa Sweet
Celebrating the lives of 14 amazing young women in history who helped change and shape our world through their actions and words. Each poem rings true in its focus and style, while delightful illustrations by prominent female artists allow for a unique take on those profiled. Inspiring and powerful!
Dear Girl,
by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Paris Rosenthal
This mother/daughter writing team offers down-to-earth advice and reach-for-the-stars inspiration for girls, encouraging them to be true to themselves while also being brave, strong, curious, and thoughtful. Each short love letter is highlighted by Holly Hatam’s simple yet lovely illustrations, making this a great read.
Beautiful
by Stacy McAnulty
McAnulty takes common ideas about what makes a “pretty girl” and turns them upside down to show that beauty is more than good looks. Even when splashing in mud and doing science experiments, girls are beautiful because they are also strong, passionate, and unique. Bold, colorful illustrations add to the powerful message .
THEME: PREPARING FOR THE SUPER BLUE BLOOD MOON
Coyote Moon
by Maria Gianferrari
In this softly poetic tale, a mother coyote in a suburban setting hunts for food for her pups by the light of the moon. Powerful illustrations by Bagram Ibatoulline showcase the coyote’s efforts and use of all her senses to hunt at night, while sparse text sets the mood.
Follow the Moon Home
by Philippe Cousteau and Deborah Hopkinson
Vivid watercolor illustrations accompany this story of a girl, new to her school, who leads her classmates’ efforts to save hatched loggerhead sea turtles. When the students learn the turtles are confused by nearby household lights, leaving them stranded on the beach, they rally the community to join in the cause.
Full Moon Lore
by Ellen Wahi
Lovely illustrations set the tone for this sweetly soft look at the full moon of each calendar month, with its related name and back story. Nature is the focus as readers learn about the Snow Moon, Strawberry Moon, Sap Moon, Harvest Moon, and others, while back matter offers additional information.
THEME: INSIGHTFUL LOOKS AT INSPIRING PEOPLE
Before She Was Harriet
by Lesa Cline-Ransome
Drawing on the amazing life of the woman most commonly known as Harriet Tubman, Cline-Ransome helps readers see this American hero as more than a conductor on the Underground Railroad. In free verse that takes us back, back, back to Tubman’s earliest days and introduces us in reverse chronology to Tubman in all of her roles and by all of her names, Before She Was Harriet allows us to see her lifetime of transformation while highlighting her spirit of bravery and endurance. Detailed watercolor illustrations by James E. Ransome add depth to Tubman’s story as readers journey back in time.
Falling Water: The Building of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Masterpiece
by Marc Harshman and Anna Egan Smucker
An inspiring look at Wright’s creative design process for perhaps his most famous structure, Fallingwater, a home built in rural Pennsylvania in 1937 for an important client. While the text shows how the older Wright visited the site, pondered the client’s wants and needs, and ultimately designed this home to incorporate the lovely natural surroundings into its heart and essence, LeUyen Pham’s gentle illustrations flow from page to page to highlight the story as well as the beauty of the home’s backdrop. Notes from the authors and illustrator provide additional insights, making Fallingwater both enjoyable and educational for grades 2-6.
Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark
Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist
by Jess Keating
A colorfully-illustrated story about Eugenie Clark and her dedication to “studying, protecting, and loving” sharks, as well as a look at her journey to becoming a scientist in the age of discrimination against females in the field. Shark Lady encompasses not only Clark’s lifelong fascination with sharks, plus her efforts to study sharks and show the world that sharks are neither dumb nor mean, but also paints her as a leader in the acceptance of women scientists. Back matter delves into further information on sharks, and offers a nice timeline of Clark’s life and achievements plus an author’s note.
THEME: FUN ANIMAL READ-ALOUDS
A Loud Winter’s Nap
by Katy Hudson
Charming and bright illustrations highlight this story of a turtle whose body is telling him to sleep in winter, but whose surroundings have other – loud – ideas of winter fun. After several misses, he discovers some of the joys of winter might just make it okay after all.
Shake a Leg, Egg!
by Kurt Cyrus
A cute rhyming entreaty to an unhatched egg to come on out and experience all the joys of pond living as a Canadian Goose in the springtime. The illustrations are vivid and colorful, putting the reader up-close with the egg, its siblings, and other residents of the pond.
I Won’t Eat That
by Christopher Silas Neal
A fun, cumulative story of a cat in search of something a bit more exciting to eat. Until, that is, he realizes some culinary choices of the animals he meets might be a bit TOO exciting. In the end, he finds the perfect possibility. Simple text and illustrations make this a great read-aloud.
Tanya Konerman, Author 
