Ona Judge Outwits the Washingtons by Gwendolyn Hooks and Simone Agoussoye - OPTIONAL

Ona Judge Outwits the Washingtons : An Enslaved Woman Fights for Freedom by Gwendolyn Hooks, illustrated by Simone Agoussoye, PICTURE BOOK, BIOGRAPHY Capstone, 2019. $19. 9781543512809 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Ona Judge was enslaved on George Washington's plantation at Mount Vernon. She was small, so she didn't work in the fields, but her mother was a seamstress and taught Ona. Soon, her talents were noticed by Martha Washington, who chose Ona to go along with the Washingtons as they were now President and First Lady of the United States. Ona did not want to be enslaved, so she looked for an opportunity to escape. George Washington didn't want the publicity of a "capture" and tried many different ways to get her back, but Ona outwitted them. 

I am so glad to see this story in a picture book biography. An important example of the history of our country - yes, many of our founding fathers enslaved people. I didn't like the illustrations, or the placement of the text in the large white spaces - the design of the book makes it appear that is in intended for a younger audience. The amount of text and the subject matter are more appealing to upper elementary and middle school.

Lisa Librarian

The Lucky Dogs : Penny and Clover Follow That Ball! by Erica S. Perl and Leire Martin - ESSENTIAL

Penny and Clover Follow That Ball! (The Lucky Dogs) by Erica S. Perl, illustrated by Leire Martin, 32 pages. EARLY READER Penguin Young Readers, 2020. $16 9781524793456 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre K - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

The boy has a new ball for the dogs, but it bounced all around the yard and now they can't find it. 

This Emergent Reader has super easy vocabulary, lots of repetition and the illustrations are the perfect context to let the reader feel successful. I love the Parent/Educator resource page with activity ideas and leveling information. I hope to see more in this series, the illustrations are great.

Lisa Librarian

Penny and Clover, Up and Over (The Lucky Dogs) by Erica S. Perl and Leire Martin - ESSENTIAL

Penny and Clover, Up and Over (The Lucky Dogs) by Erica S. Perl, illustrated by Leire Martin 32 pages. EARLY READER. Penguin Young Readers, 2020. $16. 9781524793425 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre K - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Penny and Clover are walking through the woods with the boy and his grandma, when they see a large log in the path. Penny is excited and jumps right over, but Clover . . . Grandma can't convince Clover, she tries to walk around or dig under, the boy even gives Clover a push, finally with everyone cheering, a treat in hand and Penny demonstrating, Clover jumps the log! 

Wow. I do love this series so much. My granddaughter loves the story, and feels so confident with her reading. The illustrations are adorable, and the plot is simple. I loved the repeated words, the pictures give great context and the story is predictable. Perfect for the beginning reader

Lisa Librarian

Everywhere, Wonder by Matthew Swanson - ADVISABLE

Everywhere, Wonder by Matthew Swanson, PICTURE BOOK. Imprint (Macmillan), 2017. $18. 9781250087959

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

A boy is counseled to stop and notice things wherever he goes, and then he is taken on a journey around the world -- and even up to the moon.

The colorful illustrations are gorgeous, and it's nice to see a Brown boy in an everyday picture book. The idea of advising kids to look around them and notice details is great, too, although the actual plot is a bit of a mess and pretty hard to follow. A stronger through-line for the plot definitely would have bumped this one up to Essential.

Sydney G., Elementary Library Media Specialist

Bob, Not Bob! by Liz Garton Scanlon & Audrey Vernick - ESSENTIAL

 

Bob, Not Bob! by Liz Garton Scanlon & Audrey Vernick, PICTURE BOOK. Disney Hyperion, 2017. $18. 9781484723029

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Poor Louie. He's usually very independent and barely needs his mother at all, but today he's not feeling well. Unfortunately, every time he calls out, "Mom!" his dog Bob comes running. (Stuffy noses really are so inconvenient!) It's hard to have a cold, but with a little extra love from both Mom and Bob, maybe everything will turn out okay.

This book is read-aloud gold. It is "to be read as though you have the worst cold ever," and if done so it will not only be tons of fun to perform, but the kids will enjoy trying to figure out what Louie actually means to say, and not what his stuffy nose actually makes him say. The kids will probably want to test their own ways of talking with pseudo-stuffy noses, too, so allow a little extra time for that. On top of the performance factor, many kids will find Bob's enthusiastic appearances hilarious, and they'll likely empathize with Louie, since who among them hasn't had to deal with a stuffy nose before? This would be a great storytime book in and of itself, but it would also lead the way toward (yet more) discussions on the coronavirus if needed.

Sydney G., Elementary Library Media Specialist

Bowie by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara and Ana Albero - HIGH

Bowie by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, illustrated by Ana Albero. BOARD BOOK. Quarto, 2020. $10. 9781711246119 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, ADULTS – OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

In 12 board book spreads, the story of David Bowie’s life comes alive. 

 I haven’t read any of the Little People Big Dreams from Quarto before – Now I need to prowl the list and buy my favorites! I was very pleasantly surprised at what a great overview of Bowie’s life this is. Vegara really knows her Bowie and Albero’s illustrations are a highlight. The book is only OPTIONAL because it is for the children of Bowie fans. But dive into the whole series and you will find plenty that you will want for yourself! 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

National Regular Average Ordinary Day by Lisa Katzenberger, and Barbara Bakos - ADVISABLE

National Regular Average Ordinary Day by Lisa Katzenberger, illustrated by Barbara Bakos, PICTURE BOOK Penguin Workshop (Penguin Random House), 2020. $18. 9781524792404 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Peter usually hangs out with his neighbor Devin, they play action figures, shoot hoops and build things with blocks. But lately it seems that's all they ever do! So, Peter is bored. And he starts looking for holidays to celebrate (and rate on a scale of 1-10 stars). Some are better than others, like National Ice Cream Sandwich Day. But, when Peter can't find a holiday for every day, he's suddenly bored again. Maybe Devin can help Peter figure out the perfect holiday for every day. 

The illustrations are priceless! Who knew "Walking Backwards Day" would cause so much trouble? Or, that math can help figure out the perfect formula for holiday success. I loved Peter's cat - it was fun to try to find it in each picture. A darling story about making your own fun, and bringing your friends along.

Lisa Librarian

Dear Mr. President by Sophie Siers and Anne Villeneuve - ADVISABLE

Dear Mr. President by Sophie Siers and Anne Villeneuve, PICTURE BOOK Owl Kids Books, 2019. $19. 9781771473910 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Sam does not like sharing a room with his brother. His brother stays up late on his phone which keeps Sam awake. He writes letters to the President because he saw him on the news and, like the President, Sam thinks he needs to build a wall. Sam's dad would prefer the boys "negotiate" rather than building a wall. When Sam visits his grandma overnight, he notices his brother is trying to be nicer when he returns. As the boys start getting along better, their dad tells them about the Berlin Wall, and how it came down. Through his letters, a school project on walls and his brother's changed behavior, Sam begins to rethink his plans to build a wall in his room. 

Hmm, I liked this subtle examination of political policy and President Donald Trump. I enjoyed the humor as well as the message - that there are better ways to solve the problem than building a wall. It was also a great story about the importance of family and learning to live with your older brother. I'm not certain the picture book age audience will see the parallels, but the illustrations and the storytelling make it a great read aloud.

Lisa Librarian

This is a Dog by Ross Collins - ESSENTIAL

This is a Dog by Ross Collins, PICTURE BOOK Nosy Crow (Candlewick), 2019. $17 9781536212006 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

The dog takes over in this clever picture book, stealing the focus from every animal with his cute antics, even grabbing a crayon and changing the crocodile's name to "dog." He gets bolder as the book progresses eventually irritating a bear and a gorilla. Has the dog taken it too far? 

So happy and silly! The dog dressing up like an elephant is my favorite illustration. I loved this look at "stealing the show" and wish I was still teaching theater - I would love to share with an ensemble cast, a great introduction to working together and not taking over. Young readers will love the pictures and the animals, but especially this crazy dog.

Lisa Librarian

Alice & Gert : An Ant and Grasshopper Story by Helaine Becker and Dena Seiferling - ESSENTIAL

Alice & Gert : An Ant and Grasshopper Story by Helaine Becker, illustrated by Dena Seiferling, PICTURE BOOK Owlkids Books, 2020. $18. 9781771473583 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL  

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Alice is an ant, Gert a grasshopper. All summer and into the fall, Alice works tirelessly filling her nest with seeds for the winter, Gert, on the other hand, enjoys the warm days while she sings songs, writes plays and dances. Soon the leaves turn red - winter is on its way. Alice is ready, but what will become of Gert? 

Beautifully illustrated by Dena Seiferling, this retelling retains the original story, but it feels fresh. I loved the changing of the seasons as Gert's favorite snack changed from "soft green" to "dry". I loved the friendship and the gentle way Alice kept reminding Gert she was busy for a reason. Gert is so fun and creative - a great friend to take a break with.

Lisa Librarian

Hooray for Helpers! First Responders and More Heroes in Action by Mike Austin - ESSENTIAL

Hooray for Helpers! First Responders and More Heroes in Action by Mike Austin. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2020. $18. 9781524765620 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

When you hear first responder, most people jump to police, fire, and medical, but Austin reveals the wide variety of people whose jobs are also first responders: where they work, the tools of the trade, etc. 

I love his illustrative style – simple and linear, but textured and interesting. The text is also simple – mostly labels, with just a bit of explanation. Sure to be a reread and self-exploration title. 

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Scared of the Dark? It’s Really Scared of You by Peter Vegas and Benjamin Chaud - ADVISABLE

Scared of the Dark? It’s Really Scared of You by Peter Vegas, illustrated by Benjamin Chaud. PICTURE BOOK. Chronicle, 2020. $18. 9781452180694 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

The narrator tries to explain to the reader that “the dark” is afraid of people, because it can’t come out during the day and is even scared away by a flashlight. Vegas’s personification of “the dark” is seriously cute – though not every incarnation works perfectly (climbing a tree?). For kids who are starting to be afraid of the dark, this would be a good way to discuss their fear. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

First Day Critter Jitters by Jory John - ADVISABLE

First Day Critter Jitters by Jory John, illustrated by Liz Climo PICTURE BOOK Dial Books for Young Readers Penguin Random House, 2020. $18. 9780735228559 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

The sloth is very worried that he will be late for school because he is so slow. The snake is worried because he can't wear a backpack (no arms), the mouse is worried because she is so small, the kangaroo has never been away from his mother, the parrot is aware that sometimes she talk too much. There are other worried animals too, and (big surprise) their teacher, an armadillo is also worried because it's his first teaching job. Suddenly everyone is working together to make school a worry free space for everyone. 

 This is a fun read for the worried child - everyone worries about something, but if you make the best of it, and help out when you can, things will be alright! I loved the cute illustrations, Liz Climo has kept the animals as animals (although they can talk) and I loved that Jory John represented each animal's worry with something innate about that animal that couldn't be helped - and turned out to be a strength.

Lisa Librarian

Black Belt Bunny by Jacky Davis -- OPTIONAL

Black Belt Bunny by Jacky Davis, PICTURE BOOK. Dial Books for Young Readers, 2017. $17. 9780525429029

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Now that Bunny has mastered karate, it's time for him to learn a new skill: how to make salads. At first he's skeptical, but when he discovers he can karate-chop his vegetables into salad-sized morsels, he realizes that maybe trying new things is, well, a good thing.

Bunny's story is adorable, and the twist at the end is cute, but salad-making isn't exactly a commonly-needed skill for five-year-olds, which means it will be a bit harder for kids to totally identify with Bunny's task. I wish Bunny had needed to do something a little more kid-friendly, because then I could more enthusiastically recommend the book.

Sydney G., Elementary Library Media Specialist

The Arabic Quilt : An Immigrant Story by Aya Khalil and Anait Semirdzhyan - ADVISABLE

The Arabic Quilt : An Immigrant Story by Aya Khalil, illustrated by Anait Semirdzhyan, PICTURE BOOK Tilbury House, 2020. $18. 9780884487548 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Kanzi's family is from Egypt, they speak both English and Arabic, when they were in Egypt, Kanzi's grandmother made her a beautiful quilt. Now they are back in the United States and Kanzi is starting 3rd grade at a new school. While she embraces her culture at home, Kanzi is worried about fitting in at school - does she have the right things in her lunch, what will the other kids think, will they accept Kenzi and her culture? So, when Kenzi brings the special quilt to school her teacher is inspired to make a class quilt featuring all the kids' names written in Arabic, and Kenzi's mom comes to help. 

Such a nice way to celebrate the diversity of your classroom and honor the uniqueness of our bilingual/multicultural students. Includes a glossary of Arabic words and other English words derived from Arabic.

Lisa Librarian

I'm a Zcary Vampire by Jose Carlos Andres, illustrated by Gomez - ADVISABLE

I'm a Zcary Vampire by Jose Carlos Andres, illustrated by Gomez, PICTURE BOOK Nubeocho, 2020, $17. 9788417673857 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

When the littlest vampire is too small to scare even a little girl, he is worried. The next day is his big scare test and he's going to need some help to pull it off. If he doesn't scare someone he will have to go to Banana Peeler School! 

What a funny story! The illustrations are creative yet childlike.  My grandchildren adored this book. They wanted to talk like the little vampire and practiced big "scares". Translated from Spanish, I have to wonder if the adorable "mock" Eastern European accent (just switch out your S for a Z) works in other languages, too. This will be an hilarious read aloud. 

Lisa Librarian

On Account of the Gum by Adam Rex - ESSENTIAL

On Account of the Gum by Adam Rex. PICTURE BOOK. Chronicle, 2020. $18. 9781452181547 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

A little girl finds out that it is seriously a bad idea to fall asleep chewing your gum! 

Rex’s words and illustrations are absolutely hilarious! This homage to The Old Who Swallowed a Fly is a comic delight! 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

A Jedi You Will Be (Star Wars) by Preeti Chhibber and Mike Deas - OPTIONAL

A Jedi You Will Be (Star Wars) by Preeti Chhibber, illustrated by Mike Deas. PICTURE BOOK. Disney, 2020. $18. 9781368057240 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

As Yoda teaches Luke Skywalker how to become a Jedi on Dagobah, he addresses the reader about what it takes to become a Jedi also. 

 While it is fun for me, having seen the movie several times, to see Luke going through his trials, I'm unsure how popular this actually be with a new generation of possible fans. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

I Dig by Joe Cepeda - ADVISABLE

I Dig by Joe Cepeda, PICTURE BOOK, EARLY READER I Like to Read Books (Holiday House), 2019. $16. 9780823439751 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre K - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

When the ocean waves bring a boy a shovel, he begins to dig, and discovers, shells, a crab. starfish, and even a dog underground. He spends the rest of the day/evening looking at the stars with the dog and his brother? Dad?

The illustrations tell this great minimally worded story about a fun day on the beach. For a beginning reader, this is perfect. The illustrations give great context - no surprises, and there's lots of room for the child's imagination to fill in story.

Lisa Librarian   

Tricky by Kari Rust -- NOT RECOMMENDED

 

Tricky by Kari Rust, PICTURE BOOK. Owl Kids Books, 2017. $17. 9781771472524

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - NOT RECOMMENDED 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

A duke and his dog Tricky love to do mean things to everyone around them, just for fun. But one day the duke gleefully knocks a four-layer cake over on a baker who had been nice to them, and Tricky realizes that this behavior is wrong. He then begins to prank the duke instead, plugging up his toilet, hiding a rotten fish under his easy chair, and making the kitchen sink overflow with bubbles. When the duke kicks him out, Tricky realizes it's time for him to learn some new tricks -- nice ones this time.

I wish I could recommend this book, because the illustrations are delightful. Unfortunately, the story focuses heavily on the ways in which the duke and his dog bully people, then when Tricky sees the error of his ways, he simply begins to bully the duke instead. The duke's implied change at the end feels very sudden and shallow; it's hard to believe that he has really changed for good. On the whole, this book focuses so much on unkindness that empathetic kids will likely find it frustrating and depressing, and kids who bully others may find it validating while missing the very subtly implied point.

Sydney G., Elementary Library Media Specialist

ABC What Can I Be? by Walter Foster Jr. Creative Team - ADVISABLE

ABC What Can I Be? by Walter Foster Jr. Creative Team, BOARD BOOK Walter Foster Jr, 2020. $17. 9781600588822 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre K - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

26 different occupations that anyone can aspire to. I love that they are modern - Game Developer, Quantitative Analyst, Robotics Engineer, but many are classic, like Violinist, Costume Designer, illustrator . The illustrations feature a diverse collection of people. I like that it not only names the occupation but also tells what that person does. The illustrations show the person at work. Young readers will certainly find role models for themselves in these pages.

Lisa Librarian

Sadiq Wants to Stitch by Mamta Nainy and Niloufer Wadia - ESSENTIAL

Sadiq Wants to Stitch by Mamta Nainy and Niloufer Wadia, PICTURE BOOK Karadi Tales Company, 2019. $14. 9788193388914 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Young Sadiq is responsible for caring for the family's sheep. His mother is a beautiful stitcher, and helps support them by selling her handmade items. Sadiq would love to stitch, too, but his mother, who has taught him to embroider, reminds Sadiq that her job is the needlework and his is the sheep (as his father has died). In their community, stitching is women's work. However, when his mother is concerned that she won't be able to finish an order in time, Sadiq secretly works on it once his mother is asleep. 

Oh! What a beautiful story! Follow your dreams Sadiq! Our world is quickly losing these exquisite handmade items as the makers age and the younger generation chooses other skills to learn. I loved the message that boys can do beautiful work, too.

Lisa Librarian

One For the Books (Frozen II) by John Edwards - ADVISABLE

One For the Books (Frozen II) by John Edwards, illustrated by Disney Art Team. PICTURE BOOK. Disney, 2020. $17. 9781368064071 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

When Arendell’s librarian needs to go off for a family event, Anna volunteers Olaf to be the substitute. Olaf’s love of reading and knowledge, and his great enthusiasm for sharing draws all the village children into the library. Olaf’s eccentric ideas delight the librarian and he is installed as a permanent reading ambassador. 

A fun, silly book based around the Frozen series. It is a great celebration of reading and libraries and even includes a nod to book festivals! I’m unsure how popular Frozen related titles are in individual libraries. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Were I Not a Girl by Lisa Robinson and Lauren Simkin Berke - OPTIONAL

Were I Not a Girl: The Inspiring and True Story of Dr. James Barry by Lisa Robinson, illustrated by Lauren Simkin Berke. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Schwartz & Wade (Random House), 2020. $18. 9781984849052 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Until she was about 16, Margaret lived a fairly typical life of a middle class Irish girl in the 1700’s. At some point she decides she will take control of her life and is reborn as James Barry. James obtains a medical degree and joins the army. James kept his secret for about 50 years – living as a man until she died. 

 There have been books before about women who disguised themselves as men to fight in wars and such. This is the first book that frames that disguise as an expression of a transgender person. It done very well, most of the discussion of transgender coming in the back matter. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Remarkable Story of George Moses Horton, Poet by Don Tate - ESSENTIAL

 

The Remarkable Story of George Moses Horton, Poet by Don Tate, NONFICTION, BIOGRAPHY, PICTURE BOOK. Peachtree Publishers, 2015. $17. 9781561458257

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

George Moses Horton was a slave who, despite the odds, learned to read and, eventually, to write. His love of language was so strong that he began to compose poems. As word got out about his beautiful writing, local college students began hiring him to write love poems for their sweethearts. Despite this, he was still a slave -- and one who could be punished severely for knowing how to read and write in the time of uprising centered around the Civil War.

Horton's story was new to me, and I found it absolutely fascinating.The illustrations are lovely, as are the snippets of poetry throughout. It would pair well with a broader selection of Horton's poetry, or even an entire book. I could see using it in a unit on persistence, poetry, slavery, biographies, and ways in which those in power find to oppress those they consider beneath them (e.g. limiting schooling options in order to prevent uprisings).

Sydney G., Elementary Library Media Specialist

Milo and Monty by Roxana De Rond - ADVISABLE

Milo and Monty by Roxana De Rond, PICTURE BOOK Child's Play Inc., 2019. $18. 9781786283528 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

When a family adopts two dogs, they find that Monty is very outgoing - he likes to play with the other dogs at the park, cuddles with the family and have his ears scratched. Milo does not like petting, he prefers to play by himself, and while he enjoys being with the family, beside them is close enough. The family is wondering if Milo is happy with them. One day, relatives visit and cousin Henry is a lot like Milo. Henry likes to be off by himself, doing his own thing. He and Milo spend the day together and the family realizes that Milo is special, just like Henry. 

People (and dogs) have different personalities and the best thing we can do for them is accommodate. I like that cousin Henry was an example to the family to help them learn about their dog. A great story about how it is fine to be different.

Lisa Librarian

Our Subway Baby by Peter Mercurio and Leo Espinoza - OPTIONAL

Our Subway Baby : The true story of how one baby found his home by Peter Mercurio, illustrated by Leo Espinoza, PICTURE BOOK Dial Books for Young Readers Penguin Random House, 2020 $18 9780525427544 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

On his way home on the New York subway, Danny spots a newborn baby in a corner of the station. First he calls the police, then he calls his partner Peter who rushes down. When the couple are assured that baby is in safe hands, they return home, but, Danny can't stop thinking about him. He visits the hospital and is turned away because he isn't family. But, when a judge reaches out to invite Peter and Danny to adopt the baby, they realize that this is the best news ever! "Where there is love, anything is possible." 

Recounted by Peter (one of the fathers) in a story to the now grown baby, this "where did I come from" story is heartfelt and sweet. I loved the photos and the author's note at the end. The illustrations are expressive and lovely.

Lisa Librarian

Addy's Cup of Sugar by Jon J Muth - ADVISABLE

Addy's Cup of Sugar by Jon J Muth, PICTURE BOOK Scholastic Press, 2020. $18. 9780439634281 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Addy's cat Trumpet is hit by a car and Addy is beside herself with grief. She asks her friend Stillwater to bring Trumpet back somehow, and he sends her to find a cup of sugar from a neighbor for whom Death is a stranger. Addy has to see for herself that her grief is not unique. 

Addy's Cup of Sugar is a beautiful version of  The Mustard Seed.  Muth's illustrations are marvelous - calm colors, beautifully expressive, perfect. A thoughtful gift for a child or a family that is grieving.

Lisa Librarian

You’re My Little Baby : a touch and feel book from the World of Eric Carle - ADVISABLE

You’re My Little Baby: a touch and feel book from the World of Eric Carle. BOARD BOOK. Little Simon, 2020. $8. 9781534474932 

BUYING ADVISORY: PRE-K – ADVISABLE (GIFT) 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Using the images from Carle’s famous books, this little board book celebrates the love between parent and child. With the touchable illustrations, this could even be a replacement for the classic Pat The Bunny. A nice gift for a new baby and their loved ones. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Bookstore Cat by Cylin Busby and Charles Santoso - ADVISABLE

The Bookstore Cat by Cylin Busby, illustrated by Charles Santoso. PICTURE BOOK. Balzer + Bray (Harper), 2020. $18. 9780062894342 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

An abecedarian of the life of a bookstore cat. 

I know that every bookstore that has a cat will want to read this at story time. Cat lovers will also find it a delight. Kids will enjoy the fun vocabulary words. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Are You a Monkey? by Marine Rivoal - OPTIONAL

 Are You a Monkey? A Tale of Animal Charades by Marine Rivoal, PICTURE BOOK. Phaidon Press, 2017. $17. 9780714874173

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Starfish watches the jungle animals play charades. As they enjoy mimicking each other, Starfish longs to join in, but how can he play, too, when he can barely move around?

Some kids may enjoy guessing what each animal is pretending to be, although the illustrations are too vague to really narrow it down for them enough to provide much success. The adorable ending will likely leave some kids smiling.

Sydney G., Elementary Library Media Specialist

Kitties on Dinosaurs by Michael Slack - OPTIONAL

Kitties on Dinosaurs by Michael Slack,  PICTURE BOOK Dial Books for Young Readers (Penguin Random House), 2020. $18. 978593108383 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

3 little kittens who enjoy climbing are determined to climb the dinosaurs on Dinosaur Island. They build a submarine/invention lab and try one unsuccessful plan after another, eventually, success! But, it is short lived. 

Such a silly pairing - kittens and dinosaurs. I liked the different ideas for climbing the Dinos, and the hilarious illustrations - suburb - however, I didn't love the narrator as commentator, a bit unnecessary as the characters don't respond anyway, and the darling illustrations tell the story just fine.

Lisa Librarian

Charcoal Boys by Roger Mello - OPTIONAL

Charcoal Boys by Roger Mello, PICTURE BOOK Elsewhere Editions 2019, $20. 9781939810199 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

Two boys are in a charcoal yard, also there's a hornet with a nest and an egg that is apparently hungry. One night the boys are talking, one is smoking, they seem to argue over the cigarette and a fire starts. The next morning they are hiding on top of the big charcoal truck, one gets down but the other stays hidden and the truck leaves. The boy travels all day to where they make steel and he loses a key the other boy put in a box. 

Charcoal Boys is about child labor in the charcoal mines of Brazil. Paper cut illustrations in blacks and grays (mostly) help tell this text heavy, detail light story. The narrator is the hornet. Mello has left a lot of holes, inviting his reader to fill in the gaps with their imagination. I would need a lot more context to connect with Charcoal Boys. It would be a hard sell, even to the middle school kids.

Lisa Librarian

Awesome Man: The Mystery Intruder by Michael Chaob and Jake Parker - ESSENTIAL

Awesome Man: The Mystery Intruder by Michael Chabon, illustrated by Jake Parker. PICTURE BOOK. Quill Tree (Harper), 2020. $19. 9780062875099 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Awesome Man hears that a new superhero is coming to town and he is worried. Maybe the people of Awesome Town will like the new hero better and forget his birthday. Then Sister Sinister traps him in his lair with the news the new hero has arrived. 

I haven’t read the first Awesome Man – if you haven’t either, I don’t want to give away the twist. If you are already in on the twist, you will like the new surpehero’s arrival just as much! 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

When the Earth Shook by Lisa Lucas and Laurie Stein - OPTIONAL

When the Earth Shook by Lisa Lucas, illustrated by Laurie Stein. PICTURE BOOK. Tilbury, 2020. $18. 9780884488088 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

Two stars, Alya and Atik try very hard to shine to give light to the earth, but as the pollution builds up and the climate changes, it becomes so hard for them to do their job, that the stars get so angry that their cries shake the earth. 

I get that the author is trying to bring attention to the global climate crisis, but this is so abstract (a king? Not that many modern countries have kings) that it will just raise more questions. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Go Home, Little One! by Cate James - OPTIONAL

Go Home, Little One! by Cate James, PICTURE BOOK. Little Bee Books (Bonnier), 2015. $17. 9781499801712

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

A young hedgehog and her two squirrel friends run into the woods to play hide and seek, ignoring the other forest creatures' warnings that they must hurry home to hibernate instead. When a fox shows up, they suddenly realize how foolish they've been. Can they make it home before they become a feast for the hungry fox?

The colorful illustrations are pretty, but the plot itself is lacking in depth. The characters' only goal seems to be to keep playing despite everyone in the entire forest telling them to go home. And then, finally... they go home. Humor, surprise, stronger goals, or a less anti-climactic ending may have made Go Home, Little One! less forgettable. Unfortunately, none of those things were apparent.

Sydney G., Elementary Library Media Specialist

Maud and Grand Maud by Sara O'Leary, and Kenard Pak - ADVISABLE

Maud and Grand Maud by Sara O'Leary, illustrated by Kenard Pak, PICTURE BOOK Penguin Random House, 2020. $18. 978039955482 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

On special Saturdays, Maud gets to visit her grandmother "Grand-Maud" and stay the night. They wear matching nightgowns, have breakfast for dinner and watch black and white movies on TV. Maud likes to imagine Grand-Maud as a little girl and loves the time they spend together. Maybe someday she will be Grand-Maud waiting for her own Maud to visit. 

Oh! I love Maud and Grand-Maud! The illustrations are great. I loved comparing them to see where they look alike. I'm so excited to share this with my grand-daughter - already planning the matching nightgowns. There are endless possibilities involved with the box kept under the bed.

Lisa Librarian

The Map of Stories by Anna James - ADVISABLE

The Map of Stories (Pages and Co #3) by Anna James, 325 pages. Philomel (Penguin), 2020. $17. 

Content: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Tilly and Oskar are determined to stop Melville, the Underlibrarian of the Britsh Underlibrary, and his sister Decima, from completely sealing the Source Books and destroying stories and imagination forever. They hope they can find the help they need with the Archivists – though not even Tilly’s family believe that the Archivists exist. The pair will need a lot of help, a lot of imagination, and a lot of fast thinking to save their beloved stories and all the stories to come. 

You will have to read all the way to the end in order to exult in the brilliant twists of imagination needed to finally solve this thorny problem. I love reading these books that explore the concept of story at its roots. I have started a list on Pinterest 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Thesaurus has a Secret by Anya Glazer - OPTIONAL

Thesaurus has a Secret by Anya Glazer. PICTURE BOOK. Katherine Tegen, (Harper), 2020. $18. 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

Thesaurus is not the same as the other dinosaurs – he has a love of words, but he also has an ultra-secret love of books! He makes up all kinds of excuses to find alone time, but one day he gets caught and now he’s worried that the other dinosaurs may be mad at him. 

I was definitely puzzled by how a dinosaur would get his hands on “The Wizard of Oz”, but I also didn’t like the scruffy illustrations. If you want a book on the same theme – stick with the original – Stegothesaurus by Bridget Heos. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Paola Santiago and the River of Tears by Tehlor Kay Mejia - ADVISABLE

Paola Santiago and the River of Tears by Tehlor Kay Mejia, 350 pages. Disney, 2020. $17 

Content: G (mild danger) 

 BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Paola, 12yo, ekes an existent out with her mother and the extended family of their run down apartment building in Arizona, leaning especially on her best friends: Dante, who is also in the building, and Emma, who lives in a much richer part of town. The trio spend many hours along of the banks of the Gila River looking at the stars. Paola’s mind is set firmly on mathematics and knowledge – eschewing the Mexican folklore that her mother has fed her. When Emma disappears, however, Paola is desperate and when Dante’s Abuela offers them a bit of hope – tied to the mystical as it is – the pair find themselves deep in the desert, on a desperate fight against supernatural forces – La Llorana herself. 

Mejia paints an exciting portrait with Latinx mythology ala Rick Riordan. Unfortunately it takes Mejia 80 pages to get to something that will catch your attention – I can only hope that students who pick it up will hold on that long. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS  #ownvoices

My Jolly Christmas by Mariana Herrera and Molly Fehr - OPTIONAL

My Jolly Christmas by Mariana Herrera, illustrated by Molly Fehr. BOARD BOOK. Harper, 2020. $8. 9780062915993 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Herrara’s cute little shaped board book is a simple celebration of the Christmas season. 

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Journey by Emma Bland Smith and Robin James - ADVISABLE

Journey: Based on the True Story of OR7, the Most Famous Wolf in the West by Emma Bland Smith and Robin James, PICTURE BOOK Little Bigfoot, 2016. $18. 9781632170651 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

A young wolf leaves his pack and covers nearly 2,000 miles of Oregon and California in search of a mate and a place to call home. A year into his journey, a young girl named Abby begins to follow his story, through newspaper articles, television news and the internet. She even sends a suggestion to a conservation group to name the wolf Journey. 

I liked the alternating viewpoints; Smith has been able to introduce conservation into the story through Ally's perspective. Robin James illustrations are beautiful! Includes a map, photos of Journey and his pups, a timeline and URLs for further reading.

Lisa Librarian

Mask by Kate Hannigan - OPTIONAL

Mask (League of Superheroes #2) by Kate Hannigan, 255 pages. Simon, 2020. $18 Content: G (mild danger) 

 BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Akiko, Mae, and Josie are learning about their superpowers and also trying to discover what happened to the other supers. During a run to San Francisco, the girls see Akiko’s mom acting strangely – is she a spy? Akiko and the others need to find the truth and to do something to help the other Japanese who have been sent to internment camps. They have a lot on their plates – are the girls up to the task? 

Hannigan dives deep into to trying to teach WWII history while invoking the feel of the classic superhero origin stories. There are too many issues within the book – more focus would have been welcome. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Baby Loves Democracy! By Ruth Spiro and Greg Paprocki - ADVISABLE

Baby Loves Democracy! by Ruth Spiro, illustrated by Greg Paprocki. BOARD BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2020. $8. 9781623542276 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K – OPTIONAL, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Spiro looks at a baby-sized view of democracy. 

 I have a hard time seeing this being used more for a young elementary class rather than for pre-schoolers. The information is clear and concise – just right for a first democracy lesson. Share this to grow understanding about elections. Also, I love Paprocki - you should check out the ABC books he writes!

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

FYI: I shared this with a friend who teaches 1st grade.  She was very sad that the main character is called "baby" because she would love to use this with her students.  She will, but she will replace the word baby with a name.

I Don’t Want to Eat my Dinner by David Cornish - ADVISABLE

I Don’t Want to Eat my Dinner by David Cornish. PICTURE BOOK. Harper, 2020. $7. 9780732298777 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K, EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 As a little boy suffers through eating a vegetable heavy dinner, his imagination kicks in gear to help him through. 

When I first spied the tiny tomato firemen, I burst out with a guffaw! The imaginings parts of the book are hilarious! I love the idea of many of the illustrations, but I don’t always love the execution of them. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Rollo's Many Coats by Reed Duncan, illustrated by Keith Frawley - ADVISABLE

Rollo's Many Coats by Reed Duncan, illustrated by Keith Frawley, PICTURE BOOK Penguin Workshop (Penguin Random House), 2020. $10. 9781524792497 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Rollo is a bulldog - with so many coats! He tries each one on to try to find the perfect party coat. His boy keeps telling him he's wrong, and the coat he has chosen is for something other than a party. Rollo has a special coat for eating, walking, even hiding, but where is that elusive "party" coat? 

Rollo loves dressing up in his coats, and Frawley's illustrations are so very cute! Rollo's expressions are great - a early reader will love this, very silly and fun - perfect for repeated readings. All the different silly dog coats!

Lisa Librarian

Harvey Holds His Own by Colleen Nelson and Tara Anderson - ADVISABLE

Harvey Holds His Own (Harvey #2) by Colleen Nelson, illustrated by Tara Anderson. 288 pages. Pajama Press, 2020. $19

 Content: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE

 AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 Maggie owns a darling West Highland Terrier named Harvey. Maggie has decided to volunteer at Brayside and to give friendship with Austin a chance. She realizes how much Austin wants a dog of his own. Austin takes Harvey for a walk and they discover an abandoned puppy, all helpless and near death. Austin bring the puppy to the animal shelter where he knows it will be taken care of until it is old enough to be adopted. Maggie loves her volunteer time at Brayside and makes friends with the old people. What a heartwarming, delightful story with darling illustrations. 

This is a superb sequel to Harvey Comes Home. I loved this book, too and the stories of Maggie, Austin, the residents of Brayside and of the dogs. I kept reading so I could find out about several things, including the puppy Austin found. There are great human interest stories in these books. Some of the characters are even based on real people. If you just start this book, you are sure to love it. I couldn't put it down and was delighted when I finished. I hope this author will write more books about Austin, Harvey and Maggie.

 Ellen-Anita, LMS 

Baby Loves Smell! By Ruth Spiro and Irene Chan - ADVISABLE

Baby Loves Smell! By Ruth Spiro, illustrated by Irene Chan. BOARD BOOK. Charlesbridge, 2020. $9. 9781623541538 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Spiro applies her talents to the five senses – this one about smell. Using simple language for the most part, she explains what smell is and a simple look at the mechanics of it. Words like “olfactory” will be a little much for the littlest ones, but the bright illustrations can be an enticement for rereading and learning. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS  

When Winter Comes by Aimee M. Bisonette and Erin Hourigan - ADVISABLE

When Winter Comes: discovering wildlife in our snowy woods by Aimee M. Bisonette, illustrated by Erin Hourigan. PICTURE BOOK. $18. 9781632172730 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

The quiet of a winter day on the woods is so compelling. I don’t think there can be enough books reminding us of all of the wildlife that is still going on, whether hibernating, foraging, or hunting. Hourigan’s charming illustrations are for kids who know snow and for kids who have never seen it before. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Harvey Comes Home by Colleen Nelson and Tara Anderson - ADVISABLE

Harvey Comes Home by Colleen Nelson, illustrated by Tara Anderson, 219 pages. Pajama Press, 2020. $18. 

Content: G

 BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

 AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 Harvey is a little West Highland Terrier, a Westie. He has a white coat and shiny, black eyes. He is healthy, happy and curious. He loves Maggie, his owner. Maggie and her family go on a vacation and arrange for someone to watch Harvey. When the door was left open and Harvey takes off and becomes hopelessly lost. Harvey is found by Austin, a young boy who volunteers at a retirement home. He brings Harvey there and one resident, Mr. Pickering, opens up to Austin and Harvey. Austin knows he should track down Harvey's real owner. He knows the real owner must miss Harvey a lot. 

 This was a wonderful and heartwarming story. I loved the story of Austin and Harvey and Mr. Pickering. I loved how Mr. Pickering looked forward to the afternoons when Austin and Harvery would come. I highly recommend this heartwarming book. I loved it.

 Ellen-Anita, LMS