Return to home
page Book Reviews, Book Lover Resources, Advice for Writers and Publishers
Home / Children's Bookwatch

Children's Bookwatch

Volume 30, Number 12 December 2020 Home | CBW Index

Table of Contents

Reviewer's Choice Social Issues Shelf Christmas Shelf
Holiday Shelf American History Shelf Pets/Wildlife Shelf
Science Shelf Psychology Shelf Graphic Novel Shelf
Music CD Shelf DVD Shelf Folktale/Fairytale Shelf
Picturebook Shelf Board Book Shelf Christian Shelf
Judaic Shelf Environmental Shelf General Fiction Shelf
Fantasy/SciFi Shelf Poetry Shelf Genealogy Shelf
Cookbook Shelf Books in Series Story Monsters Ink Shelf


Reviewer's Choice

Fake News
Tom Jackson, author
Christina Guitian, illustrator
QEB Publishing
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9780711250345, $16.95, PB, 96pp

https://www.amazon.com/Fake-News-Whats-Issue-Jackson/dp/0711250340

Fake news is untrue information presented as news. It often has the aim of damaging the reputation of a person or entity, or making money through advertising revenue.

Once common in print, the prevalence of fake news has increased with the rise of social media, especially the Facebook News Feed. Political polarization, post-truth politics, confirmation bias, and social media algorithms have been implicated in the spread of fake news. It is sometimes generated and propagated by hostile foreign actors, particularly during elections. The use of anonymously-hosted fake news websites has made it difficult to prosecute sources of fake news for libel. In some definitions, fake news includes satirical articles misinterpreted as genuine, and articles that employ sensationalist or clickbait headlines that are not supported in the text.

Fake news can reduce the impact of real news by competing with it; a Buzzfeed analysis found that the top fake news stories about the 2016 U.S. presidential election received more engagement on Facebook than top stories from major media outlets. It also has the potential to undermine trust in serious media coverage.

The term has at times been used to cast doubt upon legitimate news, and President Donald Trump has been credited with popularizing the term by using it to describe any negative press coverage of himself. It has been increasingly criticized, due in part to Trump's misuse and being a major source of 'Fake News' himself.

The collaborative work of author Tom Jackson and illustrator by Cristina Guitian, "Fake News" covers censorship, secret agendas, conspiracy Theories, Media vs Politicians, Wiki Leaks, and more. Written specifically for young readers ages 9-12, "Fake News" is an essential, core addition to elementary school, middle school, and community library Contemporary Social/Political Issues collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Fake News" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99).

And the People Stayed Home
Kitty O'Meara, author
Stefano Di Cristofaro, illustrator
Paul Pereda, illustrator
Tra Publishing
https://andthepeoplestayedhomebook.com
9781734761788, $18.99, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/People-Stayed-Family-Coronavirus-Nature/dp/1734761784

Kitty O'Meara's viral prose poem about the coronavirus pandemic, Covid-19 quarantines, and the post-pandemic future suggests there is meaning to be found in our shared experience of the coronavirus and conveys an optimistic message about the possibility of profound healing for people and the planet. Her words encourage us to look within, listen deeply, and connect with ourselves and the earth in order to heal.

Splendidly illustrated by the artistic team of Stefano Di Cristofaro and Paul Pereda, "And the People Stayed Home" is especially recommended for children ages 4-8 and will prove to be a unique, timely, and welcome addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections as it perfectly reflects particular and universal aspects of the pandemic experience. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "And the People Stayed Home" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Mommy, Teach Me How To Read
Harmel Deanne Codi, author
Jewel Mason, illustrator
www.harmelcodijd.com
Independently Published
Community Alliances & Improvements, Inc.
9781735975924, $23.00, HC, 60pp

https://www.amazon.com/Mommy-teach-me-how-read/dp/1735975923

The collaborative project of author Harmel Deanne Codi and artist/illustrator Jewel Mason, "Mommy, Teach Me How To Read" is a children's picture book created with bright colors and fun characters that aim to boost curiosity and the joy of reading in the heart of younger readers and their families. The story is an easy to read text that brings to life the exciting and delightful journey of precocious twins boy and girl (Marcus and Nina) as they navigate their way into their childhood with their family. With the story unfolding one book at a time, "Mommy, Teach Me How To Read" is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school and community library collections for children ages 2-6. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Mommy, Teach Me How To Read" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781735975993, $23.99).

Ants Don't Talk, Do They?
John Sharer, author
Jay Mazhar, illustrator
Wompetias Press
9780996114219, $18.95, HC, 76pp

https://www.amazon.com/Ants-Dont-Talk-Do-They/dp/0996114211

The collaborative work of author/storyteller John Sharer and artist/illustrator Jay Mazhar, "Ants Don't Talk, Do They?" is a story about a lonely boy who had to stay in his room all by himself, all day every day for months, because the illness he had was contagious. He would get better but it would take time-a lot of time.

One day, to keep himself busy and to take his mind off his loneliness, he was playing a game on his tablet. In the middle of the game, a real-life ant walked across the screen. It looked like a plain, ordinary ant, just like all the others the boy had seen in the garden and sometimes in the house. But the boy discovered, over the weeks that followed, that this was no ordinary ant. It did wondrous and seemingly magical things, and yet it was always kind and gentle and really helped the boy to overcome his loneliness and to get well.

Original, engaging, and entertaining, and unreservedly recommended for children ages 8-11, "Ants Don't Talk, Do They?" is certain to be an immediately welcome and enduringly popular addition to family, elementary school, middle school, and community library collections for young readers. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Ants Don't Talk, Do They?" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780996114202, $10.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99).

Grandpa Lou and the Tale of the Not-So-Buried Treasure
Catherine Pike Plough
SPARK Publications
9781943070916, $8.99, PB, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/Grandpa-Lou-Tale-Not-So-Buried-Treasure/dp/1943070911

Max loved spending summers at Grandpa Lou and Grandma Faye's house by the lake. At bedtime, Grandpa Lou always had a story to share from his youth. The tale of how Grandpa Lou discovered not-so-buried treasure was one of Max's favorites.

Thoughtful and imaginative young readers ages 8-10 will be entertained and inspired by the story of a young Louis, who happily shares pieces of his not-so-buried treasure with others. With each encounter, it becomes clear that everyone has their own idea of what makes a real treasure.

As the tale unfolds, young Louis learns the deeper secret of not-so-buried treasure -- a secret that Grandpa Lou now passes along to his grandson, Max. As night falls, Max discovers that he, too, is the keeper of a treasure that can never be lost or taken away.

You don't just find not-so-buried treasure. It finds you!

Original, fun, with an insightfully embedded and effectively positive values message for children, "Grandpa Lou and the Tale of the Not-So-Buried Treasure" by Catherine Pike Plough is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, middle school, and community library collections.


The Social Issues Shelf

For Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better World
Michael W. Waters, author
Keisha Morris, illustrator
Flyaway Books
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 4020-1396
www.flyawaybooks.com
9781947888081, $18.00, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Black-Believe-Better-World/dp/1947888080

The televised reports of neighborhood shootings keep coming, and so do Jeremiah's questions about them. But Dad doesn't have easy answers. Still that doesn't mean he won't talk about it -- or that he won't act. But what if Jeremiah doesn't want to talk anymore? None of it makes sense, and he's just a kid. Even if he wants to believe in a better world, is there anything he can do about it?

Inspired by real-life events, "For Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better World" is an honest and intimate look at one family's response to racism and gun violence that also includes a discussion guide created by the Muhammad Ali Center in Louisville, Kentucky, a multicultural center and museum committed to promoting respect, hope, and understanding.

Very highly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library Contemporary Social Issues and Black Studies picture book collections for children ages 6-10, it should be noted that a portion of the publisher's sales proceeds will be donated to nonprofit organizations that facilitate the empowerment of Black communities. For personal reading lists, "For Beautiful Black Boys Who Believe in a Better World" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.00).

But I Need Your Help Now!
Bryan Smith, author
Lisa M. Griffin, illustrator
Boys Town Press
13603 Flanagan Blvd. Boys Town, NE 68010
www.boystownpress.org
9781944882594, $10.95, PB, 31pp

https://www.amazon.com/Need-Your-Stepping-Social-Skills/dp/1944882596

Isaac is impatient and a little rude. When he needs help, he wants immediate assistance. When he has questions, he wants instant answers. If he doesn't get a speedy response, this second-grader interrupts others by shouting and grabbing.

Isaac never waits his turn and does whatever he feels like to get an adult's attention, including hollering at his teacher and seizing the shirttail of a store clerk. Watching him interrupt others is a masterclass in bad manners and embarrassing behaviors. And it's not just his lack of patience and poorly timed interruptions that cause chaos. He mistakenly stays quiet during an emergency when an adult's attention is desperately needed.

The result is a yucky, sickening mess.

In the pages of "But I Need Your Help Now!", author and school counselor Bryan Smith provides young readers ages 4- 7 with valuable and entertaining lessons about how to wait their turn, stop blurting out in the classroom and interrupt the right way - when necessary! Of special note is the inclusion of tips for educators, counselors, and parents making "But I Need Your Help Now!" unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "But I Need Your Help Now!" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.76).


The Christmas Shelf

Always Together at Christmas
Sara Sargent
Random House Children's Books
www.penguinrandomhouse.com
9780593380840, $7.99 PB, $7.99 Kindle, 32pp, Ages 4-8

https://www.amazon.com/Always-Together-Christmas-Sara-Sargent/dp/0593380843

Always Together at Christmas deserves to be in any collection where picture book stories of family and togetherness are a strength. Mark Chambers provides lovely, diverse drawings to accompany a story that pair social distancing and safety with the joys of maintaining Christmas even during new quarantine methods. The message of togetherness and joy is strong and well done, perfect for any season, and will bring together parents and youngsters who need to learn about holiday safety and togetherness.

Ming's Christmas Wishes
Susan L. Gong, author
Masahiro Tateishi, illustrator
Shadow Mountain Publishing
P.O. Box 30178, Salt Lake City, Utah 84130-0178
www.shadowmountain.com
9781629727790, $18.99, HC, 48pp

https://www.amazon.com/Mings-Christmas-Wishes-Susan-Gong/dp/1629727792

Synopsis: Ming is a little girl who wishes for three things at Christmas. First, to sing in the school Christmas choir. Second, to have a Christmas tree like the one in the department store window. And third, to feel she belongs somewhere.

As a daughter of immigrants in 1930s California, Ming is often treated differently than other children at school. She's pointedly not invited to sing in the Christmas choir. At home, when Ming lobbies her parents for a Christmas tree, her mother scolds her for trying to be American. Ming doesn't seem to fit in anywhere: she's not quite American enough at school, not quite Chinese enough at home.

Seeing his daughter's unhappiness, Pop takes her into the mountains to visit a wise old friend. Always happy for an adventure with her kind father, Ming hopes to persuade Pop to bring home a mountain pine to be their Christmas tree. But he has something else in mind, something that will help Ming draw strength from nature, from their Chinese heritage, and from deep and enduring family ties.

Critique: Inspired by family stories, "Ming's Christmas Wishes" is a unique, entertaining, and utterly charming Christmas themed picture book by author/storyteller Susan L. Gong and artist/illustrator Masahiro Tateishi for children ages 5-8. While also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.49), "Ming's Christmas Wishes" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library children's picture book collections.

In The Nick Of Time
Deedee Cummings, author
Charlene Mosley, illustrator
https://deedeecummings.com
Make A Way Media, LLC
9781951218201, $13.95, PB, 36pp

https://www.amazon.com/Nick-Time-Deedee-Cummings/dp/1951218205

Nick Saint never really put a lot of thought into his name until one snowy day in December when he accidentally receives a letter meant for Saint Nick. Realizing there is not much time left until Christmas, Nick opens the letter. The unexpected message inside ultimately leads him on a journey of understanding poverty, gratitude, and service to others while discovering the real meaning of the holiday spirit. Nick's actions and kindness are filled with heartwarming results that even please Santa Claus himself!

An endearing story of a little brown boy who helps Santa save Christmas. Young children of all ages and backgrounds who read "In the Nick of Time" will understand that sometimes the smallest act of kindness can take up the biggest space in someone else's heart. While also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.99), "In the Nick of Time" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.

The Twelve Birdies of Christmas
Jennifer Sattler
Sleeping Bear Press
315 East Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.sleepingbearpress.com
9781534110946, $8.99, Board Book, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/Twelve-Birdies-Christmas-Jennifer-Sattler/dp/1534110941

In the board book pages of "The Twelve Birdies of Christmas", author/illustrator Jennifer Sattler brings the traditional Christmas carol hilariously to life as 12 birdies count their way through the 12 days. From beret-wearing French hens to calling birds using their cell phones to scuba-diving swans, this visual re-imagining of the holiday song is great fun for the youngest readers. Original and fun from beginning to end, "The Twelve Birdies of Christmas" is unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Christmas themed board books for children ages 2-5.

Santa's Sleigh Is Stuck
Karen Foley, author
Michelle Simpson, illustrator
Belle Isle Books
http://www.belleislebooks.com
c/o Brandylane Publishers
5 South First Street, Richmond, VA 23219
www.brandylanepublishers.com
9781951565794, $22.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Santas-Sleigh-Stuck-Karen-Foley/dp/1951565797

Santa's sleigh is stuck in the sand on Christmas Eve! As St. Nick and the reindeer cook up a plan to get off Hog Island, teamwork takes a surprising turn. Will they lift off in time to deliver all those toys?

The collaborative project of author/storyteller Karen Foley and artist/illustrator Michelle Simpson, "Santa's Sleigh Is Stuck" is an original, welcome, and highly entertaining addition to the growing library of Christmas themed picture books for children ages 3-7. While also readily available in a paperback edition (9781951565800, $12.95), "Santa's Sleigh Is Stuck" is unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.

Cocoa's Cranky Christmas
Thomas Nelson, author
Beth Hughes, illustrator
Tommy Nelson
c/o Thomas Nelson Publishers
PO Box 141000, Nashville, TN 37214
www.thomasnelson.com
9781400221943, $9.99, Board Book, 20pp

https://www.amazon.com/Cocoas-Cranky-Christmas-Can-Cheer/dp/1400221943

Charmingly illustrated by Beth Hughes, "Cocoa's Cranky Christmas: Can You Cheer Him Up?" is a silly, interactive, entertaining, holiday board book story for children ages 2-6 that features a grumpy dog who is not ready for Christmas. Kids will enjoy following the directions to clap, sing, and find the doggy cookies to try to cheer up Cocoa in time for Christmas Eve in this funny board book.

Thoroughly 'kid friendly' in tone and presentation, "Cocoa's Cranky Christmas: Can You Cheer Him Up?" is unreservedly recommended for: Active toddlers and preschoolers who will love participating in the story; Encouraging kids to embrace the Christmas season with joy and laughter; and a perfect stocking stuffer, Advent gift, or Christmas morning surprise.

"Cocoa's Cranky Christmas: Can You Cheer Him Up?" is a unique and delightful addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Christmas board book collections for kids.

Where Is The Baby King?
Heather Henning, author
Alison Atkins, illustrator
Pauline Books & Media
50 St. Paul's Avenue, Boston, MA 02130-3433
www.pauline.org
9780819882165, $14.95, HC

https://paulinestore.com/where-is-the-baby-king-qs1001351-193641.html

Telling the Christmas story to children for the first time ever is a privilege for parents and a gift to children. "Where Is the Baby King?", is a new children's book from Heather Henning and Alison Atkins. Helping parents and teachers pass on this timeless story to their children and students with the help of bright illustrations and lift-the-flap images, "Where Is the Baby King?" is an interactive book that is an ideal introduction for children under five. The colorful illustrations by Alison Atkins grab children's attention, while Heather Henning's storytelling is clear, simple, and memorable.

Very young children will enjoy lifting the flaps and discovering new parts of the story, and as they grow older, they will grow in their understanding of the story behind the pictures. Thoughtfully laid out, concise, and durable, this book transforms an important educational moment into a hands-on adventure. Whether a child is hearing the Christmas story for the first time or just learning to read on their own, "Where Is the Baby King?" will help bring this story to life and is unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, and Sunday School Christmas themed collections.

All the Colors of Christmas
Matthew Paul Turner, author
Gillian Gamble, illustrator
Convergent Books / Crown Publishing Group
c/o The Random House Publishing Group
1745 Broadway, 17th floor, New York, NY 10019
www.crownpublishing.com
9780525654148, $12.99, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Colors-Christmas-Matthew-Paul-Turner/dp/0525654143

In the pages of "All the Colors of Christmas" and with his distinctive trademark style, Matthew Paul Turner celebrates the Christmas season, particularly the colors that infuse the holiday and all the memorable sensations and experiences (including a festive market, sledding, and nativity scene) connected to those bright hues. Matthew draws children ages 3-7 into a whirling ribbon of the familiar reds and greens of Christmas, as well as other festive hues, including white, gold, blue, and brown.

All the colors come together when children are reminded that Christmas is them! That they are a part of the story of Christmas, a part of the joy and the glory! Matthew shows again and again that the holidays are nothing without being with the people we love, celebrating treasured traditions, and making new memories -- all in vivid color.

While also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99), "All the Colors of Christmas" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Christmas Book collections.

My First Disney Christmas Bedtime Storybook
Disney Books
c/o Disney Publishing Worldwide
125 West End Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10023
www.disney.com
9781368052702, $10.99, HC, 72pp

https://www.amazon.com/First-Disney-Christmas-Bedtime-Storybook/dp/1368052703

Parents and children ages 3-5 can snuggle up with your favorite Disney characters in the pages of "My First Disney Christmas Bedtime Storybook", a first time collection of Disney themed Christmas holiday tales! Kids will delight in going on a treasure hunt with Ariel, saving Christmas with Mickey Mouse, discovering the best Christmas ever with Lightning McQueen and friends, and so much more! With this sweet collection of Disney Christmas stories, little ones are sure to be carried off to sleep full of holiday cheer.

While very highly recommended and certain to be an enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "My First Disney Christmas Bedtime Storybook" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).

Disney Christmas Storybook Collection
Disney Books
c/o Disney Publishing Worldwide
125 West End Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10023
www.disney.com
9781368057905, $17.99, HC, 304pp

https://www.amazon.com/Disney-Christmas-Storybook-Collection-Books/dp/136805790X

Children ages 3-5 will fully enjoy join Mickey Mouse in helping Santa deliver presents on Christmas Eve, celebrate Christmas traditions with Belle at the enchanted castle, cheer on the Incredibles as they track down a Christmas Caper, and so much more in this new and gorgeously illustration of "Disney Christmas Storybook Collection"! While especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that the "Disney Christmas Storybook Collection" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).

Disney Junior Mickey Christmas Tales
Disney Books
c/o Disney Publishing Worldwide
125 West End Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10023
www.disney.com
9781368065399, $9.99, PB, 72pp

https://www.amazon.com/Disney-Junior-Mickey-Christmas-Clubhouse/dp/1368065392

Children ages 3-5 will enjoy going shopping with Donald Duck to find the perfect present, help Minnie prepare for her Winter Bow Show, and save Santa with Mickey Mouse in this wonderfully entertaining and throughly 'kid friendly' collection of Disney themed Christmas stories. Complete with stickers, this picture storybook is the perfect way show little ones all the magic of the holiday season and will be an enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Children's Christmas Book collections.

Holiday Mischief with Stitch
Disney Books
c/o Disney Publishing Worldwide
125 West End Avenue, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10023
www.disney.com
9781368065443, $9.99, HC, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/Holiday-Mischief-Stitch-Disney-Books/dp/1368065449

Young children ages 5-8 will fully enjoy following along as Lilo teaches Stitch about all the fun and holiday magic there is during the season on Earth. Stitch learns about how it is important to be Nice and not Naughty. He also learns about all of the different traditions that come with each holiday. Showcasing the Disney characters Lilo & Stitch, "Holiday Mischief with Stitch" will prove to be a popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library holiday collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Holiday Mischief with Stitch" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).

One Christmas Wish
M. Christina Butler, author
Tina Macnaughton, illustrator
Tiger Tales
PO Box 70, Iron Ridge, WI 53035
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9781680102123, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/One-Christmas-Wish-Christina-Butler/dp/1680102125

The baby mice can't wait to build snow mice. But when they wake up on Christmas Eve, almost all of the snow has melted! So Little Hedgehog takes the friends to go look for snow, collecting it in his bobble hat. On the way home, the baby mice share the snow with Grandpa Squirrel, the beavers, and Fox. But when they are ready to build their snow mice, the last tiny snowflake is melting at the bottom of the hat! "Christmas just won't be the same," sniff the mice. But then they remember the joy brought to others by sharing the snow, and realize that spending Christmas with their friends is what makes it truly magical.

Deftly written with a delightful whimsey by author/storyteller M. Christina Butler and impressively enhanced with the artwork of illustrator Tina Macnaughton, "One Christmas Wish" will prove to be a very special, quite original, and enduringly appreciated addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 3-7.

I Love You More Than Christmas
Ellie Hattie, author
Tim Warnes, illustrator
Tiger Tales
PO Box 70, Iron Ridge, WI 53035
www.tigertalesbooks.com
9781680102086, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Love-You-More-Than-Christmas/dp/1680102087

There's a chill in the air and frost on the trees, and Little Bear has something to say: "I love wrapping and ribbons and balls of bright string, And gift tags, and glitter - the joy that they bring!
I love giving presents, and getting them too, But the thing that I love more than Christmas is--"

But Little Bear keeps getting interrupted by the mail carrier, the oven timer, the carolers! Just what is it that Little Bear loves even more than Christmas?

A unique, original, and wonderfully entertaining addition the growing canon of Christmas picture books for children ages 3-7, "I Love You More Than Christmas" by the team of author/storyteller Ellie Hattie and artist/illustrator Tim Warnes will prove to be an enduringly welcome and especially recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.

12 Days of Christmas
Lara Hawthorne
Francis Lincoln Children's Books
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9780711245402, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/12-Days-Christmas-Choir/dp/0711245401

Children ages 2-5 will fully enjoy celebrating the magic of Christmas time with this well-loved, beautifully illustrated, seasonally traditional poem, The Twelve Days of Christmas, as showcases by the artwork of Laura Hawthorne.

Children and their parents/caregivers can page through each beautiful scene brimming with details that will remind them of the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas. "The Twelve Days of Christmas is the second title in the series, The Christmas Choir, which beautifully illustrates beloved Christmas carols with "Silent Night" being the first title in the series.

While this flexibound edition of "The Twelve Days of Christmas" is highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that it's also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.99) as well.

Christmas Is Joy
Emma Dodd
Templar Books
c/o Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
9781536215458, $14.99, HC, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Emma-Dodds-Love-Books/dp/1536215457

"Christmas Is Joy" by storyteller and artist Emma Dod is a simply enchanting picture book celebration for children ages 2-5 showcasing the true meaning of Christmas and featuring two adorable reindeer. Emma joyful celebration of this wonderful time of year, as seen through the eyes of two reindeer is a pure delight and will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular and welcome addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Christmas themed picture book collections.

Christmas Carol vs. The Ghost of Christmas Presents
James Pujals
CvG Books
https://www.carolvsghost.com
9780578583402, $24.99, HC, 109pp

https://www.carolvsghost.com/book/index.html?v=1.0.0

"Christmas Carol vs. The Ghost of Christmas Presents" by author and illustrator James Pujals tells the fun and whimsical adventure of young Carol Greenleaf, Santa Claus' most trusted elf, as she goes on a mission to save Christmas from the clutches of a monstrous enemy. Inspired by classic fantasy-adventure tales, it is an engaging and entertaining story, full of action, exciting discoveries, funny character interactions, and heartwarming moments.

"Christmas Carol vs. The Ghost of Christmas Presents" is beautifully printed in large hardcover format, expertly laid out with exquisite care for a comfortable and pleasant reading experience for young readers. It includes full color illustrations depicting some of the more memorable scenes from the story, and even a delightful map of the places Carol explores along her trek.

"Christmas Carol vs. The Ghost Of Christmas Presents" is written for the entertainment of children ages 7-9, as well as anyone else who's young of spirit and retains a fondness for the innocent wonder of Christmas -- making it an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family, elementary school, middle school, and community library Christmas themed collections for young readers.

The Three Wishes: A Christmas Story
Alan Snow
Pavilion Children's Books
www.pavilionbooks.com
9781843653868, $19.95, HC, 48pp

https://www.amazon.com/Three-Wishes-Christmas-Story/dp/1843653869

A young boy is herding his family's reindeer when they are drawn into a mysterious cave. The cave is the holder of eternal summer, looked after by three strange characters. Once entered, the cave cannot be left without time in the outside world standing still. In his sadness at not being able to leave, the boy is granted three wishes and chooses freedom, happiness, and time.

After the first year of working hard in the summer cave, the boy is allowed to see his family in the outside world. Time stands still as he visits his parents, and he leaves gifts behind to show that he has visited. As the years go by, this annual visit continues and he begins to call on more and more families.

"The Three Wishes: A Christmas Story" by storyteller and artist Alan Snow is an original and entertaining contribution to the growing canon of Christmas picture books for children ages 4-8 and will prove to be an exceptional and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections.

Dinosaur Christmas!
Penny Dale
Nosy Crow
c/o Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
9781536214499, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Dinosaur-Christmas-Penny-Dale/dp/1536214493

In author and illustrator Penny Dale's new picture book, "Dinosaur Christmas!", the dinosaurs are back -- and this time they must save Santa Claus from a snowstorm! Children ages 2-5 will thoroughly enjoy joining them as they plow the road, whizz down a mountain on snowmobiles, zoom through the icy water on a hovercraft, and much more! But where is Santa? And will they manage to dig out his sleigh in time for Christmas day?

Lively, original, and fun from first page to last, "Dinosaur Christmas!" will prove to be a welcome and appreciated addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections -- especially at Christmas time!

Mouse's Night Before Christmas
Tracey Corderoy, author
Sarah Massini, illustrator
Nosy Crow
c/o Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
9781536214406, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Mouses-Before-Christmas-Tracey-Corderoy/dp/153621440X

It's Christmas Eve, and everyone is fast asleep except for a lonely mouse that lives in the grandfather clock. When Santa arrives, lost in a blizzard and called by Mouse's wish, it's Mouse who is there to show Santa the way. Together they embark on a magical sleigh ride, delivering presents all around town. But the best present of all is for Mouse: his wish to make a new friend to share Christmas Day with has finally come true.

A wonderfully entertaining addition to Christmas picture books for young readers ages 2-5, "Mouse's Night Before Christmas" by the team of author/storyteller Tracey Corderoy and artist/illustrator Sarah Massini will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.

Over In A Stable
Suzanne Nelson, author
Aleksandar Zolotic, illustrator
Zonderkidz
c/o HarperCollins Children's Books
10 East 53rd Street, New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollinschildrens.com
9780310761129, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Over-Stable-Suzanne-Nelson/dp/0310761123

"Over in a Stable", written by author/storyteller Suzanne Nelson and beautifully illustrator by artist/illustrator by Aleksandar Zolotic is an entertaining and engaging Christmas read-aloud picture book for children ages 4-8 and tells the story of the nativity, featuring the memorable counting and cadence of the beloved classic poem "Over in the Meadow."

Children will enjoy counting aloud from one little drummer boy to ten little children. With a shiny cover that features glitter accents, "Over the Stable" will become a treasured Christmas themed picture book for families to cherish for many years.

While unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Over the Stable" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99).

The Jesus Storybook Bible: A Christmas Collection
Sally Lloyd-Jones, author
Jago, illustrator
Zonderkidz
c/o HarperCollins Children's Books
10 East 53rd Street, New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollinschildrens.com
9780310769903, $24.99, HC, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/Jesus-Storybook-Bible-Christmas-Collection/dp/0310769906

Featuring an interactive array of creative and heartfelt elements, "The Jesus Storybook Bible: A Christmas Collection" is a picture book for children ages 4-8 that not only highlights the significance of the Nativity and reaffirms the spiritual meaning of God's most precious gift, it does what few other Christmas or Advent books do. It shows that even the Old Testament stories pointed to a Rescuer, and it is a complete celebration of the holiday season, which doesn't end on Christmas morning with Jesus's birth.

"The Jesus Storybook Bible: A Christmas Collection" is a great Advent or Christmas gift for the family. This premium interactive picture book helps children young and old understand and celebrate the true meaning of Christmas by showing readers that at the center of every story in Scripture is a baby, the child that everything will depend on.

"The Jesus Storybook Bible: A Christmas Collection": Features 16 buttons that activate 20 seconds of classic Christmas music or narration by award-winning British actor David Suchet.

Includes four beloved Christmas hymns: O Come, O Come, Emmanuel; God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen; We Three Kings; and Joy to the World; Offers four pages of Advent activities and a "map" tracing Jesus's story through the Old Testament, with suggested Bible readings for each day of Advent; presents an activity and a devotional thought referencing the Epiphany (or Three Kings' Day) for an extended celebration of Jesus's arrival.

Of special note is a heartfelt letter and reflection from author Sally Lloyd-Jones.

A Guinea Pig Night Before Christmas
Clemente Clarke Moore and Tess Newall
Bloomsbury Children's Books
www.bloomsbury.com
9781526613561 $15.00

https://www.amazon.com/Guinea-Pig-Night-Before-Christmas/dp/1526613565

A Guinea Pig Night Before Christmas joins others in the Guinea Pig Classics series to retell the Christmas poem accompanied by real guinea pig photos. Kids who like guinea pigs will appreciate the visual embellishments, from a Santa wish list that includes radishes, carrots, and a big ball to cunning guinea pig sleigh-pullers sporting gold 'antlers' and a fun red harness. Read-aloud parents seeking something different for the holidays will find this visually fun and a fine takeoff interpretation of the original classic poem.


The Holiday Shelf

Dino-Thanksgiving
Lisa Wheeler, author
Barry Gott, illustrator
CarolRhoda Books
c/o The Lerner Publishing Group
241 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1607
www.lernerbooks.com
9781512403183, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Dino-Thanksgiving-Dino-Holidays-Lisa-Wheeler/dp/1512403180

In the pages of "Dino-Thanksgiving" by author/storyteller Lisa Wheeler and artist/illustrator Barry Gott, children ages 5-9 will fully enjoy following along as dinos travel over the river and through the woods to join together with family. They enjoy favorite activities, including a corn maze, a televised parade with giant balloon creations, and of course a football game! The dinos share in not one but two feasts -- one for the carnivores and another for the veggie-saurs. Kids can join in the fun as the dinos find much to be thankful for on this special holiday! While especially recommended for family, elementary school and community library picture book collections for kids, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Dino-Thanksgiving" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

The Ninth Night of Hanukkah
Erica S. Perl, author
Shahar Kober, illustrator
Sterling Children's Books
c/o Sterling Publishing Company
www.sterlingpublishing.com
9781454940883, $16.95, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Ninth-Night-Hanukkah-Erica-Perl/dp/1454940883

It's Hanukkah, and Max and Rachel are excited to light the menorah in their family's new apartment. But, unfortunately, their Hanukkah box is missing. So now they have no menorah, candles, dreidels, or, well, anything! Luckily, their neighbors are happy to help, offering thoughtful and often humorous stand-in items each night. And then, just as Hanukkah is about to end, Max and Rachel, inspired by the shamash ("helper") candle, have a brilliant idea: they're going to celebrate the Ninth Night of Hanukkah as a way to say thanks to everyone who's helped them!

"The Ninth Night of Hanukkah" is not only a heartwarming and fun picture book story by the team of author/storyteller Erica S. Perl and artist/illustrator Shahar Kober, it is also an invitation for children ages 3-6 to join in a beautiful new Hanukkah tradition! Featuring an Author's Note and a one page listing of 'How to Create Your Own 'Shamash Night', "The Ninth Night of Hanukkah" is unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Hanukkah celebration children's picture book collections.

There Was a Young Rabbi: A Hanukkah Tale
Suzanne Wolfe, author
Jeffrey Ebbeler, illustrator
Kar-Ben Publishing, Inc.
241 First Ave. N, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1607
https://www.karben.com
9781541576070, $17.99, HC, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/There-Was-Young-Rabbi-Hanukkah/dp/1541576071

Synopsis: Hanukkah is a Jewish festival commemorating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire. It is also known as the Festival of Lights.

Hanukkah is a very busy time! In "There Was a Young Rabbi: A Hanukkah Tale" by author/storyteller Suzanne Wolfe and artist/illustrator Jeffrey Ebbeler, children ages 4-9 will enjoy joining a young rabbi as she makes festive preparations (spinning the dreidel, cooking a tasty meal, lighting the menorah, and more) in a cumulative, rhyming picture book story reminding young readers of the Hanukkah miracle of long ago!

Highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library Holiday collections, "There Was a Young Rabbi: A Hanukkah Tale" will help children to learn about Hanukkah's festivities and rituals, and about the Jewish holiday itself. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "There Was a Young Rabbi: A Hanukkah Tale" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781541576087, $7.99), and in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.59).


The American History Shelf

The Voice of Liberty
Angelica Shirley Carpenter, author
Edwin Fotheringham, illustrator
South Dakota Historical Society Press
900 Governors Drive, Pierre, SC 57501-2217
https://www.sdhspress.com
9781941813249, $19.95, HC, 36pp

https://www.amazon.com/Voice-Liberty-Angelica-Shirley-Carpenter/dp/1941813240

In 1886, the Statue of Liberty came to America. If Liberty had been a real woman, she would have had no voice in her new country. She could not vote or run for office. The men in charge of unveiling the statue in New York Harbor even declared that women could not set foot on the island during the welcoming ceremony.

But that did not stop New York suffragists Matilda Joslyn Gage, Lillie Devereux Blake, and Katherine Devereux Blake. They wanted women to have the liberty to vote and participate in government. They were determined to give the new statue a voice. But, first, they had to find a boat. Matilda, Lillie, and Katie organized hundreds of people and sailed a cattle barge to the front of the day's ceremony, making news and raising their voices for LIBERTY.

Collaboratively written author/storyteller Angelica Shirley Carpenter, and effectively illustrated by the artistry of Edwin Fotheringham, "The Voice of Liberty" is an entertaining and informative picture book that is particularly and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library American History picture book collections for young readers ages 6-10.


The Pets/Wildlife Shelf

The Great Bear Rescue: Saving the Gobi Bears
Sandra Markle
Millbrook Press
c/o The Lerner Publishing Group
241 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1607
www.lernerbooks.com
9781541581258, $31.99, HC, Library Binding, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Great-Bear-Rescue-Markles-Discoveries/dp/1541581253

In the pages of "The Great Bear Rescue: Saving the Gobi Bears", science author Sandra Markle offers children ages 9- 12 a fascinating and informative look at Gobi bears -- who are the rarest bears on the planet. These adorable animals face extinction threats ranging from illegal gold miners to climate change. Kids will enjoy finding out more about these bears, which are considered a national treasure in Mongolia, and learn what scientists are doing to help this critically endangered species. While strongly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library Pets/Wildlife picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Great Bear Rescue: Saving the Gobi Bears" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial Note: Sandra Markle is the author of numerous award-winning books for children. A former elementary science teacher, she is a nationally-known science education consultant. Markle has received many honors for her series Animal Predators, Animal Scavengers, and Animal Prey. Several titles have been named as National Science Teachers Association (NSTA)/Children's Book Council (CBC) Outstanding Science Trade Books for Students K-12, and Animal Predators was honored as a Top 10 Youth Nonfiction Series by Booklist.

River Otter's Adventure
Linda Stanek, author
Shennen Bersani, illustrator
Arbordale Publishing
612 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Suite A2, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
www.arbordalepublishing.com
9781643517513, $17.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/River-Otters-Adventure-Linda-Stanek/dp/1643517511

When a young river otter sneaks into a zoo, she wonders if she should be more like some of the other animals she meets. She wants a trunk like the elephant or to be loud like the gorilla! By imitating and comparing herself to these other animals she learns to appreciate herself. Educational components are woven throughout this fun, read-aloud picture book story by author Linda Stanek and illustrator Shennen Bersani to extend the learning, making it a perfect book for children ages 8-12. Informative and fun, "River Otter's Adventure" is especially recommended for family, elementary school and community library Pets/Wildlife collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "River Otter's Adventure" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781643517568, $9.95).

Animal Championships
Kate Baker, author
Andres Lozano, illustrator
Lonely Planet Kids
c/o Lonely Planet Publications
150 Linden Street, Oakland CA 94607
www.lonelyplanet.com
9781788689298, $18.99, HC, 16pp

https://www.amazon.com/Animal-Championships-Lonely-Planet-Kids/dp/1788689291

In the pages of "Animal Championships", children ages 6-8 will enjoy learning that the cheetah can accelerate faster than a racing car and that a peregrine can swoop at prey at speeds of almost 260kph (160mph)? These are just some of the incredible facts they will discover as 50 of the world's most awesome animal athletes compete in their very own athletics championships. From the fastest runner and deepest diver to the loudest screecher and greediest guzzler, this is a sporting contest like no other!

With light-hearted text by Kate Baker, quirky illustrations by Andres Lozano and loads of flaps to lift, "Animal Championships" is an interactive book will keep kids amused for hours. What's more, with plenty of fun facts and figures dotted throughout, including where the animals live, what they like to do, and their claim to fame in the animal kingdom, "Animal Championships" is an invaluable learning resource as well as a whole lot of fun -- making it an especially recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library Pets/Wildlife collections for young readers.


The Science Shelf

Space Encyclopedia: A Tour of Our Solar System and Beyond, second edition
David A. Aguilar, author
Patricia Daniels, author
National Geographic Press
101 West 104th Street, Suite 8, New York, NY 10025
www.nationalgeographic.com
9781426338564, $24.99, HC, 208pp

https://www.amazon.com/Space-Encyclopedia-2nd-System-Beyond/dp/1426338562

Synopsis: Now in a newly updated and expanded second edition, "Space Encyclopedia: A Tour of Our Solar System and Beyond" by the team of David A. Aguliar (an internationally recognized astronomer and former Director of Science Information and Public Outreach at the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics) and Patricia Daniels (News Director for the Space Telescope Institute in Baltimore, MD, and the past manager of media relations for the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics in Cambridge, MA) presents the most up-to-date findings on space exploration and research and breathtaking views of the universe, as captured by the latest and greatest technology, including the recent first ever image of a black hole.

This complete reference contains everything kids ages 8-12 need to know about our sun and planets including the new dwarf planets, the formation of the universe, space travel, the possibility of life beyond Earth, and more. An authoritative and beautifully illustrated compendium, "Space Encyclopedia: A Tour of Our Solar System and Beyond" provides both accessible information for school reports and compelling reading on the mysteries beyond our planet.

Critique: Impressively informative, beautifully and profusely illustrated throughout, exceptionally well organized and presented, "Space Encyclopedia: A Tour of Our Solar System and Beyond" is an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, family, elementary school, middle school, and community library Astronomy & Science collections for young readers.


The Psychology Shelf

All About Anxiety
Carrie Lewis, author
Sophia Touliatou, illustrator
Beaming Books
PO Box 1209, Minneapolis, MN 55440
https://www.beamingbooks.com
9781506463209, $14.99, HC, 88pp

https://www.amazon.com/All-About-Anxiety-Carrie-Lewis/dp/1506463207

In the ages of pandemic, political divides, social justice issues, and more, anxiety is an emotion that can occur almost every day and ranges from from the normal worries and concerns that most of us experience, to outright fear when something scary happens, to the anxiety disorders that many kids live with daily.

But what causes anxiety? And what can we do about it?

"All About Anxiety" by author Carrie Lewis and illustrator Sophia Touliatou directly tackles these questions from every possible angle. Young readers ages 8-13 will learn what's going on in their brain and central nervous system when they feel anxious. They will learn about the evolutionary reasons for fear and anxiety and that anxiety isn't always a bad thing -- except for when it is! Most importantly, kids will discover new strategies to manage their anxiety so they can live and thrive with anxiety.

Thoroughly 'kid friendly' in tone and presentation, "All About Anxiety" is specially and unreservedly recommended as a core addition to elementary school, middle school, and community library Psychology & Emotions collections, and an invaluable source of information for the personal reading lists of any child having chronic anxiety issues.


The Graphic Novel Shelf

Maurice and His Dictionary: A True Story
Cary Fagan, author
Enzo Lord Mariano, illustrator
Owlkids Books Inc.
www.owlkidsbooks.com
9781771473231, $18.95, HC, 56pp

https://www.amazon.com/Maurice-His-Dictionary-True-Story/dp/1771473231

The collaborative work of author/storyteller Cary Fagan and artist/illustrator Enzo Lord Mariano, "Maurice and His Dictionary: A True Story" is the story of one refugee family's harrowing journey, based on Cary Fagan's own family history.

"Maurice and His Dictionary: A True Story" is a graphic novel that follows a young Jewish boy named Maurice as he and his family are forced to flee from their home in Belgium during the Second World War. They travel by train to Paris, through Spain to Portugal, and finally across the ocean to Jamaica, where they settle in an internment camp.

All the while, Maurice is intent on continuing his education and growing up to be a lawyer. He overcomes obstacles to find a professor to study with, works toward a high school diploma while in the camp, and is ultimately accepted to university in Canada. His English dictionary becomes a beloved tool and beacon of hope through the danger and turmoil of the family's migration.

Moments of lightness and humor balance the darkness in this powerful story of one refugee family's courage and resilience, and of the dictionary that came to represent their freedom.

"Maurice and His Dictionary: A True Story" is an especially recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library collections for young readers ages 8-12.

X-Venture Explorers Kingdom of Animals: Rage of the Beasts
Slaium & Meng, writers
Black Ink Team, art
Papercutz
papercutz.com
9781545805497 $16.99
9781545805503 $12.99 pbk / $9.22 Kindle amazon.com

https://www.amazon.com/X-Venture-Xplorers-Kingdom-Animals-Lion-Explorers/dp/1545805504

Synopsis: An educational exploration of the animal kingdom!

Lions and Tigers normally don't cross paths in the wild because they live in different habitats. Who is to say for sure who would win in a battle of these big cats? Under the guidance of Dr. Darwin and his faithful assistant Smith, a young group of researches, Sherry, Jake, Bean, Louis, Tazen, and Kwame, scour the globe for the perfect specimens to test their hypothesis. But if they aren't careful, the fact hunters will become the hunted by mealtime! Dynamic action is supported by informative diagrams and studies of the top members of the feline family (felidae).

Critique: An action-packed, full-color graphic novel for young adults, X-Venture Explorers Kingdom of Animals: Rage of the Beasts will also appeal to big can fans of all ages. Who would win in a battle between lions, tigers, and other great and ferocious felines? Extraordinary and packed with scientific information, Rage of the Beasts is highly recommended especially for school and public library graphic novel collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that Rage of the Beasts is also available in a Kindle & comiXology edition ($9.22).


The Music CD Shelf

Jingle Burgers: A Parry Gripp Christmas Album
Parry Gripp
parrygripp.com
Privately Published
$10.00 CD / $8.99 MP3

https://parrygripp.biz/product/jingle-burgers

https://www.amazon.com/Jingle-Burgers-Parry-Gripp-Christmas/dp/B08L49C1VP/

Jingle Burgers is a family-friendly Christmas album featuring whimsical songs with playful lyrics. Parents as well as children will laugh at this delightful holiday celebration! Highly recommended. The tracks are "Raining Tacos (on Christmas Eve)", "There's a Cat Climbing Your Christmas Tree", "Jingle Burgers", "Fuzzy Christmas", "Christmas Party (All About the Cookies)", "Reggie the Christmas Hamster", "Pancakes We Have Cooked on High", "Christmas Christmas Hedgehog", "Pirate Santa Claus", "I Want an Allosaurus for Christmas", "Christmas Pizza (Don't Be Late)", and "Christmas Christmas Christmas Christmas Christmas Christmas Christmas".


The DVD Shelf

Be Kind
Pat Zietlow Miller, author
Jen Hill, illustrator
Weston Woods
90 Old Sherman Turnpike, Danbury, CT 06816
www.scholastic.com/westonwoods
9781338657807, $59.95, DVD3091

https://westonwoods.scholastic.com/products/westonwoods/catalog/searchtitleresult.asp

When Tanisha spills grape juice all over her new dress, her classmate wants to make her feel better, wondering: What does it mean to be kind?

From asking the new girl to play to standing up for someone being bullied, this moving story explores what kindness is, and how any act, big or small, can make a difference -- or at least help a friend.

Featuring a gentle and entertaining text from the award-winning author of Sophie's Squash, Pat Zietlow Miller, and irresistible art from Jen Hill, and now in a DVD format, "Be Kind" is an thoroughly 'kid friendly' story about how two simple words can change the world -- making it an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library DVD collections for children ages 3-6.


The Folktale/Fairytale Shelf

A First Look at Fairies
Emma Carlson-Berne
The Lerner Publishing Group
241 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1607
www.lernerbooks.com
9781541596825, $26.65, HC, Library Binding, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/First-Fairies-Bumba-Fantastic-Creatures/dp/154159682X

In the charmingly illustrator pages of "A First Look at Fairies" by Emma Carlson-Berne, emergent readers ages 4-7 will delight in learning the different stories people have told about fairies around the world and throughout history! Carefully leveled text and a close text-to-photo match supports young readers as they learn -- making "A First Look at Fairies" an ideal, popular, and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "A First Look at Fairies" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781728413044, $8.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99).


The Picturebook Shelf

The Tiny Chef
Rachel Larsen, Adam Reid, and Ozi Akturk
Razorbill
c/o Penguin Young Readers Group
https://www.penguin.com
9780593115053, $18.99, PB, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Tiny-Chef-mishing-weshipee-blook/dp/0593115058

"The Tiny Chef: and da mishing weshipee blook" by the creative writing team of Rachel Larsen, Adam Reid, and Ozi Akturk is an utterly charming picture book adventure that finds the Tiny Chef at home in his kitchen on a beautiful day, but not all is well inside the Chef's stump. He's misplaced his favorite recipe book -- the one he uses to cook all of his best dishes, like his famous stew, which he always makes on the first day of fall, and that day is here!

What is the Chef to do! He practically tears apart his house looking for it. He gets so frustrated he throws a tantrum. But then he does what we all have to do sometimes when we're upset. He counts to ten. He goes for a nice long walk. And that's when inspiration strikes! A little rosemary, some mushrooms, and the Chef might have a brand-new recipe after all. And that's when his recipe book finally appears. Right where he left it -- now isn't that weird?

Entertaining, original, and throughly 'kid friendly' in tone and presentation, "The Tiny Chef" will prove to be an immediately welcome and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Tiny Chef" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).

A Very Big Problem
Amy-Jill Levine, author
Sandy Eisenberg Sasso, author
Annie Bowler, illustrator
Flyaway Books
100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 4020-1396
www.flyawaybooks.com
9781947888111, $18.00, HC

https://www.amazon.com/Very-Big-Problem-Amy-Jill-Levine/dp/1947888110

In the beginning, God's garden is beautiful and peaceful, but it doesn't stay that way. Everyone has something to say! Rain brags that it's the most refreshing. Birds boast that they re the most splendid. Earthworms bluster about their busyness. Then Children come along, claiming to be the best of all. And it's only fair that the best is loved most, isn't it?

A wonderfully entertaining and original picture book story for children 4-8, "A Very Big Problem" by the collaborative team of authors Amy-Jill Levine and Sandy Sasso, and featuring the impressive artwork of illustrator Annie Bowler is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for young readers. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "A Very Big Problem" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.00).

Acoustic Rooster's Barnyard Boogie Starring Indigo Blume
Kwame Alexander, author
Tim Bowers, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
315 East Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.sleepingbearpress.com
9781534111141, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Acoustic-Roosters-Barnyard-Boogie-Starring/dp/153411114X

On the eve of singing at a community festival, a bout of stage fright threatens a little girl's confidence. As Indigo Blume drifts off to sleep, she isn't sure she's brave enough to take the stage. But once she falls asleep, Indigo finds herself in a dream world with the characters of her favorite book, Acoustic Rooster and his Barnyard Band. The band's members, including Miss Dairy Parton and Chickee Minaj, are rehearsing, and they invite Indigo to join the group. But when a storm destroys their barn, the animals are left with almost nothing. Can Indigo rally the band to work together and save their home? And will she find her voice in time for the festival?

Also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.24), "Acoustic Rooster's Barnyard Boogie Starring Indigo Blume" by author/storyteller Kwame Alexander and artist/illustrator Tim Bowers will prove to be a welcome, thoroughly 'kid friendly' picture book entertainment -- and an enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4- 8.

Welcome to Bobville: City of Bobs
Jonah Winter, author
Bob Staake, illustrator
Schwartz & Wade
c/o Random House Children's Books
1745 Broadway, 10-1, New York, NY 10019
www.randomhouse.com/kids
9780593122723, $17.99, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/Welcome-Bobville-City-Jonah-Winter/dp/0593122720

Welcome to Bobville! it's home only to people only Bob! In Bobville, the Bobs eat the same food, wear the same clothes, watch the same movies, and have the same hobbies. They agree on everything-- ESPECIALLY that they don't like anyone who isn't named Bob.

The Bobs go about their Bob ways, until one day, to the surprise of the entire city, one resident decides he wants to do things a little differently, and live as Bruce. In response, the Bobs build a wall to keep Bruce, and anyone else who dares to be different, out of the city. But Bruce doesn't mind -- it turns out the diverse world outside of Bobville is actually very beautiful.

In view of today's highly polarized society with respect to politics, cultural issues, race, creed, and gender, "Welcome to Bobville: City of Bobs" is an especially timely and entertaining picture book for children ages 3-7 in which author/storyteller Jonah Winter and artist/illustrator Bob Staake deftly explore how exclusion and walls breed intolerance, and how being different and open-minded enriches our lives and the world. While also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99), "Welcome to Bobville: City of Bobs" is a unique and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library social issues themed picture book collections.

It's Showtime!: A Pepper and Frannie Story
Catherine Lazar Odell
Page Street Kids
c/o Page Street Publishing
www.pagestreetpublishing.com
9781624149399, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Its-Showtime-Pepper-Frannie-Story/dp/1624149391

Frannie loves to have an audience. Pepper prefers to perform when no one is around. Pepper and Frannie are best friends, and they both love a good show.

When they decide to stage a performance themselves, Pepper is content to work behind the scenes as Frannie prepares an epic, extravagant spectacle: it will have lights, and action, and drama! She's just forgetting one thing -- to practice her song! When Frannie's lack of preparation leaves her stuck in front of a crowd, can anything save her act? Luckily Pepper knows just how to help. The show must go on!

Utterly charming, energetic illustrations by artist and storyteller Catherine Lazar Odell, "It's Showtime!: A Pepper and Frannie Story" features a simple, funny, 'kid friendly' text that highlights the power of celebrating each other's strengths and working as a team in this return of that lovable pair, Pepper and Frannie -- making it an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-8.

Mia and Nattie: One Great Team
Marlene Bell
Independently Published
9780999539446, $14.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Mia-Nattie-One-Great-Team/dp/0999539442

Nattie's is a little sheep whose mouth was a little crooked. Her legs were a bit shorter than usual, and one horn was too straight, like a unicorn's horn. But Mia thought Nattie was perfect!

On a visit to her grandma's farm, eight-year-old Mia discovers a newborn, orphaned lamb outside in the cold and takes her to the laundry room, naming her Nattie. As she tries to nurse the lamb back to health, Mia discovers that Nattie is different from the other lambs and struggles to fit in with them like Mia does with other kids her age.

When her grandmother says she will sell Nattie to a neighbor, Mia must come up with a plan to keep her friend around - - one that will show the family just how special Nattie truly is.

In a read-aloud picture book for children ages 4-8 who love animals, award-winning writer and sheep breeder Marlene M. Bell presents Nattie the lamb's true story. "Mia and Nattie: One Great Team" is a heartwarming book that teaches young readers about problem-solving, teamwork, and love.

While especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Mia and Nattie: One Great Team" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $1.99).

The Good Song
Alexandria Giardino, author
Penelope Dullaghan, illustrator
Harry N. Abrams
195 Broadway, 9th Floor, New York, NY 10007
www.abramsyoungreaders.com
9781944903831, $17.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Good-Song-Inspired-Somewhere-Wonderful/dp/1944903836

Synopsis: The day the baby boy was born, on a beautiful Hawaiian island, the world sang him a lullaby. What a good song. But what is the good song? The boy listens for it and finds it in his heart and shares it with the world. Inspired by the medley of the classic songs "Over the Rainbow" and "What a Wonderful World" sung by Hawaiian singer Israel Kamakawiwo'ole, the good song is aloha -- love.

An elegant picture book story for children ages 5-7 by author Alexandria Giardino and illustrator Penelope Dullaghan that was inspired by the songs "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and "What a Wonderful World", "The Good Song" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for young readers.

The Huffalots
Eve Coy, author/illustrator
Andersen Press
c/o The Lerner Publishing Group
241 First Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55401-1607
www.lernerbooks.com
9781728415796, $17.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Huffalots-Eve-Coy/dp/1728415799

When Mom wakes up her Huffalots, nothing is right -- they don't like their clothes, their breakfast is yucky, and they just don't like each other. When one of them trips, the other offers a hug, and they magically transform into Huffalittles, then Lovealittles, and finally (with a big cuddle) they become Lovealots.

But it's been a long day and Mom is now grumpy and tired. Good thing the Lovealots know exactly what to do!

"The Huffalots" by storyteller and artist Eve Coy is a simple gorgeous and wonderfully entertaining picture book for children ages 4-9 that explores how moods change through the day and what we can do to help others feel better. Certain to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, "The Huffalots" is especially and unreservedly recommended!

Balletball
Erin Dionne, author
Gillian Flint, illustrator
Charlesbridge Publishing
85 Main Street, Watertown, MA 02472
www.charlesbridge.com
9781580899390, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Balletball-Erin-Dionne/dp/1580899390

Nini is a little girl who hates baseball. She hates that baseball is not ballet. She especially hates that Mom signed her up to play, but now she's stuck with the sport. Nini just can't bring herself to try. Her team starts to lose, but not even her teammates' disappointment will change her feelings. A pep talk from her coach and sparkly shoelaces help -- a little. When Nini makes a game winning catch using her ballet moves, she realizes that change might not be so bad after all, and ballet and baseball have more in common than she thought! Unique, original, and a thoroughly kid friendly entertainment, "Balletball" by the team of author/storyteller Erin Dionne and artist/illustrator Gillian Flint will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Balletball" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Maia's Mermaid Friend
Lois Wickstrom, author
Ada Konewki, illustrator
Look Under Rocks/Gripper Productions
www.LookUnderRocks.com
9780916176662, $19.99, HC, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/Maias-Mermaid-Friend-hardcover-Wickstrom/dp/0916176665

Maia is going to the race, but it's early. She stops to look at her reflection in the pond. The reflection turns into another girl -- a girl who is swimming -- a girl who is a mermaid named Trezzie.

Trezzie takes Maia's hand and together they swim to her castle under the water. She gives Maia a piece of a plant that becomes a doorbell, so Maia can call her any time. The two of them skip stones across the water.

Maia's friend Fig shows up. "Where were you? Why weren't you at the race?" Maia tries to explain she was swimming with her new friend Trezzie. Fig can't see Trezzie and doesn't believe her. Fig goes away mad. Trezzie resurfaces. Maia and Trezzie continue playing.

A unique and very special children's picture book for kids ages 4-8, "Maia's Mermaid Friend" by author/storyteller Lois Wickstrom and artist/illustrator Ada Konewki will prove to be an enduringly entertaining and popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Maia's Mermaid Friend" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780916176631, $11.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.99).

Sometimes a Wall...
Dianne White, author
Barroux, illustrator
Owlkids Books Inc.
www.owlkidsbooks.com
9781771473736, $17.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Sometimes-Wall-Dianne-White/dp/1771473738

An afternoon in the playground introduces different kinds of walls: a brick wall to draw on with chalk, a water wall, and a climbing wall. What follows in the pages of "Sometimes a Wall... " by author Diane White and illustrator Barroux is a playful yet profound picture book exploration of the many ways walls can divide us or bring us together.

When one child is excluded from a game, another builds a castle to leave him out. When the builder declares the castle MINE, other kids feel alienated - but the builder becomes lonely, too, when the others have fun without him. "Sometimes a Wall... " concludes with the optimism of a new start: friendship, forgiveness, and imagination give the wall new meaning.

Told with short, simple lines of playful, rhyming text and loose line illustrations, "Sometimes a Wall... " sparks questions with empathy, insight, and charm. Very highly recommended for children 4-8 "Sometimes a Wall... " is a timely tool for inquiry-based and social-emotional learning, sharing the important message that walls can unite or divide, depending on the choices we make.

Spin a Scarf of Sunshine
Dawn Casey, author
Stila Lim, illustrator
Floris Books
www.florisbooks.co.uk
9781782506584, $17.95, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Spin-Scarf-Sunshine-Dawn-Casey/dp/1782506586

The thoroughly charming story of a little girl named Nari who knits a scarf from her sheep's fleece, "Spin a Scarf of Sunshine" by author/storyteller Dawn Casey and artist/illustrator Stila Lim, is a lively and entertaining picture book celebration of sustainability, recycling, green living, nature and crafting. Original, fun, and thoroughly enjoyable, "Spin a Scarf of Sunshine" is especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 3-7.

Opposite Day for Dinopotamus
Lois Wickstrom
Look Under Rocks
www.LookUnderRocks.com
9780916176624, $19.99, HC, 20pp

https://www.amazon.com/Opposite-Day-Dinopotamus-8x10-hardcover/dp/0916176622

It's opposite day at Dinopotamus' school. The other kids get easy puzzles, like fill the glass and open the door. The teacher asks Dinopotamus to bring her the big box. What will he do? Dinopotamus is not a typical student -- he's a dinosaur! Opposite day means you get to break rules and disobey instructions. But only if you get it right. Or maybe you need to get it wrong!

A fun and enjoyable way for children ages 4-8 to be introduced to opposite words, "Opposite Day for Dinopotamus" is very highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library language development picture book collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Opposite Day for Dinopotamus" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780916176693, $12.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.99).

Maia and the Very Tall Wall
Brian Wray, author
Shiloh Penfield, illustrator
Schiffer Kids
c/o Schiffer Publishing Ltd.
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
www.schifferbooks.com
9780764360800, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Maia-Very-Tall-Wall-Brian/dp/0764360809

Maia is a curious little girl, with lots of questions that she asks anyone who will listen. Behind Maia's house is a peculiar stone wall. As Maia grows older, she notices that the wall grows too. While the wall gets higher and higher, Maia grows shyer and shyer. Before long, she is afraid to ask her questions out loud, and the thing she wants to know the most is, "What's on the other side of that wall?" Maia tries all kinds of ways to get to the top, but none of them seem to work. Finally, she summons the courage to speak up, and a most surprising thing happens -- she gets an answer! By using her voice, and with help from others, Maia gets to the top of the wall, and a whole new world opens up!

A delightfully charming and original picture book story with an important and positive embedded message, "Maia and the Very Tall Wall" by the team of author/storyteller Brian Wray and artist/illustrator Shiloh Penfield is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, elementary school, and community library collections for children ages 5-8.

The Noisy Classroom
Angela Shante, author
Alison Hawkins, illustrator
https://www.angelashante.com
West Margin Press
https://www.westmarginpress.com
9781513262925, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Noisy-Classroom-Angela-Shant%C3%A9/dp/1513262920

In "The Noisy Classroom", a young girl is about to enter the third grade. This year she will be put into Ms. Johnson's noisy class. Everything about the noisy class is odd. While all the other classes are quiet, Ms. Johnson sings and the kids chatter all day. The door is always closed, yet sounds from it can be heard in the hallway. With summer coming to an end and school starting, the girl realizes that soon she'll be going to the noisy class. What will school be like now?

Featuring the honest and delightful humor of debut author/storyteller Angela Shante and the bold, graphic imagery of debut artist/illustrator Alison Hawkins, "The Noisy Classroom" encourages children with those first-day jitters to reevaluate a scary situation by looking at it from a different angle and to embrace how fun school can be, even in nontraditional ways.

Entertaining, charming, and with a significant underlying and positive 'kid friendly' message, "The Noisy Classroom" is an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for young readers ages 6-8. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Noisy Classroom" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.49).

Welcome to the World
Helen Foster James, author
Petra Brown, illustrator
Sleeping Bear Press
315 East Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.sleepingbearpress.com
9781534110120, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Welcome-World-Helen-Foster-James/dp/1534110127

A baby squirrel's first year is filled with newness and wonder, from the sight of the sun filtering through leaves to the splash of water at bathtime to sweet snuggles with mom. "Welcome to the World" is a beautifully told and illustrated picture book story by author/storyteller Helen Foster James and artist/illustrator Petra Brown that celebrates all of baby's charming firsts and reminds us all of the miracles this life holds when seen through their very new eyes. While very highly recommended, especially for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library picture book collections for children ages 4-6, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Welcome to the World" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.14).

This Poop is Mine!
Gusti, author/illustrator
NubeOcho
9788417673888, $15.95, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/This-Poop-Mine-Gusti/dp/8417673881

When Lola the fly finds a mountain of poop, she sticks her flag in it and declares, "This poop is mine!" She's so happy she has her own pile of poop -- until Fiona the fly lands on her poop and declares, "This poop is mine!" Lola and Fiona have the battle of a lifetime as they try to decide who this poop belongs to. Who will win the fight for the big poop? Or can the two flies find some way to say, "This poop is OURS!"? Recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, children ages 4-8 will fully enjoy storyteller and artist Gussti's "This Poop Is Mine!", an unusual, unique, and memorable picture book about sharing.

I Wish You Happiness
Michael Wong and Ann Baratashvili
Picco Puppy
www.piccopuppy.com
Amazon Hardcover: 9781925973129 $17.99
Amazon Paperback: 9781925973143 / 9781925973129 $11.99

https://www.amazon.com/Wish-You-Happiness-Michael-Wong/dp/1925973123

I Wish You Happiness is an encouraging, positive picture book that offers kids a set of affirmations for leading a good life. Ann Baratashvili's lovely illustrations compliment this message with happy images of kids riding bikes, reading books, dreaming, and having adventures. The book presents new words that reinforce both vocabulary building and positive life perspectives: "I wish you success and prosperity, to trust yourself and your ability to succeed." From kindness and generosity to faith and hope in the future, moments taken in nature with peace and tranquility, and the notion that risk-taking requires courage and strength, but rewards greatly ("...for the magic begins at the end of your comfort zone."), these are much-needed messages countering angst and confusion. They offer adults the opportunity to instill in the very young a sense of excitement and positive perspectives about life, the world, and the future. This simple, optimistic picture book presentation deserves a place in any parent's shelf as a read-aloud reinforcer of how to view the world and cultivate a better life and attitude towards it.

Tree: A Gentle Story of Love and Loss
Lynn Jenkins
EK Books
c/o Exisle Publishing
www.exislepublishing.com.au
9781925820126, $17.99 www.ekbooks.org

https://www.amazon.com/Tree-Gentle-Story-Love-Lessons/dp/1925820122

Tree: A Gentle Story of Love and Loss is a lovely children's picture book that helps kids understand grief processes and tells of Tree, a mainstay of the community. One day Curly and Loppy notice that his trees are falling and his bark flaking, and understand that Tree is set to leave them. Sadness ensues: how can Loppy say goodbye to something that has been part of their lives for so long? Kirrili Lonergan's whimsical Seuss-like drawings provide appealing embellishments to a very simple lesson in saying goodbye to a loved one.

Peachtree Publishers
1700 Chattahoochee Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30318-2112
www.peachtreeonline.com

https://www.amazon.com/Gnu-Shrew-Danny-Schnitzlein/dp/168263146X

https://www.amazon.com/Duck-Penguin-NOT-Like-Sleepovers/dp/1682632016

https://www.amazon.com/Madeline-Finn-Therapy-Lisa-Papp/dp/1682631494

These fine new arrivals are highly recommended picks for young picture book readers. Each features a winning combination of artistry and story that sets them apart from others. Danny Schnitzlein's Gnu and Shrew (9781682631461, $16.99) receives fun drawings by Anca Sandu as it tells of very different friends and their approach to adventure. This provides a STEAM-enhanced takeoff on the fable "The Ant and the Grasshopper" by not only changing the animals, but adding humorous contrasts between the personalities and life approaches of two pals.

Elements of engineering, math, art, and creative problem-solving make for an engaging, thought-provoking tale. Julia Woolf's Duck & Penguin Do Not Like Sleepovers (9781682632017, $16.99) tells of humans who are best friends and their toys who are not. What is one to do when best friends want what their toys do not? Duck and Penguin are forced along for the ride even though they don't like the plans, but when they are left to their own devices against a scary night, they soon find all they have is each other. This is a fun followup to Duck and Penguin are NOT Friends, expanding the theme of togetherness and alienation alike.

Lisa Papp's Madeline Finn and the Therapy Dog (9781682631492, $17.99) deserves ongoing recommendation as an exceptional story of a puppy who needs to demonstrate his skills in order to become a therapy dog candidate. He and Madeline Finn have been practicing for a long time, but can he really pass the final to enter the world that he's been raised to work in? This fine story will teach kids about therapy animals, their training, and the special challenges they face along the way. All are excellent leisure read choices.

Penguin Young Readers Group
www.penguin.com

https://www.amazon.com/Kitties-Dinosaurs-Michael-Slack/dp/0593108388

https://www.amazon.com/Kevin-Unicorn-Why-Cant-Bestie-corns/dp/198481480X

These fine books provide leisure readers with lovely pursuits that are more than a cut above the norm, making them recommendable for elementary-level readers. Michael Slack's Kitties on Dinosaurs (9780593108383, $17.99) presents a gentle picture book story of mischievous little kitties who like to climb on things. But when they choose to climb on dinosaurs, trouble ensues and forces them to sail back to Kitty Island in the litter mobile to devise a plan to thwart the roaring dinos who resist their climbing efforts.

Young fans of fantasy, cats, and dinosaurs will find this a vivid story packed with action words perfect for parental read-aloud. Jessika von Innerebner's Why Can't We Be Beastie-Corns? (9781984814807, $17.99) provides a fun Kevin the Unicorn fantasy about Kevin's new neighbor, whom he views as a potential new best friend. Unfortunately, there seem to be too many differences between them to make best friendship a possibility...but can they still be friends? A fun story about exploring new friends and new possibilities emerges to teach young picture book readers about getting along and forming new relationships. These are all fine reads recommended for leisure readers seeking high-quality stories.

Sleeping Bear Press
315 East Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 200, Ann Arbor, MI 48108
www.sleepingbearpress.com

https://www.amazon.com/T-Thor-Norse-Mythology-Alphabet/dp/153411050X

https://www.amazon.com/H-Honey-Bee-Beekeeping-Alphabet/dp/1534110704

https://www.amazon.com/Lulu-Rocky-Indianapolis-City-Adventures/dp/1534110666

https://www.amazon.com/Acoustic-Roosters-Barnyard-Boogie-Starring/dp/153411114X

https://www.amazon.com/Lions-Cheetahs-Rhinos-OH-Sub-Saharan/dp/1534110542

Five new books are excellent picks highly recommended for those seeking superior productions.

The intriguing T is for Thor by Virginia Loh-Hagan (9781534110502, $17.99) will reach ages 6-10 with an alphabet that introduces Scandinavian mythology to the young. The arts, writings, and history of the Norse perception of the universe will require good reading skills, even though it looks like a picture book easy reader. This audience will appreciate the dark, brooding drawings of Torstein Nordstrand the rhymes that introduce mythology and stories centered around the alphabet. From K for the knowledge Mimir gained from a special well to Q for the Queen of Asgard, who was a kind goddess, the blend of alphabet and information is enchanting.

For a different kind of alphabet, choose Robbyn Smith van Frankenhuyzen's H is for Honey Bee: A Beekeeping Alphabet (9781534110700, $16.99), which enjoys contemporary, bright drawings by Eileen Ryan Ewen as it follows the work of beekeeping and bee colony maintenance. The author is herself a beekeeper and wildlife rehabilitator, and uses each letter of the alphabet and rhyming verses linking them to explore issues of conservation and bees. STEM lessons on these issues and other nature concerns enhance this lively educational primer for ages 6-10.

Barbara Joosse's Lulu & Rocky in Indianapolis (9781534110663, $16.99) is illustrated by Renee Graef, who provides engaging animal drawings to accompany a story of fox cousins who continue their state-by-state exploration by visiting Indianapolis, Indiana. This fourth book in the series explores various sights in the state, presenting a range of activities and adventures from whimsical encounters with dinosaurs in a Children's Museum display to a race car experience at Indianapolis in which the fox muses "What would it feel like to drive that fast? What would it be like to WIN?"

Kwame Alexander's Acoustic Rooster's Barnyard Boogie Starring Indigo Blume (9781534111141, $16.99) returns the Acoustic Rooster to young picture book attention with the story of his work with a young girl who becomes afraid of performing the night before a big appearance. Indigo is supposed to sing at a community festival, and is afraid of getting on stage. When she falls asleep, she enters a world in which characters from her favorite children's book encourage her to join a famous musical group. When disaster strikes, Indigo must muster up a different form of courage to perform on many levels and save the day. Lovely drawings by artist Tim Bowers accompanies an appealing story that will reach ages 4-8.

Lions & Cheetahs & Rhinos, Oh My! Animal Artwork by Children in Sub-Saharan Africa (9781534110540, $16.99) by John Platt and Moira Rose Donohue gives readers ages 4-8 a fine picture book exploration packed with colorful drawings made by children who live in East Africa. Lovely illustrations pair with animal facts in a production that blends art and natural history and comes from the founder of How to Draw a Lion. 100% of the author's royalties from this book will be donated to this foundation, devoted to encouraging young artists in Africa. Young artists in the U.S. will be equally engaged by the full-page colorful art and the animal facts.

All are outstanding choices.

Disney Press/Hyperion
www.disneybooks.com

https://www.amazon.com/Malinas-Jam-Animation-Studios-Showcase/dp/1368024580

https://www.amazon.com/Unlimited-Squirrels-Sleep-Under-Stars/dp/1368053351

https://www.amazon.com/Phineas-Ferbs-Guide-Disney-Books/dp/1368065732

Three fun picture books are standouts that promise fun and original stories to youngsters and adult gatekeepers who choose them for leisure reads. Svetla Radivoeva's Malina's Jam (9781368024587, $17.99) features a shy hedgehog who makes raspberry jam from the garden she tends.

When the neighbors begin to realize her jam is special, Malina begins to break free of her shyness and isolation; especially when everyone joins in to celebrate her jam by sharing in the work that goes into tending the garden and making it. Engaging drawings of the enterprising Malina who is more comfortable in kitchen and garden than with others makes for an appealing story many a shy child will readily understand. Mo Williams's I Want to Sleep Under the Stars! (9781368053358, $12.99) is an Unlimited Squirrel friends book and tells about Zoom Squirrel, who dreams of sleeping under the stars. Other Squirrel friends are happy to help him achieve his dream, but first they have to really understand what it means to sleep outside. A fun story filled with action follows the busy, zipping squirrels as they learn about not just sleeping outside, but staying friends in the process.

Phineas and Ferb's Guide to Life (9781368065733, $9.99) is now streaming on the Disney channel and offers an antidote to boredom with a guide packed with tips and tricks for adding zest to life via imagination and effort. Chapters include quizzes, vocabulary-building fun, big words, black and white drawings, and remarkable sayings to accompany activities that encourage advanced elementary grade readers to make life fun. The whimsical approach to even mundane-sounding daily activities like cleaning one's room is appealing and fun, though a color presentation might have enhanced the story.

Eerdmans Books for Young Readers
c/o Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company
4035 Park East Court SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546
www.eerdmans.com

https://www.amazon.com/Songs-Our-Sons-Ruth-Doyle/dp/0802855571

https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Our-Daughters-Ruth-Doyle/dp/080285558X

Two new books by Ruth Doule and Ashling Lindsay are outstanding picture books for a broad age range and encourage both read-aloud shared participation and independent reading. Ashling Lindsay provides vivid drawings for each which are colorful, whimsical, fun creations.

Songs for Our Sons (9780802855572, $18.99) encourages boys to become gentler, ambitious people and provides inspirational rhymes that blend with invitations for boys to not just notice and effect the world, but understand their underlying emotions and impact. The lively verses are uplifting: "So dance up your dreams/sing out your spirit-song,/and the let the light that's inside you/guide you along."

A similar approach is employed for Dreams for Our Daughters (9780802855589, $18.99), which encourages girls to stand up, face the world without fears, and foster kindness, flexibility and love as they "dream big dreams" and foster ambitions. Both are revealing, compelling celebrations of how to become gentler, kinder individuals.


The Board Book Shelf

Little Owl's Bedtime
Karl Newson, author
Migy Blanco, illustrator
Nosy Crow
c/o Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
9781788006378, $9.99, Board Book, 24pp

https://www.amazon.com/Little-Owls-Bedtime-Karl-Newson/dp/1788006372

With beautiful illustration by the hugely talented Migy Blanco and a thoroughly 'kid friendly' rhyming text by Karl Newson that rolls off the tongue, "Little Owl's Bedtime" follows Little Owl on a magical, shooting star filled night. As all the other animals settle down to sleep, Little Owl swoops around the sky, blowing the stars out so it's all dark, until the sun arrives and it's morning -- but for Little Owl it's time for bed. Goodnight!

Also available in a paperback edition ( 9780857638311, $12.99) and perfect for nap time/bed time reading, "Little Owl's Bedtime" will prove to be an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library board book collections for children ages 3-5.

From Aloha to Zippy's: A Keiki Alphabet Book
Carol Colbath
The Bess Press
3565 Harding Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96816
www.besspress.com
9781573062558, $14.95, Board Book, 32pp

https://www.besspress.com/childrens-books-products/from-aloha-to-zippys

From Aloha to Zippy's makes learning fun for children ages 4-6! Designed specifically for Hawaii's keiki, this unique board book features photos of objects and activities familiar to toddlers and preschoolers in Hawaii. Each sturdy page is devoted to a letter of the alphabet and features six or eight fun, colorful images. Guaranteeing hours of fun for keiki and their caregivers, each page also includes a special image hidden behind a secret door. Kids will want to play again and again -- making "From Aloha to Zippy's: A Keiki Alphabet Book" a very special and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library board book collections.

ABC for Me: ABC What Can I Be?
Jessie Ford / Sugar Snap Studies
Walter Foster Jr., Publisher
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9781600588822, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/ABC-Me-What-anything-want/dp/1600588824

Whether they are fascinated by animals, trains, flowers, teaching, or any other thing, kids can grow up to be whatever they want! ABC What Can I Be? presents a whole alphabet full of exciting, thoughtful, and wonderful things children can do.

Pairing a career with each letter of the alphabet, "ABC for Me: ABC What Can I Be?: YOU can be anything YOU want to be, from A to Z" features colorful illustrations and fascinating careers to get kids thinking about all the possibilities for their future. Each page introduces a letter of the alphabet with bright artwork and highlights a career that is fun, challenging, and makes a big impact in its own way.

These 26 careers (which include Dentist, Floral Designer, Meteorologist, Robotics Engineer, Train Conductor, and Wildlife Conservationist) are just some of the things a kid can become! A fun read for the whole family, "ABC What Can I Be?" is not only perfect for teaching toddlers their ABCs, but also for encouraging them to consider all the careers available to them when they grow up.

With endearing illustrations and mindful concepts, "ABC for Me: ABC What Can I Be?" pairs each letter of the alphabet with words that promote big dreams, making it an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library board book collections for children ages 3- 6. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "ABC for Me: ABC What Can I Be?" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).

Editorial note: Other highly recommended books in this simply outstanding series include: ABC What Can She Be? (2018); ABC What Can He Be? (2019); and will eventually include ABC Let's Celebrate You & Me (2021) and ABC Everyday Heroes Like Me (2021).

Black Cat, White Cat: A Minibombo Book
Silvia Borando
Candlewick Press
99 Dover Street, Somerville, MA 02144
www.candlewick.com
978153621603, $8.99, Board Book, 36pp

https://www.amazon.com/Black-Cat-White-minibombo-book/dp/1536216038

Black Cat (black from the tips of his ears to the tip of his tail) only ever goes out in the day. But White Cat (white from her whiskers to her four furry paws) only ever goes out at night. He picks daisies, while she gazes at the stars. When they both feel the urge to explore a world beyond their own, Black Cat and White Cat go on a journey of discovery and meet for the very first time.

Vividly illustrated with bold black-and-white art, each page paves the way toward a surprise (and surprisingly colorful) ending -- making "Black Cat, White Cat: A Minibombo Book" by Silvia Borando a unique, entertaining, and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library board book collections for children ages 2-5.

GUESS WHO is behind the door
Susan S. Novich
Schiffer Kids
c/o Schiffer Publishing Ltd.
4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310
www.schifferbooks.com
9780764360046, $9.99, Board Book, 26pp

https://www.amazon.com/Guess-Who-behind-Door-Languages/dp/0764360043

Pinky Porcupine is painting the town. Children ages 2-6 will enjoy finding out who is behind each door being painted in this colorful rhyming board book adventure that teaches 1 through 10 in four different languages! Unique, fun, and thoroughly 'kid friendly' in organization and presentation, "GUESS WHO is behind the door" is a unique and especially recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library board book collections.

Be Thankful, Be Giving
Charles M. Schulz
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781534469051 $6.99 board book / $5.99 Kindle amazon.com

https://www.amazon.com/Be-Thankful-Giving-Peanuts/dp/1534469052

Featuring the beloved Peanuts comic strip characters created by Charles Schulz, Be Thankful, Be Giving is a children's board book with a warmhearted message that transcends the Thanksgiving holiday season. "Be thankful for friends, all those big and small. / Family and friends are the best gifts of all!" Be Thankful, Be Giving is highly recommended for especially family board book collections, and a treasure to read aloud and share with little ones.


The Christian Shelf

Different Like Me
Xochitl Dixon, author
Bonnie Lui, illustrator
Our Daily Bread Publishing
https://ourdailybreadpublishing.org
9781640700420, $16.99, HC, 32pp

https://www.amazon.com/Different-Like-Daily-Bread-Presents/dp/1640700420

Sometimes the things that make us different can leave us feeling like a fish out of water. In the pages of "Different Like Me" by author Xochitl Dixon and illustrator Bonnie Lui, parents, grandparents, Sunday School teachers can a child on a whimsical journey where each unique child works with the others to launch a giant colorful fish balloon. Along the way, the children learn to celebrate differences and uncover what they all have in common, so that even a "fish out of water" finds belonging.

"Different Like Me" features a wonderful variety of children with unique qualities. It is based on a story that Xochitl Dixon wrote years ago to explain to her own children the beauty of God's diverse world. Especially recommended for children ages 3-7, and also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99), "Different Like Me" is especially and unreservedly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, Sunday School, elementary school, and community library Christian Social Issues picture book collections.

What a Beautiful Name
Brooke Ligertwood, et al.
WaterBrook Press
c/o WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group
10807 New Allegiance Drive Suite 500, Colorado Springs, CO 80921
http://waterbrookmultnomah.com
9780593192702, $17.99, HC, 40pp

https://www.amazon.com/What-Beautiful-Name-Brooke-Ligertwood/dp/0593192702

In the pages of "What a Beautiful Name", children ages 3-7 will enjoy join little Oliver and his monkey pal as they embark on a quest for the name in the song Oliver's mother sings. As they travel across land, sea, and space, they encounter beauty, wonder, and power. Each adventure in their epic journey leads them to the matchless name of Jesus -- and to the realization that they don't have to go far to find Him. "What a Beautiful Name" is an ideal picture book approach to sharing with the little adventurers a faith-filled message will resound in their hearts long after the last page is read and the book is placed back upon the shelf. While especially recommended for family, Sunday School, and community library collections, it should be noted that "What a Beautiful Name" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99).

A Love Story
Lynette Person
Biographical Publishing Company
www.biopub.us
9781733812054, $15.00, PB, 114

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Story-Lynette-Person/dp/1733812059

"A Love Story" by Lynette Person is a tender, compassionate, gentle novel about a teenage girl who battles her struggles with prayer. She learns to have a deep abiding love of God. She longs to go to heaven to see Jesus. As she grows into a statuesque young lady, she nurtures loved ones and is loved in return unconditionally. Engagingly written with an ultimately inspiring message, "A Love Story" is especially and unreservedly recommended for the personal reading lists of young readers ages 11-15, as well as family, middle school, high school, and community library YA Fiction collections.


The Judaic Shelf

DIJ - Do It Jewish: Use Your Jewish Creativity!
Barbara Bietz, author
Daria Grinevich, illustrator
Intergalactic Afikoman
9781951365042, $24.95, HC, 112pp

https://www.amazon.com/DIJ-Do-Jewish-Your-Creativity/dp/1951365046

The collaborative project of author Barbara Bietz and illustrator Daria Grinevich, "DIJ - Do It Jewish: Use Your Jewish Creativity!" is a delightfully informative and fun compendium of all matters Jewish and specifically designed for children ages 8-12. Young readers will enjoy learning from Jewish creativity mentors and using their own Jewish creativity in areas ranging from Jewish cooking, Jewish filmmaking, Jewish cartooning & graphic novels; and Jewish song writing, to Jewish painting & art; making Midrash, and creating Judaica. Like having a Jewish mentor in book form, "DIJ - Do It Jewish: Use Your Jewish Creativity!" is especially recommended for family, synagogue, and community library collections for young readers.


The Environmental Shelf

Plasticus Maritimus: An Invasive Species
Ana Pego, author
Isabel Minhos Martins, illustrator
Bernardo P. Carvalho, illustrator
Greystone Kids
c/o Greystone Books
www.greystonebooks.com
9781771646437, $19.95, HC, 176pp

https://www.amazon.com/Plasticus-Maritimus-Invasive-Ana-Pego/dp/1771646438

Synopsis: Inspired by biologist Ana Pego's life's work, and filled with engaging science and colorful photographs, "Plasticus Maritimus: An Invasive Species" is a foundational look at plastic pollution in the oceanexplains why it issuch an urgent contemporary issue for children ages 10-16.

When she was young, Ana Pego didn't play in a backyard, but on a beach. She walked along the shore, looked at tide pools, and collected fossils. As she grew older, Pego noticed a new species at the seaside: plastic. She decided to collect it, study it, and give it the Latin name of Plasticus maritimus in order to warn people of its dangers to our planet.

Pego tells us how plastics end up in our rivers, lakes, and oceans, shares plastic's chemical composition and physical properties, and offers a field guide to help readers identify and understand this new invasive species in all its forms, from the obvious (fishing nets and water bottles) to the unfamiliar (tiny, clear particles called microplastics). Finally, she offers a critical look at our current "solutions" to plastic contamination and in her most important proposal she has termed REVOLUTIONIZE, a call for deep changes in our habits, motivating young and old alike to make a difference, together.

Her fundamental message in "Plasticus Maritimus: An Invasive Species" is that as an artificial and almost indestructible species, Plasticus maritimus deserves to have its days numbered and with us all working together when can send it into extinction.

Also readily available for personal reading lists in a paperback edition (9781771646451, $12.95) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $18.95), "Plasticus Maritimus: An Invasive Species" is an especially welcome and unreservedly recommended addition to family, middle school, highschool, and community library Environmental Issues collections and supplemental curriculum studies reading lists.


The General Fiction Shelf

Love & Olives
Jenna Evans Welch
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
www.blackstoneaudio.com
9781534448834, $18.99, HC, 51pp

https://www.amazon.com/Love-Olives-Jenna-Evans-Welch/dp/1534448837

Synopsis: Liv Varanakis doesn't have a lot of fond memories of her father, which makes sense because he fled to Greece when she was only eight. What Liv does remember, though, is their shared love for Greek myths and the lost city of Atlantis. So when Liv suddenly receives a postcard from her father explaining that National Geographic is funding a documentary about his theories on Atlantis (and will she fly out to Greece and help) Liv jumps at the opportunity.

But when she arrives to gorgeous Santorini, things are a little awkward. There are so many questions, so many emotions that flood to the surface after seeing her father for the first time in years. And yet Liv doesn't want their past to get in the way of a possible reconciliation. She also definitely doesn't want Theo (her father's charismatic so-called "protege") to witness her struggle.

And that means diving into all that Santorini has to offer including the beautiful sunsets, the turquoise water, the hidden caves, and the delicious cuisine. But not everything on the Greek island is as perfect as it seems. Because as Liv slowly begins to discover, her father may not have invited her to Greece for Atlantis, but for something much more important.

Critique: "Love & Olives" is another of author Jenna Evans Welch novels that once again demonstrates her genuine flair for originality, mastery of the romance genre, and the kind of narrative driven storytelling style that will keep and hold her reader's total attention from first page to last. While especially and unreservedly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library YA Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Love & Olives" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781534448841, $12.99), in a digital format (Kindle, $10.99), and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Audio, 9781797105789, $34.99, CD).

The Blue Jeans Rebellion
Joanna H. Kraus
Leicester Bay Books
https://leicesterbaybooks.com
9798648800717, $9.95, PB, 66pp

https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Jeans-Rebellion-Joanna-Kraus/dp/B08978X1C9

Can a young boy defy the strict regulations of his Mormon community? The story is set in 1877 in Orderville, Utah, a planned Mormon community. Many of the families who volunteer to live there had been starving before they came and so they willingly agree to all the rules and regulations. One specifies that until the clothing you wear is worn out you must not apply for anything new.

Eleven-year old Gideon wonders why everyone has to dress in the same drab gray clothes and annoyed that though his pants are too short, his application is denied. He'd heard about the new transcontinental railroad that went clear across the country. As silver pours from the earth and the railroad flashes its glitter across the continent, brand new products arrive in the west. One day making a delivery of sheep's wool to the General Mercantile Store he sees, for the first time, a pair of blue jeans.

He knows that he shouldn't covet them, but that doesn't stop his overwhelming desire. Secretly he takes some of the sheep-sheared wool and exchanges it for a pair of store-bought jeans. When he appears in the doorway in the midst of a square dance, everyone is shocked. His Pa is furious. Mama is in tears.

The Board of Management summons Gideon to a meeting. There he must relinquish the jeans and receive his punishment for taking community property. But the other boys have now seen the jeans, and they want new pants. Deliberately they all ruin what they are wearing. Exasperated, the Board orders bolts of cloth from the nearby cotton mill. Since there's an over-abundance of denim, that's what is sent. Blue jeans and change come to Orderville.

The Blue Jeans Rebellion, an early reader chapter book, is inspired by a little-known anecdote of Mormon (Latter-day Saint) history. Of special note is the inclusion a Glossary and Discussion Questions for classroom study.

An exceptionally entertaining and original story enhanced with a thought-provoking subtext, "The Blue Jeans Rebellion" is a unique, extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to elementary school, middle school, and community library fiction collections for young readers. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Blue Jeans Rebellion" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.00).

Ejected: The Story that Solves the Climate Crisis
Dawn Pape
Good Green Life Publishing
http://www.goodgreenlifepublishing.com
9780997113198, $9.99, PB, 162pp

https://www.amazon.com/Ejected-Story-Solves-Climate-Crisis/dp/0997113197

Average people who are responsible for excessive greenhouse gas emissions are ejected from the planet. In order to return to Earth, the "Ejected" need to unite to decrease emission levels so the world can support them once again. Will they manage to implement the solutions in time to return to their loved ones?

"Ejected: The Story that Solves the Climate Crisis" by author and a licensed teacher, Dawn Pape deftly weaves a serious environmental problem with humor to create a memorable story that is intended to inspire action with respect to her young readers. Of special note is how "Ejected" doubles as an educational manual on how to end the climate crisis-perfect for individuals and classroom teachers.

Although a work of fiction, "Ejected: The Story that Solves the Climate Crisis" offers real climate solutions while also exploring other critical societal problems, like environmental racism, making it an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to family, middle school, highschool, and community library YA Fiction collections.

It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Ejected: The Story that Solves the Climate Crisis" is also readily available in an inexpensive digital book format (Kindle, $0.99).

Editorial Note: While attending the University of Wisconsin - Madison, Dawn Pape was part of the campus Greens and earned undergraduate degrees in Environmental Studies, Education, and German Literature. She later earned her Master's degree in Environmental Education from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. She has worked as a high school teacher, at a nonprofit helping schools develop nature areas, as an environmental education coordinator, and as an environmental education consultant. Most recently, she founded an environmental education nonprofit, We All Need Food and Water.

A Time for Tears
Jerilynn Jones Henrikson
Meadowlark Press
PO Box 333, Emporia, KS 66801
www.meadowlark-books.com
9781734247787, $11.99, PB, 170pp

https://www.amazon.com/Time-Tears-Jerilynn-Jones-Henrikson/dp/1734247789

Set in World War II, "A Time for Tears" by Jerilyn Jones Henrikson examines three people (Andre from Soissons, France; Daniel from Topeka, Kansas; and Rachel from Paris) who are caught in a tangle of events and emotions.

Andre Jabot, a teenage French aristocrat, is enraged by the killing of his young brother as the Nazis blitz the nearby village of Soissons. He swears vengeance and finds his way to England to join De Gaulle and the Resistance. Daniel Hagelman, a young Jewish grocer from Kansas, cannot turn his back on the horror of Hitler's Nazis and travels to England to volunteer in the Royal Air Force, leaving behind a wife and newborn baby girl. Fifteen-year-old Rachel Ropfogel's parents, upper class Parisian Jews, see the oncoming disaster as France falls to the Nazis. They arrange sanctuary for their daughter in the remote village of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon where she assumes a new identity, Simon Bouret, a twenty-year-old art teacher.

Each of these characters become members of the French Resistance and find themselves pursued by the relentless SS officer, Fredrik Haught. Murder, torture, chaos, orphaned children, caged babies, starving captives: cyanide tablets become a reasonable alternative. In war, many die, some survive. War ends, but only if survivors remember and teach future generations what they have learned, only if they remember "A Time for Tears".

A deftly crafted novel by an author who pays meticulous attention to historical detail and presents the kind of narrative driven storytelling style the holds the reader's total attention from beginning to end, "A Time for Tears" is especially and unreservedly recommended for highschool and community library YA Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "A Time for Tears" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $5.95).

Daughters of Jubilation
Kara Lee Corthron
Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
1230 Avenue of the Americas, 4th floor, New York, NY 10020
www.simonandschuster.com/kids
9781481459501, $18.99, HC, 352pp

https://www.amazon.com/Daughters-Jubilation-Kara-Lee-Corthron/dp/1481459503

Synopsis: In the Jim Crow South, white supremacy reigns and tensions are high. But Evalene Deschamps has other things to worry about. She has two little sisters to look after, an overworked single mother, and a longtime crush who is finally making a move.

On top of all that, Evvie's magic abilities are growing stronger by the day. Her family calls it jubilation -- a gift passed down from generations of black women since the time of slavery. And as Evvie's talents waken, something dark comes loose and threatens to resurface! And when the demons of Evvie's past finally shake free, she must embrace her mighty lineage, and summon the power that lies within her.

Critique: A deftly scripted and original novel seamlessly blending elements of history, racism, romance and fantasy, "Daughters of Jubilation" by gifted novelist Kara Lee Corthron will prove to be an immediately welcome and enduringly appreciated addition to highschool and community library YA Fiction collections for young readers ages 14- 18. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Daughters of Jubilation" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).

The Companion
Katie Alender
Penguin Putnam
9780399545917, $18.99, www.penguin.com

https://www.amazon.com/Companion-Katie-Alender/dp/0399545913

Young adults will find Katie Alender's The Companion (9780399545917, $18.99 HC, $10.99 Kindle) a compelling story of Margot, an orphan who survived a terrible accident that killed her family but left her with lasting nightmares. The other orphans think she's lucky for surviving and for being chosen by a rich family to live at their remote country estate. But actually, Margot has been especially chosen to be a companion to the silent Agatha, their daughter, and when she begins seeing things in the old house, she begins to wonder if the nightmares have come home to roost. Part ghost story and part survival piece, mature teens will find this a compelling tale indeed.


The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf

Kingshackle
Marjory Kaptanoglu
Independently Published
www.marjorykaptanoglu.com
9780999449257, $4.99 Ebook
9780999449264, $12.99 Paperback
9781735377858, $12.99 Audiobook

https://www.amazon.com/Kingshackle-Conjurer-Fellstone-Book-Three/dp/0999449265

Book 3 of the Conjurer Fellstone series for teens, Kingshackle, ends the trilogy. It is recommended reading for prior fans, and continues the saga of the missing Ash and three individuals charged with confronting and defying the reign of Conjurer King Slayert.

Kingshackle is the king's major weapon. It's a magical crown which gives him power and control. When Tessa is captured and forced to confront this power and her perhaps-unique role in conquering it, she finds herself facing many forces, from friends to foe. Kingshackle is a powerful and fitting conclusion to the series begun in Dreadmarrow Thief and expanded in Gravenwood's events. Here, Tessa comes into her own and faces her abilities, mortality, and the influence of friends and enemies as she tests her resolve in a final battle that has no clear outcome. The purpose of the quest and the objectives of ridding the kingdom of a powerful conqueror that seems to hold all the cards is well-done, building on the prior books' scenarios, magical setting, and characters while taking the action and confrontations to new levels.

Teens already involved in this fantasy receive high-octane action, insights about poor decision-making, and the evolving choices of all the characters, which come to life through Tessa's first-person narrative and the insights of those around her: "We had no idea what we would be up against," she said. "Slayert must have spent decades building his army. Horrifying half men combined of men and pigs. Soldiers with scaled armor that repels blades. We had no hope of surviving their attack without the help of a powerful conjurer. But when we released my brother to come to our aid, he immediately surrendered."

The underlying psychological motivations and keys to success and failure are nicely explored as events unfold, which are embedded with the fantasy trappings of action and adventure throughout. Many levels of choice and consequence are explored from different perspectives. It's hard to imagine a more fitting crescendo to the dramatic opera of events formed in the previous books. From the opening lines of Tessa's experiences, readers are drawn through a journey replete with satisfying twists and turns, before it neatly concludes.

The Conjurer Fellstone series for teens is well-served by this final saga, which wraps up relationships and hanging questions and summarizes a heroine's long journey not just to save those she loves, but to accept her own wild nature. Very highly recommended, this series is nicely done!

Rise of the Hidden Prince
J.M. Stephen
D. X. Varos, Ltd.
https://www.dxvaros.com
9781941072813, $18.95, paperback
9781941072820, $6.99, ebook

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/rise-of-the-hidden-prince-j-m-stephen/1137411893

Book 2 of the Chronicles of Pan series, Rise of the Hidden Prince, places Pippa Gardner in the center of action in her quest to locate faerie Queen Mab's lost son, Eros. Hampering her are disasters both physical and mental, stemming from the worlds she seeks to preserve. Supporting her are savvy allies who also have a stake in the outcome.

Add in a faerie threat as a dangerous evil rises in their world for a thoroughly engrossing fantasy that goes far beyond Pippa's prior relationship with Pan to probe her feelings about a war that is keeping them apart. J.M. Stephen provides a fine background and setting to help newcomers transition to this second book, but it will be those already well familiar with Pippa's personality and past from Into the Fairy Forest who will most eagerly reach for this sequel, which continues to explore her challenges and newfound abilities. From Pan's uncertain injection into Pippa's world and his odd countenance and name to powerful foes such as Silenus, who display early evil connections that cause her to question her destiny and abilities, Pippa forges ahead. The journey places her in an uncertain position as a defender of everything and everyone she loves.

Stephen writes with an evocative, descriptive hand that not only captures the contrasts between these worlds, but Pippa's evolving feelings about them. As she, Pan, Vincent, and a host of fairy and human followers investigate threats to Inner Earth and both worlds, the story assumes a vigorous, fast, compelling pace that keeps teens thoroughly engrossed in Pippa's perspective and her adventures.

Rise of the Hidden Prince is not only a fine follow-up expanding the story, but an excellent vision of a young girl coming into her powers and purpose. Considerations of who chooses which side and why are particularly well done, bringing readers into a story which holds a side dish of ethical and moral conundrums, as well.

Champion of the Titan Games
Brandon Mull
Shadow Mountain Publishing
P.O. Box 30178, Salt Lake City, Utah 84130-0178
www.shadowmountain.com
9781629727882, $19.99, HC, 544pp

https://www.amazon.com/Champion-Titan-Games-Dragonwatch-Brandon/dp/1629727881

The war against dragons intensifies. Will Kendra and Seth find the help they desperately need from the Giant Queen? "Champion of the Titan Games" is fourth book in a five-book series by Brandon Mull and leaves the underwater dragon preserve of Crescent Lagoon for a gladiator-style arena at Titan Valley, the magical realm of towering giants and enslaved dragons. Our two young heroes have never felt so small or faced a challenge so seemingly insurmountable!

While "Champion of the Titan Games" is an especially recommended addition to both middle school and community library Science Fiction & Fantasy collections for young readers ages 9-12. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated fantasy fans that "Champion of the Titan Games" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (9781629727936, $39.82).

Twin Daggers
MarcyKate Connolly
Blink
c/o HarperCollins
10 East 53rd Street, New York, NY 10022
www.harpercollinschildrens.com
www.dreamscapeab.com/audiobooks
9780310768142, $18.99, HC, 368pp

https://www.amazon.com/Twin-Daggers-Blink-MarcyKate-Connolly/dp/0310768144

Aissa's life is a web of carefully constructed lies. By day, she and her sister Zandra play the role of normal young Technocrats eager to fulfill the duties of their new apprenticeships. By night, they work for the Magi's spy organization, which seeks to overthrow the Technocrats who subjugated their people. Soon Aissa is given her greatest mission: find and kidnap the heir to the Technocrat throne, who is rumored to be one of the Heartless (a person born without a working heart who survives via a mechanical replacement) and has been hidden since birth.

Aissa has never been one to turn down an assignment, even if the hunt is complicated by a kind Technocrat researcher who is determined to find a cure for the Heartless. But when Zandria is captured, Aissa will do anything to get her sister back. Even if it means abandoning all other loyalties -- and risking everything by trusting the enemy.

Critique: Exceptionally well crafted with a wealth of inherently fascinating plot twists and turns, "Twin Daggers" is a simply outstanding YA novel that will have a very special appeal to young readers ages 13-18. Combining romance and dystopian science fiction, "Twin Daggers" is unreservedly recommended for middle school, highschool, and community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Twin Daggers" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape Media, 9781662018725, $22.99, CD).

The Stardust Mystery
Peter Solomon
TheBeamer LLC
http://TheStardustMystery.com
9780578722191, $25.95, PB, 252pp

https://www.amazon.com/Stardust-Mystery-Peter-Solomon/dp/0578722194

As the Cosmic Kids team, the cousins enter The Science and The Future Contest, held by the mysterious Dr. Q. The winners will be taken on a trip around the moon! What could be a better gift for the grandfather they love, a former NASA astronaut?

Along the way, they visit Einstein, dinosaurs, and even the Big Bang. To win, they'll have to use their brains to answer the many science questions, but they'll also have to use their hearts to come together to solve the problems of family.

Critique: Nicely illustrated throughout, "The Stardust Mystery" is a fun and informative companion to the MissionKT and Building the Universe video games, the Stardust Mystery YouTube channel, and the StardustMystery.com/kids/ web page. It follows the lives of cousins Lizzy, Milo, VC, and Neddy as they unravel the Stardust Mystery. Their adventures take them across time during the evolution of the Universe and the history of Planet Earth in the Cosmic Egg time, space and size-change travel ship. They must figure out how everyone alive is made of Stardust that was once in the body of Albert Einstein and the Last T-Rex. They must find out what Stardust is, and how, when, and where it was created.

While especially recommended for community library collections for children ages 7-12, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "The Stardust Mystery" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $8.49).

Never After: The Thirteenth Fairy
Melissa De La Cruz
Roaring Brook Press
33 Irving Place, New York, NY 10003
www.roaringbrookpress.com
Macmillan Audio
www.macmillanaudio.com
9781250311214, $16.99, HC, 336pp

https://www.amazon.com/Never-After-Book-One-Thirteenth/dp/1250311217

Nothing ever happens in Filomena's sleepy little suburban town of North Pasadena. The sun shines every day, the grass is always a perfect green, and while her progressive school swears there's no such thing as bullying, she still feels bummed out. But one day, when Filomena is walking home on her own, something strange happens.

Filomena is being followed by Jack Stalker, one of the heroes in the Thirteenth Fairy, a series of books she loves about a brave girl and her ragtag group of friends who save their world from an evil enchantress. She must be dreaming, or still reading a book. But Jack is insistent -- he's real, the stories are real, and Filomena must come with him at once!

Soon, Filomena is thrust into the world of evil fairies and beautiful princesses, sorcerers and slayers, where an evil queen drives her ruthless armies to destroy what is left of the Fairy tribes. To save herself and the kingdom of Westphalia, Filomena must find the truth behind the fairytales and set the world back to rights before the cycle of sleep and destruction begins once more.

Critique: A unique and thoroughly enjoyable action/adventure fantasy novel by an author with a genuine flair for originality and a touch-tone perfect sense of narrative storytelling, "Never After: The Thirteenth Fairy" will prove to be an immediately and enduringly popular addition to elementary school, middle school, and community library collections for young readers ages 10-14. It should be noted for personal reading lists of all dedicated fantasy fans that "Never After: The Thirteenth Fairy" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Macmillan, 9781250247940, $34.99, CD).

Mr. Figgletoes' Toy Emporium
M.J. Evans
Dancing Horse Press
www.dancinghorsepress.com
9781733020435, $10.95 PB, $4.99 Kindle, 188pp

https://www.amazon.com/Mr-Figgletoes-Emporium-M-J-Evans/dp/1733020438

Mr. Figgletoes' Toy Emporium is a magical toy story recommended for advanced elementary to early middle grade readers. It tells of an eight-year-old girl who stumbles into an extraordinary shop that changes everything.

Jasmine has spent her life being stubborn. Her insistence on stopping at this magical-sounding store, and her spoiled attitude, will prove surprising strengths in the adventure that follows. Parker is a young boy whose sister Kylie is ill. Used to being the 'man of the house' after his father was killed, ten-year-old Parker has been able to tackle everything life has thrown at him... until now. His desperate visit to the only place he thinks will contain something that can help, the Toy Emporium, leads to a special gift that changes everything.

Young readers ages 8-12 will appreciate the attention to detail and action that M.J. Evans cultivates in this fun fantasy. As investigators struggle to find four missing children, Jasmine's stubbornness and defiance serves her well and aids in her survival, while Parker finds within himself a special form of courage that can change everything. Both confront the true meaning of the elusive toymaker Mr. Figgletoes's magical emporium and its different impact on their lives. As a concerned parent connects the dots which sends Mr. Figgletoes on a mission, young readers will delight in the interactions, personalities, and involvements of a cast of characters who support courage and their own special interests. Humor permeates the story, as do surprises, when some of the adversarial characters turn out to be unexpectedly warm folk who also deserve a break and help.

The magic in Mr. Figgletoes' Toy Emporium lies not just in the adventure, but in the revelations which lead Jasmine and Parker to reconsider their views of the world and their places in it. They each find different answers as they challenge themselves and seek to fix those things in their world which are going awry. Just as the toy emporium's magic changes everyone for the better, so young readers will find their expectations and perceptions of the characters to be in flux. The result is not just a fun magical adventure, but the story of true transformation, using one's strengths, and changing the world for the better.

Mr. Figgletoes' Toy Emporium is very highly recommended for young readers looking for a tale of magic which evolves into something even more delightful, advocating for a kinder world. In these trying times, this underlying message is particularly important.


The Poetry Shelf

Designed to SHINE!
Joy Resor, author
Lauren Connell, illustrator
Joy on Your Shoulders
http://www.joyonyourshoulders.com
9780984035342, $22.00, HC, 66pp

https://www.amazon.com/Designed-Shine-Aloud-Rhymes-Heart/dp/0984035346

Written by author and poet Joy Resor and charmingly illustrated by artist Lauren Connell, "Designed to SHINE!: Read Aloud Rhymes for Any Size Heart" is a delightful compendium of verse for children ages 3-12 and one that is especially recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library poetry collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Designed to SHINE!: Read Aloud Rhymes for Any Size Heart" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780984035359, $14.95).

The B on Your Thumb
Colette Hiller, author
Tor Freeman, illustrator
Frances Lincoln Children's Books
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
100 Cummings Center, Suite 265D, Beverly, MA 01915
www.quartoknows.com
9780711254602, $19.99, HC, 80pp

https://www.amazon.com/Your-Thumb-Poems-Reading-Spelling/dp/0711254605

"The B on Your Thumb" by author Colette Hiller and illustrator Tor Freeman is comprised of 60 hilariously illustrated rhymes and delightful ditties to boost early reading. Each individual poem teaches a specific sound, spelling, or rule. Using rhythm and wordplay, they promote phonics awareness, thinking skills, and literacy. But most of all, "The B on Your Thumb" will delight young readers ages 3-8 with the fun and silliness of the English language -- making it an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections. Ideal for home schooling parents and personal reading lists, it should also be noted that "The B on Your Thumb" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780711254589, $16.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).


The Genealogy Shelf

Roots for Kids, third edition
Susan Provost Beller
Genealogical Publishing Company
3600 Clipper Mill Road, Suite 229, Baltimore, MD 21211
www.genealogical.com
9780806321066, $24.50, PB, 106pp

https://www.amazon.com/The-Appeal-Reprint-edition/dp/0806321067

The third updated edition of Roots for Kids updates a classic that first appeared in 1989, and is based on a twelve-week course developed for the author and educator Susan Provost Beller's fourth-grade class. Teachers as well as families looking to teach kids about ancestry research will find it the perfect introductory primer that takes kids into the world of genealogical research, teaching them the basic research tools needed to find their ancestors and uncover their family stories. Parents, teachers and caregivers seeking an introduction to the subject will find this lively, clear, and inviting.


The Cookbook Shelf

Kitchen Explorers!
America's Test Kitchen
America's Test Kitchen, Publishers
9781948703628, $12.99, www.americastestkitchen.com

https://www.amazon.com/Kitchen-Explorers-recipes-experiments-games/dp/1948703629

Kitchen Explorers! is the perfect item of choice for parents and caregivers who wish to teach youngsters how to cook, and provides the third book in the Young Chefs series. With shelter-in-place restrictions keeping kids at home, there's no better time for such a book, which teaches kids the basics about making everything from Peanut Butter Cookies to understanding the science of what makes fizzy drinks fizzy. More than just a collection of recipes, "Kitchen Explorers!" focuses on experiments, games, and science behind cooking, giving kids a solid and diverse set of insights into how cooking actually works, from identifying and working with food textures to understanding how smell can change taste. The puzzles, word games, recipes, and insights will delight parents and kids seeking more than a cookbook alone.


Books in Series

The Child's World
1980 Lookout Drive, Mankato, MN 56003
www.childsworld.com

'The United States Presidents' is a new forty-four volume series from The Child's World that individually showcases each American president from George Washinton to Donald J. Trump. This impressively informative series for young readers ages 8-12 chronicles the lives of our nation's leaders, including some of the most famous figures in American history. Each individual 48 page biography tells the fascinating story of a single president, from childhood and early life to the presidency and beyond. Additional sections explain the branches of government, the Electoral College, the White House, and the various presidential perks. Exploring the lives and times of our presidents gives readers an inside look at the personalities, key developments, and important events that have shaped our nation's history.

Each volume features full color and historical photographs, detailed maps, informative sidebars, a phonetic glossary, as well as facts, presidential perks, sourcws for further research, and thematically relevant websites. Of special note is the inclusion information on the Electoral College, the White House, and the 3 branches of government. While each volume can be obtained individually ($39.95 List / $24.95 S/L), elementary school and community libraries are advised to acquire the entire set for the benefit of their students and young patrons ($1757.80 List / $1097.80).

Cavendish Square
243 5th Avenue, Suite 136, New York, NY 10016
https://cavendishsq.com

New from Cavendish Square is 'Taking Action on Climate Change', a new six volume series for young readers ages 8- 12. Impressively informative, exceptionally well organized and presented is comprised of "Burning Up: Escalating Heat Waves and Forest Fires" (9781502652232, $34.21 List, $23.95 S/L, Library Binding, 64pp); "Dehydrated: Escalating Droughts" (9781502652263, $34.21 List, $23.95 S/L, Library Binding, 64pp); "Drowning: Rising Oceans and Frequent Floods" (9781502652294, $34.21 List, $23.95 S/L, Library Binding, 64pp); "Dying Off: Endangered Plants and Animals" (9781502652324, $34.21 List, $23.95 S/L, Library Binding, 64pp; "Starved: Endangered Water and Food Supplies" (9781502652386, $34.21 List, $23.95 S/L, Library Binding, 64pp); "Swept Away: Escalating Storms and Disasters" (9781502652355, $34.21 List, $23.95 S/L, Library Binding, 64pp).

Each individual 64 page volume is enhanced with full color photography, a Bibliography, Fact Boxes, a Further Information section, Side Bars, a Glossary, an Index, and thematically relevant websites -- making this series (9781502653077, $205.26 List / $143.70 S/L) an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to elementary school, middle school, and community library Contemporary Environmental Issues collections and supplemental curriculum studies. It should be noted for personal reading lists that each volume is also readily available in a paperback edition ($3.97).

Enslow Publishing
101 West 23rd Street, Suite #240, New York, NY 10011
www.enslow.com

"Whatever Happened?" is a new four volume history series from Enslow Publishing for young readers ages 10-15 and very highly recommended for elementary school, middle school, and community library World History collections. Exceptionally well written, organized and presented, the individual titles include:

"The Ancient Egyptians" (9781978519770, $25.27 HC, $8.95 PB/Kindle, 32pp) Ancient Egypt is known for powerful pharaohs, hieroglyphics, and a complex mythology. However, their contributions to modern civilization happened centuries ago. So, why didn't the ancient Egyptians thrive longer than they did? From a lack of needed resources and famine to civil war and invasions, the reasons the empire of ancient Egypt fell are varied. With this compelling volume, readers investigate why this impressive empire isn't around anymore, and why it was such an important part of the ancient world. Accessible text, full-color images, and a timeline complement classroom learning activities and social studies curricula.

"The Ancient Greeks" (9781978519817, $25.27 HC, $8.95 PB/Kindle, 32pp) From early democracy to the Olympics, the contributions of ancient Greece are still very much a part of today's world. However, this ancient civilization dissolved thousands of years ago. How and why did this impressive civilization fall? The answer to that question is found within the pages of this book, written especially for elementary readers. Historical images and important dates support social studies content, including the rise in the power of the Roman Empire, which eventually conquered the Greeks. With this knowledge, readers will better understand the influence and importance of this civilization hundreds of years after its decline.

"The Ancient Romans" (9781978519855, $25.27 HC, $8.95 PB/Kindle, 32pp) At its height, ancient Rome stretched from modern-day Great Britain in the west to modern-day parts of Asia to the east. Many social studies students know that ancient Rome was powerful and contributed much to future world civilizations, but what's often less clear is why and how this huge empire fell so spectacularly. Your readers will investigate this exact idea, including the invasions the Roman Empire faced, the overextension of the Roman military, and the political trouble that caused the empire to split in two. Maps and historical images aid readers' understanding the compelling narrative.

"The Shang Dynasty" (9781978519893, $25.27 HC, $8.95 PB/Kindle, 32pp) The Shang Dynasty was the earliest recorded dynasty in China. It was in power for less than 600 years, but they ruled during great advances in math, art, astronomy, and military technology. If life was so great during this time, why did the Shang Dynasty end? Invasion is one main reason that readers learn about in this compelling volume, full of information about the civilization the Shang Dynasty created and about ancient China. Historical images and a timeline aid in comprehension of the social studies content included throughout.

Greenhaven Publishing
353 3rd Avenue, Suite 255, New York, NY 10010
www.greenhavenpublishing.com

Five new titles have been added to the outstanding 'Current Controversies' series from Greenhaven Publishing for young readers ages 15-17. Very highly recommended as core additions to middle school, highschool, and community library Contemporary Social Issues collections, the newest additions include:

"Agriculture" (9781534506978, $46.50 HC, $32.00 PB, 176pp, www.amazon.com) Agriculture has existed for approximately 12,000 years and has played an important role in shaping human history. It enabled the development of the United States, and the family farm has become an indelible image of American resilience and self-sufficiency. However, with changes in technology, the global economy, and our understanding of nutritional needs, the field of agriculture has been forced to adjust to meet twenty-first-century demands. Is it necessary that factory farms displace family farms? Should the government play a larger role in regulating technological innovations like GMOs? This volume guides readers to examine these key issues and many others.

"The Gig Economy" (9781534507067, $46.50 HC, $32.00 PB, 176pp, www.amazon.com) For many, the gig economy is part of everyday life. It affects how our food and groceries are delivered, our transportation options, and where we stay when we travel. But while apps like Uber tend to receive the most attention, this shift in the labor market manifests in many different ways. Essentially, it applies to anyone who forgoes traditional full-time employment for temporary or contract-based work. Your readers will experience a wide range of viewpoints that consider how the gig economy has developed, its advantages and disadvantages for both workers and consumers, and whether regulation could help ensure its growth is beneficial to all involved.

"Holocaust Deniers and Conspiracy Theorists" (9781534507036, $46.50 HC, $32.00 PB, 175pp, www.amazon.com) Conspiracy theories have existed for centuries to rationalize major events and crises, but while they were once relegated to the fringes of discourse, in recent decades, they have increasingly become part of public debate. While many conspiracy theories are innocuous, others, like Holocaust denial, are considered dangerous because their intention to legitimize racist or otherwise hateful ideologies. This resource helps readers to examine key debates and topics related to conspiracy theories. Balancing free speech and public safety, the development of conspiracy theorizing over the past century, the role the internet has played, and whether some conspiracy theories can actually benefit society are all richly analyzed.

"Immigration, Asylum, and Sanctuary Cities" (9781534507098, $46.50 HC, $32.00 PB, 176pp, www.amazon.com) Though sanctuary cities have recently become a significant aspect of the immigration debate as a result of the Trump administration's stricter immigration policies, sanctuary cities have existed in America since the 1980s and for centuries in countries around the world. However, the precise definition and legal standing of sanctuary cities in today's context is often foggy. The viewpoints in this volume discuss the timely issue of sanctuary cities from a variety of angles while also exploring the economic, cultural, political, and moral aspects of asylum and immigration.

"Nativism, Nationalism, and Patriotism" (9781534506992, $46.50 HC, $32.00 PB, 176pp, www.amazon.com) Since the rise of globalism in the post-Cold War era, neoliberalism and free trade have generally characterized politics in democratic nations. However, in recent years, nationalism has been on the rise in countries around the world, including the United States. Events like the Brexit referendum and the 2016 U.S. presidential election have brought the related issues of nationalism, nativism, and patriotism to the forefront, but much confusion exists when discussing these concepts. The viewpoints presented in this volume clarify the distinctions and interconnections between these concepts while presenting a variety of viewpoints on their role in domestic and global politics.

Each individual titles features a Q&A chapter format and includes resources for further reading and thematically relevant organization contact lists. While especially recommended as core additions to middle school, highschool, and community library Contemporary Social Issues collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that each title is also readily available in a digital book format (eBook $46.40 List / $37.12 S/L).

The Rosen Publishing Group
29 East 21st Street, New York, NY 10010
www.rosenpublishing.com

'Shutting Down Bullies' is a new five volume series from Rosen Publishing that is specifically designed and intended for young readers ages 8-12. Each individual 48 page volume is enhanced with Sidebars offering specific tips and strategies for different bullying situations, a 'Myths & Facts' section explaining and dispelling commonly held beliefs, and '10 Great Questions' offering useful and relevant questions to ask a school guidance counselor. This outstanding series is comprised of:

"Shutting Down Bullies at Home" (9781725347045, $31.75 HC, $4.44 PB, www.amazon.com) Bullying continues to be an issue for many teens, both in school and online. One type of frequently ignored bullying is that which takes place in the home, often at the hand of a parent, sibling, or other relative. That makes this type of bullying easy to overlook but it is still potentially very damaging. This engaging volume digs into the often misunderstood situations in which a young person might find themselves the victim of a bully within their own home. It includes tips for finding help and knowing who to talk to when the trouble at home becomes too much.

"Shutting Down Cyberbullies" (9781725346925, $31.75 HC, $3.98 PB, www.amazon.com) As technology continues to develop and young people find new ways to communicate, the issue of cyberbullying continues to grow. Cyberbullying can spiral out of control, resulting in very real mental health issues and even suicide. This frank but thoughtful volume provides tips on how to stay safe and comfortable online while still being able to have fun and communicate with friends. It offers helpful resources on reporting bullying behavior, blocking potential threats, and knowing where to go to find safe spaces online and in social situations where online bullying overflows into real life.

"Shutting Down Social Bullying" (9781725346956, $31.75 HC, $8.83 PB, www.amazon.com) Sometimes the most painful type of bullying is the kind that is inflicted upon a young person by peers or classmates. Social alienation or bullying behavior by acquaintances can have a huge impact when you just can't leave the environment where it's taking place. This can happen in school or at events where a certain social circle is present. Backing away and combatting the bullying can result in further isolation. This helpful volume delves into what a young person can do to recognize bullying behavior, develop a coping strategy, and find someone who can help.

"Shutting Down Verbal Bullying" (9781725346987, $31.75 HC, $3.68 PB, www.amazon.com) Verbal bullying is a type of psychological and emotional abuse, and can often have an even greater impact than a bully who uses their fists to inflict damage. What can a young person do in the face of name-calling and insults that seem harmless to many outsiders? Through this comprehensive volume, readers will learn how a bully becomes a bully, what constitutes verbal bullying, and where to seek help. It includes valuable resources from anti-bullying organizations and specifically addresses verbal bullying against members of the LGBTQ+ community.

"Shutting Down Violent Bullies" (9781725347014, $31.75 HC, $4.05 PB, www.amazon.com) A bully who uses violence to inflict harm will often choose victims who can't or are afraid to fight back. This makes their acts of physical abuse difficult to combat, but there is help for victims. This useful volume analyzes and explains the different types of violent physical abuse and why bullies will choose one victim over another. Readers will learn essential, nonviolent options for escaping the cycle of abuse. Examples of real-life people who have escaped their bullies will inspire courage. Readers also learn about strategies being used in schools and other settings to help both the bullies and their victims.

Timely and timeless, "Shutting Down Bullies" is thoroughly 'kid friendly' in tone, commentary, and presentation -- making it an ideal and highly recommended addition to middle school, highschool, and community library Contemporary Social Issues collections for young readers. It should be noted for personal reading lists that each individual title is also available in a digital book format (eBook, $31.75 List / $23.85 S/L).

PowerKids Press
29 East 21st Street, New York, NY 10010
www.rosenpublishing.com

'Animals of the Grasslands' is a new eight volume series from PowerKids Press for young readers ages 6-8. With each individual 24 page book featuring a library binding for extended shelf life, full color photographs, a glossary, graphic organizers, thematically relevant websites, and an index, this outstanding 'Animals of the Grasslands' series consists of: Awesome Ostriches; Burrowing Meerkats; Deadly Rhinoceros; Gistn Giraffes; Hungry Hyenas; Powerful Lions; Speedy Cheetahs; and Wandering Wildebeasts. While each volume in the 'Animals of the Grasslands' series is available individually ($23.60 List / $17.70 S/L) and in a digital book format ($23.60 List / $17.70 S/L), elementary school and community libraries should add the entire set ($188.80 List / $141.60 S/L) to their Pets/Wildlife collections for the benefit of their students and young patrons.

Gareth Stevens Publishing
111 East 14th Street, Suite 349, New York, NY 10003
www.garethstevens.com

'A Look at Space Science' is a new six volume, large print series from Gareth Stevens Publishing for young readers ages 7-10. Inherently interesting, impressively informative, exceptionally well organized and presented, this outstanding astronomical science series includes "Black Holes"; "Comets, Asteroids and Meteoroids"; "Galaxies"; "The Moon"; "The Planets"; "The Sun and Other Stars".

Each individual 32 page volume features an informative text enhanced with diagrams and illustrations that illuminate essential concepts and inherently fascinating facts. While each title is available individually ($26.60 List / $19.95 S/L), elementary school, middle school, and community libraries would be best advised to acquire the series in its entirety (9781538259726, $159.60 List / $119.70 S/L).

Crabtree Publishing Company
347 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1402-145, New York, NY 10016
http://www.crabtreebooks.com

'All Kinds of People' is a new four volume series from the Crabtree Publishing Company specifically published for young readers preschool through third grade.

"All Kinds of Beliefs" (9780778768005, $27.60, HC, $9.95 PB, 32pp, Ages 4-8). People hold all kinds of beliefs. We may be Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, Jews, Muslims, or Sikhs, or belong to other religions. Some people have non-religious beliefs. We can show what we believe by how we dress, what we eat, how we behave, and how we treat other people.

"All Kinds of Bodies" (9780778768012, $27.60 HC, $9.95 PB, 32pp, Ages -5-8). There are all kinds of bodies. People come in different shapes, skin colors, and sizes, and every body is completely unique. Our bodies are amazing things! They change as we get older. Different bodies are good at different things.

"All Kinds of Families" (9780778768029, $27.60 HC, 14.78 PB, 32pp, Ages 8-12). Families come in all kinds, shapes and sizes. They can be big or small in number, and they can change over time. Some families live together and others live apart. In every family there are people who love each other.

"All Kinds of Feelings" (9780778768036, $27.60 HC, $8.31 PB, 32pp, Ages 5-8). There are all kinds of feelings. We can feel happy and sad, excited and disappointed, worried, angry, curious, and calm. Our feelings change, often several times in one day. When we understand our feelings, it helps us understand how other people are feeling, too.

Very highly recommended for family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections, each of these four volumes comprising this outstanding series features full color photographs and illustrations, a glossary, an index, and notes for educators at the end of each book provide helpful tips and talking points.

Red Chair Press
PO Box 333, South Egremont, MA 01258
www.redchairpress.com

Two new titles have been added to the 'Helper Hounds' series from Red Chair Press for children ages 6-9.

"Helper Hounds: Robot - Robot Helps Max and Lily Deal with Bullies" (9781634407762, $12.99 Library Binding, $6.99 PB, $6.64 Kindle, 72pp). Max and his sister Lily are staying with relatives while their mom is away getting her own emotional help. Max and Lily are being teased and bullied at school. Their Aunt Eileen calls the Helper Hounds, and soon Robot, an endearing Rottweiler who knows all about bullies, comes to give support. A lot of people think Rottweilers are bullies, but that's because they don't really know how cuddly they can be. Robot and his handler Samuel help the kids at Max and Lily's school deal with bullies while Max and Lily gain new friends.

"Helper Hounds: Noodle - Noodle Helps Gabriel Say Goodbye" (9781634409155, $12.99 Library Binding, $6.99 PB, $6.64 Kindle, 72pp). After losing her first two forever homes, Noodle the goldendoodle knows all about the sadness of goodbyes. But in her new home with Andrea and as an official Helper Hound, Noodle helps Gabriel deal with the loss of his grandfather and to discover that our loved ones can be found in the little things all around us even when they're gone.

Each of these children's books features soft and simplified illustrations, end-of-book tips for emotional support needs, and fun facts about the featured canine breed. Very highly recommended for elementary school and community library Pets/Wildlife life collections, it should be noted that the first two volumes of this simply outstanding series includes "Helper Hounds: Sparky - Sparky Helps Mary Make Friends" and "Helper Hounds: Penny - Penny Helps Portia Face Her Fears".

Norwood House Press
PO Box 316598, Chicago, IL 60631
www.norwoodhousepress.com

A new four volume series for children ages 5-10 that focuses on social and emotional learning includes:

"Being Kind to Animals" (9781684508952, $22.60 Library Binding, $11.94 PB, 32pp) which describes what we can do to be kind to both tame and wild animals, such as being gentle and patient and learning how to give them what they need so they can grow and thrive.

"Being Kind to Each Other" (9781684508921, $22.60 Library Binding, $11.94 PB, 32pp) shows that being kind to others is a choice that we can make at home, in the neighborhood, at school, and with our friends.

"Being Kind to Our Planet" (9781684508945, $22.60 Library Binding, $11.94 PB, 32pp) carries the important and timely message that all people need a healthy planet to live on, so choosing to be kind to Earth by caring for its air, land, and water benefits everyone.

"Being Kind to Yourself" (9781684508938, $22.60 Library Binding, $11.94 PB, 32pp) focuses on what we can do to be kind to ourselves, such as taking care of our bodies, being aware of our thoughts, and looking for helpers when we need them.

An early social-emotional learning series that each volume includes a note to caregivers, reading activities, and a word list. It should be noted that this outstanding series meets C3 Framework Standards for Social Studies, reinforces high frequency words, and employs a comprehension of information text -- making this series an especially and unreservedly recommended addition to elementary and community library collections for young readers.


The Story Monsters Ink Shelf

www.storymonsters.com

Story Monsters LLC is dedicated to helping authors of all genres strive for excellence through our marketing and publicity services, Dragonfly Book Awards contests, Story Monsters Approved! awards program, opportunities for connecting with schools, and the award-winning Story Monsters Ink(R) magazine.

Good Night, Baboon!
Sabrina Moyle, author
Eunice Moyle, illustrator
Workman
www.workman.com
9781523507474, $7.95

https://www.amazon.com/Good-Night-Baboon-Bedtime-Counting/dp/1523507470

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Board books set the stage for a great reading experience that can span a lifetime. The quick pace, colorful artwork, and rhyming tone will keep little ones engaged. This bedtime countdown beams with fun as we watch Baby Baboon hop from page to page. Will this cheeky little monkey ever calm down and be ready for sleep? Counting down may be just be the thing he needs. (infant-4)

Christmas Is Joy
Emma Dodd
Templar
www.templarco.co.uk
9781536215458, $14.99

https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Emma-Dodds-Love-Books/dp/1536215457

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Emma Dodd's joyful celebration of this wonderful time of year, as seen through the eyes of two reindeer, is a pure delight. The lyrical flow of the sweet text combines with the visual delight of the illustrations, making this a warm reading experience. A wonderful bedtime story to build a happy momentum in the holiday season. (Ages 2-5)

Let's Play Monsters!
Lucy Cousins
Candlewick
www.candlewick.com
9781536210606, $16.99

https://www.amazon.com/Lets-Play-Monsters-Lucy-Cousins/dp/1536210609

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Gabriel loves to run and play with his family. His vivid imagination supplies many props and disguises for monsters he dares to catch him if they can. The pleasant tempo keeps in stride as Gabriel manages to escape his captors. Children are sure to enjoy the creativity of simple play. (Ages 2-5)

Are You A Polar Bear?
Andrew Gabriel, author
Catherine Suvorova, illustrator
Storybook Genius
www.sbgpublishing.com
9781952954252, $10.95

https://www.amazon.com/Are-Polar-Bear-Andrew-Gabriel/dp/1952954258

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

This beautifully illustrated story holds a maze of directions one can take. All enlightening! Each path or story highlight presents an educational encounter. From an emotional relativity to the delightful discovery or diversity, the book advances with enlargement. Sequencing, likes and differences, introduction to arctic wildlife... there are so many educational approaches one can take. A valuable and lasting resource. (Ages 3-5)

The Alphabet's Alphabet
Chris Harris, author
Dan Santat, illustrator
Little, Brown Books
www.lbyr.com
9780316266628, $17.99

https://www.amazon.com/Alphabets-Alphabet-Chris-Harris/dp/0316266620

Dr. Dawn Menge
Reviewer

A beautifully written story about the resemblances of each alphabet letter to each other. Through its subtle message, it is teaching us that we are all different, but the same. Little children will enjoy the references to the alphabet as it is teaching them this important concept. (Ages 3-5)

If I Had a Unicorn
Alex Barrow and Gabby Dawnay
Thames & Hudson
www.thamesandhudson.com
9780500652268, $14.95

https://www.amazon.com/If-Had-Unicorn-Alex-Barrow/dp/0500652260

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Have you ever given any thought to what the perfect magical pet would be? Giants are far too big, and dragons are way too hot, but what about a unicorn? It might eat all your ice cream for breakfast, but if you get upset about that, it will feed you cotton candy! Kid-friendly illustrations, rhyming text, and a narrative that kids will enjoy make this a sure-to-please bedtime story. (Ages 3-5)

The Pirates Are Coming!
John Condon, author
Matt Hunt, illustrator
Nosy Crow
www.nosycrow.com
c/o Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9781536212167, $16.99

https://www.amazon.com/Pirates-Are-Coming-John-Condon/dp/1536212164

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Tom is the town watcher for pirates, a very important job. Every day he goes on the lookout from the top of a tall hill to watch for pirate ships. For three days in a row, he mistakenly sounds the alarm when there are no pirate ships to be seen. Each time he yells, "PIRATES!" the villagers hide. But after the third false alarm, they are not too happy with him. What will they do if a pirate ship really does come? The story is a bit like The Boy Who Cried Wolf, but with a delightful twist at the end. (Ages 3-7)

Rain Before Rainbows
Smriti Prasadam-Halls, author
David Litchfield, illustrator
Candlewick Press
www.candlewick.com
9781536212839, $16.99

https://www.amazon.com/Rain-Before-Rainbows-Smriti-Prasadam-Halls/dp/1536212830

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

This international award-winning author paints the most beautifully poetic picture of life! Simply yet profound, her few words speak volumes. Words to remember, to gather softly and strew before us as a gentle path we can follow. Its peaceful quiet tone creates an assurance all will be well. One could truly benefit by repetitive reading! (Ages 3-7)

Little Green Donkey
Anuska Allepuz
Candlewick
www.candlewick.com
9781536209372, $16.99

https://www.amazon.com/Little-Green-Donkey-Anuska-Allepuz/dp/1536209376

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Little Donkey just loves to eat grass. That's the only thing he wants to eat. It's sweet and crunch and juicy and he just can't get enough of it. But, one day he sees his reflection and discovers he has turned green! Maybe he has eaten just a bit too much grass. So, if he can't eat grass all the time, what else can he eat? (Ages 3-7)

It's Time to Sleep: A Bedtime Book
Kevin Brougher and Lisa M. Santa Cruz
Missing Piece Press
www.missingpiecepress.com
9780997795998, $16.95

https://www.amazon.com/Its-Time-Sleep-Bedtime-Book/dp/0997795999

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

This sweet and calming book is sure to close out the day peacefully. The soft, rhyming flow and repetition will build confidence, as they quickly pick up the pace and echo in on every other page. The pictures are warmhearted and foster a cozy feel. (Ages 3-7)

Ms. Alignment the Emotion Fairy
Tina Balodi, author
The Balodi Family, illustrations
Prana Boost Publishing
www.pranaboost.com
B07QM4KGT9, $9.99

https://www.amazon.com/Alignment-Emotion-Fairy-Tina-Balodi-ebook/dp/B07QM4KGT9

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Emotions and what we do with them is what keeps life in balance. And when life is in balance, all things are harmonious. But, what do you do when the balance tilts one way or the other, and we find ourselves feeling a bit off? It can happen to anyone from time to time, even to Ms. Alignment the Emotion Fairy. She helps little ones recognize those unsettling moments and offers coping skills to ease them back into balance. Number three was my favorite! Fun quiet time activities are also provided at the back of the book. (Ages 3-8)

How Our Skin Sparkles
Aditi W. Singh
Raising World Children
www.raisingworldchildren.com
9781733564922, $11.99

https://www.amazon.com/How-Our-Skin-Sparkles-Empowerment/dp/1733564926

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Acceptance seems to be a hard lesson to learn. Whether for ourselves, or for others as we struggle with differences. We may question them, but we shouldn't fear them. What a colorful beauty we create when we all stand together. Each one adding their own special sparkle and hue to the spectrum. This story provides self-empowerment through acceptance, and discovers there are often more similarities than there are differences. A very comforting and stabilizing reality! (Ages 3-8)

When We Stayed Home
Tara Fass and Judith Proffer, authors
Yoko Matsuoka, illustrator
Huqua Press
huquapress.com
9781735384412, $12.99

https://www.amazon.com/When-Stayed-Home-Lmft-Tara/dp/1735384410

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

The year 2020 will always be remembered as a hardship year. This story tells of a brave outlook from a child's point of view. How he was able to step up and be a helper in these hard times. Many delightful ways were shared for not just enduring the time, but actually enjoying it. Quarantine was necessary, but it also granted fun family time, and gave us all an opportunity to pitch in to help beat this scary virus. (Ages 4-8)

I Have Ants In My Pants!
Julia Cook, author
Carrie Hartman, illustrator
National Center for Youth Issues
ncyi.org
9781937870706, $9.95

https://www.amazon.com/Pants-National-Center-Youth-Issues/dp/1937870707

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

A fun book for any parent who has lost the battle in a conversation with a very literal little thinker! Sometimes, no matter how hard we try, out feet or wiggles manage to trip us up. Louis has the hardest time keeping himself still, and often hears the problem is due to some pesky ants sharing his pants. No matter how often he checks, he never manages to catch them. A great book for a fun time of silliness! (Ages 4-8)

A Big Bed for Little Snow
Grace Lin
Little, Brown
www.lbyr.com
9780316478366, $18.99

https://www.amazon.com/Big-Bed-Little-Snow/dp/0316478369

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Little Snow's mother made him a big, soft, fluffy bed to keep him warm and comfy during the long, cold winter nights. Mommy says the bed is just for sleeping, but Little Snow has other ideas. When his mommy's not looking, and Little Snow is supposed to be sleeping, he is instead jump, jump, jumping on his bed. Who can resist doing that? And what might happen if he jumps too much? (Ages 4-8)

Juniper Kai: Super Spy
Laura Gehl, author
Alexandria Neonakis, illustrator
https://lauragehl.com
Two Lions
9781542043328, $17.99

https://www.amazon.com/Juniper-Kai-Super-Laura-Gehl/dp/1542043328

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Juniper Kai says she was born to be a spy. Sleuthing is her favorite pastime. She has special Spy-o-Scopes, fingerprint powder and a collection of wigs - among other things - to help her in her sleuthing endeavors. She has also counted on her parents to help solve mysteries... until now. Something is up, and Juniper Kai is going to do her best to figure out what it is, even without her parents' help. (Ages 4-8)

Raccoon's Perfect Snowman
Katie Wish
Sleeping Bear Press
www.sleepingbearpress.com
9781534110670, $16.99

https://www.amazon.com/Raccoons-Perfect-Snowman-Katia-Wish/dp/1534110674

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Which direction do I take? This one simple story offers teachable insights in so many directions. It's truly a book that will grow with its reader, allowing for many enlightening reads. We will meet the perfectionist, who can silently slip into selfishness, and even become that boorish know-it-all we all like to avoid. Sincere interest and desire can sometimes bloom into tangling weeds in our gardens of hope. Raccoon learns a very important lesson on deportment. (Ages 5-7)

My Hair Went On Vacation
Paula Quinn, author
Chiara Civati, illustrator
Mascot Books
www.mascotbooks.com
9781645432814, $15.95

https://www.amazon.com/Hair-Went-Vacation-Paula-Quinn/dp/1645432815

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

When we take in the beauty of a painting, we often appreciate the different colors used and the many different strokes the brushes make as they sweep through them, delighting in the outcome. Yet, in life we often fail to see the wonder of differences. This story paints a healthy appreciation for self, with all its differences and puzzling wonders. Educating us to differences others must embrace, teaching us how we can make it a little bit better by our understanding and kindness. A beautiful young girl suddenly loses her hair, and has to adjust to the loss and to the reactions of others as well. Helpful tips are included for creating discussions to help us achieve that goal. (Ages 5-8)

Oliver Gilmore: A Doxie's Diary
Greg McGoon, author
Dave Reed, illustrator
https://www.gregmcgoon.com
Independently Published
9798680101506, $11.95

https://www.amazon.com/Oliver-Gilmore-Doxies-Greg-McGoon/dp/B08KSJPYZT

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Peeking into this adorable pup's diary, we find love, companionship, and teamwork. Cheerful tunes and adventurous times cover the pages with affection. And, then ... life as it often does, throws a curve. Oliver, a now 10-year-old dachshund, and his human daddy are faced with a difficult situation. One that will not go away. Oliver has diabetes. But, the love they share carries them through, and they manage the situation, rather than let it manage them. They work together, and the lighthearted relationship continues on with newly adapted modifications. Oliver is charming, and his diary is informative and encouraging. (Ages 5-8)

Maia and the Very Tall Wall
Brian Wray, author
Shiloh Penfield, illustrator
Schiffer Kids
www.schifferbooks.com
9780764360800, $16.99

https://www.amazon.com/Maia-Very-Tall-Wall-Brian/dp/0764360809

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

Pressing past our comfort zones and limitations can open opportunities that last a lifetime! This sweet story can be an encouraging resource for our shy little ones to find the power hiding in their own voice. Following Maia as she discovers the joys that await behind the barriers she can't understand may stir desire in hearts to follow her lead! (Ages 5-8)

Dot: For Pet's Sake
Candlewick Press, author
The Jim Henson Company, illustrator
Dot character created by Randi Zuckerberg
Candlewick Entertainment
www.candlewick.com
9781536216561, $14.99

https://www.amazon.com/Dot-Pets-Sake-Candlewick-Press/dp/1536216569

Darleen Wohlfeil
Reviewer

This fun introduction to early chapter books comes with the lovable character Dot, of the 2016 award-winning animated series that airs on Universal Kids and Hulu. As readers progress from board books to longer stories and finally into chapter books, their focus expands and their interests broaden. We follow Dot in her new adventure of pet-sitting, and quickly see that she may have taken on a bit too much. It could have ended badly but, as chaos ensues, Dot is smart enough to ask for help. It's fun, it's expanding, and it provides positive role models. (Ages 5-8)

Sing a Song: How "Lift Every Voice and Sing" Inspired Generations
Kelly Starling Lyons, Keith Mallett
Nancy Paulsen Books
c/o Penguin
https://www.penguin.com/publishers/nancypaulsenbooks
9780525516095 $17.99 hc / $10.99 Kindle amazon.com

https://www.amazon.com/Sing-Song-Every-Inspired-Generations/dp/0525516093

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Just in time for the 120th anniversary of the song "Lift Every Voice and Sing," this stirring book celebrates the Black National Anthem and how it inspired five generations of a family. The author incorporates the words of the song in the telling of the story, weaving them seamlessly together. An Author's Note at the end of the book provides additional background information about the song and its writers. (Ages 5-8)

Out of a Dark Winter's Night
Flora McDonnell
Thames & Hudson
www.thamesandhudson.com
9780500651957, $16.95

https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Winters-Night-Flora-McDonnell/dp/0500651957

Dr. Dawn Menge
Reviewer

In this beautifully illustrated book, a young boy's journey mirrors the emotional challenges that many face, offering hope to anyone who has experienced doubt, anxiety, or depression. Life is filled with ups and downs. With the help of our friends, we continue on in the darkness until the light of day is bright upon us. (Ages 6-8)

Willa the Wisp (The Fabled Stables)
Jonathan Auxier, author
Olga Demidova, illustrator
Abrams
www.abramsbooks.com
9781419742699, $12.99

https://www.amazon.com/Willa-Wisp-Fabled-Stables-Book/dp/1419742698

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Auggie takes care of the Fabled Stables, a magical building where one-of-a-kind creatures live. Auggie tends to the Gargantula, the Hippopotamouse and many more fantastical creatures. When new creatures arrive, the building expands on its own to accommodate them. So, when the building starts to shake and shutter, Auggie knows there will soon be another creature to care for. This time, though, there is a problem, and Auggie must go and rescue the new creature from mortal danger. Is Auggie up for the challenge? (Ages 6-9)

Colton's Pocket Dragon: Haunted House
Rebecca Massey
Hancock Press
www.hancockpress.com
9781948000642, $19.99

https://www.amazon.com/COLTONS-POCKET-DRAGON-Book-12/dp/1948000644

Dr. Dawn Menge
Reviewer

This is a chapter book about Colton and his dragon and their adventures with a Haunted House. It's a cute story about Colton's friendship with his dragon and the problems they solve together. I recommend it to encourage imagination and curiosity. (Ages 8-12)

The Key of Lost Things
Sean Easley
Simon & Schuster
www.simonandschuster.com
9781534437883, $8.99

https://www.amazon.com/Key-Lost-Things-Sean-Easley/dp/1534437878

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Cam is Concierge-in-Training at the Hotel Between. As such, he is trying to learn all the ins and outs of the hotel business, which is a difficult enough assignment normally. But when the hotel has rooms all over the world - which can be accessed through magic door portals - the job becomes a global one. As if taking care of such a large establishment isn't enough, Cam must deal with outside influences trying to take over the hotel. This is book two in the Hotel Between series. A fun read. (Ages 9-12)

Shadow in the Dark (The Harwood Mysteries)
Antony Barone Kolenc
Loyola Press
www.loyolapress.com
9780829448108, $14.95

https://www.amazon.com/Shadow-Dark-Harwood-Mysteries-1/dp/0829448101

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

An attack by bandits in the middle of the night leaves a young boy with no memory of who he is or where he is from. Nursed back to health by the devoted monks in a Benedictine abbey, he takes the name Alexander, or Xan for short. Aided by the kindly Brother Andrew, Xan commits himself to finding out who he really is. After finishing this book, readers will definitely want to learn more about Alexander. (Ages 10-13)

The Parent Compass: Navigating Your Teen's Wellness and Academic Journey in Today's Competitive World
Cynthia Clumeck Muchnick and Jenn Bowie Curtis
Familius
www.familius.com
9781641702881, $16.99

https://www.amazon.com/Parent-Compass-Navigating-Wellness-Competitive/dp/1641702885

Christine Irvin
Reviewer

Bragging rights and bumper stickers are some of the social forces fueling today's parenting behavior and, as a result, even well-intentioned parents are behaving badly. Many parents don't know how best to support their teens, especially when everyone around them seems to be frantically tutoring, managing, and helicoptering. It's not easy being a teenager and it's not easy being the parent of one, either. This book provides sound advice for parents trying to help navigate their teen's journey through life.


James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
Midwest Book Review
278 Orchard Drive
Oregon, WI 53575-1129
phone: 1-608-835-7937
e-mail: mbr@execpc.com
e-mail: mwbookrevw@aol.com
http://www.midwestbookreview.com


Copyright ©2001

Site design by Williams Writing, Editing & Design