The Littlest Christmas Tree review

A beautifully illustrated tale about celebrating the joy of Christmas, and the little things in life. (goodreads summary) 

 

 

 

 

Daddy Bear and Cubby Bear are in search of the perfect Christmas tree.  Cubby loves the tree that chooses him this year and gives it the best spot in his home.  But as the holidays come to a close, Cubby is sad to see it happen and that little tree will be leaving soon.  But Daddy Bear has an idea that will keep little tree around a little bit longer.

 

A sweet story perfect for this time of year when you are getting ready and looking for your own special tree!  The illustrations are lively detailing the forest, animals and the holiday season wonderfully.  It is a celebration of the joys of Christmas and all the hard work put into decorating.  I loved how relatable Daddy Bear is to us grown ups as he pulls the sleigh with trees (and friends), untangling lights and struggling with some bows.  We always feel sad, just like Cubby, when the time comes to take down our tree too.  But each year we hang onto it a little bit longer and place it out in our backyard for the birds during the winter months.  This is a heartwarming read for families that love Christmas trees and  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7.~

 

Title:  The Littlest Christmas Tree

Author: Jane Chapman

Pub. date: September 2024, Tiger Tales

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

Tricky Chopsticks review

 

In this story loosely inspired by Chen's childhood, a girl determined to hold her own in her family's annual chopsticks challenge creates a solution.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

Jenny Chow's family are all expert chopstick users but Jenny always finds it to be a struggle. No matter how hard she tries they are just to tricky.  When her cousin Victor's birthday party invitation arrives, she worries about the annual family chopstick challenge.  How will she master the chopsticks in time?

 

Jenny is determined to master those chopsticks and with perseverance discovers her own creative way to use them.  It shows problem solving skills and encourages not giving up on something just because it is hard to do.  Kids will find this story relatable because we have all had the same feeling of not being able to do something others could do. It is just a matter of coming up with a way that works best for you and this story is a wonderful example of finding it.  The illustrations are fun and full of expression as Jenny's family cheer her on at the birthday party when they see how she eventually masters her chopsticks in time for the chopstick challenge.  The last page gives instructions on how to make DIY Chopstick Tongs just like Jenny. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7.~

 

Title:  Tricky Chopsticks

Author: Sylvia Chen, illustrated by Fanny Liem

Pub. date: March 2024, Anthem Books for Young Readers

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

Harold Hates to Hibernate review

Little bear Harold is NOT ready to to go to sleep—and, just like kids everywhere, he makes every attempt to stay awake.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

Harold loves everything about Fall.  He loves eating from the apple trees and tasting a bit of honey from the bees.  But what he loves the most is spending time with his friends the crows.  As the days grow shorter and winter is on the way, the other bears are getting ready to hibernate. Harold worries that if he hibernates too his friends will forget him.  So he is determined to do everything he can to stay awake a little while longer.

 

This is a charming follow-up to the picture book Harold Loves His Wolly Hat.  It is a great story about transitioning from Autumn into the Winter Season and Harold's determination to avoid his long winter nap.  It is reminiscent of kids refusing to go to sleep themselves and use stall tactics to stay up longer.  The illustrations move from yellows and reds to various shades of grey, black and blue representing winters arrival.  Text is easy for reading aloud and together with the illustrations would make a wonderful bedtime story.  The ending is cute when he eventually gives in and the crows bring him a special gift. It is a gentle and soothing read perfect for cuddling up to on a cold winter evening.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-6.~

 

Title: Harold Hates to Hibernate

Author: Vern Kousky

Pub. date: October 2024, Random House

Genre; picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

Umami review

 

Umami, sick of cold fish, travels the world trying different and delicious food to bring back home for the other penguins to try.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

Umami the penguin is tired of eating fish all the time.  The other penguins don't seem to mind the same thing everyday but she wants a more exciting variety.  She just knows better things are out there and is determined to find it!  So she decides to set off to a different land where she finds amazing new smells and tastes.  Wanting to share the new foods with her penguin colony, she packs up her boat with yummy new foods and returns home.  But will the penguins accept or reject the wonderful feast?

 

Trying new foods can be a struggle and this charming story may help encourage picky eaters to give it a chance. Umami tries several new foods with enthusiasm and learns there are different tastes such as; salty and bitter, sour and sweet, or spicy.  Seeing Umami trying all the different flavors might spark interest for kids to talk about what each one tastes like if they don't know.  When she brings back a wonderful selection to her colony, the others approach with curiosity. It is cute to see each ones reaction to the different flavors and finally finding delight in the delicious new tidbits. There is a positive message of individuality, leadership, community sharing and trying new things can be an adventure.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~ 

Title: Umami

Author: Jacob Grant

Pub. Date:October 2024, Viking Books for Young Readers

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

Thankful review

 

When the first snow falls, a little girl writes down the things she’s thankful for on strips of paper and links them together. As one idea leads to another, her chain grows longer. There’s so much good in her life.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

This story reminds readers the importance of being thankful and how making a thankful chain is a wonderful way to just pause and think about how grateful we are for all that we have around us.  As her thoughts begin to flow, it is the everyday simple things that makes the little girls chain grow longer and longer.    

It is so beautifully written and illustrated and could be read anytime throughout the year.  The illustrations are done in a 3-D diorama set photographed with a digital camera making the pages so unique and interesting to look at.  How creative this was to see all the paper detail and the mix of realistic items together .  The color palette also has a quiet, gentle feel to it and would be a perfect book to cozy up with just before bedtime.  What a wonderful family tradition this would be for any age to do anytime of the year.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3 - 10.~

Title:  Thankful

Author:  Elaine Vickers, illustrated by Samantha Cotterill

Pub. date: September 2021

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 48 pgs.  

 

 

 

 

 

Thankful review

Like the gardener thankful for every green sprout, and the fireman, for putting the fire out, readers are encouraged to be thankful for the many blessings they find in their lives. (goodreads summary)






Not only is this a heart-warming book but it sends a positive message about being thankful for those little things we do not always think about. From the waitress being thankful for comfortable shoes, to the crafter being thankful for glitter and glue, it offers children (and even the adults) the opportunity for some creative thinking.  With delightfully subtle illustrations and simple rhyming text, it gently reminds us that the ordinary things we come across in our daily lives can be a blessing as well. With short and simple poetic words, this makes a quick and easy read aloud before that delicious Thanksgiving feast.  It would be a great conversation starter about various things we encounter in our everyday world that make us thankful.  I know I am thankful for the many wonderfully talented authors and books I find everyday that can be shared with our children.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-99.~

* This book is published by Zonderkidz, a Christian children's communication company.


Title:  Thankful
Author: Eileen Spinelli
Pub. Date:  September 2015, Zonderkidz
Genre: picture book
Hardcover, 32 pgs.

Anonymoose review

 

A humorous, heartfelt story about shyness, blending in, and the courage it takes to step out and speak up when it matters most.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

Instead of interacting with her classmates, Ana Moose prefers hiding and blending in.  If she climbs up high she doesn't have to talk.  She won't have to participate in tug-of-war games if she crouches out of site.  Ana finds it very easy to be Anonymoose!  But when she finds interest in Peter's fort building, she wants to offer some of her fabulous ideas but struggles finding a way tell him. 

 

This is a sweet book about social anxiety and encouraging shy kids to find courage to break free.  Kids will enjoy the illustrations of Ana's clever hiding spots as she stays out of sight from others.  It was too scary to share her ideas when she saw Peter building a fort, so Ana comes up with a clever solution to pass notes.  Ana does eventually find a way to be brave and come out from hiding when his fort accidentally falls down.  Even though it is hard to do sometimes, this story gently helps kids step out of the shadows just like Ana does. She builds up the courage to make a new best friend and finds that it isn't so bad after all. It was cute to see Peter in the background of the pages showing that he too is a bit of an introvert.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7.~

 

Title: Anonymoose

Author: Shawna J.C. Tenney

Pub. date: August 2024, Beaming Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

Just Like Millie review

A shy young girl finds exploring her new city and making friends overwhelming—until a rescue dog helps her uncover the bravery that was always in her. (goodreads summary)

 

 

 

A beautiful story about a little girl and her mom who moves to a new city.  The girl loves being in her new home but is rather shy when it comes time to meet new people in their neighborhood.  Her mom tries scheduling play dates and attending local reading programs but she just wants to stay at home.  When Millie the friendly rescue dog moves in with them, it just might be what the girl needs to help her be brave enough to make new friends.  

This is a sweet book perfect for shy kids that are reluctant when it comes to meeting others.  Children will find the gentle tone and soft illustrations comforting while reading aloud. Many will connect to the feelings the little girl expresses and know they are not alone.  This is a wonderful book for families to open up discussion that are in the moving and adjustment process. Both Millie the rescue and the little girl benefit from Millie joining the family. Millie has a loving new home and the little girl learns to be hopeful when it comes time to meet others.  It may even spark talk about rescue animals and adopting??   Another one of my favorite parts of this story are the end pages showing them moving into their new home and the back page shows them walking the neighborhood with Millie and new friends.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-6.~

 

Title:  Just Like Millie

Author: Lauren Castillo

Pub. date: March 2024, Candlewick Press

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

The Misadventure of Bob the Book review

 

Meet Bob. He's the all-time favorite library book at Wisdom Hill Elementary. But Sebastian is nothing like Bob’s previous enthusiastic borrowers. In fact, Sebastian completely forgets about Bob!(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

At Wisdom Hill Elementary School, Bob the Book considers himself a superstar!  Children rush to his shelf to check him out.  He has traveled by backpack, will always keep kids entertained on long car rides and is there on a sick day if needed.  He usually enjoys being out and about until one day Sebastian takes him to his house.  Once there, Bob has a distressing time and can't wait to return to the library.  Unfortunately, he is soon forgotten and ends up lost the entire school year.

 

This is a cute story that teaches children the importance of looking after borrowed books. It would be a great read for School Librarians to help teach the younger ones who are checking out books for the first time on their own.  Told from Bob's point-of-view, it is a gentle reminder to treat library books with care and take responsibility for them without being preachy.  During the last week of school, Sebastian's dad finds a note asking for the return of the overdue book. The hunt begins and after Sebastian finds Bob again, he realizes how much he loves reading it over and over.  The length of the text makes for a easy read aloud and the illustrations are colorful and engaging. Kids will gasp at Bob's adventures and cheer when he is finally found.  The last page has Bob offering book care tips making this story a wonderful teaching tool.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-6.~

 

Title: The Misadventure of Bob the Book

Author: Gloria Koster, illustrated by Pawel Gierlinski

Pub. date: August 2024,  Capstone Editions

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

 

 

 

Look review

 

This lyrical, timely picture book with beautiful diorama illustrations shows that if you really look, you never know what the world might give you to see.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

Our world is full of many colors, shapes and sizes.  But if you stop and take a look around what other things can you see?  

 

This unique book guides readers to take a closer look and observe their surroundings for patterns.  You can find stripes on a chair or a cat's tail walking on a picket fence.  How about an alternating pattern of big and small rocks or new patterns such as zigzags.  Some are easy and some are hard but if you stop and look there are so many things to find.   The best part of this book are the illustrations done in vibrant bold colors and paper cut outs. It is a unique concept that kids will want to keep looking at the details.   Information can be found at the back of the book on pattern types and some recommended activities to try. It works wonderful for classroom learning as well.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-8.  

Title:  Look

Author: Gabi Snyder, illustrated by Samantha Cotterill

Pub. date: April 2024,  Simon & Schuster

Genre" picture book

Hardcover, 48 pgs.

 

 

The Reindeer Remainders review

 

A perfect picture book for back-to-school or any time of year, this clever, rhyming story shows how working together and including others are important parts of friendship.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

Twelve reindeer are excited for the big showcase night and rush to class to finish things up.  But when a new student joins, this now makes them thirteen making the class an uneven number.  Whenever they pair or group up, there is always a "remain-deer-one".  No matter how they divide into groups one reindeer is always alone making everyone worried and unsure what to do. They do not want to leave anyone out for the big event. 

Learning math can be so complicated but having fun books such as this is always a help! A picture book story about math concepts such as prime numbers and remainders engages kids to understand them better.  The illustrations are charming and it cleverly rhymes making this easy for reading aloud.  I loved the reindeer's worried expressions for their friends and even though they all looked alike, they each had their own colored bandana giving them personality.  In the end, the deer problem solved their showcase dilemmas happily.  On the back pages the author talks more about remainders and prime numbers. Also included is another page dedicated to feelings when someone is left out and how to make sure all in a group feel included.  Another wonderful concept of this terrific story.  It is written easily for young readers to understand and enjoy as well.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 5-8.~

 

Title: The Reindeer Remainders

Author: Katey Howes, illustrated by Marie Hermansson

Pub. date: July 2024, Sourcebooks Explore

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

Just What to Do review

 

When you see someone sad, it's only natural to want to cheer them up. But how? (goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

As adults, we are not always sure how to comfort someone who is sad or grieving.  I can only image how a child feels not knowing what is the right thing they should do.  

This is a sweet picture book that shows us that the best thing you can do for someone is just be there.  Every picture and word is meaningful with the various types of loss and the many ways each person deals with them.  They express what they need and our main character makes adjustments to fit. Until a friends grandma passes and he doesn't know how to help her. So he asks her what can he do to help make her feel better.  The simple illustrations are gentle and moving.  It is a very touching book about empathy and supporting others in their time of mourning.  Everyone grieves in different ways and this lets readers see that there are different types of comforting and it is okay.  It is a simple but powerful book that warms the heart.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

 

Title:  Just What to Do

Author: Kyle Lukoff

Pub. date:  July 2024, Dial Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

 

 

A Mischief of Mice review

Join the animals and follow the clues in this rollicking, rhyming, nature-inspired whodunit story full of fun collective nouns!(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

A scurry of squirrels worry that a mischief of mice who used to play in the woods have suddenly disappeared.  They wonder if other animals in the forest had something to do about this mystery.  Could it have been the skulk of foxes or an unkindness of ravens lurking in a tree? Maybe the gaze of raccoons or the band of howling coyotes knew who took them?  As the squirrels keep looking no one knows where to find them.  Until they run into a sleuth a bears suggesting they follow the tracks in the freshly fallen snow. 

 

This is a creative book that works well for the transition of autumn into winter.  It is told with collective nouns teaching readers how different groups of animals are called different things.  The rhyming text is large making it a good choice for reading aloud. The night time illustrations are in warm, soft colors with pops of fall colored leaves throughout the woods showing the different seasonal changes nicely.  Kids will follow along with the cute little mouse tracks to see where they are found in the end.  There is a glossary in the back describing the collective nouns used for each animal group.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7.~

 

Title:  A Mischief of Mice

Author: Christie Matheson

Pub. date: August 2024, Sourcebooks Jabberwocky

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saving the Spotted Owl - Zalea's Story review

Readers learn about saving threatened species — and meet real owls! - in this endearing true story of an owl chick’s rescue.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

Zalea is a three week old Northern spotted owl that fell from her nest to the ground. Unfortunately, her owl parents were unable to get her back up to it.  But a group of Wildlife Biologists found her and took her back to a rescue center in Canada and cared for her.  Once there Zalea was placed with foster owl parents, so she could learn how to survive and thrive until she was able to be released back into the wild.

  

This very informative book teaches readers the true story of Zalea and the importance of owl conservation.  We not only learn about Zalea in this story but also various types of owls and other animals on the threatened and endangered species lists.  It also tells us about the dedication of Wildlife Biologists and how important their ongoing efforts are to protect our earth's creatures.  I learned so much about the rehabilitation of owls that I didn't realize. I do appreciate how the Centers care and ready so many different animals back for their wild release.  At the end of the book are actual photographs of Zalea's chicks and a wonderful glossary for the various bird terms found throughout.  This true story is very in depth and thoughtfully detailed. It would make a perfect addition to a research project or science unit for the older elementary grades.  It is also a wonderful story for kids who are interested in nature or wildlife conservation.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 7-10.~

 

Title:  Saving the Spotted Owl - Zalea's Story

Author: Nicola Jones, illustrated by Alexandra Finkeldey

Pub. date: October 2023, Kids Can Press

Genre: non fiction

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

 

 

It Happened to Anna review

This spine-tingling ghost story follows a tween girl who’s being literally haunted by loneliness until a new friendship upends her life.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Twelve-year old Sadie has been haunted her whole life by a very possessive ghost.  After the death of her best friend Anna, she moves to a new town and school trying to start over.  But the ghost keeps her from making friends.  Whenever she tries, it reacts by making lights go out or doors suddenly slam, a constant reminder of its' vengeful force and what happened to Anna.  But the ghost doesn't seem to be around when she is with Mal. A mysterious girl she meets who is also lonely and looking for a friend.  Mal seems to push Sadie to take part in pranks on other students to seal their friendship.  At first, it was fun to have a new best friend but takes a twist when the stress becomes too much for Sadie being mean to others and the constant worry about being caught.

 

I always like to find at least one middle grade ghost story during the spooky season.  This one is moderately scary and touches on many themes throughout such as: grief, loneliness, parental leaving, social isolation, bullying, toxic friendships and choices.  Because of the haunting, Sadie has become very isolated and lonely even though she wants to have friendships.  She fears that bad things will happen to others if she does and it is best to avoid it.  When her counselor and dad encourage her to open up and make friends, she reluctantly joins the after school graphic novel club.  Shortly after, Mal's friendship becomes toxic and the pranks become cruel to the point of bullying.  Sadie grows more and more unhappy about the relationship but also fears being alone.  Going to her Guidance Counselor offers her good advice to sort out what she needs to do to change things with Mal and stand up for herseslf.  Unfortunately, this is where things get spookier when Mal is revealed and her plans for Sadie become all to real.  She must make choices when a classmate becomes the personal target of Mal's anger and ending the relationship once and for all. While the plot twist was easy to figure out early on, the story is fast-paced and definitely a page turner with good foreshadowing.  It has a sad ending about Mal but a happy one for Sadie who is ready to move on and finally be able to live a normal life.  For readers that like a spooky paranormal story for anytime of the year, I think this is a "just right book for ages 11-12.~

 

Title: It Happened to Anna

Author: Tehlor Kay Mejia

Pub. date:  August 2024, Delacorte Press

Genre: middle grade paranormal

Hardcover, 212 pgs.

Felix Powell, Boy Dog review

 

In this funny, young middle-grade novel about friendship, family, and animals, Felix Powell is magically transformed from a boy into a dog.(goodreads summary) 

 

 

 

 

 

Felix is excited to spend his $5 at the local thrift store that his Nan gave him.  When he spies a special blue blanket, he knows exactly what he wants to spend that money on.  Felix isn't like other 8 year olds.  When he grows up he wants to be a Wildlife Biologist who studies primates.  He also enjoys spending time with his dog Mary Puppins and has a special talent speaking to her.  But when he and Puppins play a game with his newly purchased blanket, it magically transforms him into a dog!   At first he enjoys being a dog and hanging out all day with Puppins. But soon he remembers all the things he likes best about being a boy and worries that he won't turn back in time for his Bean Fest plans with Nan.

 

This a unique story for the older elementary reader about family, friendship and imagination. After turning into a dog, Felix has an adventurous day with Mary Puppins smelling, playing and experiencing everything about being a dog. When Felix and Puppins run into the neighborhood cat with an aloof attitude, the interactions give Felix mixed emotions about some negative feelings he is experiencing. There is nice conflict resolution easy for young readers to understand expressing empathy. Felix and Puppins show problem solving and teamwork to help Gumbo the cat out of a predicament they caused.  It has short chapters and is fast paced keeping readers attention to the end and finding out whether he is successful in returning back to a boy.   There are also lively black and white illustrations to break up the pages giving great visuals along with the story. This is the first book in a series for Felix with more curiosity and adventures to come.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 8 - 9.~

 

Title:  Felix Powell, Boy Dog

Author: Erin Entrada Kelly

Pub. date: July 2024, Greenwillow Books

Genre: Middle Grade

Hardcover, 149 pgs.

 

The Little Witch Who Lost Her Broom review

 

 The perfect Halloween read-aloud!(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

When the little Witch realizes that her broom is missing, she looks everywhere to find it!  As she searches around with her cat Gloom, she tries various other things to replace it such as; a scooter, a bike, a digger and a plane.  But each one is not the same as her beloved broom.  

 

This is a wonderful addition to the Halloween reading season.  The rhyming text flows easily making this a fun read aloud to a large or small group.  Kids will find humor in the illustrations as she tries the numerous modes of transportation. But if they look closely, they will spot her broom hiding in various places throughout the pages.  It has a surprise ending when the witch interacts with readers asking them if they know where her broom is.  Stories that include reader participation will keep them giggling and engaged and this book does just that.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-6.~

 

Title: The Little Witch Who Lost Her Broom

Author: Elaine Bickell, illustrated by Raymond McGrath

Pub. date: April 2019, Scholastic

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

 

 

Feeling Boo review

 

Feeling Boo, a charming and supportive picture book that reminds readers it’s ok to feel a little boo.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ollie and Ellie have been best friends for hundreds of years. They love to float at midnight together and even play in a band.  But one night when Ollie wakes up feeling blue, Ellie tries everything to help him feel better by doing all his favorite things.  But nothing seems to cheer him up and Ellie doesn't know what else to do.

We have all had days like this. Waking up and feeling out of sorts and down just like Ollie. This book shows that it is okay to have those feelings and sometimes the best thing to do for someone else is to just sit quietly and be with them.  There are good days and there are bad days but having someone by your side can be comforting.  Older kids will find humor in the many puns and the illustrations are in Halloween colors with plenty to look at.  To help kids understand their own feelings or the feelings of someone else, this is a gentle story about having empathy and friendship.  Being still for a while just might be what you need to make those blues go away.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 5-7.~

Title:  Feeling Boo

Author: Alex Boniello & April Lavalle

Illustrated by: Olivia Chin Mueller

Pub. date: August 2024, Harry N. Abrams

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

It's Not Easy Being a Ghost review

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Misty the Ghost doesn't want to be a cute ghost.  She wants to be spooky like the ones in her stories.  But when she tries to be someone else, she still is not happy.  When Misty gets an invitation to a Halloween party, she decides to go as herself and gets a surprise from all her friends.  

This is another story about self-acceptance and as Misty learns from her friends, she is special just the way she is.  She tries different ways to be spooky like becoming a mummy, a witch or a werewolf but nothing feels comfortable.  When she arrives at the party though, her friends help her realize that her unique qualities are what make her special. The characters are cute and the illustrations are in bright bold Halloween colors. It is short enough for a quick read aloud and will put kids in the Halloween mood.   I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7~

 

Title: It's Not easy Being a Ghost

Author:  Marilyn Sadler, illustrated by Steph Laberis

Pub. date: August 2024, Random House for Young Readers

Genre: Halloween, picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

 

 

 

 

 

Little Ghost Makes a Friend review

 

A shy ghost learns the secret to making friends is being his spooky, sparkly self in this charming debut picture book that’s perfect for fans of Stumpkin .(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

It is almost Halloween and here is a fun story to get everyone into the spirit.  A little ghost wants to meet the people of his neighborhood but is too shy.  When a little girl moves in next door, he wants to make friends but is afraid to speak to her.  So he decides a Halloween party is the best way he can get to know her and invites her over to his creaky old house.  As he prepares for the party,  he realizes that finding the best costume to impress her with is harder than he thought.

 

This is a cute friendship story perfect for the autumn season.  With determination, little ghost overcomes his fear to invite his new neighbor to his house for a party.  When she accepts, he eagerly gets ready but can't decide which costume he should wear.  It was cute when he ended up wearing a little bit of everything.  He has normal worries about things such as; will she like his costume, will she have fun or maybe not even show up?  He finds that he is not alone in his shyness when Anya tells him she gets scared to meet new friends too.  It turns out to be a wonderful party and Anya even introduces him to more friends when they go trick or treating.  In the end he learns that you can make friends by just being yourself.  The illustrations are in eye pleasing soft Halloween colors and the text is simple.  It is a sweet story about overcoming shyness and to add to the Halloween shelves.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

 

Title:  Little Ghost Makes a Friend

Author: Maggie Edkins Willis

Pub. date: July 2024, Simon & Schuster

Genre: Halloween, picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

Boo the Library Ghost review

 

Boo the ghost spends his days haunting the local library and scaring everyone away. But little Poppy thinks she may know why Boo is acting so scary, and she knows just how to fix it!(goodreads summary)

 

 

Here is a cute story about a ghost who haunts a library and loves to scare all the children away!  Except a girl named Poppy who loves reading so much that she refuses to leave.  Boo tries harder to scare her away by pushing over chairs and knocking over books.  But Poppy is not intimidated and realizes that Boo might not know how to read.  At first, Boo resists when Poppy wants to teach him but soon realizes how much fun a new friend and reading can be.  The rhythmic text flows nicely for reading aloud to a large or small group.  Illustrations are colorful and watching Boo go from naughty to sweet and helpful in the end makes him more likable.  It is a fun story for the Halloween season or anytime of the year showing the love of reading and libraries.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-7.~

Title:  Boo the Library Ghost

Author: Becky Paige

Pub. date: July 2024, Silver Dolphin Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lighthouse and the Little Boat review

 

A sweet, tender, and touching tale about a wise lighthouse guiding a young boat through the turbulent waters of life. (goodreads summary)

 

 

 

The warm glow of the Lighthouse watches over the harbor keeping everything safe and secure.  When a new little boat named Brightness arrives, Lighthouse tells her to stay close and she will keep her safe.  But Brightness becomes curious of the horizon and the vast open sea.  Little by little she drifts away from Lighthouse's protective light until one windy morning Lighthouse could see not her.  As the seasons change, Lighthouse keeps watch for Brightness to return. But when a harrowing storm hits she knows she must stay steady and strong with hopes that Brightness will find her way back to the harbor.

 

This is such a sweet story perfect for reading to the young ones.  The text is gentle, calming and flows easily for reading aloud.  It could be a great story for going back to school or cuddling at bedtime.  The beautiful illustrations in sea shore colors had me feeling the activity of the ocean and harbor.  Parents will connect to the story as little boat wants to go exploring but lighthouse worries about her venturing to far away. We want to protect our children but yet we know we have to let go when they feel the need for some independence.  There is a wonderful message about letting go but also finding the way back home again.  I think this is a "just right book"  for ages 3-6.~

 

Title:  Lighthouse and the Little Boat

Author: Katie Frawley

Pub date: May 2024, Quill Tree Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 32 pgs.

 

 

 

 

How to Make a Picture Book review

 

Make your own picture book with this hilarious, activity-filled guide (goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

Here is a wonderful step-by-step guide book to help with the creative writing process for younger grades.  It offers great tips along with activities for kids on writing and illustrating their own story or picture book.  

 

By showing kids how to start with story ideas, then character development and setting, Elys the worm helps with sentence starters to form a plot.  An activity is added after each one so readers can put what they learned into practice.  When their story is finished, there are details on how to put it into a picture book format, illustration blocks and how even color affects the feelings and thinking of a reader.  There is so much useful information to learn and the illustrations are bold and bright.  It is an engaging activity guide but entertaining to read as well.  Perfect for the start of the new school year. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 6-9.~

Title: How to Make a Picture Book

Author: Elys Dolan

Pub. date: November 2022, Walker Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 48 pgs.

Faker review

 

The story of a family of liars... and the son who wants to break the family tradition.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trey is used to moving around and being the new kid in school.  While attending boarding schools, he knows how to make friends with the rich kids.  Once they are hooked,  it is then his dads turn to lure in the parents for one of his investment scams.  Trey's dad is a con artist and good at his profession.  But once the investment scheme is completed and the money is all set, Trey and his family pull a Houdini.  A Houdini is when it is time to take the money and run, immediately leaving everything behind to disappear for a while.  But Trey starts questioning what he has been taught to do after settling in Boxelder, Tennessee and starting a public school for the first time.  His dad offers a new investment on a fake start up electric car company, the biggest scam by far.  Trey longs to lead a normal life but does not know how to tell his dad he is tired of lying and running.  

In this new middle grade novel, readers will find themselves pulled into Trey's story.  It is filled with internal conflicts and life lessons as Trey tries to navigate his 12 year old self while being his con man dad's partner in crime. When his social studies teacher does a unit on debating ethical issues, he begins to take a different look at the family business.  On top of this, his teacher's daughter takes an environmental stance to save a local pond polluted with sludge.  Things begin to become personal when Trey joins the cause and he begins to care for the friends that he is making at his new school.  He also questions his dad's swindling lifestyle and sees things differently after his 10 year old sister becomes a little to enthusiastic about ripping people off.  She is quite a feisty character but does not have the maturity to fully understand what is going on.  Trey has a lot of character development and readers will connect with him as he questions right from wrong and longing for a normal life.  His dad promises it will stop after the big one but will it ever?  The book touches on many themes such as; morals, values, friends and family relationships, trust, lying, guilt and even environmental issues.  The book is a quick read and has some twists and turns. The ending wrapped up a little fast but had a positive outcome.   If kids are looking for a book to start the school year off with this would be a great read.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 10-12.~

 

Title:  Faker

Author: Gordon Korman

Pub. date: July 2024, Scholastic Press

Genre: middle grade, realistic fiction

Hardcover, 224 pgs.

The Dictionary Story review

The much-anticipated new picture book from the best-selling, award-winning creators of A Child of Books.(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dictionary was full of words but felt that she didn't have a story to tell like other books could.  So she decided to make her own and let her words come to life.  Her pages soon became a hungry alligator chasing after a donut.  While donut was escaping, it rolled through a napping ghost and waking him up.  The story grows more and more chaotic as donut rolls along the pages to find a moon, a queen and a terrible tornado.  Dictionary's story unfolds into a very messy situation and begins to worry that nothing makes sense and she needs to make it right again.  But how will she turn everything back to normal order?  Then, she remembers her friend alphabet.

 

This is a clever and creative book that would be a fun read aloud.  It is also a wonderful way to teach kids about the dictionary and its purpose.  The illustrations are simple but unique as chaos erupts throughout the pages making for some funny moments to look at.  Be sure to read the scrolling definitions along the bottom of the pages as well.  I didn't realize it at first but after a second look, there is silly humor that makes you giggle.  The end pages also give a quick overview as to how the dictionary came to be.   Kids will have fun singing the alphabet song to help put everything back in its place. This book was definitely fascinating and I think this is a "just right book" for ages 4-8.~

 

Title: The Dictionary Story

Author: Oliver Jeffers, Sam Winston

Pub. date:  August 2024, Candlewick Press

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 56 pgs.

Wild Wave review

 

Another WILD adventure from Rodman Philbrick, author of Wildfire and Wild River. Wild Wave is the adventure of two kids trapped in the aftermath of a tsunami.(goodreads summary)I

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Middle Schoolers Nick Chase and Jess Hardy are spending a Saturday morning at an animal rescue sanctuary called the Friends of the Wild. Jess is a volunteer and Chase is gathering information for a school podcast assignment for one of his classes.  Suddenly, out of nowhere, an earthquake hits and everyone is frantic.  When they look over the bay area, the water is gone and boats are overturned on their sides. Only mud is left where the sea should be.  Nick and Jess's instinct tells them to run as a tsunami hits destroying everything in its path.  As the two kids run for high ground, they depend on each other for survival by working together and putting their courage to the test. 

 

This was a heart pounding and exciting middle grade novel. The story begins immediately by plunging readers into Nick and Jess's fight to stay alive.  As the rushing floodwaters push them deep into the forest, they begin to wonder how they will make it to safety or if they will ever see their families again.  They eventually find Mr. and Mrs. Bumper, the high school soccer coach and the science teacher at their middle school stranded in the forest.  Knowing they need to help save them as well, they decide to continue to trek out on their own, readily prepared by the Bumpers to face the dangerous elements ahead.  Remaining level headed and working together was a key part of the story for their survival. The numerous cliffhangers throughout makes you want to keep turning the pages. The chapters are fast-paced and short which would work well for reluctant readers.  We learn a lot about Nick and Jess as characters and their families.  They show their vulnerabilities and fear like any person would in a challenging situation such as this. But they also demonstrated maturity, strength, problem solving, courage and hope in finding their families alive.  Readers will relate to the pair and cheer for a positive outcome.   A great adventure story to end the summer with or pick up at the upcoming school book fair.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 10-12.~

Title:  Wild Wave

Author: Rodman Philbrick

Pub. date: August 2024 Scholastic Press

Genre: middle grade fiction, adventure

Hardcover 192 pgs.

 

 

 

 

Maxine Gets a Job review

 

The exceptionally adorable global sensation Maxine the Fluffy Corgi teaches your littlest reader the importance of figuring out what they love to do and doing it with their whole hearts!(goodreads summary)

 

 

 

If you are familiar with the famous fluffy Instagram dog Maxine, you will appreciate this cute and funny book.  She knows that many talented dogs have jobs and she wants one too.  After trying to be a lifeguard, a chicken guard dog and a truffle dog like her friends, nothing seemed to fit her.  After thinking hard about what she loves best, Maxine finally realizes what her perfect job could be.  

This is a cute book with fun illustrations that will have kids giggling.  When Maxine tries her best to be like her friends, she doesn't give up when she realizes that their jobs are not for her.  Bright bold colors and easy text help make this a good read aloud.  Not everyone is made for the same things but if you try you will find what fits you.  It offers a good message to not give up and just be yourself.  To find out more about the real Maxine, her Instagram account is listed at the end of the book.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

 

Title: Maxine Gets a Job

Author: Alexandra Garyn, Bryan Reisberg

Pub. date: May 2024, Random House

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs

 

Piper Chen Sings review

 

An empowering story about a girl who turns her performance jitters into confidence when faced with singing a solo at her school concert.(goodreads summary) 

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Piper loves to sing!  She sings to the birds, frogs in the nearby pond and her stuffed animals who make a wonderful audience.  She excitedly jumps at the chance when her music teacher asks her to sing a solo for the Spring concert.  But after thinking about performing alone, she finds the butterflies she feels inside are taking over and giving her second thoughts.

 

This is a wonderful story to share with kids who may feel just like Piper during any situation giving them the butterflies in the stomach feeling.  When she shares her worries with her grandmother, she lovingly explains to Piper her own experiences with the butterflies and how they meant something exciting was to come.  She tells her to embrace the feeling and welcome them as a part of her during the moment instead of shying away.  Her music teacher was also encouraging and not pushy, letting Piper be the one to decide if she wanted to do a solo or sing with her class.  This book is gentle and heartwarming letting kids know that having these big feelings are normal and how to understand and channel them so they are not consumed by them.  The lovely illustrations are calming and it has a sweet ending. I was also a kid who had butterflies a lot growing up and didn't know how to conquer the feeling.  I would have loved a book like this to help me through those awful feelings I experienced many times.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 3-7.~

 

Title: Piper Chen Sings

Author: Phillipa Soo, illustrated by Maris Pasquale Doran

Pub. date: April 2024, Random House

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 40 pgs.

 

Orris and Timble-The Beginning review

From beloved storyteller Kate DiCamillo comes the first book in a warm and funny early-reader trilogy about a misanthropic rat and a naive owl—and the beginning of a beautiful friendship. (goodreads summary)

 

 

 

 

Orris the Rat lives by himself in a very comfortable nest he has made inside a hole in a barn. He keeps his treasures around him making it feel warm and safe.  But one evening,  he hears a call for help from a young barn owl whose foot is caught in a trap.   Orris knows that rats and owls are natural enemies and fears the worst if he helps free him.  How will Orris decide what is the right thing to do?

 

This is the first book of a new trilogy for early chapter book readers.  It is a simple and wonderful story about courage, trust and an unlikely friendship.  Orris questions what is the right thing to do while knowing the consequences of releasing the young owl.  He faces his fears to make the "good and noble choice" hoping he will not meet an unfortunate end in doing so.  The young and naive Timble does make a promise and offers a nice gesture of thank you in return.  The two form a beautiful friendship through storytelling and I look forward to the next books coming out.  The story is gentle and sweet but what adds to this are the beautiful illustrations. The innocence of Timble is captured by his inquisitive wide eyes showing his naive nature instead of a predatory one. The pages are so detailed that when you look hard enough you will feel an actual nighttime barn setting.  This a heartwarming story of friendship, leaving much anticipation for more from these two very unlikely characters.  It is the perfect series to start off the summer reading and I think this is a "just right book" book for ages 5-7.~

 

Title: Orris and Timble - The Beginning

Author: Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Carmen Mok

Pub. date: April 2024, Candlewick Press

Genre: early chapter book

Hardcover, 80 pgs.

Kindergarten Graduation review

 

The perfect Little Golden Book to celebrate finishing kindergarten!(goodreads summary)
 

 

 

 

 

 

It is the final days of kindergarten and the class is getting ready for the big graduation celebration!  Each student reflects on their favorite thing about kindergarten by making a drawing for a special keepsake booklet.  

 

This is the perfect story to wrap up the last days of the kindergarten school year.  Reflecting back on all that they learned, along with some fun times throughout the year, will help kids get ready to take the next step into first grade.  Making a memory book to look back on is an extra special thing too for parents and children to share with each other.  It is a joyful book celebrating all the experiences of a great year and getting ready for what comes next.  I think this is a "just right book" for ages 5-6.~

 

Title:  Kindergarten Graduation

Author: Jennifer Liberts, illustrated by Courtney Dawson

Pub. date: March 2024, Golden Books

Genre: picture book

Hardcover, 24 pgs.

 

The Last Day of Kindergarten review

A little girl is sad that kindergarten is coming to an end. She wishes it were the first day again, when everything was exciting and new and there was such a fun year ahead. But then she realizes that graduating is exciting, too and maybe first grade won't be so bad after all! (jacket description)

 

The end of another school year is fast approaching... There are so many books about the start of school, how about a book about the end of school?  This is one of my favorite books from a few years ago that will get kids ready for summer.

A little girl reflects back on her first year in kindergarten and all the wonderful things that made it so fun and special.  Leaving a favorite teacher and friends behind can give children mixed emotions and this story helps by remembering good times and preparing for the transition to the next grade. It would spark wonderful discussion on what they themselves would be looking forward to when starting a new grade.  This would be a fun last day of school read before that final goodbye. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 5-6 and perfect for kindergarten classrooms.~

Title: The Last Day of Kindergarten
Author: Nancy Loewen
Genre: Picture Book
Pub. Date: February 2011, Marshall Cavendish Children
Hardcover, 32 pgs.