While this attractive picture book's topic might be familiar [facing things that are new and somewhat frightening], its approach with an affirming manWhile this attractive picture book's topic might be familiar [facing things that are new and somewhat frightening], its approach with an affirming mantra and its unusual, striking artwork makes it refreshingly different. The use of tissue paper that has been collaged in Photoshop adds movement, texture, and interest to the illustrations of youngsters facing the typical fears. such as going on stage, taking a test, diving into deep water, getting a shot, even volunteering an answer in class. And throughout the text, readers keep seeing that comforting mantra, "YOU'VE GOT THIS" (unpaged), three words that have the power to motivate them and keep them going. Lest readers think that trying will always lead to success, an attitude that seems so prevalent these days, the final two pages assure them that even when they don't succeed, their loved ones have their back and still love them. Books such as this one encourage risk taking and facing fears head on, teaching resilience. ...more
Using a relatable and familiar scenario about a new family addition, this large-size board book [2.5 for me] offers suggestions for dealing with changUsing a relatable and familiar scenario about a new family addition, this large-size board book [2.5 for me] offers suggestions for dealing with change, compromise, staying connected, dealing with hurting someone, coping with mistakes, and reacting to family arguments. The scenarios don't try to paint a rosy picture of family dynamics, instead recognizing that there may be times that are more challenging than others but that there are healthy ways to cope with them. I just wish there had been more diversity in the families depicted, especially on the page that describes and identifies different family compositions or different kinds of families. It seems to be a missed opportunity to expand further on families, but still, the book serves as a possible starting point for important conversations about emotions and families. ...more
Perfect for youngsters (and their parents) who have learned about how to self-regulate while also being amused, this picture book slyly focuses on thePerfect for youngsters (and their parents) who have learned about how to self-regulate while also being amused, this picture book slyly focuses on the perils of procrastination. Most of us have experienced this at one time or the other, often choosing to engage in activities that are far more pleasurable than picking up after ourselves or washing dishes. That's the case for Jim Panzee, who decides one day that he isn't doing any cleaning, not even brushing his teeth. And while he has a blast doing so, eventually the other animals either quit playing or have other things that they'd rather do. Jim's so busy playing that he doesn't even stop to eat or to pee. As usual, his friend Norman says it best when he reminds Jim that it's possible to have too much of a good thing. The plot doesn't end with Jim being thrilled to do his work or regard it as fun. But he does feel a sense of accomplishment afterward, a message that will resonate with many readers, unless they are procrastinating reading this book and never see its contents. The artwork is just as child friendly as the relatable text, filled with expressive faces and jungle scenes and plentiful whites. Readers who have enjoyed the How Do Dinosaurs... series by Jane Yolen and Mark Teague are the perfect audience for this one. ...more
The diverse cast of characters in this board book [2.5 for me!] demonstrate ways to be generous with others and why generosity is important. Part of tThe diverse cast of characters in this board book [2.5 for me!] demonstrate ways to be generous with others and why generosity is important. Part of the Little Voices series for very young readers, the book contains scenes in which the youngsters share snacks, help solve puzzles, offer consolation, giggle together, and offer warm words of encouragement. The idea of sharing is carried throughout the book, but some readers may become confused over some of the scenes and how sharing is a part of what's happening. ...more
Children's literature is filled with animal characters who don't always behave at their best, allowing young readers to recognize themselves and otherChildren's literature is filled with animal characters who don't always behave at their best, allowing young readers to recognize themselves and others as well as some of their behaviors that might be problematic but doing so with humor and little judgment. In the case of this picture book featuring bright colors, large fonts with repeated sounds that almost blare off the page ["HONK HONKHOOOONK! HONKETY HONK," for instance], Hank with his adorable earflap hat is a rather obnoxious, loud, careless, self-absorbed goose. He interrupts others--a habit that is demonstrated right in the middle of the narrative--and behaves rudely, swiping the cherries from the tops of cupcakes, pecking book pages, and bursting balloons. Clearly, all this behavior has consequences, and Hank finds himself being shunned by the other animals. On his own, he decides to make some changes, and for the most part, he improves. But Rome wasn't built in a day, and despite immersing himself in a book entitled "How to Be an Im-PECKABLE Goose, Hank just can't resist a couple of his bad habits, shown in vivid full-page illustrations, one of which consists of those pecking actions of this goose and bits of a book's pages, all littered across a red background while Hank busily reverts to his former ways. The other animals forgive him, holding their breaths as he gives a new balloon to Bunny. The final double-page spread showing the balloon and Hank's face up close make it clear that Hank still has some work to do. This one is perfect for sharing with others, but they may not recognize their own annoying behavior in Hank....more
Oh, my! I can think of quite a few folks just like Mini who could profit from a lesson in how to listen to others. Despite the size of her enormous flOh, my! I can think of quite a few folks just like Mini who could profit from a lesson in how to listen to others. Despite the size of her enormous flappy ears, Mini, a gray elephant, doesn't listen very well. It's not that she has a issue with her hearing; she just listens selectively, ignoring what she doesn't necessarily want to hear, and leaving friends and even her mother and teacher more than a little frustrated. The digital artwork shows Mini as she messes up time and time again as well as how she goes to great lengths to fix her ears after she has missed the class field trip. But as her friend Milo, a rabbit, points out, she's the one who needs to change and not her ears. All she needs to do is pay attention and listen. The illustrations are just as charming as could be, complementing a much-needed message in an engaging story. Parents, caregivers, and teachers will want to add this one to their read aloud selections and library shelves. ...more
With its green font color and unique setting in the swamp, this series has plenty of kid appeal. While Croc and Gator should have plenty of things in With its green font color and unique setting in the swamp, this series has plenty of kid appeal. While Croc and Gator should have plenty of things in common, their personalities are quite different. The two meet and pair up for projects at Swamp Ranger School where they're learning to be junior rangers. Gator is friendly, outgoing, and likes to joke around while Croc is quiet, serious, and bound by rules. But as the plot unfolds, both of them are able to make some compromises, stretch a little but still stay true to their unique personalities. Some readers will be entertained by Croc's disinterest in the first-day getting-to-know-you activities presented by Ms. Egret and his focus on just getting through the questions while Gator loves embellishing his responses. The story provides an important message about learning to appreciate others who are not the same as others while also encouraging youngsters to take action to save habitats like the swamp. The artwork adds personality and charm to the story, and the text cunningly offers tidbits of information about different species and swamps amid the narrative. ...more
Just as its companion book, Let's Be Friends!, does, this board book [2.5 for me!] identifies acts of bravery and clarifies exactly what it means to bJust as its companion book, Let's Be Friends!, does, this board book [2.5 for me!] identifies acts of bravery and clarifies exactly what it means to be brave. There are ten scenarios provided, including one that points out that there are many ways to be brave. There may be some readers who don't realize that it is brave to be true to oneself or trying to make new friends. Most of all, bravery entails moving past fears and not letting them keep us from being the best person we can be. The colorful illustrations include smiling youngsters who are trying to be as brave as possible. I appreciate this approach to the topic since so many times youngsters and older folks see bravery as taking unnecessary risks. ...more
With its unique take on friendships and how to make friends, this board book [2.5 for me!] will be helpful to youngsters who are learning to navigate With its unique take on friendships and how to make friends, this board book [2.5 for me!] will be helpful to youngsters who are learning to navigate relationships. Inside, complemented by colorful artwork featuring happy children interacting with others, the text compares friends to breakfast, a trampoline, a scarf, a guide, a lamp, a discovery, and a garden, among others. While I might not have chosen these comparisons, there is truth to each of the kernels of advice given alongside them. As the old saying goes, one can never have too many friends, true friends, that is. ...more
This timely novel in verse [3.5 for me!] explores the hot-button topic of school mascots that are considered racist by some individuals. Told through This timely novel in verse [3.5 for me!] explores the hot-button topic of school mascots that are considered racist by some individuals. Told through the voices of six middle-grade students in Rye, Virginia, near the nation's capital, as well as their eighth-grade English teacher, the book presents conflicting points of view about the Braves and how the issue or depiction of a brave polarizes the school and the larger community. While some negative feelings about the school's mascot most likely were present before Ms. Williams assigns the debate topic exploring the pros and cons of Indigenous peoples as mascots, once the students start researching, writing, and reflecting to present their arguments, it takes on a life of its own. Feelings are hurt, alliances are made, and some individuals who consider themselves allies are asked to subdue their voices. Although some of the student voices are a bit inauthentic and the characterization in some respects stereotypical, this book offers quite a lot to discuss and might open some eyes and change some minds. Because there continue to be so many elementary, middle, and high schools with racist mascots, the book's contents are important. It isn't easy to balance tradition with respect for others, and the solutions may not be as smooth or acceptable as they are in this book....more
While there's certainly something to be said for being modest about one's talents or accomplishments, there are also times when those should be celebrWhile there's certainly something to be said for being modest about one's talents or accomplishments, there are also times when those should be celebrated. In this, the second picture book featuring Anjali, the talented tabla player, she becomes confused when her best friend Deepak bad mouths her and seems jealous of her musical talents. Things go from bad to worse as she feels pressure to not shine as brightly as she has in the past. The double-page spread showing her meltdown in the school bathroom contains several of the negative thoughts that are assailing her. It's such a perfect depiction of her feelings and frustration that no one seems to understand just how hard she practices in order to play those drums so well. An older girl overhears her and gives her the best advice to never dim her light. After reflecting on these words, Anjali takes them to heart and plays her best during her solo at the recital. Anjali's example is a good one for youngsters to follow. There's no need for arrogance on her part or on the part of anyone who is talented at something, but there's also no need to hold back or to be less than what she can be. The book's message is empowering, and the illustrations, created with Procreate, feature characters with glowing brown skin, big brown eyes, and swirling shapes that move across the pages just like musical notes. Share this one with youngsters before a musical performance, a recital, or prior to any competitive activities. As was true in the first book {Always Anjali], this character remains true to herself and her musical interests despite what others might think or say. After all, there's always someone in the wings waiting to take someone like her down so it's better to be true to oneself....more
Often, when my students read Hey, Kiddo, the graphic memoir that precedes this one, they are blown away by its honesty and the topics it covers. WhileOften, when my students read Hey, Kiddo, the graphic memoir that precedes this one, they are blown away by its honesty and the topics it covers. While they recognize the power that art had to save Jarrett J. Krosoczka, its creator, as well as acknowledging the love and support of his grandparents, with whom he lived, they're often troubled by those two elderly individuals and regard them as emotionally abusive. While I don't necessarily agree with those conclusions about their characters and temperaments, I also have wondered about what saved this young man. Thank goodness he decided to tell this particular story about working at a camp for youngsters with serious illnesses and their families. This experience--at 16--seems to have changed his life. Along with five other classmates and two teachers from his high school, Jarrett joined the campers and fell in love with many of them and their families. Of course, the story relates many of the familiar moments associated with camping--awkward songs and meetings, icebreakers, watersports, scary stories told along the campfire, costume parties, silly slogans, odd mascots, and dancing. But it also highlights the bonds that form in a place like Camp Sunshine, where the campers have a chance to be treated as though they are normal and have at least a brief respite from all their health challenges. To read this book is to be changed by meeting Eric and Diego, two youngsters with whom Jarrett spent a great deal of time. And it's to realize, like he did, that life and health are precious and that the things that had bothered him in the past, while clearly important, paled in comparison to what those campers and their families were enduring. Plus, he got to know his classmates and discovered that their homes weren't as perfect as he'd imagine. It's apparent that this experience and the others at the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp changed his life. The resilience and determination he saw at those camps would serve him well in the future. In its own way, this graphic memoir is even more compelling than Hey, Kiddo. Brimming with heart, hope, humor and pathos, I recommend it highly for the perspective it provides on living life to the fullest. ...more
Part of the First Feelings series focusing on six emotions commonly experienced by young children, this one describes how it feels to be loved. ThrougPart of the First Feelings series focusing on six emotions commonly experienced by young children, this one describes how it feels to be loved. Through the eyes of what looks to be a bright green salamander, youngsters can be reassured that it's possible to feel loved even when alone and that it can be satisfying to share love with others. The minimal text accompanied by colorful artwork against a white background is visually appealing, and the book is sure to foster a positive sense of self in young readers. I like this series and am certain it will be helpful in preschool, kindergarten, and first-grade classrooms. Not for the first time, I wish books such as this one had been published when I was a child....more
Part of the First Feelings series, this board book uses accessible language and simple illustrations to follow a fuzzy orange creature who expresses fPart of the First Feelings series, this board book uses accessible language and simple illustrations to follow a fuzzy orange creature who expresses feelings in inappropriate ways. Most readers will be able to relate to feeling frustrated or angry or grumpy for various reasons and even acting out as the main character does. But what is most appreciated in this book is how the text provides coping skills for dealing with this particular emotion. Rather than having a temper tantrum, stomping, throwing things, and blaming others, maybe a better move would be to pause, take a breath, and change that mindset to focus on positive rather than negative things. Although the book's intended audience is little ones, there are plenty of adults who can profit from its suggestions. ...more
In this, the third in a popular series that has clearly gone to the dogs, a case of mistaken identity leads to trouble for everyone's favorite furry mIn this, the third in a popular series that has clearly gone to the dogs, a case of mistaken identity leads to trouble for everyone's favorite furry mayor. A surprise visit from Mayor Good Dog's Bad Dog brother causes the citizens of Greenwood to second guess their town leadership. As for MGD, this unexpected arrival prompts some reflection and atonement for a childhood mistake that changed everything. Meanwhile, Abby's dealing with confusing emotions, including a lot of anger, due to the secrecy she notices in her parents. There's plenty of humor on almost every page but also some good life messages. Fans of the series will certainly want to read this one. For those unfamiliar with the series, reading the previous titles will bring them up to speed. The artwork effectively captures the personalities of the canine and human characters....more
Part of the I Can Read It All by Myself series for beginning readers, this book is a 2.5 for me. Treading familiar territory, the plot follows P. J. FPart of the I Can Read It All by Myself series for beginning readers, this book is a 2.5 for me. Treading familiar territory, the plot follows P. J. Funnybunny, the protagonist, who is too busy, preoccupied, and careless, to realize that his actions are selfish and disrespectful to others. When he's injured while playing baseball, his friends and mother rally around him, trying to find the rabbit feel better. Since he's down for the count for a few days, he has time to do some thinking and comes to the conclusion that he's been less thoughtful toward others than he should have been. Following the example of his friends and family, he tries to make up for his misdeeds. In fact, he even agrees to watch the movies that he had previously dismissed as being too babyish. There's a good message in this book, and readers will like the cartoonlike artwork as well as relating to P.J. Funnybunny's change of heart. ...more
This moving historical fiction--a 4.5 for me--is impossible to put down and important on so many levels. Reading it puts into perspective the current This moving historical fiction--a 4.5 for me--is impossible to put down and important on so many levels. Reading it puts into perspective the current situation in Ukraine and makes readers wonder how and why so much of the history described in the book has been lost, forgotten or ignored. I'm embarrassed to admit that I had no idea about the so-called "famine" in Ukraine that resulted in the death of millions of Ukrainians in 1933, but now that I know about this Holodomor, it's impossible not to keep thinking about it. The narrative moves back in forth in time and place from New Jersey in 2020 as Matthew, a bored 13-year-old kept at home during the early days of the pandemic, begins spending time with his great-grandmother and learning about her history, to 1933 Kyiv during that famine as well as 1933 Brooklyn. On the surface, it seems impossible for the three different strands of this story [from Matthew, Mila, and Helen] to connect, but eventually readers learn how they do. Reading this well-written, emotionally engaging middle-grade book will leave a strong impression on readers, who may find themselves wondering what they might have done in various situations or how things could have been different or even to question the lies we tell ourselves to justify certain beliefs or actions. This is not an easy read since the author includes scenes of betrayal, starvation, and imprisonment as well as background about the dangers or leaving the words of those in power unquestioned or unexamined. It just might be the most important children's book published during this past year. As such, it is a must-read....more
As is the case for many youngsters, Sally has trouble sharing her things. When her mother tells her that her friend Nico is coming over to play and thAs is the case for many youngsters, Sally has trouble sharing her things. When her mother tells her that her friend Nico is coming over to play and that she should put away anything she doesn't want to share with him, Sally takes extreme measures. She even stashes Mom away in the wardrobe, and when Eva, another friend, is due to arrive, she whisks Nico into the wardrobe as well. But there's a problem with all this hoarding. Sally is left with almost nothing and is filled with curiosity as to what's going on in that piece of furniture. It could be that maybe it's a good idea to share a thing or two. The expressive illustrations set against a background with soft colors attract readers' attention while the text delivers an important message in humorous fashion. That must have been a very spacious wardrobe. ...more
Traveling and visiting family living in far-flung places can be a joyous experience. But for the young girl in this picture book, a trip to Poland to Traveling and visiting family living in far-flung places can be a joyous experience. But for the young girl in this picture book, a trip to Poland to visit her aunt and cousin, Karolina, has her questioning just how Polish she actually is. After all, she feels as though she hardly knows the language or the idioms or how to play the games to which Karolina introduces her. The two cousins bond over a shared interest in mermaids and traditional and original tales. Natalia takes comfort in a trip to visit a special mermaid statute, the Mermaid of Warsaw, and she starts feeling as though she just might be Polish enough, after all. The stories told by Karolina are expanded upon in the back matter, which also contains some Polish vocabulary, a map, and snippets of Polish history. The illustrations, created with gouache, crayons, acrylic paints, oil pastels, and digital techniques, captures Natalia's emotions perfectly while also allowing readers a glimpse of the busy streets and landmarks of Warsaw. This picture book provides some reassurance that even when individuals come from different places, parts of their culture and connections remain the same, providing a bridge across terrain that might otherwise have seemed impassible. ...more
A companion book [2.5 for me] to the author's previous picture book, My Little Brave Girl, this one focuses on her son and all the dreams she has for A companion book [2.5 for me] to the author's previous picture book, My Little Brave Girl, this one focuses on her son and all the dreams she has for him. While it discusses some of the boy's characteristics and personal attributes, it also contains advice and suggestions for how to learn from mistakes and channel one's energy. Many parents will surely relate to the author's hopes that her child will learn to be kind and how to do the right thing or make the right choices, and perhaps sharing this book with a child will serve as a reminder of that as well as one urging him to pay attention to all the world's wonders. I'm sure it will be a best-seller since so many parents search for books with this sort of message, but for me, it covered familiar territory. The artwork, created with gouache, colored pencil, and with digital tools, consists of spot illustrations and plentiful double-page spreads, all filled with smiling faces and scenes of adventure. Perhaps most importantly of all, the text points out that all sorts of feelings matter, perhaps in hope that some of them won't be suppressed. ...more
Loading...
