Winter: A Solstice Story

 

From debut author Kelsey Gross and New York Times bestselling artist Renata Liwska comes a gentle and lulling picture book celebrating the magic of the Winter Solstice with a group of animal friends in a quiet forest.(goodreads summary)

 

 

The longest night of the year means the Winter Solstice has arrived.  Here is a beautiful story welcoming the Solstice and is also illustrated by one of my very favorite illustrators, Renata Liwska.

 

Owl calls out to the forest animals to help shine the light and share a gift of hope.  As each animal brings an item to give, they create something beautiful that brings the light and hope to celebrate winters arrival.  The beautiful words are full of meaning and are complemented by the soft and gentle winter wonderland pictures.  Each animal is so cute and full of expression which is typical for books illustrated by Renata Liwska.  The animals show sharing and welcoming which is a great theme for anytime of the year.  A surprise visitor arrives adding to the welcome. As the winter season approaches, this would make a great bedtime or quiet time read with its' calm and soothing nature.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~  

 

Title: Winter: A Solstice Story

Author: Kelsey E. Gross, illustrated by Renata Liwska 

Pub. date: October 2023, Simon & Schuster

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

 

 

I'm Going to Build a Snowman review

In this sparkling picture book celebration of winter and creativity, a boy’s snow day efforts show that perfection is relative and what’s important is taking pride in what you do!(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

Nothing is better than waking up to a newly, fresh fallen snow.  This means it is the right time for building the best snowman ever!  The boy in this story makes plans to build the perfect snowman. He rolls up snowballs until they become perfect circles and then it is time to decorate it!   Unfortunately, when he is done he finds the snowman is not like the one he pictured in his mind.  This is a simple story with a deeper meaning for the word perfect.  The text is easy-to-read and the pictures reminded me of Dream Snow by Eric Carle.  In the end, the little boy is proud of his snowman by finding perfection in its' imperfection.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

Title: I'm Going to Build a Snowman

Author: Jashar Awan

Pub. date: September 2023, Simon Schuster for Young Readers

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 48 pgs.

Mr. Whiskers and the Shenanigan Sisters review

 

Mr. Whiskers is a paw-some new dog detective from an Edgar Award winning author. He's on the trail of a kidnapped dad, pirate treasure, and a place to call home..(goodreads summary).

 

 

 

 

 

 

A street smart stray dog named Mr. Whiskers teams up with Misty and Zelda Nanigan to help solve a big mystery.  The girls dad goes missing after he is questioned by an FBI Agent who then unexpectedly takes him away.  As clues unravel, they think he was actually kidnapped.  But Mr. Whiskers and the sisters are hot on the trail as they piece together the mystery in order to save him.

This is a fun and fast paced story for the middle grade reader who likes mystery and adventure. Told from Mr. Whisker's point-of-view, there are many dog puns and funny moments.  There are riddles, suspicious FBI agents, secret rooms and passageways, possible pirate treasure and problem solving.  Scattered throughout the book were several illustrations that added good visualization to the many characters and adventures they encounter.  Mr. Whiskers is quite the charismatic character and Misty and Zelda are very resourceful making them a likeable sleuthing team.  The story is a page turner and full of suspense but is also heartwarming.  It has a good family feel to it as well and I hope there will be many more Mr. Whisker stories to follow.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 8-11.~

Title: Mr. Whiskers and the Shenanigan Sisters

Author: Wendelin VanDraanen

Pub. date: October 2023, Alfred A. Knopf

Genre: middle grade, mystery

Hardcover, 196 pgs.

Flat Cat review

 

From acclaimed author Tara Lazar and brought to life by New York Times bestselling illustrator Pete Oswald, this is a hilariously quirky and irreverent story that is sure to appeal to fans of Pete the Cat!(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

A simple story about a cat who is happy being flat.  He can go anywhere or do anything he pleases and likes it this way.  But when he falls into the washer and dryer by accident, he comes out all big, cute and fluffy.  Everyone takes notice (just what he doesn't like) and gives him hugs, squeezes and squishes.  He eventually turns back to a flat cat but realizes that he might be missing all the extra attention he was getting.

Flat Cat has learned that he likes the best of both worlds in this silly and funny story.  The sentences are short and flow nicely for a fun read-aloud. The whimsical illustrations are large and in eye pleasing colors of purple, pink and teals. Flat cat has many different expressions throughout that are cute and amusing. I noticed the author has put a note on the first page about not harming cats and they don't belong in laundry machines. A good discussion point for a younger audience.  All-in-all, it is a silly and humorous book to break up the day.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 5-7.~

Title: Flat Cat

Author: Tara Lazar, illustrated by Pete Oswald

Pub. date: September 2023, Flamingo Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs

Porcupine's Pie review

 

Winner of the Beaming Books Picture Book Writing Contest(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

It is Fall Feast Day and Porcupine is looking forward to making her famous Cranberry Pie.  On her way to wash the cranberries, she meets several woodland friends who are each out of a main ingredient that keeps them from making their own special recipes.  She happily offers her extra items to them from her pantry so they can finish their treats. But after arriving at the river, she finds her bucket is empty of her delicious pie cranberries.  How will she make her special Fall Feast Day Pie without them?

This a a sweet story about generosity and friendship. Porcupine is very giving and when she is in need herself, the woodland animals all pitch in to give back. A wonderful way for kids to learn about kindness and community from the simple gestures in this story. The illustrations are so cute and are in fall-themed colors. There is a ladybug that shows up on all the pages and kids will delight in finding it.  Porcupine's cranberries also fall out little-by-little and kids may or may not notice. I didn't at first and had a surprise when she got to the river too.  There is a recipe at the end for baking your own Friendship Pie.  It has a little bit of everything in it for kids and adults to make and share with friends. I think this is perfect for the fall harvest season and is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

 

Title:  Porcupine's Pie

Author: Laura Renauld, illustrated by Jennie Poh

Pub. date:  October 2018, Beaming Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs. 

Tig and Lily - Tiger Trouble review

Lions, Tigers, and . . . a house cat?! Oh my! Life at the zoo gets complicated when a tiger finds out she as a new roommate.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What makes a tiger a tiger and a cat a cat?  Tig and Lily are about to find out in this cute and funny graphic chapter book.  Tig looks like a house cat and sounds like a house cat but thinks he is a tiger.  He has dreamed of living in the zoo and takes over Lily's tiger enclosure. Lily on the other hand knows she is a tiger and does not like Tig's intrusion and move in on her home.  But Tig is very insistent that he is a Tiger and even gets Lily to question her own identity about being one. The banter back and forth is comical and gave me a few chuckles.  Being the brave tiger that he is, Tig wanders off to explore his new surroundings.  But when he doesn't return, Lily becomes concerned and sets out looking for him only to find him crying.  Two tigers have upset Tig when they tell him he is not a tiger and Lily comes to his rescue to defend him in a sweet and thoughtful way.

 

This graphic-novel style is simple and great for the younger elementary grade readers. The pictures are large, colorful and the character's expressions match perfectly with the story being told.  It is easy to follow along and has plenty of humorous moments, friendship and standing up for others.  At the end of the book, there are fun facts about tigers and cats. Also included are instructions on how to draw Tig and Lily hopefully getting kids interested about the cartooning process.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 7-9.~

 

Title: Tig and Lily - Tiger Trouble

Author: Dan Thompson

Pub. date:  May 2023, Random House Graphic

Genre: junior graphic  novel

Hardcover, 96 pgs. 

The Boo Crew Needs You! review

Trouble's come to Monster Town, and emergencies abound! There's no time to wait around... get the Boo Crew!(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

Monster Town is in trouble and the Boo Crew is needed to help save the Monster Ball.  But they need extra help and are asking readers to join in on this fun interactive book for the Halloween season.  By giving action prompts such as; press, shout, push, tap, clap or turn the book, kids will delight in feeling as if they are helping the Boo Crew clean up the messy town to save the Monster Ball.  The text is simple and the busy illustrations are in bold Halloween hues.  There are many different ghosts and goblins but they are friendly and will get you into the Halloween spirit.   In the end the Monster Ball goes on as planned and kids will feel proud they helped save the day. This story makes for a quick movement activity and a little fun for the Halloween celebrations.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-5.~

Title: The Boo Crew Needs You!

Author: Vicky Fang

Pub. date: August 2023, Sourcebooks

Genre: picture book, halloween

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

Autumn Leaves Fall review

 

Take babies and toddlers on an active, rhyming jaunt through changing seasons and falling leaves in this sweet board book.(goodreads summary)
 

 

 

 

Bring in the fall season with this sweet board book made especially for babies and young toddlers.  This simple story takes us through the summer green trees to the changing of their autumn leaves.  The rhythmic text is short and the illustrations are charming with bright colors of yellow, orange and red. The forest animals are full of cute expressions adding to the charm.  A quick and easy read aloud for some cozy quiet together time.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 1-2.~

 

Title:  Autumn Leaves Fall

Author: Amber Hendricks, illustrated by Gavin Scott

Pub. date: July 2022, Amicus Ink

Genre: board book

Hardcover, 20 pgs.

Witch & Wombat review

 

Every witch will want a wombat after reading this humorous picture book perfect for little readers who want a new pet!(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

Wilma the Witch is finally getting a new cat.  Every Witch needs one and she is looking forward to all the things they will do together.  But when the pet store runs out of cats, Wilma ends up with a wombat instead.  She decides she will make her wombat become more cat-like.  After several mishaps, Wilma gets frustrated and wishes her wombat away.  After feeling terrible about this, she searches for him and finds that wombats have a uniqueness of their very own.  

This is a great story about accepting differences and that everyone is unique in their own way.  Kids will find humor in the story and illustrations but also learn the importance of being true to yourself.  You cannot make others be who you want them to be. Wilma realizes this when she sees how wombat was trying very hard learning to be a cat just to please her.  It is a funny book but most of all has a terrific message.  Throughout we learn facts about wombats and what a special animal they are. A great Halloween time story to add to your bookshelf that kids might pick up all year long as well.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 5-7.~

Title: Witch & Wombat

Author: Ashley Belote

Pub. date: July 2023, Random House Books for Young Readers

Genre: picture book, halloween

Hardcover, 32 pgs. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hello, Fall!! review

A grandfather and his granddaughter welcome fall in this sweet, whimsical story about finding beauty and wonder in every moment.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

As the first leaves begin to turn in color, this book will remind us of the special moments we may encounter during the fall season change.  A grandfather and granddaughter are taking a walk together and sharing memories of a previous fall outing.  As they take a stroll through the beauty of the countryside, they recall the sights, sounds, smells and tastes they experienced.  The touching words along with the sweet and vivid illustrations capture the spirit of welcoming Autumn.  This would be a nice book to read just before an outdoor fall family activity or hike. Taking the time to explore the beauty of nature offers us wonderful memories for the young and old.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

Title:Hello, Fall!

Author: Deborah Diesen, illustrated by Lucy Fleming

Pub. date: July 2018, Farrar Straus Firoux Books

Genre: picture book, fall season

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

Best Wishes - The Sister Switch review

When different girls around the country receive a wish-granting bracelet in the mail, magical mayhem ensues.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fifth grade Addie Asante has always felt stuck in the middle. Her older sister Sophie is bossy and little sister Camille gets what she wants.  Addie's parents find out about a failed math test from Sophie and as a result they tell her she is not allowed to participate in the school talent contest with her friends. She really wants to win the talent show because the top prize is one month of free classes at the Franklin School of the Arts.  She has always wanted to take a songwriting class there and this was her chance!  The next day, a mysterious box arrives for Addie with a bracelet inside and she places it on her wrist.  Unfortunately, she did not read the attached letter and still being mad at her sister, she makes an abrupt wish to not be in the middle of Sophie and Camille anymore.  The bracelet warms and glows but then all of a sudden, the three sisters  switch places!  What has Addie done and will things ever turn back to normal again?

This is the second book in the Best Wishes series and kids will relate to Addie's feelings of being the middle child.  Addie learns about the mysterious bracelet from Becca, the girl from the first story, after she reads her letter about the magic wishes the bracelet holds.  Switching places among the sisters has its ups and downs for all three girls.  Sophie, who is transported into youngest Camille's body, has many challenges going back to kindergarten.  Addie enjoys the freedom of being in oldest sister Sophie's body and finally gets her own room.  Camille as Addie, loves that she is taller.  But as the days go on things become very tricky.  The girls must learn to get along and work together in order to break the magic wish.  The sisters have good character development and they each learn important things about the other.  Becca also warns Addie about the mysterious blond lady who makes an appearance again and tries to take the bracelet from her.  But we still do not know who she is and the reason why she is after it.  The book is fast paced and has a few illustrations throughout.  Addie's story will lead into the third book, Time After Time, which is due out this November.  This a nice series for the upper elementary reader that is full of magic, family, friends and conflict resolution.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 8-10.~

Title:  The Sister Switch

Author:  Sarah Mlynowski & Debbie Rigaud

Pub. date:  April 2023, Scholastic Press

Genre: middle grade fantasy

Hardcover, 192 pgs.

 

Bisquit and the Great Fall Day review

 

Join the beloved and bestselling little yellow puppy, Biscuit, on a great fall day.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Biscuit has been around for a very long time. Here is a cute story to help get your early reader ready for the fall season.  Biscuit books have easy sentences with word repetition which helps the little ones learn to read on their own.  As always, the illustrations are so sweet and adds a wonderful visual to the story during reading. This one is perfect for the Autumn season with its' beautiful fall color palette and apple picking theme.   Kids will fall in love with the ever so cute Biscuit as he always manages to find some sort of mischief.  My kids grew up on the many Biscuit books and I always enjoyed hearing them read aloud.  Finding this story at the library will get kids excited about reading and getting ready for the Autumn season.  You cannot go wrong with any book in the Biscuit series and I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-6.~

 

Title:  Biscuit and the Great Fall Day

Author:  Alyssa Satin Capucilli

Pub. date: August 2022, Harper Collins

Genre: early reader

paperback, 32 pgs.

Owl Diaries - Trip to the Pumpkin Farm review

 

 Eva and her friends are taking a field trip to the farm!(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eva and her class are taking a school field trip to the pumpkin farm. They spend three days learning and helping out around the farm to prepare for the Falling Leaves Day Party. But when the giant Thank-you Pumpkin goes missing, Eva and her friends become farm detectives to help solve the mystery before the parties can begin.  

 

If your child likes the Owl Diary Series, here is a fun early chapter book to add to the fall reading list.  The story has colorful illustrations with fairly easy to read text perfect for the newly independent reader.  Eva and her friends showed teamwork, perseverance, kindness, sharing and a sense of community.  So many good things kids will learn but in a subtle way.  It is a fun story with a bit of adventure and mystery with a happy outcome.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 6-7.~

Title:  Owl Diaries - Trip to the Pumpkin Farm

Author: Rebecca Elliot

Pub. date:  July 2019, Scholastic

Genre: early chapter book

Paperback, 80 pgs.

 

 

 

Pumpkin Day at the Zoo review

 

When farmers and pumpkin patch owners donate their pumpkins to the zoo, the animals chomp, chew, play, and give hearty hoorays for their favorite squishy squash!(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Not only do we celebrate the fall season but these Zoo animals are enjoying a fall harvest feast as well.  Farmers and families donate their pumpkins to the local Zoo on a Saturday morning giving the animals a special treat.  They fill their tummies and play happily making Pumpkin Day an exciting event.  The illustrations are bold, colorful and lively with lot's of new vocabulary words highlighted for readers to learn.  On the last page it recommends finding out if your local Zoo accepts donations of pumpkins. I never thought about this before but it is a great way to help feed the numerous animals by reusing our pumpkins after Halloween.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-6.

Title: Pumpkin Day at the Zoo

Author: Susan Meissner, illustrated by Pablo Pino

Pub. date: July 2023, Tommy Nelson

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

 

 

It's Fall review

 

 Colors bursting, shadows tall. There's lots to celebrate-it's fall!(book jacket)

 

 

 

There are so many fabulous things about Autumn!  This is a great new book to start off the fall season with by remembering all the things we love.  Beginning with the many beautiful colors and warm cozy clothes to scarecrows and corn mazes, this story takes you on a fall journey of your senses.  Not only do you see the beautiful and colorful pages, but during reading I could feel, taste, hear, smell and touch everything the author celebrates about fall. What a wonderful way to show children how to take in the season by using all of their senses.  The easy and rhyming text flows nicely for a read aloud to a group or alone as a family.  It starts with early fall and goes to Thanksgiving. On the last page, it asks the reader what things do you love about fall?  It would make a wonderful theme unit book for the classroom.  The end pages are so cute and I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

 

Title:  It's Fall!

Author: Renee Kurilla

Pub. date: September 2023, Little, Brown and Company

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs. 

Hopefully the Scarecrow review

A poignant picture book about a scarecrow who befriends the young girl who reads to him day after day until one day he's left wondering where she is.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

Today is the first day of Fall and here is a beautifully illustrated story of friendship to start off the season.  Hopefully looks forward to the little girl reading stories to him while he watches over the garden. Year-after-year through her favorite books, she takes him on various journeys and adventures. One Spring, someone new places him in the garden and he waits patiently for his little girl to come read to him. He does not give up hope as time goes by and she hasn't returned with an armful of new stories.  When she finally returns,  instead of reading to him, she takes Hopefully from the garden to a new and unusual place.  A place that they both know he will love!  This book is perfect for an Autumn season read aloud. After reading this charming book, kids could make their own scarecrow and read stories to it too.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 5-6.~

 

Title:  Hopefully the Scarecrow

Author:  Michelle Houts, illustrated by Sara Palacios

Pub. date: August 2023, Flamingo Books

Genre: picture book, fall season

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

 

A Rover's Story review

 

 Meet Resilience, a Mars rover determined to live up to his name.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Resilience (Res) is a robot that was built for a mission. He is learning about his anticipated journey to Mars as he collects and processes information from the NASA Scientists.  After landing on Mars he will explore the planet, take samples, send back photos and locate a missing Rover named Courage. It is very important that Res finds Courage so he can bring it back online to retrieve its collected data.  But in the meantime, Res is also learning about human emotions and storing that information into his system as well.  But having human-like feelings is not suppose to be a part of Resilience's mission or a part of being a robot.  Res is determined to live up to his name and make his humans proud of him by completing his mission and being the first robot to return to Earth.

This is definitely one of my favorite books that I have read this year!  The story is told in alternating viewpoints between Resilience and a 12 year old girl named Sophie.  Sophie is the daughter of Rania who is one of the Scientists that created Res.  She writes letters to him while he is on Mars and the time spans over 21 years. Res will never know about the letters but they are an important part of Sophie's character.  As Res navigates the Red Planet, he runs into many obstacles and adventures where his emotions and human-like feelings take hold.  His interactions with Fly, a drone along for the mission and Guardian, an orbiting satellite, have humor and tender moments of friendship that I forgot they were machines.  I found myself wanting to keep reading his adventure as Res meets danger and many perils during his exploration. He problem solves sometimes without the command center sending information making him seem to be thinking on his own.  The author did a wonderful job giving Res emotion, feelings and a unique personality that you can't help but fall in love with.  At one point he questions his purpose and existence and I felt the sadness. This is what great writing does and how it gives us that certain connection to our reading.   This would have been a great summer read to my kids when they were younger.  They would have loved the concept of the book! It is a beautiful middle grade story about strength, hope, perseverance, friendship, love, family and of course, outer space and the exploration of Mars.   I think this is a "just right book" for ages 9-12.~

Title:  A Rover's Story

Author: Jasmine Warga

Pub. date: October 2022, Balzer & Bray

Genre: fiction, middle grade

Hardcover, 294 pgs

 

Moles Quiet Place

 

This touching sequel to Jane Chapman’s Good-bye, Bear offers a sweet tale of friendship and valuing each other’s needs. Perfect for any young child who likes to spend time alone.(goodreads summary)
 

 

 

 

 

In the evenings, Mole and Beaver like to spend quiet time together in their tree house.  Being there also brings thoughts of their friend Bear.  They light a lantern that shines over the trees and across the lake making a path to the tree house.  One night, Rabbit knocks on their door and joins them for a story.  But each night after that, more and more friends arrive making Mole feel crowded and missing the quiet alone time with Beaver she once had.  

 

What a wonderful follow-up book to Goodbye, Bear and this is just as heartwarming.  As nice as it is to be among her many friends, it makes Mole feel overwhelmed and longing to find a quiet space of her own. Beaver is a good friend who is understanding of Moles feelings.  He wants to make sure she has a calm, safe space of her own whenever she feels the need for some peace and finds a perfect solution.  The illustrations are so sweet and relaxing during reading.  You feel a sense of togetherness among the friends but also a sense of Mole needing quiet time. We all need a little quiet place of our own sometimes which is okay. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

 

Title:  Mole's Quiet Place

Author:  Jane Chapman

Pub. date: May 2023, Tiger Tales

Genre: picture book

Hardcover,  32 pgs.

 

 

 

 

Shy Robin and the First Day of School review

 

A little hippo finds that looking out for a new friend can turn shyness into bravery in Jaime Kim’s sweetly illustrated story about the first day of school.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

At home Robin Hippo is full of energy and confidence.  Going to different places though she is extremely shy and feels like hiding.  To help with the worries about the first day of school, Robin's mom gives her a purple headband to help her feel brave.  In her new classroom, she meets Marco Otter who is also having a tough time with his shyness.  Together the two overcome their own fears in order to help each other problem solve and also learn that others can have the same things in common. 

Here is a sweet and gentle story that may help kids break out of their shell on those first few days back to school.  Whether they are a first time or returning student, everyone feels shy about a new classroom, new teacher and making friends.  The text is easy to read aloud and the illustrations are in bold colors with wonderful expression of feelings.  Together Robin and Marco find friendship helping each other through a tough day by turning their shyness into bravery.  This story would make for a good discussion about feelings and how others feel.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-6.~

Title:  Shy Robin and the First Day of School

Author: Jaime Kim

Pub. date: June 2023, Candlewick Press

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

Adventure Annie Goes to Kindergarten review

Annie Grace wears her “Adventure Annie” cape to her first day of kindergarten, and proceeds to barrel through the day, searching for adventure in every moment. Her interpretation of the class’s Gold Star Rules isn’t exactly what her teacher, Mr. Todd, had in mind. (goodreads summary)

 

 

 

This is a repost from September 2011 I thought I would add for back to school season:

Adjusting to kindergarten is an adventure itself and now in progress for many children these past couple of weeks. I found this funny story the other day that may be a fun read to help lighten up the nerves while the first few days go by. 

On her first day of school, Annie is expecting quite a few fun adventures in kindergarten such as a wild animal zoo or high-flying circus one. Her mom explains to Annie that kindergarten is an adventure on its own.  Annie soon finds that there are rules and good choices to be made and eventually being a helper leads her to a special adventure after all. Children could connect with the school day scenario and giggle at Annie's attempts for making her own adventures. The illustrations are sweet and the story has a happy outcome for Annie's patience. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4 and up.~

Title: Adventure Annie goes to Kindergarten
Author: Toni Buzzeo- illustrated by Amy Wummer
Genre: picture book
Pub. Date:  May 2010, Dial Books for Young Readers
Hardcover, 32 pgs.

How to Get Your Octopus to School review

Learn how to get your octopus to school in this back-to-school story!(goodreads summary)
 

 

 

 

Trying to get your Octopus to school can be one challenging task. This is a fun and humorous story that will make kids giggle as they prepare themselves to head back to school.  The ups and downs of getting ready for the big day is relatable from both a child's and a parent's point-of-view.   The illustrations are so cute and kids will love searching for Octopus on each page as he hides from getting ready and going off to school.  The emotions are expressive as well and we can sense how nervous and reluctant Octopus feels.   It is a wonderful read to help calm the back to school jitters and a conversation starter about how your child feels about a new school year.  The end pages include interesting Octopus facts.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7.~

Title:  How to Get Your Octopus to School

Author: Becky Scharnhorst, Illustrations by Jaclyn Sinquett

Pub. date: May 2023,  Flamingo Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

 

Giant-Sized Butterflies on My FIrst Day of School review

 

Find out how butterflies in your tummy are a good thing in this fresh take on being nervous for the first day of school.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

Here is a heart warming book to help with those first day of school jitters. The giant-sized butterflies kids experience may take over just like the little girl has in this book.  It offers a reassuring tone that those butterflies are normal and happen to everyone, including grown-ups.  Finding a way to understand and channel those feelings of nervousness can help guide them through many first times. I liked how her classmates all had butterflies too showing that you are not alone in how you feel. The story is sweet and simple with beautiful illustrations and colors. It could be read one-on-one with your child before their first day or in a classroom setting with many students on the first day of school.  A wonderful encouraging book to help calm flutters in the tummy.  Everyone feels the same flutters in their tummy too but it just might be a good thing ready to guide you through a new experience.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7.~

Title: Giant-Sized Butterflies on My First Day of School

Author: Justin Roberts, illustrated by Paola Escobar

Pub. date: May 2023, Penguin Random House

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

The Camping Trip review

 

Ernestine has never been camping before, but she’s sure it will be lots of fun . . . won’t it? An endearing story about a girl’s first experience with the great outdoors.(goodreads summary)
 

 

 

 

 

Ernestine is excited to go on her first camp out with her Aunt and Cousin. She has a list of all the things she will need to pack for the trip.  After a long drive to Cedar Tree Campground, she finds camping is harder than she thought. Setting up her tent is not as easy as making blanket forts at home.  Swimming in the lake with fish is not like swimming in the pool at her neighborhood Y.   Falling asleep is different when you are outdoors in a tent and you really start to miss home. What did Ernestine get herself into?

August is here and there is still time for this fun book.  It is the perfect story for a first time camper or camping trip.   It starts with the excitement of a camping trip, preparing, setting up and the anxious feelings a child may have being away from home for the first time.   The story did a nice job problem solving Ernestine's worries with love and kindness.  The illustrations are cute and so fun to see the transition from beginning to end of the camping trip.  Ernestine learns that trying something new for the first time can be hard but if you give it a chance it just might turn out to be wonderful.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7.~

Title:  The Camping Trip

Author:  Jennifer K. Mann 

Pub. date:  April 2020

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 56 pgs.

 

 

 

 

 

I am a Meadow Mermaid review

 

A farm girl with a big imagination turns her landlocked home into an ocean playground in this dreamy picture book for little mermaids everywhere.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

A short but beautiful picture book about a farm girl who dreams of being a mermaid. By using her imagination, it takes her on a mermaid adventure for a day even though she lives on a farm.  She hears the sea in the wind, blowing wheat becomes waves and notices seahorses in the distance.  When she stumbles upon another girl who has fallen on her bike, she makes a new friend who likes to play make believe just as much as she does.  The text is poetic and simple while the illustrations are even more dreamy.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-6.~

Title:  I am a Meadow Mermaid

Author:  Kallie Goerge, illustrated by: Elly MacKay

Pub. date: June 2023, Tundra Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

Over and Under the Waves review

 

Explore the wonders and beauties of the ocean's kelp forests in this latest addition to the acclaimed Over and Under series.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A family paddle their kayaks over the waves to explore the ocean as we learn about another one of our most diverse ecosystems.  This beautifully written story takes you along on the journey as they glide silently, discovering the ocean above and the hidden forest below them.  Over the waves they paddle through the wind, view pelicans soaring, hear the sea lions bark and watch an otter mom and her pup cuddle.  But under the waves, there are just as many diverse things.  It is a hidden home with sea kelp, various fish, squid, sea anemones and whales.  

 

I always love how each Over and Under series books express a feeling of calmness during reading.  The illustrations are peaceful and the text is gentle, flows easily and is always informative.  I found myself wanting to paddle along in the ocean or go exploring on the beach throughout.  Included at the end is a wonderful author's note about her kayaking trip in Monterey Bay and that experience led her to writing this book. There are also details about the animals you will find over and under the waves that just might open up more questions from little ones.  Sharing books like these with our children help teach about the importance and preservation of these amazing ecosystems for not only themselves but future generations as well.   I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4 and up.~ 

 

Title: Over and Under the Waves

Author: Kate Messner

Pub. date: September 2022, Chronicle Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 56 pgs.
 

A Pigeon in Paris review

 

When mother pigeon arrives in Paris she knows it's the perfect place to call home--for a while. She makes her nest and lays her eggs and, when her babies hatch, nurtures them until they're strong enough to take flight. But as little Petite watches her brother and sister take off, she determines she is too scared and simply will not fly.(goodreads summary)

 

 

I saw this lovely book cover and knew it was going to be a story I would like.  It is a sweet and gentle read for little ones offering encouragement for those fearful times.   Little Petite and her siblings, Bisou and Cherie, are adorable characters to fall in love with.  Petite is so scared to take her first flight that she tells herself  she will never fly and will never leave her nest.  Although, she needs to learn to fly on her own if she wants to fill her hungry tummy.  With the help and encouragement of her family, she finally leaps off and flies on her own.  Seeing Petite go from "I can't and I won't" to finally spreading her wings and soar shows bravery and if you try, you just might surprise yourself.  Even after she panics and falls, she gets herself back up again with determination, facing her fear. The soft colors of the illustrations add to the story giving the pages a beautiful Parisian feel.  This will be a great story for those who struggle with fears and know they can overcome them.  I hope there are more Petite stories to come. She makes a wonderful character kids can relate to! I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-6.~

Title:  A Pigeon in Paris - Petite Takes Flight

Author: Paige Howard, illustrated by Joanie Stone

Pub. date: April 2023 Sleeping Bear Press

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs. 

It Began with Lemonade review

 

This imaginative, colorful tale of making (and selling!) lemonade from life's lemons is not too sour and not too sweet.(goodreads summary)
 

 

 

 

 

Summer is finally here and I am looking forward to a tall, cold glass of lemonade!  In this fun summertime story, a little girl wants to make and sell lemonade. After experimenting to find the perfect recipe, she heads out to the streets to sell her yummy drink.  But when she gets outside, there is no space for her because there are other kids who have the same idea.  Deciding to take her stand away from the city, the cart ends up rolling away and lands by the rivers edge.  Just when she feels discouraged and wants to give up, unusual and very thirsty customers start arriving. It turns her sour day into a good day which leads her to a bigger and better lemonade dream for the future. 

The whimsical illustrations are filled with imagination and humor.  The kids will giggle when they look closely and see all the funny details on each page. The little girls can do attitude and perseverance is a great message for kids. It would be a wonderful book to read for the start of summer. It may spark kids to design and build their own lemonade stand and try selling or fundraising for a good cause themselves. I always make a point of stopping  when I see a stand in my neighborhood. I know how excited kids will be when their work hard pays off and they sell a cup.  I think this is a "just right book" 5-7.~

Title: It Began with Lemonade

Author: Gideon Sterer, illustrated by Lian Cho

Pub. date: May 2021, Dial Books for Young Readers

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish review

In this strikingly illustrated debut with a quirky, surreal sensibility, the tale of an Arctic expedition invites readers to discover an elusive creature.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

Is the giant Arctic jellyfish real or just a myth.  Dr. Morley is determined to set out with her crew on an Arctic expedition to find the answer.  Once there they find narwhals, beluga and orca whales, a polar bear and frozen landscapes; but no sign of the elusive giant creature.  Should they continue on exploring or consider it a failed adventure and return home?

I absolutely loved this debut story written and illustrated by Chloe Savage!  With determination and teamwork, Dr. Morely and her crew travel through the frozen Arctic as we experience their days on the research vessel through wonderful illustrations.  Throughout the book, there are pages with cutaways of the ship where we get to observe the crew going about their daily life.  Kids will enjoy hearing about the expedition and love looking at all the details. The jellyfish seems to be following along, staying just close enough to keep an eye on the crew but still hiding out of site. There is a bit of humor when you really pay notice to the different scenes. After all the hope and hard work of trying to find the giant and coming up with nothing, Dr. Morley is ready to leave for home. But not without a possible surprise at the end.  This was a fun read and afterwards I decided to look up if there was such a thing as the giant Arctic jellyfish. I learn so many new things everyday.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7. 

Title: The Search for the Giant Arctic Jellyfish

Author: Chloe Savage

Pub. date: June 2023, Candlewick Press

Genre: picture book, science

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

Home Away from Home review

From Newbery Honor Winner Cynthia Lord, a brilliant story about how to find home when everything around us is changing.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eleven year old Mia is going through too many changes all at once.  Her parents are divorced and her dad has a new wife and baby.  Besides that, her mom and boyfriend Scott want to move to a new home and she has a difficult time when they need to get the house ready to sell.  To help with all the mixed feelings, Mia will be staying with her Grandma in Stone Harbor, Maine for a month.  Grandma calls it "a home away from home" and Mia is looking forward to spending alone time with her.  But when she arrives, a new neighbor boy named Cayman seems to have made himself quite comfortable there. Mia now feels jealous and competitive for her attention.  Her Grandma encourages her to make friends with him and the two go in search of the eagle's nest down by the lake.  While there, an unexpected large white bird is seen fighting with the eagles.  Never having seen a bird like this, Mia decides to post a picture of it online for information about what type of bird it could be.  It is a rare bird sighting and she stirs up unwanted attention from several outsiders that she really didn't intend to. This ends up putting the bird in danger and her friendship with Cayman falling apart.

Here is a wonderful story from one of my many favorite middle grade authors, Cynthia Lord.   It is heart felt and makes a great summer vacation read.  It is fast paced and short enough to keep kids attention throughout. Readers will find themselves connecting with Mia's feelings easily about change, making mistakes and understanding she needs to find a way to fix them.   Knowing that her actions caused unwanted consequences is a great learning opportunity for kids of this age.  Mia's friendship with Cayman is tested numerous times and we also find out that his mom is battling substance abuse.  The care and concern her grandmother expresses for Cayman and his mom shows what being a good neighbor means.  There is plenty of information about birds throughout the story which is perfect for the bird enthusiast.  Kids may pay more attention to the bird songs in their area from Mia's knowledge she shares.  I found myself visualizing the small Maine town of Stone Harbor and the locals that lived there.  What a beautiful "home away from home" place to be.  This is a gentle story about accepting change, normal feelings kids feel, following rules, learning from our mistakes and correcting them, empathy and being part of a community.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 9-11.

 

Title:  Home away from Home

Author:  Cynthia Lord

Pub. date: April 2023, Scholastic Press

Genre: middle grade

Hardcover, 224 pgs.

Mermaid Moon review

 

In this magical picture book perfect for all young mermaid lovers, two best friends--one who lives on land, the other in the water--share an exciting adventure on the night of the Mermaid the one time each year mermaids can leave the sea.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

This is a tale about an unlikely friendship between a human girl named Molly and a mermaid girl named Merrin.  Once a year, there is a special night known as the Mermaid Moon Festival where all the sea creatures can swim through the air and explore the human world.  Merrin will finally be able to see Molly's house on land and the harbor town she lives in.  But there is one word of caution from her mother.  She must return back home before the moon's reflection disappears from the sea.

I wish this beautiful story was around when my daughter was at the age of her mermaid enchantment.  She absolutely loved the idea of magical mermaids and this is the perfect book for any young girl who is captured by the same feelings.  It makes a great bedtime read as the illustrations are peaceful and in calming hues of greens and blues.  Molly's seaside hometown has such a charm and the girls expression of wonderment as they move around the village exploring was so sweet.  They end up having a bit of excitement towards the end that needs problem solving in order for Merrin to return to the sea in time.  But with true friendship on your side, things will always work out.  This is a wonderful fantasy picture book about friendships, magic and mermaids that will be a nice addition to any mermaid lovers bookshelf.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-6.~

Title:  The Mermaid Moon

Author: Briony May Smith

Pub. date: October 2022, Anne Swartz Books

Genre: picture book, fantasy

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

The Nature Journal - A Backyard Adventure review

 

A charming and nature-filled picture book about a young boy who connects with his busy dad over their love of nature.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

Tim and his dad share the love of nature and exploring in their own backyard.  On a day when Tim's dad is busy with work and chores, he goes to the attic and discovers his father's old journals and some pictures.  Reading after reading all the things he has found, Tim gently drifts off to sleep and dreams of his own adventures. After he wakes up, he does not want to forget them so he draws everything out so he can share it with his dad.

What better way to connect with each other than though nature. This is a charming and sweet book about togetherness, imagination, and the love of exploring all the things nature has to offer.  Whether in the backyard or out on an adventure elsewhere, nature is an important thing we can share with children.  They learn so much by just observing and exploring but it is up to us adults to pass on that love.  Tim and his dad have a special bond that is heartwarming through their own love of nature.  It has bold pictures and simple text.   This would be a wonderful book to read on Father's Day and then take in a nature activity and journal together.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

Title:  The Nature Journal-A Backyard Adventure

Author:  Savannah Allen

Pub. date:  May 2023, Viking Books for Young Readers

genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

 

 

Astrid the Astronaut - The Astronomically Grand Plan review

 

In this first book of a brand new-chapter book series, a young girl is determined to be the first astronaut with hearing aids in space!(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Third grader Astrid can't wait for the after school program to begin!  Shooting Stars is a super cool Space Club and she is excited to attend with her best friend Hallie.  Astrid also dreams of being an Astronaut one day and will not let her hearing aids stop her from having that dream. There is also a space camp the two friends can attend at the end!  All these things are part of Astrid's astronomically grand plan she has taped above her desk at home.  But her grand plans fall apart when Hallie wants to join Art Club instead of the Shooting Stars.  At her first club meeting, Astrid is not sure how she will be able to stick to her plan without Hallie by her side.  

 

This is a wonderful new chapter book series for the second and third grade reader.  It flows easily and will keep kids interest to the end.  The chapters are short and includes illustrations throughout adding good imagery to the story.  Astrid is devastated when Hallie chooses Art Club over the Space Club.  She doesn't understand why she wants to switch and this makes Astrid feel alone.  When it comes to this age group, this is a realistic scenario about friendships and the story does well handling changes among friends.  It also has problem solving skills, finding and making new friends, teamwork, accepting that others have different interests and not letting anything stand in the way of your dreams.   Astrid's determination through the many ups and downs of third grade to still reach her plan shows resilience.  There are many character developments for her and messages throughout.  This would be a great series for the summer reading list and for kids who have an interest in space.   I am looking forward to reading the other books soon.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 7-8.~

Title:  Astrid the Astronaut

Author: Rie Neal, illustrated by Talitha Shipman

Pub. date: July 2022, Aladdin Books

Genre: middle grade

Hardcover, 97 pgs.