Allergic by Megan Wagner Lloyd and Michelle Mee Nutter - HIGH

Allergic by Megan Wagner Lloyd and Michelle Mee Nutter, 240 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. Scholastic, 2021. $13. 

Content G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Maggie is looking for a place to belong. Her parents are expecting a new baby and her brothers have each other. Maggie desperately wants a pet, and is so excited to pick out a puppy on her tenth birthday. Maggie sadly discovers she is wildly allergic to anything with fur. Not only does she not get a pet, but she also has to undergo a series of shots that will help determine what she is and is not allergic to. 

 Similar to Guts and Smile, this book will help kids who are dealing with a difficult situation. Sometimes severe allergies can get in the way of friendships and make kids feel self-conscious. Colorful graphics make this book accessible and fun as it teaches empathy and coping. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

Try It! How Frieda Caplan Changed the Way We Eat by Mara Rockliff and Giselle Potter - ADVISABLE

Try It! How Frieda Caplan Changed the Way We Eat by Mara Rockliff, illustrated by Giselle Potter. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Beach Lane (Simon), 2021. $18. 9781534460072 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Frieda was the only woman at the produce market in Los Angeles, and she was the one who was willing to try new, exotic fruits and vegetables. The ones she liked, she marketed to the restaurants and grocery stores around her, popularizing many new items such as kiwi fruit, purple potatoes, dragon fruit, and many, many more. So if you eat something besides potatoes, tomatoes, or bananas, chances are Frieda ate it first. 

What a fun introduction to a little-known woman! I remember the introduction of some of these items, but I had no idea that it was one woman who brought them to us in America! A great resource for a classroom lesson – especially if you had students research and trace where Frieda’s fruits and veggies originated. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Joe Biden: From Scranton to the White House by Heather E. Schwartz - ADVISABLE

Joe Biden: From Scranton to the White House by Heather E. Schwartz, 48 pages. BIOGRAPHY Lerner 2021 $32. 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

This short biography briefly covers Joe Biden's childhood and college years, and his rise from law student to elected official, US Senator, Vice President, and now 46th President of the United States. We learn about his struggles, losing his wife and daughter in a car accident, political successes and challenges, and his health concerns. It does not cover his time in the White House. 

A well put together biography, with full color photographs, a timeline of important dates and source material. I loved how thorough it feels while still being appropriate in length and readability for an upper elementary or middle school student. A great beginning source as a spring board for a longer project, or  as a quick read to find out about this president.

Lisa Librarian  

Kamala Harris: Madam Vice President by Heather E. Schwartz - ADVISABLE

Kamala Harris: Madam Vice President by Heather E. Schwartz, 48 pages. BIOGRAPHY Lerner, 2021. $32.

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Kamala Harris is always fighting for what is right. In fact, when she was in middle school she organized a protest to get her apartment managers to let the children play in the front yard. Her dream to become a lawyer was realized and by 1989 she was working as a deputy district attorney. In 2010 she was elected California Attorney general, by 2016 she was a US senator, and in 2020 ran with Joe Biden on the Democratic Ticket for President/Vice President of the United States. 

Heather Schwartz is a gifted writer for young readers. Although this is a short biography the Vice President's life and passions have been presented concisely and without political drama. Includes a timeline, lots of photographs and source material.

Lisa Librarian

Chick Chat by Janie Bynum - ESSENTIAL

Chick Chat by Janie Bynum. PICTURE BOOK. North South, 2021. $18. 9780735844094 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Baby Chick has a lot to say, but no one in their family has tome to listen, so they head off on an adventure of their own, peeping all the way. Baby Chick digs in the farmyard and finds an egg, which alarms her family just a bit. Baby Chick is undeterred – will a new friend be inside? 

Baby Chick is utterly adorable! I want a Baby Chick stuffed animal of my own. Assign the child you read this with to voice all of the peeps – I assure you, both of you will roll on the floor laughing and that joy will stay with you. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

I’m a Gluten-Sniffing Service Dog by Michal Babay and Ela Smietanka - ADVISABLE

I’m a Gluten-Sniffing Service Dog by Michal Babay, illustrated by Ela Smietanka. PICTURE BOOK. Albert Whitman, APRIL 2021. $17. 9780807536315 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Chewie wants so badly to graduate from her training and become Alice’s gluten-sniffing dog. However, Chewie sometimes gets distracted. But he loves Alice and will work really hard to be the best service dog he can be. 

A wonderful book about the training of a service dog from the dog’s point of view. Also includes information about the prevalence of gluten in unexpected items. 

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Perfect Pigeons by Katherine Battersby - ESSENTIAL

Perfect Pigeons by Katherine Battersby. PICTURE BOOK. McElderry (Random), 2020. $18. 9781534457812 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

A flock of pigeons rejoice that they are perfect because they are all the same – except they are not. The other pigeons confront the outlier, they slowly realize that they might all have things that they would like to do that are different, and that’s okay. 

Battersby’s picture book is a lovely mix of adorable pigeon illustrations and an easy to understand story. Make sure you check out the end papers! 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS https://amzn.to/3csTPj9

Black Lives Matter: From Hashtag to the Streets by Dr. Artika R. Tyner - ADVISABLE

 Black Lives Matter: From Hashtag to the Streets by Dr. Artika R. Tyner, 27 pages. NON-FICTION. Lerner, 2021. $25 (library binding). 9781728429564 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Tyner gives us an introduction to the recent #BlackLivesMatter movement and puts it into context of the Civil Rights Movement and the 2020 summer protests. 

A reasonable, if somewhat shallow, introduction to #BlackLivesMatter. Hopefully there will be future works for young readers that dive a bit deeper on the subject. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Wreck This Picture Book: How to Make a Book Come to Life by Keri Smith - ADVISABLE

Wreck This Picture Book: How to Make a Book Come to Life by Keri Smith. INTERACTIVE PICTURE BOOK. Dial (Penguin), 2020. $18. 9780593111024 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Books are so bored just sitting around waiting for people to read them. Make the book’s day by interacting with it in all kinds of fun ways. 

You’ll have to decide how comfortable you are with the one page in the book that encourages readers to bend its corners and roll it up. Other than that, the book is similar to Herve Tullet’s color books in its interactions. The inside of the cover has instructions for make cork dolls like in the illustrations. My librarian heart wishes the instructions had been backmatter, but a clever librarian can roll with it. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Rock by Rock by Jennifer Bradbury and Sam Broughton - ADVISABLE

Rock by Rock: The Fantastical Garden of Nek Chand by Jennifer Bradbury, illustrated by Sam Broughton. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Atheneum (Simon), 2021. $18. 9781481481823 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Nek Chand was displaced when India and Pakistan were divided. He relocated to Chandigarh, got a job, and got married. But he still missed his jungles. After work he disappears into the jungles around his city, brings rocks, cement, and discarded bits with him, eventually creating a wonder of tunnels, figures, animals, walls. When the city discovers his garden, some want to tear it down. But many people take a stand to support him. Even though Chand is gone, his wonders still remain for the whole world to enjoy. 

If you want to read more about Nek Chand, you can read the novel Bradbury wrote and another picture book by Barb Rosenstock. It will fuel dreams of trips to India to see the wonders for yourself. Broughton’s illustrations enhance the magic. For classroom support, there a lot of photos of Chand’s work available online – it is a major tourist site. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS

Rissy No Kissies by Katey Howes and Jess Engle - ESSENTIAL

Rissy No Kissies by Katey Howes, illustrated by Jess Engle. PICTURE BOOK. Carolrhoda (Lerner), 2021. $18. 9781541597983 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Rissie may be a lovebird, but she doesn’t like to be kissed. The others around her don’t understand and complain that Rissie is being mean. But her mom talks to her about what kinds of affection Rissie does like and tells her that her ways are just as valid as kissies. 

What a sweet way to model or talk to children about boundaries and consent. The back matter gives more details and information for parents and caregivers. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Baabwaa & Wooliam by David Elliott and Melissa Sweet - ESSENTIAL

Baabwaa & Wooliam: A Tale of Literacy, Dental Hygiene, and Friendship by David Elliott, illustrated by Melissa Sweet PICTURE BOOK Candlewick Press 2017 (2021 paperback edition) $8 9780763699376 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Baabwaa is a sheep who loves to knit. Wooliam is a sheep who loves to read, the two spend a lot of quiet time together reading and knitting. One day, Wooliam wants to have an adventure, so he and Baabwaa take a walk around the field and run into a wolf, Wooliam mentions it's the wolf in sheep's clothing he's read about, and after a short chase, the sheep discover that the wolf can't read, and has terrible dental hygiene. Baabwaa volunteers Wooliam to teach the wolf to read while she knits him a new sweater, and a friendship begins - one with lots of chasing. 

My granddaughter had me read this three times in a row. She loved it! "I liked that the wolf wanted to read, and that the sheep and the wolf were nice to each other. The pictures were cute and funny." It was a delightful read aloud, the dialogue was fun and natural, and I appreciated the fun words like rambunctious, horrid and shenanigans. Plus, knitting!

Lisa Librarian (and AJ age 5)

We Became Jaguars by Dave Eggers and Woodrow White - ADVISABLE

We Became Jaguars by Dave Eggers and Woodrow White. PICTURE BOOK Chronicle Kids, 2021. $19. 9781452183930 

BUYING ADVISORY:  EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

When Grandma comes to visit for the 1st time, she tends the little boy and they become Jaguars - running through the woods and going on an amazing adventure together. Is it magic? 

Beautiful illustrations - I love that the reflections of the jaguar are the boy and his grandma. Woodrow White's illustrations perfectly compliment this magical story. Perfect for bedtime or story time. What animals would you and your grandmother be?

Lisa Librarian

The Floating Field by Scott Riley, Nguyen Quang and Kim Lien - ESSENTIAL

The Floating Field: How a Group of Thai Boys Built Their Own Soccer Field by Scott Riley, illustrated by Nguyen Quang and Kim Lien. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Millbrook (Lerner), 2021. $20. 9781541579156 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

The boys on the small Thai island could only play soccer one or two times a month, when the tides receded far enough that a big enough strip of beach was exposed. Using their creativity, they labored hard and built their own small soccer field out of the scraps and remains of buoyant items around the village. They took an even bigger chance when they ventured to the mainland to participate in an official tournament. Turns out that even practicing an a small, undulating field can build the right skills. 

What a joyous book! Ingenuity, perseverance, or life in a small, floating village – so many themes to touch upon. Pair this with Kate Milway’s Banana Leaf Ball for a look at the universality of soccer. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS  

Listening to the Stars by Jodie Parachini and Alexandra Badiu - ADVISABLE

Listening to the Stars: Jocelyn Bell Burnell Discovers Pulsars by Jodie Parachini, illustrated by Alexandra Badiu. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Albert Whitman, APRIL 2021. $17. 9780807545638 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

As a girl born in the 1940’s, Jocelyn loved science, especially the stars. She stood up for herself and found ways to get her education in a time when girls were expected to become homemakers. However, since she was only a student and a woman, when her research discovered the existence of pulsars, the Nobel prize went to her professor. None of that has stopped Jocelyn from continuing her work and encouraging other young women to explore the worlds through science. 

Teach science? Teach Women’s Studies? Either way, you need this book. Use it to leap into a discussion of women in science, or about the “mistakes” made the Nobel Prize Committee. Or even see what Burnell is doing right now. So many options! 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

House Mouse by Michael Hall - ADVISABLE

House Mouse by Michael Hall. PICTURE BOOK. Greenwillow (Harper), 2021. $18. 9780062866196

 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Bit by bit, a mouse creates a home. I see so many vivid conversations coming out of reading this about what constitutes a home. My favorite scene is the mouse hearing knocking, but until it makes a door, there is no one there. 

The digital collages and cut paper combo is charming. The text is simple and leaves lots of room for imagination.

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Summer Adventure for Groot! by Brendan Deneen and Cale Atkinson - ADVISABLE

Summer Adventure for Groot! by Brendan Deneen, pictures by Cale Atkinson. PICTURE BOOK Marvel Press (Buena Vista Books), 2021. $13. 9781368000710 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Groot and Rocket are going on a fun summer expedition. There's a huge map of lots of planets they are going to visit. First, a trip to the beach with all their friends from the Marvel universe, then some games, food and outdoor recreation. Lots of Marvel friends join in the fun and Groot and Rocket have a very busy day! 

Children who love the Guardians of the Galaxy franchise will love this picture book. Lots of opportunities to spot their favorite characters doing all sorts of fun things. The illustrations are clever, with many opportunities to play seek and find. Super cute!

Lisa Librarian

Black Voter Suppression by Dr. Artika R. Tyner - ADVISABLE

Black Voter Suppression: The Fight for the Right to Vote by Dr. Artika R. Tyner, 27 pages. NON-FICTION. Lerner, 20201. $10 (paperback). 9781728429663 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Tyner explores a few of the ways that cities and states have worked to limit marginalized voters’ ability to actually vote and lightly touches on the reasons why they would do so. It also talks about ways that Blacks and others have worked around and actively lobbied for those very rights. 

A decent beginner level treatment of the topic. A good way to get the idea of voter suppression into students’ hand, but the subject deserves many more pages. I hope that someone comes out with a good 96 pages on the topic. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS  

Breaking the Ice by Angie Bullaro and C.F. Payne - ESSENTIAL

Breaking the Ice: The true story of the first woman to play in the National Hockey League by Angie Bullaro, illustrated by C.F. Payne. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Simon & Shuster, 2021. $19. 9781534425576 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

5yo Manon loved playing goalie for her older brothers as they practiced hockey in their backyard. When her dad’s peewee team needed a goalie, Manon stepped in and proved she could do it. Her hockey skills and her tenacity led her to become the first, and so far the only, women to ever play a game on a men’s major sports league in North America. 

An inspiring story and a necessary addition to any library collection. Great for Women’s studies or those rare occasions when you can get a PE teacher to read to their classes. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Lift by Minh Le and Dan Santat - ADVISABLE

Lift by Minh Le, illustrated by Dan Santat PICTURE BOOK Disney Hyperion 2020 $18 9781368036924 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Iris loves pushing elevator buttons, it's her job in her family, to push the buttons. But one day, her daddy leans over so her baby brother can push the button and Iris feels betrayed. But one day, Iris finds a discarded elevator button in the trash - after the repair man left, so she takes it home and tapes it to her wall. It works! The door to her room is suddenly a portal to wonderful places! 

Mostly wordless, this panel illustrated picture book reads like a graphic novel. So fun to read with a child as even non readers can follow the story, and their imagination makes the story even better. A great pre-read for a free write as well.

Lisa Librarian

Cubs in the Tub: The True Story of the Bronx Zoo's First Woman Zookeeper by Candace Fleming - ADVISABLE

Cubs in the Tub: The True Story of the Bronx Zoo's First Woman Zookeeper by Candace Fleming, illustrated by Julie Downing, PICTURE BOOK, NON-FICTION Neal Porter Books (Holiday House), 2020. $19. 9780823443185 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

When a baby lion is in need of care, a zookeeper at the Bronx Zoo brings it home for his wife to "mother". Helen Martini raises the cub for two months, until is is sent back to a zoo. Soon, she is needed to take care of three baby tigers. When it's time for them to return to the zoo, she goes with them, setting up a nursery in a storeroom, and becoming the first woman zookeeper at the Bronx Zoo. 

Oh! I loved this! A great story - who wouldn't want to take care of baby zoo animals? I loved Helen's spunk and drive, a great message to kids about advocating. Julie Downing's illustrations are adorable. There's plenty of text, so it would be a great addition to even an upper elementary classroom. I'm purchasing one for my middle school library as well.

Lisa Librarian

How to Build an Insect by Roberta Gibson and Anne Lambelet - ESSENTIAL

How to Build an Insect by Roberta Gibson, illustrated by Anne Lambelet. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Millbrook (Lerner), 2021. $20. 9781541578111 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Gibson takes us step by step into what makes an insect, showing us also at crucial steps that too much of something, such as antenna, would make it something else. We work and build until we have completed our new insect. All along the way Lambelet enhances the experiences with vivid illustrations and wry humor on each page. A great builders manual for a simple craft or a craft lesson to supplement a longer lesson. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Cliff the Failed Troll by Barbara Davis-Pyles and Justin Hillgrove - ADVISABLE

Cliff the Failed Troll by Barbara Davis-Pyles, illustrated by Justin Hillgrove. Little Bigfoot (Sasquatch), 2020. $18. 9781632172464 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Cliff couldn’t excel at anything of the things that made for being a good troll, so when he failed out of troll school, he could have been devastated. Instead he followed his heart and set up for pirate school. Along the way he even picked up Polly the banana slug, who made a very good parrot alternative. Could the odd couple survive the dangerous world of pirates? 

Cliff is adorkable! Yep, I said adorkable. So earnest and filled with grit. Kids will like the bright illustrations, Cliff’s sense of humor and his determination. Worthy addition to any “Talk Like A Pirate” day celebration, too. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Fox & Rabbit by Beth Ferry and Gergely Dudas - ESSENTIAL

Fox & Rabbit by Beth Ferry, illustrated by Gergely Dudas, 90 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL Amulet (Abrams), 2020. $13. 9781419740770 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Fox and Rabbit are best friends. In this collection of 5 stories, they visit the fair where Rabbit learns about disappointment and Fox gets some help being brave; on a day trip to the beach, Rabbit finds lots of ways to avoid swimming; they spend a fun day at Surprise Island, where they learn that great surprises can be small things; when the friends grow a garden together, they discover that self control is a problem; and what happens when your tree grows lemons? You sell Lemonade! 

There is so much to love about Fox & Rabbit! The story is engaging and funny and full of lessons about friendship and supporting each other. Gergely Dudas' illustrations are marvelous! A mostly 2 character graphic novel is great for an early reader and it lends itself perfectly for a shared read. I loved the on-going gag with Turtle showing up at the end of every chapter asking "What did I miss?" Oh, my grandson is going to love this!

Lisa Librarian

Beyond: Discoveries From the Reaches of Space by Miranda Paul and Sija Hong - ADVISABLE

Beyond: Discoveries From the Reaches of Space by Miranda Paul, illustrated by Sija Hong. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Millbrook (Lerner), 2021. $20. 9781541577565 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Hong and Paul introduce us to spectacular phenomena from the farthest corners of our galaxy. Each page includes a bit of factual info about each marvel and some text by the author. 

The text is supposedly poetic, but while it is arranged to look like a poem, the author uses no poetic devices. Those who have read my reviews before know that I have a particular disdain for verse that is lacks actual poetic devices. However, Hong’s illustrations make-up for the text’s lack – each page is a beautiful swirl of color and depth – each page is worth framing. And the added details of the back matter make up for the lack of the actual text. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Singer and the Scientist by Lisa Rose and Isabel Munoz - ADVISABLE

The Singer and the Scientist by Lisa Rose, illustrated by Isabel Munoz. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Kar-Ben (Lerner), 2021. $18. 9781541576094 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

In 1937, Marian Anderson, a Black woman, sang in front of an all-white crowd. After the program, none of the audience would speak to her, not would the manager help her get a hotel room nearby. The only person who stepped up to be kind was Albert Einstein, the Jewish scientist. 

An excellent addition to most library collections. It touches on Black issues, Jewish issues, WWII, segregation, artistry. The simple art lends itself well to complement the story. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Odd Bods: The World’s Unusual Animals by Julie Murphy - ADVISABLE

Odd Bods: The World’s Unusual Animals by Julie Murphy. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Millbrook (Lerner), 2021. $27 (library binding). 9781541585027 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Murphy looks at a variety of odd-looking sea and land animals and insects. 

 Using beautiful photographs and a short bits of writing, the book is easily accessible for young readers. A good companion to Jess Keating’s books such as Gross as a Snot Otter and Pink is for Blobfish. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Old MacDonald Had a Phone by Jeanne Willis and Tony Ross - OPTIONAL

Old MacDonald Had a Phone by Jeanne Willis and Tony Ross. PICTURE BOOK Anderson Press 2021 $18.00 9781728424125 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Old MacDonald loves his smart phone, but when he accidentally drops it in the lake, and then accidentally buys 100 replacements, all the animals start using the phones and the farm shuts down. With all the phone usage, no one is doing their job! 

Clever illustrations, but I had trouble maintaining the rhythm and rhyme. I thought the illustrations were funny,  with some of the farm animals acting like people on their phones.  Kids who relate will find the humor, it's what happens when phones take over, and maybe a good lesson will be learned, about sensibly using the technology we have.

Lisa Librarian

Hamilton by Frank Keating and Mike Wimmer - ADVISABLE

Hamilton by Frank Keating, paintings by Mike Wimmer. PICTURE BOOK, BIOGRAPHY A Paula Wiseman Books (Simon and Schuster), 2020. $18. 9781534406568 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Orphaned at 12, Alexander Hamilton was a self-made man. Hungry for an education, he acquired sponsors and moved from the West indies to American at 17. Quickly completing his university education, he fought in the Revolutionary war, eventually alongside George Washington. he helped to write the Federalist Papers, became the secretary of the treasury and created the banking system still in use today. Alexander Hamilton spent his life helping to build his adopted country.

Beautiful paintings highlight this lovely biography. Told in 1st person as though Hamilton is writing his own story, each full page illustration is set beside Hamilton's 'letter" talking about that part of his life. A really nice introduction to this founding father.

Lisa Librarian

Controversial Monuments by Amanda Jackson Green - ADVISABLE

Controversial Monuments: The Fight Over Statues and Symbols by Amanda Jackson Green, 29 pages. NON-FICTION. Lerner, 2021. $26 (library binding) 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Green cuts to the heart of the fight between those who want to keep Confederate statues up around the United States and those who are working to take them down. She looks at the roots of the statues, including their purpose and moves to the modern day Black Lives Matter activism. 

A well-written if simple look at the issue. Accessible to elementary or middle school, though not enough depth for research, except as a single source among several. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS  

The ABC’s of Black History by Rio Cortez and Lauren Semmer - ESSENTIAL

The ABC’s of Black History by Rio Cortez, illustrated by Lauren Semmer. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Workman, 2020. $15. 9781523507498 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Cortez and Semmer collaborate to create an exuberant abecedarian of words especially important to Black lives – places, people, ideas, truths. 

The eye-catching full color illustrations compliment the bouncing rhymes and rhythms. The back matter delves into a bit of detail of each word. I would definitely buy multiple copies and make a teaching kit for a mini class project at any grade. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Courageous Lucy: The Girl Who Liked to Worry by Paul Russell and Cara King - ADVISABLE

Courageous Lucy: The Girl Who Liked to Worry by Paul Russell, illustrated by Cara King. PICTURE BOOK. EK Books (Exisle Publishing). 2021. $19. 9781925820775 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Lucy worries about everything from going first to going last. When it’s time for the school play, Lucy wants to participate but her worries almost paralyze her. Lucy finds a spot where she can shine and learns that she can worry and also be courageous. 

 Fun illustrations. The story never mentions how or why Lucy got brave or overcame her worries. Rather simplistic, but could be a good discussion piece for kids who worry a lot. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

Ruth Objects: The Life of Ruth Bader Ginsberg by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Eric Velasquez - ESSENTIAL

Ruth Objects: The Life of Ruth Bader Ginsberg by Doreen Rappaport, illustrated by Eric Velasquez PICTURE BOOK, BIOGRAPHY Disney Hyperion 2020 $19 9781484747179 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Ruth Bader Ginsberg grew up reading about strong women like Jo March and Nancy Drew. She decided in college that going into law was a good thing because she could help people. Even getting through college was difficult because there were so few women enrolled in law school, and the university had different rules for men than for women. She challenged laws that treated women unequally, and even argued before the US Supreme Court. She fought against injustice wherever she saw it, eventually serving as a Supreme Court Justice herself.

Rappaport's biographies are so well done. I especially love the brilliant illustrations by Eric Velasquez. Although there is a lot out there about Judge Ginsberg, this picture book biography is perfect for the upper elementary or middle school reader.

Lisa Librarian

The Ickabog by J.K. Rowling - OPTIONAL

The Ickabog by J.K. Rowling, 274 pages. Scholastic, 2020. $27. 

Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content PG; Violence: PG 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

In the happy kingdom of Cornucopia, all was well until a monster known as the Ickabog was reportedly seen. According to myth, the monster is as tall as two horses with eyes like glowing balls of fire, and long razor-sharp claws. Some believe in the Ickabog and some don’t, but fear of the monster changes the kingdom in horrible ways. Two children try to unravel the truth behind the Ickabog to help their country. 

 I am just not sure who the audience is for this book. It’s written like a bedtime story, and I wanted to like it. However, it is fairly horrifying, unless you are immune to murder and child abuse. Children’s parents are murdered or dragged off to prison and citizens are forced to do awful things or lose loved ones, even though the citizens may be killed anyway because they know too much. Children are abused and dying of starvation in an orphanage. The ending doesn’t make up for all the broken lives along the way. Even though it is told in a fairytale sort of format, I think it would give little children nightmares and older children would find it too childish. There are illustrations made by children from an illustration competition, which was a nice touch. I miss the charm and humor of the Harry Potter books. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

Book’s Big Adventure by Adam Lehrhaupt and Rahele Jomepour Bell - OPTIONAL

Book’s Big Adventure by Adam Lehrhaupt illustrated by Rahele Jomepour Bell. PICTURE BOOK. Simon & Schuster. 2021. $18. 9781534421837 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Book used to be loved and read but becomes sad as it falls into disuse. Book becomes happy again when donated to other readers. 

I personally hate to think that my books have feelings and are sorrowful when I don’t read them. The story is too simplistic to read more than once, but the last page does have book donation ideas and would be a good springboard for organizing a book drive. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

Saving Eli’s Library by Ruth Horowitz and Brittany Jackson - ADVISABLE

Saving Eli’s Library by Ruth Horowitz, illustrated by Brittany Jackson. PICTURE BOOK. Albert Whitman & Company. 2020. $17. 9780807519714 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Eli loves going to the library and hearing Miss Mudge read stories. One day the river overflows and threatens to destroy the library. Eli and others brave the storm to save the books. 

 Based loosely on the Lincoln, Vermont library flood, this is a nice story about a community working together to save something that unites them. Charming prose works well with the pictures. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

The Sisters of Straygarden Place by Hayley Chewins - HIGH

The Sisters of Straygarden Place by Hayley Chewins, 200 pages. Candlewick Press, 2020. $17. 

Content G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS – ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Three sisters grow up in a magical house that takes care of them and clothes and feeds them. They are alone there after their parents left them seven years ago. They have one big warning and that they cannot go out into the tall silver grass and floating trees that surround the house. One day, the eldest, 14yo Winnow does and even though her middle sister, Mayhap, tries to keep the sisters together, there is something mysterious and dangerous going on in the house. Mayhap has to try and unravel the mystery before they get sick and turn to silver. 

 Poetically written, this book draws the reader in to a magical but sinister setting. Mayhap will have you rooting for her as she tries to find answers while racing to outwit the house. The prose makes the otherworldly seem real, and once you start you will have to finish. 

Michelle in the Middle 

If We Were Giants by Dave Matthews and Clete Barrett Smith - ADVISABLE

If We Were Giants by Dave Matthews and Clete Barrett Smith, 304 pages. Disney-Hyperion, 2020 $17. 

Language: G (0 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG (fighting) 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

10yo Kirra lives a comfortable, safe life amongst family and friends, deep in the heart of a dormant volcano. Fires are kept burning at all hours to keep enemies away. Only Kirra and her father are allowed to leave the volcano and travel to nearby villages. Kirra's father is a Storyteller and captivates audiences with his fearsome tales to keep outsiders away from their land. One day Kirra can't contain her adventurous spirts and decides to leave the volcano on her own and do some investigating. Little does she know she ends up leading the Takers right back to the volcano where disaster strikes. Left with no family to call her own, Kirra eventually meets up with Luwan. His family adopts her and she finds herself living in a new village high in the trees. Determined to never let her past catch up with her, Kirra stays quiet and does not speak of her past life until Luwan is captured by the Takers and she has no choice but to speak up. Kirra discovers she is not alone and is surround by people who love and care about her, and actually need her to be their Storyteller. She soon crafts a tale and spins an adventure the village people will never forget. 

This is a compelling story of family, loss and resilience. Students will love diving into a new world deep inside of a volcano, then venturing high up to the tops of the trees for another. Matthews and Smith will have readers believing every aspect of this story and keep them coming back for more. The adventure and suspense with keep the pages turning complete with a bitter sweet ending. 

Jessica Nelson Librarian 

Space: The Pop-up Guide by Sophie Dussaussois and Charline Picard - HIGH

Space: The Pop-up Guide by Sophie Dussaussois, illustrated by Charline Picard. POP-UP BOOK. Twirl/Bayard Group. 2021. $17. 9791036325199 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Explore the Moon, stars, and beyond with ten big pop-ups. There are elastic bands to display the opened book. Originally published in France, this pop-up book has brightly colored pages that make the planets and rockets three dimensional. A broad introduction to space, it will appeal to astronaut wannabees. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

It’s So Quiet by Sherri Duskey Rinker, illustrated by Tony Fucile - ADVISABLE

It’s So Quiet by Sherri Duskey Rinker and Tony Fucile. PICTURE BOOK. Chronicle Books. 2021. $18. 9781452145440

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Little mouse can’t sleep because it’s too quiet. But when he really listens, it’s too noisy to sleep. 

A great book for teaching or learning onomatopoeia. There are lots of great sounds, and it would be a good tool for really listening to background sounds that go largely unnoticed. The pictures are done on black backgrounds, which adds to the nighttime feel. 

 Michelle in the Middle 

Crossings by Katy S. Duffield, illustrated by Mike Orodan - ESSENTIAL

Crossings: Extraordinary Structures for Extraordinary Animals by Katy S. Duffield, illustrated by Mike Orodan. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Beach Lane (Simon), 2020. $19. 9781534465794 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Man’s roads have cut through the habitats of every animal in the world. Only now are we taking animals into consideration and building in or adding structures to help the anmials find safer ways to cross the roads of all sizes. 

Duffield and Orodan have crafted a beautiful book about these, unfortunately fairly unique crossing structures. After reading the book together it is an easy step to search the internet for photographs of the structures and look for more examples. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

So You Want to be an Owl by Jane Porter, illustrated by Maddie Frost - ESSENTIAL

So You Want to be an Owl by Jane Porter, illustrated by Maddie Frost. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick, 2021 (US edition). $17. 9781536215212 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Do you have what it takes to be an owl? If you’re a human, probably not. In nine simple lessons, Professor Olaf (the owl, not the snowman) will take you through what it takes to be an owl. 

SOOOO cute! And very factual, but related in a way that you will forget you’re learning facts. Even includes an index for finding the fact you particularly want. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

The COVID-19 Pandemic: A Coronavirus Timeline by Matt Doeden - ADVISABLE

The COVID-19 Pandemic: A Coronavirus Timeline by Matt Doeden, 48 pages. NON-FICTION Lerner, 2021. $32 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

In 2019, when a mysterious illness was discovered in Wuhan, China, no one could have imagined that in only a few months a Global Pandemic would change everything, shutting down schools, businesses, restaurants and life as we knew it. With doctors and scientists learning how to treat patients and looking for a vaccine, governors and politicians stepped in to try to control the spread. 

From the 1st cases in Wuhan, to toying with the possibility of a quickly developed vaccine, Matt Doeden has given us a well developed timeline, perfect for young readers. Mostly narrative non-fiction, with a few side bars spotlighting individuals and their contributions, politics are put aside, for the most part, with a mention of the protests surrounding George Floyd as an event people felt strongly about attending despite their concerns with the pandemic. It's hard to feel like a book published so quickly is complete, however, it's well written with photographs throughout, with a timeline and source notes. I'm excited to see the response from my middle schoolers - this is actual history they experienced.

Lisa Librarian

Farmers Unite!: Planting a Protest For Fair Prices by Lindsay H. Metcalf - ADVISABLE

Farmers Unite!: Planting a Protest For Fair Prices by Lindsay H. Metcalf, 64 pages NON-FICTION Calkins Creek (Boyds Mills), 2020. $19. 9781684379088 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

In 1978, American farmers were desperate. It was costing them more to grow their crops than they were getting for their harvest. A lot more. They had appealed to the US government, but the Department of Agriculture seemed to be ignoring the farmers. So, they started with a protest in Plains Georgia (home of the current president Jimmy Carter) and brought thousands of tractors to town, hoping to get their cause noticed. Two weeks later an organized effort did the same to state capitals around the country. By February, the tractor parade came to DC. Clogging the streets and causing enough traffic trouble to, hopefully, force the DofA to listen to their concerns. 

I loved the captioned photographs, and the succinct text on every page. Plenty of additional information including an author's note, statistics, a timeline and source notes. A fascinating look at a peaceful protest - change didn't happen right away, but they did finally get noticed. Showing this to my social studies teachers.

Lisa Librarian

Wakey Birds: Will They Ever Sleep? by Maddie Frost - ESSENTIAL

Wakey Birds: Will They Ever Sleep? by Maddie Frost. PICTURE BOOK. Templar (Candlewick), 2019. $17. 9781536215465 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

The Wakey Birds have a hard time going to sleep, especially the littlest. The Littlest wants to play and friends to play with, which seems like a good idea to all the wakey birds – until they wake the most feared animal of them all – the Dreaded Jungle Beast. The Dreaded Jungle Beast knows just what to do with little birds that keep him awake.

So much fun! A great one to act out for bedtime. Frost’s illustration s remind me of Matisse’s work – simple, but embellished shapes and lots of colors. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Way Past Mad by Hallee Adelman and Sandra de la Prada - ESSENTIAL

Way Past Mad by Hallee Adelman, illustrated by Sandra de la Prada. PICTURE BOOK. Albert Whitman, 2020. $17. 9780807586853 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Her little brother’s mischief makes Keya so mad that she takes her frustration out on her best friend, Hooper. It isn’t until she hurts his feelings that Keya realizes that she is the problem, but she has to work hard to get his forgiveness. 

 Adelman shows a very unfortunate, but common, progression of how we take our anger out on other people. I like that Hooper wasn’t instantly accepting when Keya first apologizes. The message doesn’t feel forced at all. A sweet little teaching message. 

 Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Common Critters: The Wildlife in your Neighborhood by Pat Brisson and Dan Tavis - ESSENTIAL

Common Critters: The Wildlife in your Neighborhood poems by Pat Brisson, pictures by Dan Tavis. PICTURE BOOK POETRY Tilbury House, 2020. $18. 9780884486916 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

There is wildlife all around you, from earthworms to birds and butterflies to skunks. You probably don't notice them because you see them every day. 

 Each entry has a delightful poem and the cutest illustrations. I loved the lady bug poem, with the sweet illustration of just the ladybug, and then another illustration of a lady bug fighting the aphids on a plant. The bees the slugs the birds and the spiders, oh readers are going to want to read and re-read the fun poems as they enjoy this terrific book! A must have for the elementary classroom, especially if they are studying insects or gardens. 

Lisa Librarian

Jump at the Sun by Alicia D. Williams and Jacqueline Alcantara - OPTIONAL

Jump at the Sun: The True Life Tale of Unstoppable Storycatcher Zora Neale Hurston by Alicia D. Williams, illustrated by Jacqueline Alcantara. PICTURE BOOK BIOGRAPHY. Atheneum (Simon), 2021. $18. 9781534419131 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

From her youngest age, Zora loved sitting around the general store listening to the folks swapping tales. This inspired her to create and write and share her own tales. Though her new stepmother kicked her out of the house at 14, Zora always remembered her mother’s advice: Jump at the sun; you might not land on the sun, but at least you’ll get off the ground. This guided her life as she worked for her education, collected folktales, and wrote her own stories. 

Alcantara’s illustrations are full of the sun for which Zora is jumping and Williams breathes life into Zora with her telling. As I was reading, I realized that though I have heard of Zora, I can’t say that I have actually read any of her stories myself. For elementary schools, you should also get Lies and Other Tall Tales which is an illustrated version of many of the tall tales Hurston collected. It can also support any Black Lives, Authors, or Women’s History collection. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS

The Star Festival by Moni Ritchie Hadley and Mizuho Fujisawa - OPTIONAL

The Star Festival by Moni Ritchie Hadley, illustrated by Mizuho Fujisawa. PICTURE BOOK. Albert Whitman, April 2021. $17. 9780807575956 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Keiko is excited to attend Tanabata Matsuri with her mama and grandmother. Grandmother reminds Keiko of the reason for the festival and together they enjoy the sights, tastes, and sounds all around, until the river of performers separates the group from each other. 

A sweet book to teach about a Japanese Festival with a nice echo of the legend in the action. The illustrations feel like stills from an animated short. Easily used in any discussion of festivals around the world, or of Japan in particular. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

The Beak Book by Robin Page - ESSENTIAL

The Beak Book by Robin Page. PICTURE BOOK, NON-FICTION Beach Lane Books, 2021. $18. 9781534460416 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Bird beaks vary in shape, size and purpose for different birds. Some use them to find food, other to capture it. The different shapes are perfect for their individual needs. A toucan's beak helps cool the bird, a flamingo uses its beak to algae and shrimp from the water. An eagle's beak is for tearing, a macaw uses it's beak to help it climb. 

 22 different birds, masterfully illustrated by page - a close up of the beak with a picture of the whole bird for perspective makes this illustrated non-fiction as beautiful as it is informative. I loved the pages at the back showing the relative size of each bird compared to an adult human. An amazing resource in a science classroom, or anywhere kids are interested in birds.

Lisa Librarian