In the book, a young girl, Jhupli lives in the Sundarbans region of India and Bangladesh. The large river delta contains islands with inhabitants as wIn the book, a young girl, Jhupli lives in the Sundarbans region of India and Bangladesh. The large river delta contains islands with inhabitants as well as a national park where wild animals roam free. Each day Jhupli's baba (father) enters the Sundarbans to gather honey. Jhupli worries that on one of these trips her father, like so many others, may not return. In an effort to protect her father, Jhupli approaches her teacher with an idea: honey bee boxes, which would allow honey gatherers like her father to make a living without having to enter the mangrove forests. I appreciated the introduction to a remarkable place in the world, both beautiful and dangerous. The digital illustrations provide a lovely accompaniment to the story. While the story ended a bit abruptly and the illustrations were a bit more abstract than I prefer, the book still provides a glimpse into another way of life. The back matter includes a map (always appreciated when the setting is in an unfamiliar location), a glossary, and additional information about the Sundarbans and those who live there. A nice introduction to a unique lifestyle and unusual setting....more
It's wonderful to see more books being published about people who have differences whether physical, mental, or emotional. As I read this I immediatelIt's wonderful to see more books being published about people who have differences whether physical, mental, or emotional. As I read this I immediately thought of several children that I know who use similar strategies to cope with their own differences. It's not surprising that this was inspired by the author's own son, it's clear reading this that there is actual experience behind the story. Jaime, a young boy with Down syndrome, travels with his family to attend the NDSS Buddy Walk in New York City. A picture of him flying on his swing has been chosen to appear in Times Square. But he struggles to handle the overwhelming sounds and sensations around him after losing his headphones. I loved how his family rallies around him to show the world that he's unstoppable. Dawson's bright, eye-catching illustrations beautifully highlight Jamie's courage and joy and the love within his family. In the back matter, the author explains what Down syndrome is and a little about her own family's experience with it. An important addition to elementary library collections and a great way to help children develop empathy and greater understanding of differences. ...more
Xiomara loves having her father braid her hair each night before bed. Not only does he braid her hair, but he tells her stories where her braids (trenXiomara loves having her father braid her hair each night before bed. Not only does he braid her hair, but he tells her stories where her braids (trends) play a key role as jump ropes, jungle vines, or tightropes. But when he doesn't make it home in time to get her braids done, Xiomara feels a bit lost without him. Without her father's assistance, her confidence in facing adventures wavers. When her father arrives the next night, she runs to him in tears with her brush stuck in her hair. He offers her the reassurance and tender care that she needs to bolster her confidence as he reminds that someday she will be able to braid her own hair. A tender story of the love between a father and daughter, and the joys to be found in sharing stories. The symbolism to be found in each strand of the braid is used to remind Xiomara of the love she carries within herself. The use of something tangible to remind Xiomara of her heritage and how much she's loved helps remind her of the support she has as she faces life's adventures. The bright, colorful, and imaginative illustrations are eye-catching and appealing. The inspiration for the story and a brief history of braiding is included in the author's note at the end of the story. An inspiring, sweet story that could very well be the beginning of a family tradition in reading together and/or braiding hair....more
Amy Wu's energy and enthusiasm lead her to being always on the go. Wriggling during story time, tapping on the dinner table, or jumping on the bed, AmAmy Wu's energy and enthusiasm lead her to being always on the go. Wriggling during story time, tapping on the dinner table, or jumping on the bed, Amy does it all. When she discovers Chinese ribbon dancing, she must do it herself. Even better, her mom suggests she have a ribbon dance party. Her friends will each bring instruments to play. But first, she needs a ribbon. She tries making one using a chopstick and a hair ribbon, but it's not impressive enough. After a couple more attempts, Amy retreats sadly to her room. With her mother's encouragement, Amy realizes that perfection isn't required to enjoy the party and her energy and enthusiasm save the day. Zhang's energetic text and Chua's adorable, eye-catching digital illustrations carry the reader along on Amy's journey. The book is bound to inspire young readers to want a dance party of their own. There are suggestions for creating homemade dancing ribbons at the end of the book. A surefire winner for young dancing enthusiasts. Be sure to check out Amy Wu's other adventures which are delightfully relatable as well as fun introductions to a variety of Chinese cultural traditions....more
"You so Black, when you smile, the stars come out. You so Black, when you're born, the god come out."
Theresa The S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. begins her poem highl"You so Black, when you smile, the stars come out. You so Black, when you're born, the god come out."
Theresa The S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. begins her poem highlighting the remarkable nature of being black. Adapted from a spoken word poem of the same name, Theresa The S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D. shares with readers the wonders and challenges of blackness. The use of various font sizes emphasizes certain words making this a poem/book made for reciting out loud. The illustrator takes the beautiful text and hits it out of the park with stunning mixed media collage art. Families, children, leaders, and followers, are all portrayed with great skill. The words and illustrations are inspiring and affirming highlighting individuals who've helped change the world such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Barack and Michelle Obama, and Simone Biles. The book focuses mainly on children learning to cherish their heritage and identity. A wonderful addition to a growing body of work honoring and celebrating black life....more
This entertaining middle grade fantasy novel transports readers right into the heart of Echo City, Brooklyn, the main setting for this unusual tale. KThis entertaining middle grade fantasy novel transports readers right into the heart of Echo City, Brooklyn, the main setting for this unusual tale. Kingston returns to Echo City after four years away. But those four years haven't erased Kingston's memories of the night his father, a famous magician vanished. And despite his mother's best efforts, Kingston can't help but be drawn back to the place it happened, especially after seeing a strange shadow inside. What he doesn't expect is to discover his father's Magician's Lost and Found box while wandering through the old burnt-out theater. Soon, Kingston, his cousin, Veronica, and his friend, Too Tall, find themselves facing a chance to find and save Kingston's father. But someone else wants the box, and Kingston, Veronica, and Eddie quickly find themselves in way over their heads trying to learn how to use the real magic they've gained access to, without losing themselves and completely trapping Kingston's father in the process.
The authors have certainly created an entertaining story that moves quickly and intensely toward a powerful climax. Echo City comes to life through the eyes and experiences of Kingston and his friends. The story picks up dramatically once Kingston comes across his father's box and discovers there might be a way to bring his father home. The magical realm that they discover makes for an interesting addition to the story. And it's different than any I've read about before in the way it works. Having black protagonists and characters inspired by real life magicians makes the book stand out even more. While there are a growing number of fantasies with BIPOC characters, there still aren't enough, so this is a great one to add to the list. I did appreciate the fact that though the kids are at the center of the story, they get some great help and advice from the adults in their lives. An exciting story for young readers who love stories about young people who have to step up and save the day. ...more
Dancing with Daddy provides a tender story about a young girl with Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome (WHS) who is thrilled to be getting ready to go to a daddyDancing with Daddy provides a tender story about a young girl with Wolf-Hirschhorn syndrome (WHS) who is thrilled to be getting ready to go to a daddy-daughter dance with her sisters and father. She chooses a beautiful red dress that matches her dad's soccer jersey and a beautiful red bow to go with it. Elsie uses her book of symbols and words to communicate with her family. Elsie can't help worrying that the falling snow will cause the dance to be cancelled. When the dance turns out to be a go, Elsie and her sisters set off with her dad for an exciting night of family and fun. Not only is this a sweet story about a father and his daughters, but it's a great reminder that having a disability doesn't stop one from having a wonderful life. I appreciated the way that Elsie's need for a wheelchair, feeding tube, and communication book were simply a part of the story, they were not a focus of the story. The lovely illustrations beautifully compliment the text. The text representing Elsie's thoughts was highlighted in a reddish font giving the reader a glimpse into her thoughts and feelings. An wonderfully diverse title that many young children will enjoy....more
Originally published in India, A Sari for Ammi, gives young readers a glimpse into what life is like in a rural village in India. This village, KaithoOriginally published in India, A Sari for Ammi, gives young readers a glimpse into what life is like in a rural village in India. This village, Kaithoon, is famous for the saris (a long piece of unstitched fabric worn draped in soft folds by women throughout southwest Asia), that are made and sold there. In this story, two young girls help their Ammi (mother) and Abba (father) make and sell beautiful saris. Because the saris take so long to make and the money they bring in is needed for other things such as food, Ammi can't keep any of them to wear herself. The two girls decide to buy one for their mother using money left over from shopping trips. It turns out they don't have enough. The girls set out to find a way to make enough money to buy this gift for their mother. This sweet story highlights the love of family and the joy that can come from giving to others. The stunningly bright digital illustrations beautifully illustrate this story. A glossary at the end defines the Indian terms that readers may not know. The only thing that would have helped me would have been a pronunciation guide. Photographs of the village and a sari or two would have been nice as well, but young readers won't care. A wonderful diverse tale that provides a glimpse into a way of life different than those found in the United States. This tale is both eye-opening and eye-catching....more
Some books make for great entertainment but leave little mark otherwise. Other books leave a permanent impression. Real is one of the latter. Within aSome books make for great entertainment but leave little mark otherwise. Other books leave a permanent impression. Real is one of the latter. Within a couple of chapters, I knew the book was going to be one I would never forget. Based on the real-life experiences of one of the authors, the book has a genuineness to it that I really appreciated. I felt empathy for Charity from the very first page as she explains the challenges of being thirteen, autistic and unable to speak or effectively control her body. The image of a thirteen-year-old girl dressed like a five-year-old because she couldn't express her preferences was striking. Reading about the way Charity is treated at Borden Academy infuriated me and about broke my heart. I cheered right along with Charity when her mother discovered what was going on and removed her from that abusive situation.
Charity's struggles as she moves to a public school and faces the challenges of junior high on top of her already existing challenges are palpable. Yet she never gives up on what she calls her "mission" of opening doors for others like her. She experiences a lot of ups and downs as she meets people who support her and others who reject her for her differences. As she finally gets a chance to express her thoughts and feelings through supported typing, her relief at finding an outlet is almost tangible. With the assistance of many around her Charity joins the girls' basketball team, and is given the chance to participate in academically-challenging main stream classes. Yet there are those who think she doesn't belong and attack her both to her face and on a gossip app. Charity's final victory (in the book) comes when she chooses to stand up for herself with the help of her family and friends with her weaknesses on full display.
This is a book that I cannot recommend highly enough. It's a book that took me on an emotional roller coaster ride, but left me feeling triumphant with Charity at the end. It's a powerful reminder that all people have value and deserve to be included. I also loved those who worked hard to help Charity find her voice, including her parents, teacher and aide (from the public school), and the students who befriended her. I enjoyed reading about the kindnesses that were shown Charity that helped her along the way and the doors that were finally opened for her after thirteen long years trapped in an uncooperative body. A great book and one that I recommend very highly. ...more
Otavio Junior shares with readers what he noticed about his neighborhood growing up in a favela in Brazil. He shares what he notices about the physicaOtavio Junior shares with readers what he noticed about his neighborhood growing up in a favela in Brazil. He shares what he notices about the physical surroundings such as the sheer size of the place, the materials from which it is made, and the people who live there. He does a nice job of conveying his love for the uniqueness of his favela. Starkoff's paintings show the jumbled, lively scenes that Otavio remembers. The bright colors, numerous details, eye-catching people give the reader much to look at and enjoy....more
Lali finds a feather in a field. When she tries to find the bird it belongs to, Rooster, Crow, and Peacock all deny that the plain little feather beloLali finds a feather in a field. When she tries to find the bird it belongs to, Rooster, Crow, and Peacock all deny that the plain little feather belongs to them. But Lali shows Hen, Duck, and Blue Jay all the things the little feather can do, write, sweep, fan a fire, and tickle feet. Lali is delighted with her new little friend, until the wind carries it away and breaks her heart. Crow flies off to catch the feather they have all learned to value. This is a sweet story about finding the value in even the smallest things. Coleman's beautiful, illustrations set the story in an India full of color and life. A delightful diverse read that shows the value of persistence and looking beyond the obvious.
Julian sees three women dressed as mermaids one day on the subway and loves their costumes. When he and his grandmother get home, he creates his own cJulian sees three women dressed as mermaids one day on the subway and loves their costumes. When he and his grandmother get home, he creates his own costume while his grandmother baths. The key moment is when his grandmother gets out of the bath and sees what he has done. The reader knows that her reaction will either make or break the boy. Now whether you agree with a boy loving mermaids or not, the theme of the need children have to be creative shines through loud and clear. And Julian's grandmother understands that and instead of smothering his efforts she encourages him. The illustrations are lovely and do a great job of demonstrating the fascination that Julian has with the mermaids he sees and the joy he experiences from copying what he has seen in his own way....more
This cute book focuses on the family members from whom Alma gets her name. As her father explains to her about each of the people she is named after, This cute book focuses on the family members from whom Alma gets her name. As her father explains to her about each of the people she is named after, she starts to appreciate the value of those family connections. She sees that she has characteristics in common with her ancestors and has her own story to tell just like they did. The illustrations are darling in their blue, black, and red shades allowing the reader to focus on Alma and her concerns. The book also encourages young readers/listeners to think about their own names and the stories they have to tell. A delightful book that opens the door to what could be some pretty interesting family conversations and a chance for young readers/listeners to begin to understand their own stories....more
Anna Wang is afraid she's losing her friend Laura to Allison and Lucy, but she doesn't know what to do about it. She's more comfortable with her booksAnna Wang is afraid she's losing her friend Laura to Allison and Lucy, but she doesn't know what to do about it. She's more comfortable with her books and crafting activities. In addition, her mother's job of cleaning isn't something she wants known because she doesn't find it something to be proud of, despite the fact that her mother is working toward attending nursing school while learning English and how to drive. Anna struggles to know how to be a friend to Laura when she wants to do other things, especially when it becomes apparent that things are not going well for Laura at home and Laura still seems to prefer Allison. But gradually, with the help of her family, Anna learns what it means to be a good friend. Cheng has created a great character in Anna, one that I could really relate to, because I was a lot like her. While I'm not Chinese American, I could relate to Anna's social awkwardness and love of reading. I enjoyed reading about Anna's family's Chinese traditions as well. This is a fun series for young readers about growing up in America while keeping one's own heritage alive and well.
Nora Tucker and her best friend, Lizzie Bruno are looking forward to the end of the school year. The upcoming field day will provide Nora a chance to Nora Tucker and her best friend, Lizzie Bruno are looking forward to the end of the school year. The upcoming field day will provide Nora a chance to prove her running skills and earn her the chance to throw water balloons at the principal. The cookout and other activities promise to make the day a fun way to end the school year. But the arrival of Elidee Jones who runs faster than Nora and the escape of two inmates from the local prison change everything. Told through letters, poems, newspaper articles, transcripts of 'recordings', and texts, Breakout, tells the story of not only Nora, Lizzie, and Elidee, but the story of this small town that revolves around the prison. The girls face the fears associated with having two murderers on the loose, but also the prejudices of not only themselves, but those around them.
I enjoyed this book immensely. Not only did I like the format (although not everyone will) but I enjoyed the characters and the themes. Themes related to friendship, racism, white privilege, and the justice system pervade the book, but not in overwhelming ways. As Nora's eyes start to open to the biases of those around her, she starts to see things she never noticed before. And as she points out at the end of the book, she can't go back to the way things were before, and that's a good thing. I also appreciated the unique voice of each girl. Nora is a bit nosy and blunt in her observations and perspective. Lizzie has a snarky voice, and she enjoys comedy and writing parody articles for Nora's practice newspaper. Elidee struggles to find a place in this new place, but finds inspiration in copying the patterns in the beautiful poetry she reads. Reading her poems even inspired me to go looking for the works of the poets she references.
Messner has written an excellent novel that makes for both an enjoyable read, and a social commentary on current issues....more
The growing demand for "own story" tellers has pleased me greatly. Mostly because many stories told by outsiders tend toward being inaccurate or downrThe growing demand for "own story" tellers has pleased me greatly. Mostly because many stories told by outsiders tend toward being inaccurate or downright stereotypical. It's hard to get things just right when one isn't part of the culture being shared. So when Debbie Reese of the American Indians in Children's Literature recommended this book, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it. And I'm quite pleased with it. The story revolves around a young girl's experience with her Ojibwe cultural tradition of attending a powwow. I could easily feel the girl's enjoyment and the excitement of the event as well as the unusual nature of her dreams. While the illustrator's still wasn't quite to my taste, I can't find fault with the bright, appealing colors and the depictions of traditional clothing and dancing. References to both past and present show how life has changed for Native/First Nations peoples. This makes for a great addition to most collections, especially with such a dearth of Native/First Nations own stories....more
Rip and Red love basketball. And while Red's autism makes playing on a real team difficult, the two are determined to make it work. But when the firstRip and Red love basketball. And while Red's autism makes playing on a real team difficult, the two are determined to make it work. But when the first day of school arrives, they discover that many things have changed, including their teacher. Mr. Acevedo is not at all what they expected and that makes Red nervous. And it turns out that Mr. Acevedo is also going to be the coach of the basketball team. As the boys struggle with all the changes, they rely on their friendship to help them make it through. While I'm not a big fan of sports book, I found myself really enjoying this one. The diversity of the characters and Mr. Acevedo's different ways of doing things made for a refreshingly different read. The basketball scenes felt genuine and the friendship between Red and Rip was great. I even enjoyed reading about the project that Rip has to do with Avery, a girl in his class who isn't very friendly. A great contemporary series for middle grade basketball lovers....more
In this tender story of a grandfather and his grandson, the reader discovers quickly that the two don't speak the same language, literally. This creatIn this tender story of a grandfather and his grandson, the reader discovers quickly that the two don't speak the same language, literally. This creates a frustrating wall between the two as they eat dinner and then watch TV together. Finally, the boy goes to the table and starts to draw with his markers. He draws himself as a superhero. To his surprise, his grandfather gathers his drawing materials and creates an image of himself as a warrior. Together they draw a story of the two of them fighting off the bad guys, until they find themselves relating in ways they never expected. There are words in the story, but they don't start until mid-way through the book when the boy and his grandfather start to communicate.. The symbolism of that is powerful. Santat's illustrations beautifully complement Le's words as he makes the drawings of the boy and the grandfather visually distinct which allows the reader to see how the two learn to communicate and relate to one another. A truly winning story about the creativity that is sometimes needed to help people overcome differences....more
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