Except Antarctica! by Todd Sturgell - ESSENTIAL

Except Antarctica! by Todd Sturgell. PICTURE BOOK. Sourcebooks eXplore (Sourcebooks Kids), 2021. $15. 9781728233260 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Turtle and a few other animals are on their way to Antarctica, despite the narrator’s frustrated warnings to stay back. There is some problem solving along the way to the coldest continent, but the animals quickly realize why they don’t live in Antarctica. 

The students generally enjoyed this book, citing its humor and the anthropomorphism as their favorite parts. Even though I struggled to separate out the various voices on the page, the students immediately caught on to the implied warnings and frustration of the narrator. One student remarked, “It was really funny because the animals did the exact opposite of what the book said to do.” Their favorite phrase of the book was “This is ridiculous,” because it really was. Although one student stated that there were “too many facts,” the rest of the class stayed completely engrossed in reading the last pages of the book where a few facts about the animals and Antarctica were listed. I heard many of them say, “I didn’t know that;” they were quite happy to learn from this book. 

Mrs. V, and her third grade class https://amzn.to/2SRyFFt

New in Town by Kevin Cornell - ADVISABLE

New in Town by Kevin Cornell. PICTURE BOOK. Farrar Straus Giroux Books for Young Readers (Macmillan), 2021. $19. 9780374306090 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

The bridge in Puddletrunk has collapsed--AGAIN!! Bridge #273 must be built, but funds are scarce, and there is a worry about the continual termite infestation. Luckily someone new is in town. Hopefully they will be able to help. 

Student reviewers had this to say: “It is a book that can be good for kids and for grown-ups,” “It is entertaining and funny but also teaches a good lesson (which is to not lie because of money)”, and “I loved this book because of its humorous problems and solutions.” As noted by the students, there is a lot to laugh about and to learn from this imaginative story and its illustrations. There are scores of fun details hidden in the busy artwork, prompting more than one visit to the pages of Puddletrunk. 

 Mrs. V, and her third grade class 

Beaver and Otter Get Along...Sort Of by Sneed B. Collard III and Meg Sodano - ESSENTIAL

Beaver and Otter Get Along...Sort Of: A Story of Grit and Patience Between Neighbors by Sneed B. Collard III, illustrated by Meg Sodano. PICTURE BOOK. Dawn Publications (Soucebooks eXplore), 2021. 9781728232249 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Beaver moves to a valley where he finds running water, trees, and a mate--it is beaver heaven! But eventually some new neighbors make their way into the beavers’ habitat, making life a bit more difficult for Beaver. Will they be able to live peacefully in the same place? 

This is a great look into how animals act and interact within the natural world, creating habitats where living things both survive and thrive. This book consists of a perfect balance of literary features, making it easy to read and relate to, and informational text. It is an excellent book for a broad understanding of animal habitats, adaptations, and commensal relationships. The story is enhanced by the additional information shared in the back of the book where content connections and activities are printed. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

Every Day, Chemistry by Julia Sooy and Bonnie Pang - ESSENTIAL

Every Day, Chemistry by Julia Sooy, illustrated by Bonnie Pang. PICTURE BOOK. Feiwel and Friends (Macmillan), 2021. $19. 9781250768698 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Science is all around us, and this book allows us a glimpse into the chemical changes that are taking place throughout the day, in regular ways. 

This book introduces the reader to chemistry, chemical changes, and chemical reactions in an easy to understand way. The illustrations and simple text display a world where chemistry is a common, and even delicious occurrence, rather than being intimidating or separate from our everyday lives. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

The Boy Who Loved Everyone by Jane Porter and Maisie Paradise Shearring - ADVISABLE

The Boy Who Loved Everyone by Jane Porter, illustrated by Maisie Paradise Shearring. PICTURE BOOK. Candlewick Press, 2021. $17. 9781536211238.

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

On Dmitri's first day of preschool, he is eager to make friends. At every turn, Dmitri is telling kids and teachers that he loves them, but nobody responds to him with the same line. He is disappointed and suggests to his mom that he not go back the next day. Dmitri's mom helps him understand that people express their love in different ways--a smile, a hug, an invitation--and he feels better. 

This is a sweet story and absolutely ideal for a Pre-K audience. The pictures are colorful in a basic way and the story is a good one for life lessons. 

Reviewer: TC

Three Lines in a Circle by Michael G. Long and Carlos Velez - ADVISABLE

Three Lines in a Circle: the exciting life of the peace symbol by Michael G. Long, illustrated by Carlos Velez. PICTURE BOOK. Flyaway Books, AUGUST 2021. $18. 9781947888326 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS, HS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Long gives a short, bright look at the history and proliferation of the peace symbol. I would have rated it “essential”, but you don’t actually learn about the meaning of the symbol until the back matter, so the introduction lacks the real punch for a more enthusiastic embrace. But highly worthy for any school that covers social justice, nuclear disarmament, the 1960’s or protest movements. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

I is for Immigrants by Selina Alko - ESSENTIAL

I is for Immigrants by Selina Alko. PICTURE BOOK. Christy Ottoviano Books (Macmillan), 2021. $19. 9781250237866 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

From abuelas to ziti, falafel to quinceaneras, I is for Immigrants lists and illustrates a cornucopia of wonderful things the United States has inherited from its immigrant populations. Each page is filled with a multitude of words and pictures that demonstrate the richness of the combined cultures in America. 

This is a fun, unusual take on traditional A-Z books, and a colorful, educational introduction to a vast array of interesting aspects of American life. It is inclusionary without being overt, and extraordinary in the way that it combines pieces and cultures of so many people and places, as an ideal American life could do, as well. 

Keri, elementary school teacher https://amzn.to/2SMTWA4

The New Kid Has Fleas by Ame Dyckman, illustrated by Eda Kaban - ESSENTIAL

The New Kid Has Fleas by Ame Dyckman, illustrated by Eda Kaban. PICTURE BOOK. Roaring Brook Press (Macmillan), 2021. $19. 9781250245243 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

A new kid has come to school, and she is really different. But once the other kids find out what she’s like, it’s really great to have the new kid in school! 

A beautiful message of inclusion and the need to withhold judgement is shared in an insightful, subtly crafted way through minimal words and excellent illustrations. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

The 12 Days of St. Patrick's Day by Jenna Lettice and Colleen Madden - OPTIONAL

The 12 Days of St. Patrick's Day by Jenna Lettice, illustrated by Colleen Madden. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2021. $6. 9780593175019 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 The story is a poem, and follows the pattern for The 12 Days of Christmas. It tells about what you find the twelve days leading up to St. Patrick's Day. It was a cute idea and the illustrations go right along with the story. 

 Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Welcome to California by Asa Gilland - ADVISABLE

Welcome to California by Asa Gilland. NON FICTION PICTURE BOOK. Penguin Random House, 2021. $10. 9780593178232 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 The story tells about California with easy to read text and bright illustrations. It has lots of interesting facts about California. A fun read, and lots of good information. This would be a good book for children learning about different states in elementary school. I highly recommend this book.

 Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Art with Heart by Rachel Alpine and Addy Rivera Sonda - ADVISABLE

Art with Heart (The Invincible Girls Club #2) by Rachel Alpine, illustrated by Addy Rivera Sonda. 139 pages. CHAPTER BOOK Aladdin (Simon & Schuster,) 2021. $18

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL – ADVISABLE 

 AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Emelyn is dismayed to find out that someone has put up pictures and mean messages about students in the school. She is especially concerned because one of those messages was about her! Emelyn works with her friends and the grown ups in her life to find a solution to this bullying at school. 

Book 2 in the Invincible Girls Club series, this can be read as a stand-alone. A highlight of the book is the way that Emelyn and her friends look to each other and the trusted grown ups in their lives to solve their very real problems, demonstrating how they, and hopefully all of us, can be invincible in the face of difficulties. Additionally, the book ends with multiple short biographical sketches of women who have shown their own ways of being invincible. 

 Keri, elementary school teacher 

Are You a Cheeseburger? by Monica Arnaldo - ADVISABLE

Are You a Cheeseburger? by Monica Arnaldo. PICTURE BOOK. Katherine Tegen (Harper), JUNE 2021. $18. 9780063003941 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Raccoon is rummaging through the garbage, searching for cheeseburgers, when he finds a friendly seed. The seed thinks that it might be a hamburger plant, but it doesn’t know for sure. The two keep each other company through the long nights as the seed grows. 

Kind of silly, very sweet, with a lovely message about friendship. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Balletball by Erin Dionne and Gillian Flint - ADVISABLE

Balletball by Erin Dionne, illustrated by Gillian Flint. PICTURE BOOK. Charlesbridge , 2020. $17. 9781580899390 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 Nini loves ballet. She loves her tutu, her ballet shoes and the smooth floor where she dances. She loves the ballet moves. Ballet is over for the season and mom has signed Nini up for baseball. Nini does not want to play baseball, she wants to dance ballet. She has a bad attitude about baseball. Coach tells her that sometimes professional athletes take ballet lessons. Ballet helps them play ball better. Will Nini try doing better at baseball?

Such a cute story. Nini has great support from her mother, the coach and the other kids on her team. I loved the book and the story of Nini. Sometimes we do things we really do not want to do and we might even enjoy it, if we just try. A good motivational book to help children try new things. 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian https://amzn.to/3hsR062

Finding Home by Esteli Meza - ADVISABLE

Finding Home by Esteli Meza. PICTURE BOOK. Orchard Books, 2021. $19. 9781338648218 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

 AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 Conejos's house blew away in a gust of wind. He liked his house, it was his home. He sets out to find his house. Along the way he meets friends that try to cheer him up and they give him small gifts to take with him. Finally he comes to a stream and decides to rest for a while. He looks at his reflection in the water and can see how sad he looks. He sits for awhile, feeling sad, before he continues his journey. He does not find his old house, but he find a new home. Sometimes we move, or lose a home to natural disasters, or for a number of reasons. It makes us sad, and that is OK. 

Meza shows us that it is OK to be sad for a while, but that the sadness does not last forever. We will get through this and things will look up and get better - a great lesson. We need to take time to acknowledge out feelings before we go on. A great read aloud for children, and so many things to talk about. Darling illustrations, too.

 Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

GIVE IT! by Cinders McLeod - ADVISABLE

GIVE IT! by Cinders McLeod. BOARD BOOK. Nancy Paulsen Books, 2020. $17. 9781984812438 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE

 AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 Chummy is a little bunny and he lives in Bunnyland. His grandma gives him a lot of carrots for his birthday. Chummy wants to be a superhero and save Bunnyland from dangers like dragons. His grandma reminds him that there are no dragons in Bunnyland. After much thought and consideration he decides how to best help Bunnyland.

 A very simple and cute book. I think this book is a great read-aloud for young children. I do not think it is ever too early to teach children to be wise with money and also teach them how they can help others. We might not always help the way we thought. Sometimes we need to find out what someone needs and then help them that way. We can get the chance to be someones superhero even without a costume. I thought this books was delightful and it has cute illustrations, too.

 Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Terrific! by Sophie Gilmore - OPTIONAL

Terrific! by Sophie Gilmore. PICTURE BOOK. Greenwillow (Harper), JULY 2021. $19. 9780063025189 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

The jungle animals are trying to find something to do. As each animal proposes an activity, only a few of them can participate. When they collapse from exhaustion after all their trials, the snake has nefarious ideas of its own. 

The story in this is just fine – actually kind of cute. I didn’t find the muted illustrations very appealing, however. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Swing by Michael Hall - ESSENTIAL

Swing by Michael Hall. PICTURE BOOK. Greenwillow (Harper), 2020. $18. 9780062866172 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

The letter L is a little worried when a letter from the far end of the alphabet comes to the swings too. Other letters with other differences arrive and all the letters are worried until the newest letter starts to play. In their play, they forget their differences and enjoy the day together. 

A sweet little book about accepting and enjoying each other for who we are. Darling illustrations add to the joy. 

Cindy, Library Teacher, MLS 

Dear Abuelo by Grecia Huesca Dominguez and Teresa Martinez - ADVISABLE

Dear Abuelo by Grecia Huesca Dominguez, illustrated by Teresa Martinez. PICTURE BOOK. Reycraft Books, 2019. $7. 9781478868897 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 Juana moves with her family from Mexico to New York. She will miss a lot about living in Mexico, but especially she misses her grandfather, her Abuelo. She writes him letters telling him about all her new experiences, strating with the plane taking them to New York. We get to know Juana through her letters to her grandfather.

 I loved this book. It is hard to move from one country to another, even harder when you do not speak the new language. I liked reading about her experiences at school, meeting her teacher and meeting children. She also meets a girl that speaks both Spanish and English. They become fast friends. The illustrations are bright and colorful and the story is told in pictures, too. A fun book to read. 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Neighbors by Kasya Denisevich - ADVISABLE

Neighbors by Kasya Denisevich. PICTURE BOOK. Chronicle Books, 2020. $19. 9781452177755 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 A little girl moves to a new apartment. She knows her address and how to get there. she wonders who her neighbors are and if they are like her or different. 

The illustrations go well with the story and shows clearly what the girl is thinking. An interesting book, and something we have all wondered about when we move to a new place. I would think this book would help a child when moving, and it would be fun to bring treats to all the neighbors and get to know the people that live around you, whether you live in an apartment building or a house. It has some good things to talk with children about. I recommend this book. 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian https://amzn.to/2QhVyRo

Shadow Hills by Jordan Quinn and Ornella Greco - ADVISABLE

Shadow Hills (Dragon Kingdom of Wrenly #2) by Jordan Quinn, illustrated by Ornella Greco, 139 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL Little Simon (Simon & Schuster, Inc), 2021. $18

Content: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL– ADVISABLE 

 AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Ruskin, the kingdom’s only scarlet dragon, is back from his most recent adventure. But it turns out that the enchanted lava rocks are missing, and must be recovered in order to prevent the firestorm that’s coming. Ruskin and his friends must work together to get the rocks back before it’s too late to protect the Kingdom of Wrenly. 

Readers of the Wrenly series are sure to enjoy this graphic novel rendition of the adventures these dragon characters enact. The story is simple--classic problem and solution/hero’s journey--all with a little help from good friends. Some of the pictures are a little freaky (a poop pile for good elementary school humor, and pupils missing from eyeballs on occasion), and those who enjoy this book will be glad for the cliff-hanger ending hinting at more to come. 

 Keri, elementary school teacher 

Stink and the Hairy Scary Spider by Megan McDonald and Peter H. Reynolds - ADVISABLE

Stink and the Hairy Scary Spider (#12) by Megan McDonald, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds. 151 pages. CHAPTER BOOK Candlewick Press, 2020. $15

Content: G

BUYING ADVISORY: EL – ADVISABLE 

 AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Stink loses his new origami frog in the grass, but finds something creepy instead when he goes looking for it. Stink has help identifying and finding the big spider AND his origami frog! 

Book 12 in the Stink series, this still reads as a stand-alone text for those who aren’t familiar with or who don’t want to read any other books about Stink and his adventures. The book is filled with illustrations that both enhance the storyline, and also do a bit of on-the-side teaching, including step by step directions for making one’s own origami frog. 

Keri, elementary school teacher https://amzn.to/3txgD7Y

C is for Country by Lil Nas X and Theodore Taylor III - OPTIONAL

C is for Country by Lil Nas X, illustrated by Theodore Taylor III. PICTURE BOOK. Random House, 2021. $19. 9780593300787

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

A new twist on alphabet books. This book takes you through the adventures on the farm from sunrise till sunset. Delightful story and fun and bright illustrations. I like alphabet books and love the way author come up with so many new and unusual ways to write one. This book takes place on the farm and the story is happy and bright. A fun book to read with young children. 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

LillyBelle A Damsel NOT in Distress by Joanna Pastro and Jhon Ortiz - OPTIONAL

LillyBelle A Damsel NOT in Distress by Joanna Pastro, illustrated by Jhon Ortiz. PICTURE BOOK. Boyds Mills Press, 2020. $24. 9781635922967

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 Lilly Belle is learning to be a damsel but decides she never wants to be damsel in distress. She will not sit around and wait to be rescued when she is in trouble. She figures out a way to get out of trouble on her own and makes some surprising friends in the course of her adventures. LillyBelle is spunky and brave. She is a problem solver and a doer. 

The book is beautifully illustrated and the vibrant illustrations help make the story come to life. It is a fun read, all the way to the surprising ending. 

 Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

We Are All Equal by P. Crumble and Jonathan Bentley - ADVISABLE

We Are All Equal by P. Crumble, illustrated by Jonathan Bentley. PICTURE BOOK. Philomel Books (Penguin Random House LLC), 20187. $18. 9780593202555 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL -ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: LOW 

Animals of all sorts and sizes are portrayed as interacting with each other in ways that demonstrate how, even though they are different, they are still equal. Every page begins with the words “We are equal,” followed by examples of how the animals are different. The notion of how each characteristic is of value is implied, but never developed, even in the illustrations. The rhymes are often as forced as the message. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

Is Was by Deborah Freedman - ADVISABLE

Is Was by Deborah Freedman. PICTURE BOOK. Atheneum Books for Young Readers (Simon & Schuster, Inc.), 2021. $18. 9781534475106 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

This book depicts how things change from the present to the past, and then back again. Gorgeously illustrated, this book holds deep meaning in its simple text. It is a beautiful look at the rhythm and cycle of the world around us. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

Cozy by Jan Brett - ESSENTIAL

Cozy by Jan Brett. PICTURE BOOK. Putnam (Penguin), 2020. $19. 9780593109793

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

 Cozy is a musk ox. His parents gave him the name because his coat was so soft and silky. When winter comes Cozy is separated from his family. The winter is hash and cold. Several animals come to him for help surviving the winter.

 Delightful. It teaches how we can all get together, even with all the differences we have. Cozy is kindhearted and gentle and looks out for all his friends. Jan Brett's illustrations is, as always, beautiful and detailed. It reminded me of winters in Norway, on the tundra, with snow and wind. I saw all the animals in the book at different times, except a musk ox. There is so much to look at and talk about just in the pictures in this book. I highly recommend it. 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian https://amzn.to/3ohpPfD

The Little Blue Bridge by Brenda Maier and Sonia Sanchez - ADVISABLE

The Little Blue Bridge by Brenda Maier, illustrated by Sonia Sanchez. PICTURE BOOK. Scholastic, 2021. $19. 9781338538014

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Ruby always has lots of ideas. One day she sees some blueberries across the stream. She suggests they go pick the berries and make a sweet treat. To get to the other side of the stream they have to cross it. Santiago won't let them cross. Ruby knows just what to do. 

The story reminded me of the Norwegian story "The Three Billy Goats Gruff." Ruby is spunky and figures out how to get across the stream without Santiago. A delightful story about being brave and strong. The illustrations are vibrant and colorful. It would be fun to explore this story from different cultures and have the children find what is the same and what is different in the stories. 

Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

When I Draw a Panda by Amy June Bates - ADVISABLE

When I Draw a Panda by Amy June Bates. PICTURE BOOK. Simon and Schuster, 2020. $18. 9781481451482

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

 A little girl likes to draw, even though she knows her drawings aren't perfect. When she draws a panda she discovers that he helps her be creative and be brave with her imagination. This is absolutely adorable. The girl, with the help of the panda have a delightful adventure with her drawings with chalk and pencils. 

A wonderful adventure with art. Sometimes the art doesn't come out the way it was supposed to, but it is something new and exciting instead. A wonderful story to share with young children. I'm sure they will love it!

 Ellen-Anita, Librarian 

Susan La Flesche Picotte, Pioneering Doctor by Diane Bailey - ADVISABLE

 Susan La Flesche Picotte, Pioneering Doctor (Discovering History’s Heroes) by Diane Bailey, 127 pages. NON-FICTION/BIOGRAPHY. Aladdin (Simon), 2021. $19. 9781534463301 

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS – ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

In the late 1800’s it was unheard of to have a female doctor, let alone a female Native American doctor. But this did not stop Susan La Flesche of the Omaha tribe, who was the first Native American to earn a medical degree. 

Students who are interested in biographies will enjoy this book. It is written for young readers, but it is an interesting read for any age. Not only does the book share information about Susan La Flesche, but there is also a lot to learn from this book about women’s history, Native American assimilation, and the history of the United States. The inclusion of bolded words and a glossary is a nice text feature of the book. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

The End is Just the Beginning by Mike Bender and Diana Mayo - ESSENTIAL

The End is Just the Beginning: A Book of Endless Possibilities by Mike Bender, illustrated by Diana Mayo. PICTURE BOOK. Crown Books (Penguin Random House, LLC), 2021. $18. 9781984896940 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Beginning with the words, “The end,” this clever book wisely describes how the end of things are really just the start of something different or new. An absolutely darling book, there is deep meaning in its simple text. It is worded in a way that feels conversational, and illustrated in soft hues that create a calm feeling of serenity. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

Wild is the Wind by Grahame Baker-Smith - OPTIONAL

 

Wild is the Wind by Grahame Baker-Smith. PICTURE BOOK Templar Books (Candlewick), 2021. $19 9781536217926  

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) – OPTIONAL  

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE  

Cassi is a little girl who helps a swift after it has injured it’s wing.  When she releases the swift into the air, and the bird takes flight, the story follows the bird and describes all the many ways the wind has shaped the earth.  Then the swift lands eight thousand miles away where a little boy watches it nest and hatch baby swifts who grow strong and then make their journey back to Cassi. 

The illustrations are appealing with bright and attractive colors.  I loved the imagination of shapes that the wind created with the water and clouds. A sense of wonder around the concept of wind is felt with the illustrations alone. The story line is all over the place and will be confusing to younger readers, which is sad because the illustrations are over the top gorgeous. 

Reviewer, C. Peterson     

Star of the Party: The Solar System Celebrates! by Jan Carr and Juana Medina - ESSENTIAL

Star of the Party: The Solar System Celebrates! by Jan Carr, illustrated by Juana Medina. PICTURE BOOK/NON-FICTION. Crown Books for Young Readers (Random House), 2021. $18. 9781524773120 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

The planets want to throw Sun a birthday party to thank her for keeping them close, warm, and part of her solar system. In this personified tale. the eight planets have a chance to explain what makes each of them special, as well as offer details about other aspects of our solar system. 

 A superb book for introducing or reinforcing basic facts about the solar system, information is presented in a fun balance between dialogue and narration. The illustrations are in vibrant colors against a deep blue background, making the book visually appealing, as well as informative. This is probably best as a read-aloud, as there is some challenging vocabulary for young readers. 

 Keri, elementary school teacher 

The Art of Words by Jan Carr and Joanna Bartel - ESSENTIAL

The Art of Words by Jan Carr, illustrated by Joanna Bartel. PICTURE BOOK. EK Books (Exisle), 2021. $19. 9781925820843 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

This is a poetic look at how words are used. Portrayed in descriptive language and clever pictures, word meanings and uses are shown in unusual ways on every page. 

A visual treat, with so much meaning embedded in the text and illustrations. This book could be used to enhance a variety of language lessons, from vocabulary to creative writing. It is artfully put together in a way that stimulates the reader into thinking about words, their meanings, and their power. 

Keri, elementary school teacher 

Robert and the World's Best Cake by Anne-Kathrin Behl - OPTIONAL

Robert and the World's Best Cake by Anne-Kathrin Behl. PICTURE BOOK. NorthSouth Books, 2020. $18. 9780735844315.

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Robert is spending a lazy day off with his dad and decides he wants to invite people over to share the biggest cake ever. They start with making invitations, but the cards are accidentally blown out the window before Robert can deliver them. Nonplussed, Robert and his dad get to work and create a wonderfully large cake. Before they can dive in, the doorbell begins ringing as more and more neighbors and strangers show up for cake after finding an invitation blowing down the street. Robert and his dad take it in stride and simply decide they'll need even more cake!

The basic premise of this book is cute and I generally like the message you can get out of it. However, the illustrations and the actual cake in question here left me with, well, questions. Is it cake? Is it salt dough made to look like cake? If its the former how do they make it so fast and why can they "mound it up?" If its the latter, aren't we bound to have a whole apartment full of disappointed friends who came to eat cake? So many questions. This is clearly a book for younger readers who won't have these questions, but since the people reading the book aloud will, I'll only rank this one as optional. And now I want to eat cake. 

Reviewer: TC

Follow That Frog! by Philip C. Stead and Matthew Cordell - ADVISABLE

Follow That Frog! by Philip C. Stead, illustrated by Matthew Cordell PICTURE BOOK. Neal Porter (Holiday House), 2021. $19. 9780823444267 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

When a knock comes at the door, Sadie rushes to wake Aunt Josephine. Aunt J, however, has had enough of racing through life, telling Sadie the tale of her own lost love who was swallowed by a giant frog. 

Absolutely hilarious! Just looking at the crazy happenings in the illustrations will keep most kids busy. It is full of lots of new vocabulary words - keep a dictionary handy if you read it aloud, as it will need some explaining. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

More Than Fluff by Madeline Valentine - ESSENTIAL

More Than Fluff by Madeline Valentine. PICTURE BOOK. Knopf (Random), 2021. $18. 9780593179055 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

Daisy cute and adorably fluffy. So adorable that other animals cuddle, kiss, pet, and squeeze her without asking. When Daisy gets mad, she lashes out. Then Mom and Daisy have a talk about expressing boundaries - for herself and towards others too. 

Another spot-on first book about consent. Pair this with Rissy No Kissies for a power duo of conversation with even the littlest ones about appropriate touching. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS  

Almost There and Almost Not by Linda Urban - ADVISABLE

Almost There and Almost Not by Linda Urban, 211 pages. Atheneum Books, 2021. $18. 9781534478800

Content: G

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

11yo California Poppy is staying with her dad's aunt Monica while he finds work in Alaska. Aunt Monica puts California to the task of reading about a famous relative of theirs, Eleanor Fontaine, and learning about Eleanor's views on the proper art of letter-writing.  As California settles into life with Aunt Monica, she also finds friends in the ghost of Eleanor (whom only California can see) and a ghostly dog who haunts the garden. As life gets more complicated again, California will find there are people--and ghosts--to count on.

The story here is definitely unique and a little bit quirky, but the ending really is sweet and worth recommending. I enjoyed seeing the growth in California as a character and found her voice as the narrator to be very well done. There's nothing mind-blowing to rave about, but this is still a very nice story that will appeal to upper elementary girls. 

Reviewer: TC

Wishes by Muon Thi Van and Victo Ngai - ESSENTIAL

Wishes by Muon Thi Van, illustrated by Victo Ngai. PICTURE BOOK. Orchard (Scholastic), May 2021. $19. 9781338305890 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

A little girl and her family are preparing for the very dangerous ocean trip away from their imperilled lives and hopefully to a place where they can build a future. 

78 words are supported by a beautiful muted palette. Each page is simple (The bag wished it was deeper), but filled with emotion, heart, and depth. Any level of school that talks about immigration and/or refugees in any capacity needs this to share far and wide. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

The Ups and Downs of Gravity by David A. Adler and Anna Raff. - ADVISABLE

The Ups and Downs of Gravity by David A. Adler, illustrated by Anna Raff. NON-FICTION PICTURE BOOK. 9780823446360 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Adler’s simple, but educational text, coupled with Raff’s cute illustrations, make for an enlightening beginner look at gravity. It also includes some simple experiments along the way. Whether for reading with a class, or for independent reading - all listeners will come out with more knowledge. I really like the endpapers! 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

The One Thing You'd Save by Linda Sue Park and Robert Sae-Heng - ADVISABLE

The One Thing You'd Save by Linda Sue Park, illustrated by Robert Sae-Heng, 65 pages. Clarion (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt), 2021. $17 

Content: G. 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Ms. Chang gives her class an assignment - to think about this question and be prepared to have a class discussion: "Imagine that your home is on fire. You're allowed to save one thing." From a special sweater to a large collection to a whole bookcase, the children discuss what is important and why. They even manage to influence each other. 

Linda Sue Park's collection of Korean sijo poems is beautiful! I liked seeing the tiny piece of the students represented by what was important to them. I learned so much in so few words. One student said he'd take nothing, and I understood why. My first thought - ooh, this would be a great lesson to replicate. A short read with a class, great topics for further discussions, and it just screams - try this yourself!

Lisa Librarian

Short Cuts by Molly Brooks - ESSENTIAL

Short Cuts (Sanity and Tallulah #3) by Molly Brooks, 246 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL Little, Brown and Company, 2021. $13

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH

Tallulah has her learner's permit, and can go on short errands in the mail craft. So, tasked with delivering some equipment, and Sanity in the copilot seat, Tallulah demonstrates her great pilot abilities as she arrives safely at 2 different space stations. But, they just missed Tallulah's dad, who needs the important turbopumps, so the girls decide to take them to him anyway. But, passing through a dangerous debris field gets even more complicated when their destination explodes 

right in front of them. Now Tallulah and Sanity are caught up in a possible space war. 

This series gets better and better. I was on the edge of my seat. The tri-color illustrations are well detailed and contribute to the story. I love that Tallulah and Sanity act like kids, they do dumb things, get in trouble and have consequences. I loved all the questions about what it's like to live on land - the girls have been in space their whole lives. Although part of a series, Shortcuts can totally stand on its own.

Lisa Librarian

Watercress by Andrea Wang and Jason Chin - ESSENTIAL

Watercress by Andrea Wang, illustrated by Jason Chin. Neal Porter (Holiday House), 2021. $19. 9780823446247 

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

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

The girl’s family is on the road somewhere near their adopted town in Ohio when her parents spy watercress growing on the side of the road in a ditch. The family piles out, wading through the dirty ditch; the girl hopes that no one she knows will see them. At dinner that night she refuses to eat the watercress, even if it is now snail-less. Then her mother brings out a photo of her family and explains why the watercress is important. 

What a lovely story and it is accompanied by Chin’s lustrous illustrations. Like watercress, the story is spicy, delicate and bitter. The author’s note and illustrator’s note are well worth reading - especially if you are sharing it with a group or class. Lots to unpack. I will also be adding this to my middle school collection for books about immigration and life around the world. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Soccer Player (Bizzy Bear) by Benji Davies - ADVISABLE

Soccer Player (Bizzy Bear) by Benji Davies. BOARD BOOK. Nosy Crow (Candlewick), 2020. $8. 9781536217315 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

If you have a young soccer hungry they will like this new Bizzy Bear. Bizzy Bear seems to be getting very specific now, so you can choose which subjects will appeal to your particular little ones. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

The Great Pet Heist by Emily Ecton and Dave Mottram - ESSENTIAL

The Great Pet Heist by Emily Ecton, art by Dave Mottram, 250 pages. Atheneum Books for Young Readers (Simon and Schuster), 2020. $18 

Content: G. 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

When their owner, the elderly Mrs. Food, slips and hits her head, her house full of pets, a dog, cat, bird and two rats, overhear that she may not return from the hospital. They need a plan for taking care of themselves, so they pool their resources - not much except a mysterious coin found in the lobby that could be very valuable. So, they hatch a plan to find the man who dropped it, and steal the rest from his apartment. 

I laughed out loud so many times! This is a delightful story, with such great characters, the pets are terrific, Butterbean the dog steadfastly keeping watch, Walt the Cat and Oscar the bird with their well thought out plans - which often have to change, and the rats Marco and Polo! I know this will be read and re-read. What a great introduction to the mystery novel.

Lisa Librarian

Ophie's Ghosts by Justina Ireland - ESSENTIAL

Ophie's Ghosts by Justina Ireland, 336 pages. Balzer + Bray (Harper Collins), 2021. $17 

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

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

12yo Ophelia can see Ghosts, the first was her father, on the night he was killed, it's dangerous for a black man to vote in 1920s Georgia. She and her mother have moved to Pittsburgh and are working in a manor house. Ophie's responsibility is taking care of old Mrs. Caruthers, who is in poor health. But, the manor is full of ghosts - ghosts only Ophie can see, and her mother has forbidden Ophie from telling anyone she can see them. Her great-aunt Rose also has the ability, and has warned Ophie to leave the dead alone, they only cause trouble. One ghost, Clara, helps her navigate her first difficult day, and despite her aunt's warning, Ophie is determined to help Clara, a maid who seems to have been murdered at the manor. 

Ireland's debut Middle Grade novel is well written, nice and spooky. The descriptions of the ghosts are chilling without being gory, and the story is gripping and exciting. Ireland also weaves in historical context, showing the racism and injustice of the time period. A great horror, but also an important story about social justice and the divide between the black community and the wealthy white community of the 1920s. I listened to Bahni Turpin narrate the audiobook, provided by The King's English bookstore through libro.fm. 

Lisa Librarian

Peekaboo Bear by Camilla Reid and Ingela P. Arrhenius - ESSENTIAL

Peekaboo Bear by Camilla Reid, illustrated by Ingela P. Arrhenius. BOARD BOOK. Nosy Crow (Candlewick), 2020. $10. 9781536217209 

BUYING ADVISORY: Pre-K - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: HIGH 

New friends are hiding on 8 sturdy pages, ready to play peek-a-book with little ones. The eyes on the bear on the cover are an absolute must-have for me! The rest of the book is just as cute. When you get tired of playing peek-a-boo yourself, use this to keep your small charges busy. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Escaping Ordinary by Scott Reintgen - ADVISABLE

Escaping Ordinary (Talespinners #2) by Scott Reintgen, 315 pages. Crown (Random), 2021. $17 

Content: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Indira has just finished starring in her first book and is ready for a well-earned rest. The advisors think that she needs some work on her hero skills, especially in how to be a team player, so they are sending her on the Hero’s Journey tutorial with a group of supporting characters. Something goes wrong during transport, but the glitch doesn’t seem too bad. Then things around Ordinary are going very wrong - so wrong that the very existence of Fable is at stake. Indira and her new friends will have to step up and save the worlds - Fable and ours. 

Reintgen is such a flexible author - his middle grade fantasy is as well-constructed as his YA science fiction. I loved this entirely different direction for a book #2 - it really felt like a worthy sequel rather than a placeholder for something to come in a third book (will there be a third book?) 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS 

Where Is Our Library? A Story of Patience and Fortitude by Josh Funk and Stevie Lewis - ESSENTIAL

Where Is Our Library? A Story of Patience and Fortitude by Josh Funk, illustrated by Stevie Lewis. PICTURE BOOK Henry Holt (MacMillan), 2020. $19. 9781250241405 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ESSENTIAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Patience and Fortitude are the stone lions who sit outside the 5th Ave. entrance to the New York Public Library. At night, the like to visit the children's section, but on this night, they notice all the books are gone, so they decide to search the city for them. First they head to Times Square - but the signs they see are Broadway shows, not books (Lion King, Mary Poppins, Harry Potter, The Little Mermaid)! Then Patience remembers a wise man in Central Park who might be able to help. Hans Christian Anderson gives them a list of other branches of the Public library which they visit, but they can't find their missing books, until a Kite Dragon gives them a hint. 

Libraries should have wonderful books about libraries, and this is absolutely one of them. Oh, the children in New York City will recognize all the places, and cherish their own local libraries. But, besides the tour, the story is great! The poetic narrative would be a fun read aloud. My favorite part is the author's note at the end identifying all the things they see, and talking about why the branches and places they visited were special to children's literature.  Also,  I love all the tiny little recreated book covers on the library shelves.  

Lisa Librarian

Pockets Full of Rocks by Yair Engelberg, illustrated by MacKenzie Haley - ADVISABLE

Pockets Full of Rocks by Yair Engelberg, illustrated by MacKenzie Haley PICTURE BOOK Magination Press, 2021. $17. 9781433831096 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3) - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

Ella doesn't understand why her daddy sleeps so much and doesn't smile anymore. So, he explains to her about his depression. It makes him want to stay in bed, and gives him sad thoughts. The less he does, the more the depression affects him - like carrying big rocks in his pocket. When Ella asks him what he doing about it, he tells her he sees a counselor, gets exercise and takes medication. He also assures her that it's not her job to make daddy better, and that hugs help. 

Magination has books about so many things that help kids. Living with a parent who has depression can be hard for young children, especially when they don't understand what's going on. Magination press always includes parent resources for helping your child. Includes a link to the APA website for more valuable information.

Lisa Librarian

Taking Up Space by Alyson Gerber - ADVISABLE

Taking Up Space by Alyson Gerber, 259 pages. Scholastic, May 2021. $18. 

Content: G 

BUYING ADVISORY: EL, MS - ADVISABLE 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

7th grader Sarah’s body is changing and that is causing havoc with her basketball game. Even though her coach has a prohibition against the players going on diets, Sarah thinks that may be what she needs to regain her equilibrium. Food has always been a minefield in Sarah’s house. Her mother has very odd, distinct ideas about what foods are good and which are bad - many of which contradict what she is learning in health class. Who should Sarah actually believe? 

Gerber tackles a little too much this time. She adds a cooking contest and a fight with Sarah’s best friend, which leaves little space for a realistic resolution to Sarah’s difficulty with food and with her mother’s food issues. While not the best of Gerber’s writing, it is still interesting and important in this world where food issues are very much a big deal, especially for this particular audience. 

Cindy, Middle School Librarian, MLS