6/26/2024 ~ A fascinating collection of biographies of scientists who don't fit the classic stereotype for white, male scientists. The book also has a6/26/2024 ~ A fascinating collection of biographies of scientists who don't fit the classic stereotype for white, male scientists. The book also has a large emphasis on climate change. Each bio is about 4-5 pages with photographs, the key area of research, and challenges the person faced in getting to their career.
I do think the book would be stronger if there were a sidebar with key dates in the person's life and educational career. The reader has to really infer where the subject went to college, what advanced degrees they hold, what "side paths" their life might have taken, etc. For elementary/middle school readers, more explicit info about educational paths would be useful....more
6/18/2024 ~ A long-ish middle grade fantasy/time travel book that definitely drew me in. There were two twists that I saw coming long before the main 6/18/2024 ~ A long-ish middle grade fantasy/time travel book that definitely drew me in. There were two twists that I saw coming long before the main character did. I appreciated the representation (Black, biracial, "passing", and LGBTQ+, White privilege, wealth privilege) that Dally explored as she learned about her family's past. I think this will be on the long side for many middle grade readers, but tweens with an interest in history, especially as it relates to enslavement and segregation in the U.S. will enjoy this story. I did not expect the ending, but it did satisfy me....more
3/10/24 Soft yet lush illustrations enhance this reiteration of ways a parent loves a child. The illustrations have folks with multiple skin tones, bo3/10/24 Soft yet lush illustrations enhance this reiteration of ways a parent loves a child. The illustrations have folks with multiple skin tones, body shapes, and attire. ...more
3/10/24 ~ An emphasis on "neutral" body image (see the back matter), regardless of skin tone, body shape, and abilities. A focus on affirming our own 3/10/24 ~ An emphasis on "neutral" body image (see the back matter), regardless of skin tone, body shape, and abilities. A focus on affirming our own body, as well as accepting the bodies of those around us....more
1/28/2024 ~ A interesting book about a previously unrecognized organizer of the 1963 March on Washington. I appreciate that Rustin's queer identity wa1/28/2024 ~ A interesting book about a previously unrecognized organizer of the 1963 March on Washington. I appreciate that Rustin's queer identity was recognized AND that we have more picture book biographies that give a fuller picture of the range of people involved in the Civil Rights movement....more
1/21/2024 ~ Vibrant, inclusive illustrations (body shape, wheel chair, skin tones.) May all parents be so aware of the wants/needs of their children, 1/21/2024 ~ Vibrant, inclusive illustrations (body shape, wheel chair, skin tones.) May all parents be so aware of the wants/needs of their children, especially when those desires don't align fully with societal norms....more
1/15/2024 ~ Quirky, delightful illustrations. This story expands on the parable of the starfish (help one even if you can't help all). The description1/15/2024 ~ Quirky, delightful illustrations. This story expands on the parable of the starfish (help one even if you can't help all). The descriptions of each character are so detailed and delve into aspects of a person that you might not otherwise know.
This would be an interesting book to read at the beginning of the year to a class: talk about the connections in acts of kindness, but also how we get to know others - going beyond "she's nice."...more
12/3/2023 ~ This graphic novel was a fascinating blend of Catholicism and magic; the author's note gave context for the story, including the way witch12/3/2023 ~ This graphic novel was a fascinating blend of Catholicism and magic; the author's note gave context for the story, including the way witchery (brujeria) intersected with Catholicism in her own Dominican American upbringing. I also appreciated seeing the budding romance between Manu (short for Manuela) and Josephina....more
6/21/2023 ~ A phenomenal story of Nikhil and his 8th grade year in a small Ohio town after living in LA. Nikhil happens to be a voice actor on a kids'6/21/2023 ~ A phenomenal story of Nikhil and his 8th grade year in a small Ohio town after living in LA. Nikhil happens to be a voice actor on a kids' cartoon; he also happens to be gay. He gets cast as the lead in the school musical (because he's a voice actor), even though he can't sing AND he's terrified of being on stage. This book has so much voice and life. There is a wonderfully handled situation of Nikhil's presence in the cast. Also, his struggles as his voice starts to change....more
6/5/2023 ~ A fantastic book for the beginning of the school year. The illustrations include multiple skin tones, genders, and body types. There's also6/5/2023 ~ A fantastic book for the beginning of the school year. The illustrations include multiple skin tones, genders, and body types. There's also an explanation of the many roles names fulfil.
I found this book in the new book display at Middletown Public Library, Maryland (Part of the Frederick County Public Library System.)...more
6/16/2023 ~ Breathtaking. If you have a middle school library, this is a must have. Two rising 8th graders are among the few Black kids at a prestigio6/16/2023 ~ Breathtaking. If you have a middle school library, this is a must have. Two rising 8th graders are among the few Black kids at a prestigious music summer camp in Michigan. Both have issues at home, but the camp is a place to find healing and a chance to look at goals (music, dance). Also a chance to explore their own sexuality.
As a warning, there are several instances of self-harm and panic attacks. This book will be crucial for readers who are feeling immense stress in their own lives.
Amazing quote: "Some people in this world don't know how to love themselves, let alone people who are different than them. You're going to have to learn how to value yourself and stand tall in who you are; stand up for what's right. When people tell you who they are, believe them, listen, and love them. That's all that matters. Just like I believe in and love you for you, Andi. Just the way you are." (from Mama to Andi, p. 48 of the hardcover edition.)...more
6/4/2023 ~ A lovely story, vividly & lusciously illustrated about the sense of play between a grandmother and gender-neutral child. I appreciated the 6/4/2023 ~ A lovely story, vividly & lusciously illustrated about the sense of play between a grandmother and gender-neutral child. I appreciated the illustrations of the grandmother - large and herself. It is still rare that we see heavy picture book characters, whether children or adult. This book will find a home in my elementary library.
I found this book on the New Book display at the C. Burr Artz Public Library in Frederick, Maryland....more