In this delightful story-in-rhyme, it's the boots that star. Revealed in short couplets and brightly illustrated pages, the many ways that boots are In this delightful story-in-rhyme, it's the boots that star. Revealed in short couplets and brightly illustrated pages, the many ways that boots are part of life on the farm throughout the year are celebrated through a year's seasons. These certainly involve work of many kinds, but also reveal the types and variations of fun and adventure that can be had in footwear that we rightly label boots. The end papers are a visual glossary of the variety of boots (and related farm elements) that can be spotted within the pages. In repeated readings (which both the story/concept and the rhymes will invite) young audiences may try using that array inside the covers to play a find-and-search game in the illustrations. ...more
STANLEY's LIBRARY is one of many in the STANLEY series. Stanley (hamster) stars in an ongoing series of delightful books for young audiences. Just as STANLEY's LIBRARY is one of many in the STANLEY series. Stanley (hamster) stars in an ongoing series of delightful books for young audiences. Just as early chapter books offer a transition from beginning readers to actual youth novels, STANLEY's stories, though appealing to even the youngest eyes and ears, offers a set of stories and characters with enough substance to engage longer conversations, questions, reactions,, and connections that reach beyond the basic naming concepts in most board books. The colorful, graphic, but detailed images focus on the topic-related materials and their purposes for each of the many topics. Though seemingly simplistic, Stanley takes young minds on journeys into the world around them, reflecting things they know and extending their awareness to think and absorb more while having a grand journey through the day. The impact of a template or pattern that carries through each story/Stanley structure builds confidence and connection, including not-quite-identical end of day pages. Side note, for anyone bemoaning the lack of analog clock faces in young lives, Stanley's bedtime clock is set each night, and the times are not the same. In fact, it's worth noting that the particular career he holds for that title is reflected in the time he is expecting to get up. I found that to be a wonderful example of the ways these seemingly simple books will transcend a few readings or even a few years. ...more
OUTSPOKEN- PAUL ROBESON, Ahead of His Time: A one-man Show, is written by the incomparable Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Eric VelasquezOUTSPOKEN- PAUL ROBESON, Ahead of His Time: A one-man Show, is written by the incomparable Carole Boston Weatherford and illustrated by Eric Velasquez. Those who are familiar with even part of Robeson's life and career will appreciate this beautifully elaborated portrait of his remarkable life and accomplishments. Everything about this book is exceptional, including the quantity of text, the gloriously detailed and revealing illustrations, the lyrical quality of the first person narrative, and the sense of the immediate presence of Robeson on the page, despite his absence from our physical world since his death in 1976. This account makes clear that the impact of his life resonates even today, whether we know of him or not. I am generally skeptical of using first person voice in biographic presentations. It is rare that direct quotes can sustain a full accounting in those attempts. Without that validation, assuming the "I" voice for someone else gives me pause. And yet...in Weatherford's capable and respected hands, I trust the approach entirely and feel it serves an immeasurable contribution in producing that sense of Robeson speaking directly to readers on the page. Her channeling of his voice makes this a book worth reading for adults, too.
This book is also unusual in its length (48 pages, including useful and informative back matter, timeline, etc.) large format, high word count, and inclusion of personal elements throughout Robeson's complex and accomplished life. Each stage of his life is explored through free verse poems or prose, utilizing lyrics of songs, repeated phrases and themes, and lyrical language. Beginning with reflections on the heritage of his ancestry (resistance and intelligence, from his enslaved forerunners), carrying through his childhood and every phase of life, the poems and narrative are superb individually and as a compilation of life-story. Each poem across several pages includes majestic, informative images, full-page and spot illustrations, to provide readers with a sense of the time, place, and emotional drama of these Robeson-voiced depictions. The effects of text and illustration together are powerful and moving, with an undeniable reflection of the dignity of the man.
I'll admit my awareness of him was limited to his career as an incomparable singer, a man whose experiences with injustice and assault to his dignity led to living in Europe to experience a higher degree of equality than could be found in this country. Over the years, I learned more through studies of the Civil Rights Movement, Black History Month programs, and some PBS documentary coverage over the years. Even so, none of those scratched the surface of this man's complicated life and layered accomplishments. While I held a deep respect for the man I thought I knew, nothing prepared me for the miracle of this impressive treatment. Weatherford's and Velasquez's deep research and thoughtful structuring of the book and its total design allowed me to know and appreciate Robeson more fully. I believe the same will be true for readers across many ages, with late elementary through middle grade audiences as its target audience. ...more
This is a charming story, and the relationship between grandfather and granddaughter is portrayed in a very credible but special way. The elder's healThis is a charming story, and the relationship between grandfather and granddaughter is portrayed in a very credible but special way. The elder's health issue is one not seen in many stories, not approaching death but dealing intermittently with "feeling blue" and withdrawing from interactions. While not one to endorse eating as an antidote to depression (been there, done that) this has a distinctly different tone. The pies they share and report on are a shared passion, their relqtionship is the secret sauce, and the analogy toward the end is superb: Their conversations begin with the "crust" of routine events before getting to the colorful and tasty innards of what they've each been up to in events and internally. The child's empathy and turning the tables on Grandfathers comforting refrain at the end is a very special note. ...more
This concluding MG novel in verse/short text passages does not disappoint. In fact, it takes IVAN and his troop/family to a conclusion that is gratifyThis concluding MG novel in verse/short text passages does not disappoint. In fact, it takes IVAN and his troop/family to a conclusion that is gratifying and satisfying. The analogy to actual families and friendships and personal histories and inner struggles in unavoidable but not heavy handed. This book, surprisingly, could work as a stand-alone but I sincerely doubt that there are young readers anywhere who have not followed Ivan to this pivot point in his life. Applegate does make a note though, in back, that even the hard stories need to be shared in schools, libraries, and families, and expresses concern for the ever-increasing legal pressures to remove access to stories that matter. I agree....more
An engaging read, told as though diary entries by Mrs. March, mother of those "little women". I'll admit to not being a huge fan of the original novel,An engaging read, told as though diary entries by Mrs. March, mother of those "little women". I'll admit to not being a huge fan of the original novel, this approach found me connecting and appreciating the characters and events more. Recommended. ...more
The life story of Frances Perkins merits many volumes, but for young readers there are no more able hands to depict her role in American history than The life story of Frances Perkins merits many volumes, but for young readers there are no more able hands to depict her role in American history than author Hopkinson's. With a clever opening, she asks young readers to pause and calculate how many years until they will be sixty-two. Next, she briefly reveals how Perkins learned life lessons at her parents sides: her father's value for education and her mother's value of helping those in need. The timing of those lessons in Perkins's early life combined with the horrifying news of the Triangle Shirtwaist fire/disaster. Her gender-defying rise to public roles to protect women, children, and all workers syncs ideally with the needs of the USA during the Great Depression and the election of FDR, who made her the first female cabinet member ever, Secretary of Labor. Deft illustrations make events of history and conditions of the times, including the challenges she fced in otherwise all-male power positions accessible for readers. The closing spread con temporizes the account with reminders that those who of us alive today continue to benefi from her work, including the establishment for Social Security. That opening question provides additional connection in back matter, asking readers to determine what year they will be eligible for social security benefits and briefly accounting for the ways government and politics can affect out lives while we work, and after. ...more
The cover alone will invite readers to take a look, and no one who begins will want to put this down until the last page is reached. Santiago was unknThe cover alone will invite readers to take a look, and no one who begins will want to put this down until the last page is reached. Santiago was unknown to me, and now he is unforgettable. The subtitle indicates he was artist, scientist, and troublemaker. In terms of his powerful influence on studies and advancements in anatomy, the science should have come first. In terms of the innermost nature of Santiago, ARTIST deserves first place. But TROUBLEMAKER is the hook that the author/illustrator uses to make this story irresistible. As I read I wondered if any of it was exaggerated for effect, but the back pages take a point-by-point approach to documenting the childhood and eventual career portrayed using autobiographic excerpts from Santiago's own writings. I strongly recommend this across many ages, with the sweet spot likely to be middle grade. In the same way, parents and teachers could both enjoy it and learn from the challenge of having a child whose sense of inner drive and identity feels like a "problem to be fixed". Highly recommended....more
A delightful, multi-generational story of the family tradition of harvesting apples and making applesauce. The text and illustrations are both entertaA delightful, multi-generational story of the family tradition of harvesting apples and making applesauce. The text and illustrations are both entertaining and informative, with two pages of back matter readers can find a simple applesauce recipe and a delightful list of apple facts....more
THis is a delightful blend of a fiction story in which the science and story of apple orchards and retailing appear within a "field trip". One of the THis is a delightful blend of a fiction story in which the science and story of apple orchards and retailing appear within a "field trip". One of the students has a distinct learning and engagement style- quiet, reflective, and mindful. She is seen by more outgoing peers are an isolate, as 'shy" or other negative-suggesting reactions. Instead, her style allows time to consider and connect then things she sees, hears, and is questioning. A layered story that is fully entertaining but also offers multiple sharing opportunities. ...more
Do you even know the name in this title? I didn't, even though I've followed basketball all my life. This account give Wat his place in desegregation Do you even know the name in this title? I didn't, even though I've followed basketball all my life. This account give Wat his place in desegregation of sport and public media/awareness, consider the Jackie Robinson of NBA. In addition, his story will connect with EVERAY kid who has ever been told they are not _______ enough. That includes any kid of any gender or identity who wants to prove their ability matters more than their height, or other physical attributes. A worthy addition for picture book biography shelves and should be actively shared with readers (of any age)....more
This is a story whose t4xt ands illustrations are as luminous and uplifting as the moon itself. Take time to meet Nigel and share his remarkably tendeThis is a story whose t4xt ands illustrations are as luminous and uplifting as the moon itself. Take time to meet Nigel and share his remarkably tender and self-directed personality with many others. ...more
This is reportedly a personally-based fictional story about a young girl with OCD, but expanding the sense of ways in which obsessive patterns can be This is reportedly a personally-based fictional story about a young girl with OCD, but expanding the sense of ways in which obsessive patterns can be internal. In this case, "overthinking" is the issue the child struggles with, seeing her own response patterns as slower than, different then, and possibly less acceptable than... the typical kids in her school. IN fact, her thinking patterns also r4eveal her self-awareness and intentionality, her good nature and kindness, and her eventual acceptance of the fact that there are times and ways in which her more mindful approach to everyday situations can lead her to choices and behaviors that are welcomed. A lovely book and one that could inform and comfort many readers. ...more
This is a charming example of important moments/experiences within relationships that are both momentous and minor. A "small moments" mentor text for This is a charming example of important moments/experiences within relationships that are both momentous and minor. A "small moments" mentor text for young writers to read and consider when choosing and writing about their own lives, even if fictionalized. The story is heartwarming and elicits empathy for the good times and the struggles. A lovely father/son story to share....more
A delightful depiction of a young family celebrating a special moment- their infant's naming day at the synagogue. Through the ambling walk there, theA delightful depiction of a young family celebrating a special moment- their infant's naming day at the synagogue. Through the ambling walk there, thenoilder sibling responds to friendly neighbors, reminded by his Mama or Mommy to use their loving-nicknames until the ceremony makes it all official. This community based celebration and natural; acceptance of particular religious traditions as well as same-sex parents and families is a welcome, gentle story that it itself a joyous song! ...more
THis compact and compelling novel/novella is an immersive and intense exploration of isolation and humanity and relationships, played out without the THis compact and compelling novel/novella is an immersive and intense exploration of isolation and humanity and relationships, played out without the benefit of a common language but driven by sincere and deep humanity. Unforgettable and unique writing....more
Using first person voice and her immeasurable talent as an illustrator, Lauren Castillo has provided a gentle, quiet story that portrays a gentle but Using first person voice and her immeasurable talent as an illustrator, Lauren Castillo has provided a gentle, quiet story that portrays a gentle but anxious young girl, one whose comfort zone is very close to home and very self-protective. After moving to a new home in a new city, she is lucky to ahve a mother who does not push or pressure, but continues to offer openings to meet and chat with new folks, without forcing situations on her cautious daughter. Enter the wonderful Millie, a dog with the just-right0-amount of social skills to model her getting-to-know-you style, building a bridge for the young girl to take early steps to meet and interact with others. We so often see books about SEL issues for boys, or girls, whose behaviors tend toward over-reaching, over-loud, and over-managing social situations. Self-regulation is often the subtle (or not so subtle) undercurrent of those stories. All too often a very quiet, even clingy young girl is not seen as needing structured support or finesse from parents. This is a gorgeous, lyrical exception and also suits readers of every style, reminding us all that individual differences have a palce among us, should be recognized as nothing more than personality differences, which we all have....more
This is a comprehensive approach to the histories and identities of people whose origin stories are rooted in East Asian, Middle East, middle Asian, aThis is a comprehensive approach to the histories and identities of people whose origin stories are rooted in East Asian, Middle East, middle Asian, and Pacific Islanders who have lived with the US and experienced macro- or micro discriminations based one those identities. It not only provides age-suited history of the political and social patterns that brought (or blocked) immigrants from those areas and nations to live in this country, it also celebrates individuals from each ethnicity and history across centuries. The text is suitable for upper elementary and middle grade, the illustrations throughout are vivid and positive, providing clarity about the variety of ages and identities claimed. It comes with a removable poster of the many heroes featured, and those span a remarkable range of talents and skills, including the arts, sports, science, business, entertainment, politics, the law, and more. Children of any background will find figures familiar and new, as well as engaging details and connectionsnwithn their own lives....more
There are plenty of books for young readers to explore facts and relationships within the human body. In this case, the author's premise is that consiThere are plenty of books for young readers to explore facts and relationships within the human body. In this case, the author's premise is that considering the numbers of various body parts and systems provide both information and curiosity about those parts and purposes. In the course of the exploration she provides, she combines discreet data with practical comparisons to make large numbers more meaningful and concrete. The text also uses several facts and comparisons to make clear how all the cells and parts and particulars comprise interrelated systems that keep our bodies working without our need to actively manage those essential functions. At several points the author emphasizes that ALL humans, current as from the origins of our species, work identically and have the same parts. We are all one species, all developed from a common human source. The author also points out that some science is "fixed", even in numbers, because it has been thoroughly studied and confirmed (number of adult bones, number of teeth, etc.). Some science, though, is emerging and still subject to study and possible change. It is important for young readers to understand that in many cases of this type, facts are still facts, numbers are still numbers, based on studies done "so far". The text and illustration as well as the book's layout and design, backmatter, and colorful appeal all make it a valuable addition to family, library, and classroom collections....more
The oldest library in the world, Located in the Middle East in a bustling medina, the oldest are in an ancient urban community. Before 900AD, young woThe oldest library in the world, Located in the Middle East in a bustling medina, the oldest are in an ancient urban community. Before 900AD, young woman Fatima had the bold and brilliant idea to form a school and reading area, which formed the roots of the eventual sprawling and remarkable library that set a model for all others to follow. The text allows the library its own voice, personifying centuries of history so that young readers might find greater empathy and connection to the glory days and the eventual disrepair of a classic structure and its purpose. The illustrations allow readers to immerse themselves in the tile art, architecture, and mosaic beauty that composes the entire structure, as well as the surrounding community members. This is a valuable book and story, one that will expand any Western-centric attitudes about literacy and literature. ...more
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